WEST CHESTER, Pa. — West Chester University replaced its field surface at Vonnie Gros Field with a new, state-of-the-art synthetic playing surface this summer. The new surface provides its nationally recognized field hockey and women's lacrosse programs with an elite competition venue designed for peak performance, player safety, and long-term sustainability.
The upgrade was part of two renovation projects over the summer to West Chester University's athletics facilities on South Campus. Rockwell Field, home to the university's men's and women's soccer teams also received a face-lift before the fall season began.
The renovation features the installation of FieldTurf's Hockey Gold Speed D system, an innovative elite-level field hockey surface certified by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) in the Dry (Non-Irrigated) Hockey Turf Innovation category. The project also included the installation of a new shock pad and base system to enhance player comfort, shock absorption, and overall field performance.
Designed specifically for the highest levels of field hockey competition, Hockey Gold Speed D delivers the speed, consistency, and ball control expected from traditional water-based surfaces—without requiring irrigation. The advanced turf system replicates the playing characteristics of wet hockey fields while providing excellent foot grip, durability, and athlete comfort.
"Installing Hockey Gold Speed D represents a significant investment in the future of our student-athletes and our athletic facilities," said West Chester University field hockey head coach
Amy Cohen. "This new surface provides one of the premier field hockey venues in the region while supporting our commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency."
Unlike conventional water-based hockey surfaces, Hockey Gold Speed D requires neither irrigation nor infill, reducing water consumption and ongoing maintenance costs while delivering consistent, high-level performance throughout its lifespan. The innovative yarn technology and turf construction are engineered to withstand years of elite competition while maintaining exceptional playing characteristics.
The new shock pad and base system further enhance the facility by providing improved impact absorption and a more consistent playing surface, benefiting both West Chester University's field hockey and women's lacrosse student-athletes.
Vonnie Gros Field has long served as the home of West Chester University's highly successful field hockey and women's lacrosse programs. The renovation reinforces the University's commitment to providing championship-caliber facilities that support competitive excellence, student-athlete development, and an outstanding game-day experience.
The upgraded facility will serve as the home venue for Golden Rams field hockey and women's lacrosse competition beginning with the upcoming season.
West Chester University Completes Renovation of Rockwell Field
West Chester University has completed a comprehensive renovation of Rockwell Field, providing its men's and women's soccer programs with a new, championship-caliber playing surface that will enhance competition, training, and the student-athlete experience for years to come.
The project included the installation of a new FieldTurf CORE 2-inch (FTCORE-2) synthetic turf system across Rockwell Field's 102,025-square-foot playing surface. Designed specifically for soccer, the new field delivers exceptional durability, consistent ball response, and improved performance while reducing long-term maintenance requirements.
The renovation represents another significant investment in the University's athletic facilities and reinforces West Chester's commitment to providing Golden Rams student-athletes with premier venues that support success on and off the field.
"Rockwell Field has long been home to memorable moments for our men's and women's soccer programs," said West Chester Director of Athletics,
Terry Beattie. "This renovation ensures our student-athletes have a first-class facility that reflects the excellence of our programs while enhancing the experience for coaches, recruits, alumni, and fans."
The new FieldTurf CORE system is engineered to provide a consistent, high-quality playing surface capable of withstanding intensive collegiate competition and year-round use. Its advanced construction offers improved player comfort, reliable footing, and predictable ball movement, creating an optimal environment for training and match play.
Rockwell Field will support daily practices, conference competition, postseason play, and campus events while extending the field's longevity and performance.
The project is part of West Chester University's ongoing commitment to enhancing campus facilities and investing in resources that elevate the student-athlete experience. By modernizing Rockwell Field, the University continues to strengthen its tradition of athletic excellence and provide a venue worthy of its championship-caliber programs.
