Albertsons Stadium is the home of the Boise State Broncos football program. At first glance, one of the most striking features of the stadium is the unique but rather strange blue grass playing field.
The appearance of the course may seem awkward to newbies, as it closely resembles an Australian Open tennis court. However, the “Smurf Turf” has made the stadium recognizable in the world of college football.
But why blue? so curious
The history of blue turf at Albertsons Stadium dates back to 1986. Boise State athletic director Gene Bleymaier was looking for ways to make dramatic improvements to the school’s athletic program.
He decided to create a unique identity for the soccer team that sets it apart from the rest. Bleymaier came up with the idea for a blue turf field after seeing and appreciating the aesthetics of a blue running track at another university.
The idea of a blue field was met with skepticism among decision makers at the university, but Bleymaier was determined to see it happen. The concept was eventually approved, and the first blue turf was installed at Albertsons Stadium (which was known as Broncos Stadium at the time).
The grass, the first non-green football surface in college football. It immediately caught the attention of fans and the media across the country. Many debated why it should be allowed and the impact it could have on gaming. However, Boise State obtained no NCAA restrictions on its use.
Benefits and meaning of blue grass
The artificial turf at Albertsons Stadium has its own practical benefits. Boise State can play the field during inclement weather, which is a common occurrence in Idaho. The level playing surface also brought down the stadium’s injury record.
The turf has become synonymous with the football program over the years. It has practically become a symbol of his success. One of the most successful teams to transition to Division I soccer after years of being a Division I-AA powerhouse, the Broncos have an impressive winning record on their blue turf.
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The blue turf at Albertsons Stadium has also become one of Idaho’s biggest tourist attractions. Visitors flock to the stadium to watch and get a feel for the unique playing surface. The stadium offers tours during which fans can take a walk around the field and even purchase the sampler of blue turf as a souvenir.
College and professional teams across the United States have experimented with colored turf, but none have recorded the success of Albertsons Stadium’s blue turf. The unique blue field, therefore, has long been a part of Boise State’s identity in college football.