College officials unveiled the latest addition to the Athletic Department's improvement in facilities for students at a ribbon-cutting ceremony earlier this month-a synthetic-turf lacrosse/soccer field surrounded by an eight-lane outdoor track is the new home to both men's and women's teams. The surface of Rams Field is FieldTurf, one of the leading synthetic surfaces in use by professional and major-college teams across the country, and the same surface installed at the College's lighted baseball stadium.

President Keen praised Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. for his legislative efforts in funding the many improvements to athletics facilities, which also serve recreational uses by students. The extensive modernization began with the construction of the baseball stadium, which opened in 2006. Other upgrades to athletic facilities are planned, including the installation of new tennis courts and renovation of locker rooms in Nold Hall.

"We have superior student-athletes, a superior athletics program that contributes to the overall student experience, and top notch athletics and recreational facilities for our students," Dr. Keen said. "The College is growing in many ways, and athletics is an important part of our growth."

"Farmingdale State College has seen a tremendous increase in enrollment over the last several years and is becoming one of the premier colleges on Long Island," said Senator Fuschillo. "I've secured state funding for several different projects, including a new School of Business building, a new student union, and a new athletic facility so that the college's infrastructure can keep up with its growing student body. This new facility will build upon these improvement projects by giving student athletes a safe, modern place to play sports."

The durable surface has the appearance and feel of natural grass while requiring less maintenance. FieldTurf has been installed at Giants Stadium, Syracuse University's Carrier Dome, the New York Jets' training facility, Columbia University, St. John's, and Stony Brook, among others. Rams Field eventually will have seating for 1,000 spectators.

The facility, which cost $2.5 million, was funded by the State, contributions to the Athletics Department, and grants. The Rams compete in NCAA Division III, where the men's basketball team, women's soccer team and baseball team have each won Skyline Conference Championships and appeared in the NCAA playoffs this past year.

"The College has a first-rate baseball stadium, and the addition of this athletics field adds dramatically to the stature of our very successful athletics program," said Athletic Director Mike Harrington. "We believe in providing our students first-class athletic and recreational facilities."