A Game Changer!
The Installation of Field Turf at Karl Graf Stadium
The upcoming improvements at Karl Graf Stadium will truly be a game changer for Selah athletes and the community. The installation of field turf, the first of the District’s upcoming projects, will create a safe, durable, and high-quality athletic space for participants, while extending the field’s lifespan and usability. This upgrade isn’t just safer—it’s also built for constant action. Scheduled to begin in March of 2026 and conclude by August, the projected cost of the project is $3,182,679, funded through the District’s Capital Projects Fund, including remaining state match dollars from previously approved safety related improvements.
“Field-turf installation at the high school stadium has been a decades-long priority for our District and represents an important investment in our students and our community,” said Associate Superintendent Chris Scacco. “It will provide a safer, more durable playing surface that can be used for athletics, physical education, and community events. We’re excited to see our students benefit from a facility that supports both performance and long-term sustainability, and now is the time to proceed.”
Athlete safety has always been a top priority. That’s why installing field turf has been part of the District’s Long-Range Facilities Plan for the past 20 years and is a key reason for moving forward now. Unlike natural grass, which can develop divots, uneven patches, and muddy and slick areas, field turf provides a smooth, consistent playing surface that helps reduce avoidable accidents. Shock-absorbing layers also protect the joints and help reduce stress related injuries. Given Selah’s ongoing field conditions, turf provides a safer and more reliable playing surface for our athletes.
“I am so excited for our new turf field because it will provide a smoother, more consistent ground for practices and games,” said Kaylee Hall, a member of the girls’ soccer team. “With a new turf field, the risk of injury from the bumps and dirt patches from the grass field decreases. That would enhance our playing conditions.”
But the advantages of field turf extend beyond safety. Its surface is designed to keep the game going. It can withstand continuous play without recovery time, making it ideal for multi-sport use. Field turf is also less affected by weather or overuse, reducing game and practice cancellations due to poor field conditions. Additionally, turf can be more cost-effective over time, with lower maintenance needs and a longer lifespan than natural grass.
“I believe that the new field turf is not only exciting, but much needed,” said football player, Calen Wuitschick. “During the season, especially toward the end, the grass on the current field is challenging with mud and holes. This causes us to lose traction and ultimately makes execution of play go down and the risk of injury increases. The field turf will eliminate these challenges and provide a steady playing surface.”
While the stadium upgrades strengthen student athletics, the District’s second major project focuses on expanding hands-on learning and career preparation.
The architectural drawing of the turf at Karl Graf Stadium.
The installation of field turf has been a decades long priority of the District.