By Kole Meschke
Grand Rapids Community College Students are stepping onto brand new ground, literally.
Just before the fall 2025 semester began, on Aug. 25, GRCC opened its 8,200 square foot turf field inside the Ford Fieldhouse. New students, professors, and Grand Rapids locals were given student-led tours, offering a first look at a space that has quickly become a campus favorite.
The turf field will be taking over the former pool facility, measuring 98 ft. long by 83 ft. wide, serving as one of the final phases in a $15 million overhaul of the Ford Fieldhouse. The renovation includes expanded fitness equipment in the rec center, featuring 18 cardio machines, 20 weight training pieces, and 16 plate-loaded strength machines, as well as improvements to the student amenities. The project is set to conclude next year with a new canopy over the Ransom Avenue entrance.
Open to all GRCC students at no extra cost, as well as to community members, age 18 and older, with a fieldhouse membership. The turf field is available Monday through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Fridays from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Surrounding the turf area are newly elevated study spaces, vending machines with snacks and drinks, and microwaves.
For students like Isaac Martinez, the field has already become a go-to destination after classes. “I usually come here after my class at 1:30 and stay around till my culinary class,” Martinez said, describing his routine of playing pickup soccer with his friends. His classmate, Devin Depoy, agreed the facility was something new for them. “It’s great — we didn’t have anything like this in high school,” Depoy said, noting how the turf makes staying both active and social between classes easier than ever.
Others are using the turf and its surrounding areas in ways that go beyond athletics. Interior Design major Keaton Morris, who also works at the Fieldhouse, has been drawn to the new study areas that overlook the field.
“I’ve seen people running around playing drop-in soccer, so that’s been pretty cool,” Morris said.
Faculty and staff expect the turf to expand student opportunities even further in the months ahead.
“Alongside practices for teams like soccer, softball, baseball, or even golf, the field will also be used for intramural sports,” said Coordinator for Facility and Event Operations Sue Goeman. “Intramural soccer is on the way, with possibilities for flag football as well.”
While the programs are still in the planning stages, staff say they are eager for student feedback to shape what comes next.
GRCC marked the upgrades with a rededication ceremony on Oct. 1 at 10 a.m. at the Ransom Avenue entrance of the Ford Fieldhouse. The event highlighted the new turf field and expanded Recreation Center Facilities, which are open, free of charge, to all GRCC students. Students are encouraged to stop by the facility and see the new additions firsthand, and explore everything the Rec Center has to offer.
