Mamaroneck High School currently offers 33 different sports teams across three athletic seasons. However, MHS only has one turf field and two indoor gymnasiums. To put that into perspective, large schools such as MHS typically have one primary stadium field and two additional multi-purpose fields. This highlights the clear lack of athletic space at Mamaroneck High School.

Kristen Barnard, MHS alumna and member of the Fields for Kids Board of Directors, explained, “This has been a lasting issue since I went here in the ‘80s.” As MHS athletics continues to grow, such as the new JV and Varsity Flag Football Teams, so does the need for practice space. 

Two years ago, plans to transform the grass field behind the Mamaroneck Town Center into a 75 yard multi-sport turf field were set in motion. Through a partnership between the school district and Fields For Kids, a volunteer organization committed to expanding access of fields to communities, this transformation was funded. 

For the past few decades, the grass field has resembled more of a dirt patch, marred by uneven terrain and poor drainage. By transforming the field into turf, the drainage will improve significantly, helping to prevent odor and damage. The drainage will also promote safety, reducing the risk of slippery surfaces – something crucial in the rainy spring season. 

The Town Center turf field is expected to be completed in June. It will be lined for lacrosse (with unified creases), flag football, football and soccer practices, and available for MHS and the community to use.

“While the new turf field is too small for official Varsity and JV games, it is extremely important to house after-school practices,” said Bari Suman, MHS Athletic Director. On the new turf field, two team practices can be held at a time. Most after-school practices last two hours. Therefore, the addition of the new turf field, creates the opportunity for up to four more practice slots a day.

This addition is especially crucial when varsity teams have home games, allowing JV to still practice that day. “There have always been conflicts between the organization of JV, Varsity and Travel sports,” noted Suman. 

Athletic space should be accessible for all athletes, regardless of level or sport. The new Town Center turf field helps move the program closer to that goal.