At the Soccer Field Dedication Ceremony, CSM Continuing Education Instructor and St. Mary's College of Maryland Superintendent of Grounds Kevin Mercer is applauded for his time, expertise and efforts in transforming the La Plata Campus soccer field into a professional-quality, state-of-the-art playing surface that is now considered among the top soccer fields in the conference. (Photo: CSM)
LA PLATA, Md. (October 6, 2011)—The College of Southern Maryland’s soccer field is more than just a field of dreams for student athletes; it is the field of their dreams, too. Dedicated during an on-field ceremony Sept. 16, the La Plata Campus soccer field is a professional-quality, state-of-the-art playing surface that is now considered among the top soccer fields in the conference.
“With the men’s team ranked at 18th in the nation with a 6-0 record, the Hawks may have their first opportunity in years to have home-field advantage during the playoffs,” said CSM Director of Student Life and Athletics Michelle Ruble, adding that in years past, the size and condition of the field did not meet NJCAA minimum requirements.
The condition of the field has been a huge asset to the teams, said women’s soccer team student athlete Amy Dempsey of Waldorf, who added that play is faster and smoother.
The reason for the smooth playing field is the new Patriot Bermuda grass, the same used by professional soccer teams, said CSM Alum of 1995 and four-time Maryland JUCO Soccer Coach of the Year Tony Galeano. The college’s field was widened, graded and leveled; a zoned irrigation system was added which will conserve water; and a maintenance plan was created to keep the field in great shape for years, said CSM Interim Head Soccer Coach Derek Dyson.
“We are delighted to be able to provide support for this much-needed project and for being able to serve the student life and athletic needs of our students,” said La Plata Campus Student Association Vice President Jasmine Wade of the funds the Student Association provided for the project. CSM Continuing Education Instructor and St. Mary’s College of Maryland Superintendent of Grounds Kevin Mercer and CSM Engineering Technician Henry Greer provided project management expertise. Local companies and individuals stepped in to provide supplies and manpower, including Finch Services, Inc., G.L. Cornell Company, Fisher and Son Company, Inc., St. Mary’s College of Maryland, John Deere Landscape, Tony Galeano, Louie Galeano, Adam Sanchez and Scott Gingerich.
Regular season soccer games continue through Oct.13, with playoffs beginning Oct. 25 and finals on Oct. 29.
For information on CSM Athletics, visit www.csmd.edu/athletics.