By Lauren Whelan, ’14, Staff Writer

Over the past few years, the Newark Academy athletics program has taken massive strides towards relevance in the crowded New Jersey high school sports scene. Although larger programs continue to dominate the state, the Academy’s talent pool and performance has improved immensely over the past few years thanks to an effort by both the administration and the athletic department. With the newest addition to the athletic program, the turf field, the Newark Academy’s athletics program has moved ever closer to long-term legitimacy.

In use by both the men’s and women’s soccer teams in the fall as well as the women’s lacrosse team in the spring, the turf has given these three teams an unprecedented buzz that has translated into fresh excitement about Newark Academy athletics in general. Junior soccer player Gabby Giachin says, “the turf has given us a new feeling of confidence and support for our team that has been missing in previous years.”

Although its benefits are primarily intended for the athletes, the new turf field is a game changer for the fans as well. It helps to speed up play which adds excitement to games, and its sleek appearance attracts larger crowds.

Aside from providing a spark in school spirit, the field also serves as a form of protection for the athletes. Mr. Torson, head coach of women’s soccer, emphasized the impact turf will have on the scheduling. He explained that the turf’s durability would lead to fewer cancellations. Oftentimes, these cancellations lead to rescheduled games on back-to-back days, a burden that can take a physical toll on athletes, and ultimately lead to increased incidence of injury.

Perhaps the most the important aspect of the turf is the message it sends statewide: Newark Academy is continuing its rapid ascendance as an athletics program. The Academy is not only one of the state’s greatest academic gems, but soon will be an equally established athletic institution.

The athletes are ready and, thanks to the new turf field, well equipped to stand up to their challengers.