The North Carolina Tar Heels will replace synthetic turf with natural grass at Kenan Stadium for the 2025 season. The decision, influenced by new head coach Bill Belichick, reflects a commitment to improving the playing experience. With the synthetic surface nearing the end of its lifespan, UNC is taking the opportunity to make this change as part of its long-term vision for the football program.
Collaboration Between Athletics and Coaching Staff
The decision to transition back to grass was made collaboratively between the athletics department and Coach Belichick. Bubba Cunningham, UNC’s Director of Athletics, emphasized the university’s pride in maintaining exceptional playing conditions. Belichick’s extensive NFL experience provided valuable insights into the advantages of natural grass, reinforcing the importance of player performance and safety in this decision.
The conversion project is set to take 12 weeks to complete, ensuring that the new grass surface will be ready for the 2025 season opener. UNC’s athletic staff is committed to delivering a high-quality field that reflects the excellence of the program. The effort demonstrates UNC’s dedication to creating an optimal environment for athletes to compete at their best.
Season Opener Features Exciting Matchup
Kenan Stadium’s new natural grass field will debut on September 1, 2025, in a high-profile game against the TCU Horned Frogs. Scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST on ESPN, this season opener will also mark Coach Belichick’s debut as the Tar Heels’ head coach. The primetime event promises to be an exciting showcase for the team and its newly upgraded field.
The return to natural grass underscores UNC Football’s dedication to both tradition and innovation. By prioritizing the needs of players and incorporating insights from an experienced coach like Belichick, the program is positioning itself for future success. The upgraded field reflects the university’s goal of fostering excellence on and off the field, setting the stage for a promising new era in Tar Heels football.
