Construction underway on the new UMaine Field Hockey complex

Orono, Maine – Construction on the University of Maine’s new field hockey complex, slated to open in August 2023, is well underway, with several development projects completed over the winter and spring seasons.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Harold Alfond Foundation for their commitment to our student-athletes,” says Head Field Hockey Coach Josette Babineau. “When completed, the UMaine Field Hockey Complex will be the best facility in our conference and one of the best in all of New England. Our new complex will benefit our current players and the future of UMaine field hockey, but also serve as a source of pride for our alumni.”

One of the first steps in construction was the installation of underground utilities, including new perimeter drainage. Concrete walls with a brick wall have been installed in the team bench areas and the grandstand.

Construction of the field surface, bleachers and press box started at the beginning of May and will continue throughout the summer. The surface of the turf is to be installed in July.

“Installing a turf to replace real grass in a facility is incredibly important to our game and a major investment in itself,” says Babineau. “We are excited about the new environment surrounding the grass surface. The field will be properly protected with a cement border, fence and padding. They will include a new, modernized press box and video stand, as well as closed team benches and additional storage spaces for our equipment. Our fans will benefit from elevated bleacher seats and a large number of back seats.”

The new UMaine field hockey complex is part of the University of Maine’s revamping $110 million athletic facilities master plan. The initiative honors Harold Alfond’s legacy of supporting Maine education and athletics by providing modern facilities for all 17 varsity programs in Maine’s only Division I athletic program and enhancing the overall UMaine student experience.

In October 2021, the Harold Alfond Foundation announceda historic $500 million investmentMaine and its people. The University of Maine System will receive $240 million over 10 to 12 years, including $90 million in support for UMaine’s $110 million athletics facilities master plan.

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