Elizabethtown, Pa. - Recently, Elizabethtown College announced plans to break ground on the installation of a new synthetic turf surface on the Ira R. Herr Field, beginning in the summer of 2026. Herr Field has served as a cornerstone of Blue Jay athletics for more than five decades as the home of Etown's Women's and Men's Soccer programs.
"We are thrilled about this exciting upgrade to Herr Field, which positions us to carry on its storied legacy and tradition for current and future Blue Jay students," Elizabethtown College Director of Athletics and member of the 1989 NCAA Men's Soccer Championship team, Chris Morgan '91 said. "This addition will positively impact more than 200 Etown student-athletes, while also creating opportunities for enhanced intramural and recreation space for all students."
The renovation will replace the existing natural grass surface, ensuring the field will remain a premier competition venue within the Landmark Conference and across NCAA Division III. This investment also reinforces the College's commitment to the student experience, sustainability, and improving community engagement.
The upgraded field will allow for expanded use year-round, creating opportunities for NCAA athletics, club, and intramural sports at the College, while the new turf surface improves sustainability by reducing water use, maintenance demands, and chemical applications.
Additionally, the renovation opens up new possibilities for hosting tournaments, youth programs, and community events - increasing engagement and generating revenue for the College.
About Ira R. Herr Field
Ira R. Herr Field was dedicated on Sept. 30, 1970, and named in honor of Ira R. Herr '16, P'62, the College's long-time teacher, coach, and first athletic director - a role he held from 1930 until his retirement in 1961. From 1928-50, he served as the head coach for every sport offered by the College.
Herr Field has been the site for many historic moments in the athletic department's history, including the 1989 NCAA Men's Soccer National Championship, which the Blue Jays won, 2-0, over UNC-Greensboro, as well as the 1997 NCAA Women's Soccer Final Four, which marked Etown's best finish in program history.
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About Elizabethtown College
Elizabethtown College, located in southcentral Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is a private coed institution offering more than 75 health, science, engineering, political science, business, communications, music, humanities, and education degrees. Discover more: etown.edu.
Contact:
Brad Weltmer
Director of Communications and Social Media
Elizabethtown College
(717) 805-2891
