Midland Invests in Student-Athletes with New Turf Training Facility

FREMONT, Neb. — Midland University is investing in the future of its student-athletes by installing a new artificial turf practice field north of Hopkins Arena.

This on-campus facility will provide a dedicated training space designed to meet the growing demands of Midland Athletics.

Work on the $1.6 million project is expected to begin in early June, with completion slated for late August. The field will be approximately 110 yards long by 75 yards wide and will feature Pivot Performance Turf by TenCate, which helps reduce joint impact, minimize injury risk, and deliver a consistent, high-quality playing surface. Work is being completed by Crouch Recreation.

"We are thrilled to provide our student-athletes with the Pivot system," said Dr. Aly Williams, president of Midland University. "By choosing a system that mirrors the feel of natural grass, without the need for traditional infill, we are ensuring our student-athletes can train in a cleaner, more consistent environment that is specifically engineered to protect their health."

Midland University features the largest athletic department in Nebraska, with 32 varsity sports and nearly 1,000 student-athletes competing in those programs. Among the teams that will utilize the new facility are football, women's flag football, men's and women's lacrosse, men's and women's soccer, baseball, and softball. In addition, all student-athletes will be able to use the field for strength and conditioning activities.

The majority of Midland's practices currently take place at Heedum Field, which serves as the home venue for several Warrior programs. The new facility will help alleviate scheduling conflicts across the department, reducing the need for early-morning and late-night practices. Adding this practice space will also support academic success by providing greater flexibility in class scheduling.

Additional benefits include reducing wear and tear on Heedum Field, enhancing daily training experiences, and keeping more practices on campus.

"As the home of Nebraska's largest athletic department, our growth has truly outpaced our current facilities," said Courtney Thomsen, Midland University director of athletics. "This new on-campus turf field is a foundational piece of the future of Midland Athletics, allowing us to build a culture of excellence while prioritizing the well-being of our student-athletes.

"In today's competitive landscape, modern facilities are vital for recruitment and retention. This project is more than just a surface; it's about strengthening our ability to attract top-tier talent and ensuring our Warriors can successfully balance their demanding athletic schedules with their academic commitments. We are grateful for the alumni and community support in driving this project forward."

The project is being made possible through the generosity of alumni and community donors, and fundraising efforts will continue as construction begins. A permanent donor recognition display will be featured at the facility to honor those who contributed to the project.

"The support from our donors has been the driving force behind this project, and we cannot thank them enough for their commitment to our students," Williams said. "Their generosity has allowed us to invest in a facility that will greatly enhance the student experience. We are incredibly grateful for their role in making this a reality."