GAMBIER, Ohio – Renovations to Mavec Field, which began in mid-May, are nearing completion.

After the field was stripped of its sod due to an infestation of Poa annua, it was re-sodded in late June with 100 percent Kentucky bluegrass. The field was sand capped for drainage and given a heavy top dressing of sand to facilitate growth prior to upcoming soccer season.

Mavec's playing surface, home to Kenyon's men's and women's soccer teams, as well as the women's lacrosse team, was expanded to 120 feet long by 75 feet wide to accommodate a wider variety of playing styles in terms of spacing, passing and pace.

Additionally, the field was shifted closer to the bleachers to remove the large gap between seating and playing surface. A reduced three-foot fence will be installed for better viewing from all seats. Along the same fence, companion seating will be available for wheelchair viewing. The movement of the field also brings the student standing section closer to the bleachers and away from spectators' views down the lines.

New goals were installed and the team bench areas, which were originally grass, will be concreted to allow team covers to be bolted down. The change in the bench areas will open the possibility for further development, with an aim of updating team benches.

"We want to offer a phenomenal student-athlete experience, and these facility upgrades will greatly aid in that process," said Head Women's Soccer Coach Kelly Bryan. "We will be proud to host home games and have the ability to play on such a great field."