Jacksonville State University to install new turf field in newly rebranded stadium


Photo: Jacksonville State University
After the partnership between Jacksonville State University (JSU), AmFirst Insurance Company and the Jacksonville State University Foundation announced the rebranding of JSU’s football stadium to AmFirst Stadium on July 16, Athletic Director Greg Seitz announced that new turf will be in place for the 2024 season.
New turf is one of the many changes fans will see many changes when they return to Burgess-Snow Field at AmFirst Stadium, including the opening of the Loring and Debbie White Football Complex and a renovated north side with new seating, outdoor suites and loge seating.
“Our previous turf was at the end of its lifespan, and we saw this as a perfect opportunity to replace our playing surface prior to the start of this season,” said Seitz. “The turf replacement will only add to many other stadium enhancements that will provide a first-class experience while reducing injuries and improving the safety and well-being of our student-athletes.”
The field design has also been released, with the vintage Gamecock logo as the main focal point at midfield. The end zone colors have also changed and will be red with the JSU football branding highlighted with white letters. Along with the Conference USA logos on the field, the AmFirst corporate marks are very prominent on the sidelines.
“We’re very excited about our new turf and partnership with AmFirst,” said JSU football coach Rich Rodriguez.
The new playing surface at AmFirst stadium will utilize AstroTurf’s RootZone 3D Series, which prioritizes unparalleled performance and safety, according to the company. The 3D Series incorporates a RootZone layer into its basic infilled turf systems. This innovative texturized layer of fibers encapsulates the infill, resulting in minimal rubber splash, enhanced shock absorbency and reduced infill migration.
According to the company, RootZone significantly improves safety, playability and durability, making it a popular product line in the AstroTurf portfolio as athletes experience grass-like traction with reduced torque on their lower extremities, ensuring more comfortable play. The system also features less infill spray and consistent shock attenuation, which contribute to its improved durability and long-lasting quality.
Seitz said the project is expected to be completed in early August and fans will get their first look when the Gamecocks open the 2024 season on national television against Coastal Carolina on August 29.
The originator of the synthetic playing surface, AstroTurf was first pioneered in 1964 and has been in continuous operation since 1968; longer than any facility in the industry.