Despite student rumors about the delayed production of the artificial turf for the football field, workers finished placing South’s turf four days ahead of schedule.

“In the initial planning phase back in January, the plan was to be done Sept. 12. As of right now, it’s set to be done on Sept. 9,” Bob Yanello said on Sept 6. According to Yanello, the project was finished just in time for the first home game of the year, and many staff and students showed up to enjoy the new field.

Yanello said the turf will bring in many opportunities for revenue and the head of the athletic boosters agrees.

“The long term goal by having the field done will benefit everyone that is currently at South and future students. This includes athletic programs, band, PE classes and the community programs that will be able to request use of the field,” said Mary Murray, the president of South’s athletic Boosters.

The Boosters didn’t get a chance to earn as much money due to limited home games this year, but Yanello and Murray agree that the benefits far outweigh the cons. Murray also said the Boosters plan to raise money in other ways this year and are open to new fundraising ideas.

“It is hard sometimes to see beyond the short term, but we need to look past that and focus on the long term and what a beautiful stadium we will have,” Murray said.

The homecoming game took place on Friday, Sept. 23 against Joliet Central. Many of the activities scheduled for homecoming week were played on the new artificial turf. Other sports and activities will utilize the field for years to come.