New Complex A Valuable Asset

Staff Editorial

Despite its $5.6 million price tag  the soccer field is an investment for the future.

It’s great when a plan comes together.

When President Erlinda Martinez arrived at Santa Ana College, she saw a campus in disrepair. It was clear it needed updating. The dynamic SAC leader who established a 10-year plan knew it would take that long to beautify the campus by its 100th anniversary.

The completion of a multimillion dollar soccer complex that our athletes and community can be proud of represents a tangible step toward the college’s centennial goal.

A complex doesn’t just give our athletes a stadium experience, but also provides a new venue for community groups renting the space throughout the year.

But some say the synthetic grass field is not an upgrade, but a potential danger for the  athletes who use it.

SAC athletic trainers and coaches worry about increased injuries and infections. Athletes fear their performance will suffer because of the unfamiliar playing surface. But research shows that athletes are safer on synthetic turf.

The field is low maintenance, saves the college money and will bring revenue back to campus.

While some grumble about the transition, this field is an investment for the community and represents a visionary plan coming to fruition.