The synthetic vs. natural grass debate sprouts at NSU

The debate between natural grass and artificial turf, and professional athletes’ preference for natural grass, has been a hotly contested topic for some time. The debate is rising again after recent comments made by NFL quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, whose season ended after an Achilles injury in the opening game of the 2023 NFL season. Rodgers, like numerous other pro football athletes, is vocal about leagues transitioning from synthetic to natural grass.

NSU competes in soccer and golf, both on natural grass fields. NSU chose to implement natural grass fields, a decision that was not taken lightly.

COURTESY OF JEFF ROMANCE. Men’s soccer team takes the field at the new soccer complex at NSU.

The choice between natural grass and artificial turf can have implications on athlete safety and the length of their collegiate playing career. Dustin Gatens, assistant athletic director for Sports Medicine at NSU, said that the preexistence of natural grass fields, along with athletes’ preference for natural grass, played a role in avoiding artificial turf at NSU.

“From a player perspective, it’s about personal preference. If you would ask me what most student athletes would say, they would prefer to play on grass,” Gatens said.

While turf has some benefits, including lower maintenance costs and efficient drainage, it has notable drawbacks, such as heat retention, which could be especially significant for NSU athletes given the warm South Florida climate.

According to Gatens, what really matters when it comes to choosing playing surfaces is not just the material but how well the field is maintained and its overall quality.

“Grass for sure. But a very good turf can be better than a bad grass,” said Tobias Pellio, a graduate student earning his MBA in supply chain management and NSU men’s soccer captain.

Georgia Monique Mokha, professor in health and human performance, believes that grass is a better choice for NSU.

“The most prevalent injuries in soccer are ankle and foot injuries,” Mokha said. “Grass can be a better choice for us, at least to help with the most common injuries that occur.”

While there is an increased rate of foot and ankle injuries on turf, Mokha said ACL injuries do not discriminate.

“It’s concerning because we all hear about ACL injuries and the research is showing that the rate of injury is the same on grass and turf,” Mokha said.

Mokha also added that the rates of long-term knee injuries remain consistent, regardless of the playing surface.

For NSU, the athletic department’s commitment to natural grass aligns with addressing injury concerns while prioritizing student athlete well-being and safety.