Field Work

Steward’s athletic fields are happening places. Here, Spartans put in hours of practice and compete in lacrosse, baseball, soccer, and field hockey … and fans of all ages show their blue-and-gold spirit as they cheer on our student-athletes. Two of the fields are currently undergoing much-needed renovations. 

The School began work on fields 1 and 2 this spring and plans to have the renovations completed by the time fall sports begin. The project started with rough grading and the addition of compost and soil, and a new irrigation system will be installed in the coming weeks. The final phase includes a new drainage system and grass. 

Associate Head of School Lisa Dwelle explained that the current irrigation system, which was installed 25 years ago, no longer works consistently. At times it will stay on for extended periods of time, resulting in overwatering and wasting water. Mrs. Dwelle said, “The new system will have current technology for monitoring the watering cycles, plus efficient programming, so that we can more effectively water the fields and conserve resources.”

Currently, the area between fields 1 and 2 has limited use due to drainage issues. After fixing the drainage and regrading the fields, this center section can be used for practice and PE classes. In addition, when Spartan teams compete, other teams will have a better option for practice. This will also allow the fields to be shifted, mitigating wear and tear on them.  

The new drainage system will allow the fields to dry faster after it rains, enabling athletes to resume play quickly — an advantage that athletes who play on artificial turf know well. “However, grass fields provide a much better playing experience for our athletes,” said Mrs. Dwelle. “Grass fields help prevent injuries, are much more environmentally friendly, and are cost-effective.” 

Mark Roberts, who has served as Steward’s Athletic Field and Turf Manager for 13 years, is thrilled with the renovations. 

“We’re excited about this project, which will enable our hardworking students and coaches to practice and compete on top-notch fields,” said Mr. Roberts. 

In conjunction with the field project, Steward’s temporary learning cottages have been removed, and bus parking will be installed in that area.

Contributing Photographer: Khanh Dang '24