Sul Ross State University's 2016 home football season will begin on new turf.

When the Lobos meet Arizona Christian University at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17 at Jackson Field, they will step on a new artificial playing surface, thanks to a fund-raising effort by alumni and friends. A $100,000 gift from Wayne and Jennifer Thorp, Mertzon, provided the foundation for the $700,000 project.

Sul Ross has agreed to secure financing to fund the majority of the cost, to be paid off in eight years. Since the project cost must be paid totally from private gifts or non-state appropriations, pledges for future funding will be needed to repay the bond.

Turfing Jackson Field will expand current athletics/recreational sports facilities renovation. Last fall, the Sul Ross student body voted to approve fee increases to fully fund a lighted, artificial turf, multi-purpose, recreational sports/intramural field just east of Jackson Field. Groundbreaking for the 107,000 square facility was held in late January. Hellas Construction, Austin, is the contractor for both projects.

"This project is a leap of faith, but we are confident that we will bridge the funding gap through the commitment of Sul Ross alumni and friends, augmenting the generous donations already received," said Dr. Bill Kibler, Sul Ross President. "We are also thankful to the Sul Ross student body, who voted to fund the recreational sports/intramural field, as this construction provided the opportunity to upgrade Jackson Field at a reduced cost as well."

"A new surface on Jackson Field is an outstanding addition to the entire university," said Lobo head football coach John Pearce. "We are truly excited about and grateful to the commitment and support from former players, other alumni and friends who have made this effort possible."

"With a new fieldhouse, new recreational sports/practice field and now new turf, our facilities will skyrocket to the top of the conference. These additions will definitely enhance recruitment and retention throughout the entire campus."

Bobby Mesker, Sul Ross athletics director, said, "Over the past year and a half the administration and the students have shown their commitment to athletics and recreation. With this project our alumni and friends are showing their commitment.  Our department will need that commitment to continue and grow over the next five years, but what a statement these individuals have made. This is just another sign that it is a great time to be a Lobo."

Added Butch Worley, Vice President for External Affairs: "We are so appreciative of the individuals who have contributed to this point, particularly Wayne and Jennifer Thorp, whose lead gift gave us a solid base for the initial fund-raising effort. We would not be in position to move forward with this important project, however, without the commitment from many friends to continue their support through annual gifts," he said.

Donors have three options to give: by check mailed to SRSU, PO Box C-114, Alpine, TX, 79832; credit card by calling 432-837-8892; or online by going to www.sulross.edu/giving.