Field Hockey Improvements

Water Turf Field & Locker Room Facilities

Dear JBS Field Hockey Alums & Families, Remember those double pre-season practices, the twelve-minute run, traveling to K.C. to play Pembroke Hill, and the joy of triumphing over Villa? These are just a few of the cherished memories we share from our time with Burroughs Field Hockey. And now, these memories are being passed down to the next generation of players as the sport continues to thrive. In January of 2024 we received a lead gift to dramatically enhance our field hockey program by converting the field to water turf and building a new facility for restrooms and locker rooms. More than 20 alums and families have joined together to make this project a reality. The Lt. Roz Schulte ’02 Field will retain its location and continue to serve multiple sports teams. For more details about the field and our field hockey program, please see below. The water turf field was completed in fall of 2024 and the team played on it all season. Construction on the restroom/locker rooms was finished in time for the 2025-2026 school year. Scroll down to see updated photos of the construction progress. We are grateful to all who supported this project, and look forward to cheering on our amazing Field Hockey team!   Legendary Field Hockey Program

Our field hockey program has been a strong tradition since our doors opened in 1923. That very first fall, scrimmages were played between grade levels before facing off against their first opponents, Principia and Villa Duchesne. Twelve state championships have been won since the early 1950s, when a formal Midwest/Missouri State Championship was established. The first district tournament trophy was won in 1978 with coaches Beth Kinsella and Skippy Keefer.

In our Centennial year, the 2023 varsity field hockey team had an undefeated season and won our 12th Missouri State Championship. Former player and current Varsity Coach, Meridith Thorpe ’95, was awarded the Missouri/Midwest Coach of the Year.

Teammates For Life, an athletic history told by alumni athletes, highlights the successes won and lessons learned on the field hockey fields. You can read the online book by clicking here.

 

 

Benefits of a Water Turf Field

Water-based turf fields offer several benefits for field hockey compared to traditional sand-based or grass fields:

• Consistent & Enhanced Playing Surface: Water turf fields provide a consistent, smoother and faster playing surface, regardless of weather conditions. Less field friction allows for quicker ball movement & control, smoother passes and more precise shots, leading to a more dynamic and exciting game.

• Reduced Injury Risk: Water turf fields offer a more forgiving surface compared to harder surfaces like artificial turf or traditional grass fields. This can help reduce the risk of injuries such as abrasions, cuts, and joint injuries, making it safer for players.

• Faster Drainage: Water turf fields are designed with efficient drainage systems that allow water to quickly drain off the surface, minimizing disruptions due to rain and ensuring that the field remains playable even during inclement weather.

Restrooms & Locker Rooms

The addition of a new facility, complete with restrooms and locker rooms, offers a dedicated space to gather before and after games and practice, review game film, and bond as a team. Other teams such as soccer and lacrosse will have access to the locker rooms during their respective seasons.

Honor A Coach, Teammate or Team
Consider the opportunity to honor a coach, teammate, or entire team by contributing to the field hockey improvements. Your donation, at any level comfortable for you, will make a meaningful difference. Here are just a few coaches who have had a huge impact on alumni players - field hockey and in other sports!

How To Make A Gift

Whether you choose to make a one-time donation or spread it out over several months or years, your gift will have a significant impact. Every contribution, whether it's $100, $500, $1,000, or any amount, from JBS alumni players will help us reach our goal.

Click the button below to donate online. Or send in a check, gift from a donor-advised fund, or stock through these instructions on our website.

Questions? Contact Lauren Stuart, director of development, at lstuart@jburroughs.org or 314/993-4045 ext. 278.