Hello! First time fanpost here.
After the removal of the track in June I got to thinking about what other changes Zenger and Company could make on the hill. I've been throwing this idea around to my friends, they all say I'm crazy, but I think a natural grass playing field at Memorial would enhance the atmosphere inside the horseshoe.
Not many schools have the dirt and grass these days because of several factors. The cost, like most things, is the largest issue. After the purchase and installation of synthetic grass its nearly maintenance free for years. Another factor is the safety of players on the turf. Its easier for players to make cuts and change directions on turf and that helps prevent leg injuries. Another claim I've heard is it allows players to run faster but that's no advantage to the home team. One last benefit is that turf is all-weather. Its a near perfect playing surface in any weather condition which goes back to cost and safety of players.
Here's my logic behind natural grass instead. The maintenance is extraordinary compared to turf, but its not like KU can't afford it. This is a major Division I program and the bank rolls are long. I know many Kansas high schools use turf and cost wise that makes sense for them, but if other more successful universities are still using it KU can as well. Lest we mention Iowa State here.
My best counterpoint is that football is a game meant for the elements. With dirty uniforms in rain, snow or shine, I want to see these guys go out like we did as kids in the park or back yard. Football's tough and physical and the dirt, blood, and sweat are part of its mystique. Think about those old NFL films of guys looking completely trashed after games. That's football to me. Dont' you remember Reesing to Meier in the snow at Arrowhead? The nastiness of that game is part of its legend. Even if it's October, sunny and 65 degrees a grass field shines in a natural way no synthetic can.
Perhaps you can't argue too much about health and safety benefits, however, they seem minimal. But if cost is not a significant issue, why not?
So what do you think? If the athletic department has more significant changes in store for the stadium including lowering the field, what if they replaced the turf with real grass in the process?