Luther College’s Carlson Stadium is home to the first blue turf in Division III sports. Located in Decorah, Iowa, Luther College had to get special approval from Boise State, who holds a federal trademark on colored turf.
Legacy Field is part of a $26 million renovation of Luther’s athletic facilities. The blue turf was funded exclusively by private donations. The deterioration of the natural grass field sparked the decision to switch to artificial turf.
The surface is AstroTurf 3D with a Nike Grind Infill over a Brock pad. This is the first Brock pad installed in Iowa. Luther College hopes the unique safety characteristics and eye-catching appearance of the field will help attract more prospective students and student athletes.
Paula Carlson, President of Luther College, said “The new field will provide a first-class athletic experience for our students,” and surpass all of the conference competitors in terms of safety.
The Norse took to the blue turf for the first time on September 9th wearing all-blue uniforms. Luther’s home opener resulted in a victory, beating St. Olaf College 44-20.