Artificial turf trend continues in high schools despite safety considerations | News, Sports, Jobs

AstroTurf was installed on the Alma High School football field. (Photo courtesy of AstroTurf Great Lakes)

LANSING — Artificial turf fields are becoming a hallmark at high schools across the state, with the Michigan High School Athletic Association reporting that about 100 high schools now play them.

AstroTurf, one of the state’s largest artificial turf installers, notes that 14 of the 16 venues hosting high school football playoff games this season are using its product.

The company emphasizes the technical advantages of the fields, which it says are designed for durability, consistent traction and shock absorption to reduce the risk of injury.

A study conducted by the University Hospitals Sports Medicine Institute and Case Western Reserve University analyzed data from 26 high school athletic coaches during the 2017-2018 seasons.

According to the study, athletes were 58% more likely to suffer an injury during sporting activities on artificial turf than on natural surfaces, with significantly higher injury rates observed in football and rugby.

AstroTurf claims that advanced quality assessments ensure its fields meet performance and safety standards.

James Voos, director of the orthopedics departments at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve, said that although turf quality has improved significantly over the past five to 10 years, “Our study highlights the need to educate high school athletes on the importance of having the right shoes and cleats.”

“Schools must also properly maintain the turf and ensure it is of appropriate quality to reduce the risk of injuries. » he added.

Despite these concerns, several Michigan high schools have recently installed or approved the installation of artificial turf fields.

Western High School in Parma, Jackson County, renovated its football field in August with artificial turf after its turf field faced a worm infestation during the 2022-23 school year.

District Superintendent Mike Smajda said the insects attacked the field, causing large bare areas where grass broke away from the soil below.

In the Upper Peninsula, the Breitung Township school board voted in July to install artificial turf and replace the three-decade-old track at Flivver Field in Kingsford.

Breitung Township School District Superintendent David Holmes said: “The use of the current grass field is limited. The addition of an artificial turf surface allows the facility to be used in many ways for seven to eight months per year.

The district plans to begin construction immediately following the 2025 UP athletics finals, and completion is anticipated before the start of the 2025 athletics season.

Meanwhile, at Alma High School, AstroTurf installed “RootZone at the cutting edge of technology” grass on his football field.

Todd DeWolfe, president of Novi-based AstroTurf Great Lakes, said: “The system is designed to deliver unmatched performance and longevity. »

He said the new pitch uses his system to provide a natural, grass-like feel while minimizing the risk of injury.