A project to install artificial turf at Des Arc High School’s Rollins-Hinson Field was nearing completion last week, transforming the football field into a facility that can be used for a wider range of school and community activities.

The Des Arc School District posted a short video on Facebook on July 27 showing the new turf, which replaces the field’s natural grass surface.

The project was announced in the spring after being discussed for several years. 

Superintendent Marc Sherrell said one factor in the decision was the retirement of Mike Cox, who has been responsible for maintaining the grass field.

“As a former coach who has personally mowed and painted many football fields, I know firsthand the tremendous value Mike has brought to our program,” Sherrell said in a May 7 post on the district’s website. 

“Even as coaches, we could never have made the field look as good as Mike did week after week. His service to Des Arc athletics is truly immeasurable.”

While the grass field often looked excellent, Sherrell said protecting it from damage limited how often it could be used. He recalled a muddy game against Bald Knob several years ago that damaged the field for the remainder of the season and required Cox to spend countless hours restoring it.

The artificial surface will allow the district to expand use of the field beyond high school football. Sherrell said it can be used by baseball and softball teams, cheerleaders, the band, physical education classes and peewee teams, as well as for field day and potentially graduation.

“This project will transform our stadium into a true multi-use facility for our students and community,” Sherrell said.

The project also includes a two-lane track around the field and a 100-meter straightaway for sprint training. Sherrell said that will give student-athletes a place to run without having to use city streets.

The district plans to also make the field available to the public for walking and jogging outside of school hours.