The turf is down at Oak Glen Field and the installation is expected to be complete by Sept. 10, according to Hancock County Schools’ Chief Finance Officer Joe Campinelli. The next home game for Oak Glen is slated for Sept. 17 against Mt. Pleasant and its play is contingent upon Oak Glen and the opposing team being cleared for COVID.
Campinelli said the turf was purchased from Field Turf one of two leading turf manufacturers in the nation (the other being Astro Turf). Critics of the process have said no input from either athletic directors or coaches was received. Campanelli acknowledges that input was not sought, but said there were two bids and the administration went with the lower bid.
Controversy has also arisen over the shade of blue on the end zone, saying the color of blue is a brighter, darker blue than Oak Glen’s “Columbia Blue” colors. Campinelli said Oak Glen’s administration selected the color. Dave Smith, Oak Glen principal, said he did sign off on the color, but it was Columbia Blue.
Hancock County has not been alone in its frustration with getting artificial turf delivered in time for the football season. Like many industries, the companies producing turf have been plaqued with a lack of material and labor due to the COVID pandemic. Toronto had a similar situation and as of Sept. 6, Bethany College is still awaiting delivery of turf to complete their field.
