Michigan State University’s 7-acre Spartan Greens artificial turf fields are now open to the campus community. Students and university leaders marked the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday.
Located at 903 Service Road across from the MSU Clinical Center, the fields are the first tangible development to be completed in less than a year following the implementation of the student recreational fee. Spartan Greens are expected to support more than 8,500 students each semester through a mixture of intramural and club sports, including lacrosse, soccer, flag football, ultimate frisbee, softball and baseball.
“The opening of the new Spartan Greens turf fields sports complex is just the beginning of our efforts to improve student recreation opportunities on campus,” said MSU President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D. “With this project, we are demonstrating our commitment to supporting student health and well-being and fostering an environment in which all can achieve a sense of belonging through teamwork and collaboration.”
The development includes two new fields that allow for four intramural games to be played at the same time. Spartan Greens also extends playing field seasonal availability by four months as well as daily availability due to updated lighting.
"Opening Spartan Green not only offers a new arena for students to interact with one another, but it creates an opportunity for students to achieve their fitness goals and make long-lasting friendships,” said ASMSU Director of Health, Safety and Wellness Harsna Chahal. “Spartan Greens are not just turf fields, but an arena built for student success."Complete with storage, office space, gender-inclusive restrooms and a canopy connecting the buildings for weather protection, the facility is already being used by men’s and women’s club soccer and women’s club lacrosse. The facilities will play an integral role in connecting the Spartan community now and for many years to come.
"Maintaining a balance between school studies and physical activity is imperative for our mental health as students,” said MSU junior Katie Topoleski. “As a member of the women's club lacrosse team, I am extremely excited about the opening of Spartan Greens. Our team now has access to a state-of-the-art facility where we can take a break from studying for a few hours to practice together as friends, teammates, and Spartans."
“This project is consistent with the institution’s values and commitment to student health, well-being and success,” said Vennie Gore, senior vice president for student life and engagement. “This is a huge step in a larger initiative to support the common good of our student body, as well as the physical and mental health benefits of being active.”
Permit parking is available in lot 91, and public parking is available in lot 100. Free parking is open in lot 92 after 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The Capital Area Transit Authority provides transportation to Spartan Greens via route 32.