Minnesota United, in partnership with Bloomington-based The Toro Company, rebuilt a soccer pitch at the Arlington Hills Community Center in Saint Paul as part of the two organizations’ partnership in providing equitable access to soccer in the Twin Cities community. The Toro Company has been the official partner of turf equipment and irrigation for MNUFC since 2017.
The Arlington Hills Community Center is a joint facility serving a diverse population and is co-run by Saint Paul Parks and Recreation and the Saint Paul Public Library. The once barren field received a complete transformation into a high-quality, accessible field for a community with a strong interest in soccer.
Collectively, MNUFC and The Toro Company donated $30,000 to fund the field rebuild. While the field was leveled and a new, water-efficient Toro irrigation system was installed in late May, the rebuild itself took place on June 2, with around 50 volunteers from MNUFC and The Toro Company. Volunteers were led by Ryan Moy, heads groundskeeper for MNUFC, and Boyd Montgomery with Toro, both professionals in sports field management. Volunteers laid down sod for the field and completed other beautification projects. Additionally, prior to the installation of the sod, Water in Motion and Irrigation by Design both spearheaded the implementation of the irrigation installation to ensure the longevity of the field.
The field was officially unveiled on August 25 with a sign designed by Minnesota-native Myc Dazzle, who’s work can be found in several other community centers around the Twin Cities. Additionally, Minnesota United goalkeeper Eric Dick and midfielder Niko Hansen joined the unveiling and coached a group of 25 program participants to break in the new pitch.
