ANN ARBOR, Mich. — AstroTurf’s impact on NCAA field hockey is on full display as the 2024 Division I Field Hockey Tournament kicks off, with 17 of the 18 teams competing on AstroTurf surfaces. This significant presence highlights AstroTurf’s role in supporting top collegiate programs and driving performance at the highest level of the sport.
The majority of teams in the tournament are utilizing AstroTurf’s specialized hockey surfaces, with eight teams competing on the A12 field system, designed for rapid ball movement and precision, while nine others play on Poligras fields, which provide a high-speed, durable surface suited for intense, competitive play. Syracuse University stands as the only team in the tournament playing on a non-AstroTurf field, underscoring the brand’s widespread adoption across top programs.
“AstroTurf fields have been built for decades to support the fast-paced, highly skilled nature of field hockey,” said Melissa Vassalotti-Twist, Director of Field Hockey for AstroTurf. “We are proud of the history of our surfaces, but the evolution to what we see now is truly incredible. It’s on another level.”
AstroTurf’s A12 and Poligras fields are engineered specifically to enhance speed, precision, and safety, key attributes in Division I field hockey. With their uniform ball roll, high shock absorption, and fast playing speed, these surfaces give athletes an edge that is especially valuable in postseason play, where split-second decisions and precise ball control can make or break a season.
For many teams in the tournament, AstroTurf has become more than just a playing surface—it’s a trusted partner in their training and competition strategies. The field’s consistency and quality are critical for both home and away games, giving players the confidence to play at their best, no matter the conditions.
“With 17 teams in the NCAA Division I tournament competing on AstroTurf fields, it’s clear that we’re playing a central role in field hockey,” said Vassalotti-Twist. “Our fields are designed to support the sport and help athletes reach their peak performance. Whether it’s the NCAA, the Olympics, or a pickup game between kids.”
As the tournament unfolds, AstroTurf’s influence in NCAA Division I is more evident than ever, with fields that meet the demands of elite competition and help define the game at its highest level.
For more information about AstroTurf and its innovative turf solutions, please visit astroturf.com.
About AstroTurf®
For athletes and sport enthusiasts, AstroTurf® has redefined the way the game is played. The inventor of synthetic turf, AstroTurf® offers advanced, state-of-the-art, multi-sport and specialized synthetic turf systems with proprietary engineered technologies. To learn more, visit astroturf.com.