Turf field getting finishing touches
Nipissing’s new turf field is already seeing action in advance of the Lakers soccer and lacrosse seasons, with North Bay Youth Soccer utilizing it this summer while construction continues for some the additional features.
Soon, you’ll be able to cheer on your Lakers from a set of new bleachers. With a capacity to seat approximately 600 people, it’s fantastic news for the students, faculty, staff and communities members who are passionate about the Lakers. It’s also great news for the City of North Bay, which is home to an exceptional new facility to attract high-caliber athletic training and competition, as well as researchers in the Bachelor of Physical and Health Education program examining coach-athlete and athlete-athlete interactions in youth sports.
A new scoreboard will also be erected to help fans keep apprised of the action on the field.
And for anyone unable to attend the games, they’ll be able to follow along with increased media coverage thanks to a new press box. Concrete pads have already been poured in preparation of the bleachers, scoreboard and press box installation.
The university expects the installation of the bleachers, scoreboard and press box to be complete by August.
The area surrounding the fenced-in field is also being levelled and cleaned up to create space for players to warm up and fans to spread out.
The university is planning an official grand opening for the turf filed in conjunction with Homecoming Weekend, September 21-23, more details will be forthcoming.
Your Nipissing Lakers soccer teams will play their first games on the new field August 25, with the Women’s team taking on the Ottawa University Gee Gees, and August 26, with both Lakers teams playing the Carleton Ravens. Your Lakers Lacrosse team will play their home-opener on the new field versus the Bishops Gaiters during Homecoming Weekend, September 21-23.
Construction of the turf field began last summer and was completed in autumn 2017. The field measures 64m x 100m and is designed in accordance with FIFA standards. It features lighting and perimeter fencing.