BLOOMINGTON, Ind., June 7 (UPI) -- A combination of high winds and heavy rain has damaged the Indiana University football field so badly that the artificial turf may need replacement.
Athletic Director Rick Greenspan told the Indianapolis Star that an expert is to examine the field Tuesday to determine if repairs are possible. Replacing the AstroPlay turf, installed in 2003, could cost as much as $1 million, he said.
The field was deluged this week, with the wind driving the water under the carpet of artificial grass. The damage included a 10-inch-deep sinkhole in the south end zone.
"Part of the turf just collapsed like one of those landslides you see in California where the foundation just goes out from under it," Greenspan said.
Football Coach Bill Lynch said the field was "an incredible sight" Thursday morning as water drained away leaving sinkholes and lumps behind.
