Nyssa Teams Will Play On Turf In Fall

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John L. Braese

NYSSA – As the Nyssa football and soccer teams take the field next fall, they will be competing on artificial turf, not grass.

The plan to replace the existing grass field with turf comes after much effort according to Nyssa Superintendent Ryan Hawkins.

“We visited schools with turf and have done our research,” Hawkins said. “With the new technology developed, injuries have been minimized greatly. This is not the old turf people are thinking.”

The bid to complete the installation closes on Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 4 p.m. The request to bid includes points for companies using local subcontractors and suppliers. The bids will be looked over and construction is set to begin by late May. Completion will be before the annual Blue/White Night.

“A lot has gone into all this,” explained Hawkins. “This is not for just one sport but to showcase all our programs, seventh grade through high school.”

Decked out in Bulldog blue and white uniforms, players will not be playing on a blue field. Nyssa personnel confirmed the turf will be green in color as blue turf would be added cost and certain shades of blue are protected by Boise State University.

Once installed, Nyssa having a turf field could have far-reaching implications for sports in the area.

The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) mandates state playoff semifinal games in both soccer and football be played on turf beginning with semifinal action. In the past, eastern Oregon football and soccer teams were forced to travel to La Grande or Bend to play the games. With Nyssa now meeting the requirements, it is likely to see late-stage playoff games come to Malheur County.

In addition, the district will host summer programs and tournaments bringing needed revenue into the border town.