Beaver Stadium’s renovation includes changing from grass to artificial turf

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State unveiled plans today to replace Beaver Stadium’s grass field with navy blue artificial turf. Inspired by Boise State’s field, the navy turf will include a white Nittany Lion logo at the 50-yard line. Each end zone will be pink and black to acknowledge Penn State’s previous school colors. The change is part of a comprehensive multi-million-dollar renovation project for the upcoming football season.

The decision to switch from natural grass to turf marks a significant departure from tradition but emphasizes Penn State's commitment to innovation and excellence in collegiate athletics, according to Patrick Kraft, vice president for intercollegiate athletics. After careful consideration, Kraft and other university officials are confident the move will usher in a new era of enhanced performance, safety and sustainability for Beaver Stadium.

Head coach James Franklin echoed Kraft's excitement and emphasized the potential benefits of the renovation. “This is what we need to beat Ohio State next season,” Franklin said. "I've always believed in staying ahead of the curve and embracing change to push our program to new heights. Transitioning to navy blue artificial turf at Beaver Stadium is a bold move, but one that aligns perfectly with our vision for the future. This renovation isn't just a change in scenery; it's a strategic investment in our athletes' success.”

Associate head coach Terry Smith said, “With the advanced technology and consistent playing surface provided by artificial turf, our players will experience optimized traction, speed and agility, giving them the competitive edge they need to dominate on the field.”

The announcement has sparked controversy among fans, alumni,and even players. “As a recruit, one of the key factors that drew me to Penn State was the rich tradition and history surrounding the program,” quarterback Drew Allar said. “I committed to this team because I believed in upholding those and the switch to artificial turf feels like a betrayal of the values that initially attracted me here.”

“If we are choosing to give up on traditions, why can’t we get our names on the back of our jerseys?” running back Nicholas Singleton asked.

Some fans expressed nostalgia for the traditional grass fields, while others have embraced the forward-thinking approach of university leadership. Supporters of the renovation emphasize the advantages offered by artificial turf, including enhanced durability, weather resistance, and reduced maintenance requirements, which will enable Beaver Stadium to host a wider range of events throughout the year.

In addition to the practical benefits, the switch to turf represents a significant investment in player safety and welfare. David R. Huff, a professor of turfgrass breeding and genetics at Penn State, said, “Modern turf systems are engineered to minimize the risk of injuries, providing a stable, consistent playing surface that can withstand high-impact sports. By prioritizing the well-being of its athletes, Penn State reaffirms its commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and accountability within its athletic programs.”

As construction commences on Beaver Stadium's transformation, Penn State pledged to keep fans informed and engaged throughout the renovation process.

(This story was created as part of COMM 498 Humor in Journalism.)