How Do the SCSU Coaches and Players Feel About Playing on Field Turf?

Listed below is a testimonial from Josh Vorpahl about the importance of creating a Field Turf baseball facility in Central Minnesota.

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Dear Central Minnesota Baseball fans and supporters,

There has been a lot of buzz about the possibilities of getting a field turf facility in our area. Being sort of a baseball purist myself I was skeptical about field turf at first. After doing the research and having the privilege of coaching on several turf fields over the pastcouple seasons, my mind has changed. The bottom line is that this area needs a facility that provides our players in central Minnesota the opportunity to play before the frost is out or to play shortly after a rain shower. I have been playing and coaching in this area for over 30 years, and have lost a lot of games to inclement weather. A field turf facility allowsfor the outdoor baseball season to be extended in the North. Field turf takes minimal maintenance and allows for quicker turn arounds between games. It allows for area teams to practice without having to worry about tearing up the field and play a game shortly there after. It would provide the area with another venue for the great game of baseball. I feel that a turf facility will bring with it the ability to play more games, run more youth camps, bring more opportunities for community recreation programs (flag football leagues, softball leagues, soccer leagues etc.) and community events.

The technology and evolution of turf has been incredible. Having played in the Metrodome 15 years ago on the awful AstroTurf I can say first hand that the difference in the surface of the Metrodomewith field turf is non-comparable. It is much more forgiving and easier on the body than previous turfs. The temperature differences between turf and natural grass during the warm season are not as drastic as the old AstroTurf.Dispelling the rumor that it will get too warm during the Summer months. Being able to turn the field over faster between games or practices and the lack of need for a large crew to do so isthe biggest advantage to a turf facility.

All in all a turf facility will bring more opportunity to theyouth teams, high school teams, college teams and amateur players in Central Minnesota and the surrounding areas. A turf facility will bring teams from all over the Midwest to our community to play games that they otherwise would not have the opportunity to play. It has the potential to bringrevenue to our area thatcanbenefit the community as a whole.Having been a part of a Regional baseball game that was played until 2:00 a.m. in the Spring of 2011 because of rain just solidified my feelings on turf. If we had a turf facility in our community we could avoid having to postpone games or wait to play six hours later. The future is now. Players change, Coach's change and so can the field! But the game always stays the same.

Josh Vorpahl

St. Cloud State Pitching Coach

Waite Park Babe Ruth Coach

Former Area High School Coach

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