Over the summer, Irvington constructed a new organic turf field that replaced the outdated and uneven grass on Meszaros Field.
Irvington, as well as Pleasantville and Bronxville, were among the first school districts to use organic materials for turf.
Students have been anxiously waiting for over two years for this new turf field to be completed.
Patrick DiBenidetto, coach of varsity girls soccer, said, “The field is an amazing addition to our athletic program. I wish I had it when I went to school here. I’ve seen improvement from my players and I can’t wait for more games on our new field.”
Mr. Cohen said the field was a bond project approved during last year’s budget vote. In the years prior, parents and school officials debated the option between natural grass and artificial turf. It was only when organic turf was suggested that the bond was finally passed. After the bond was passed, the state of New York then had to approve the project.
Some artificial turf contains lead and other harmful chemicals, while organic turf is made out of coconut husks and cork.
Elizabeth Segreti, a junior field hockey player, said, “It’s good! The fact that it’s organic doesn’t seem to make the actual turf better or worse, but since it’s better for the environment, it should obviously be used as opposed to something harmful to the environment.”
