Trying Out the New Soccer Field

I finally took advantage of the new turf soccer field at Linway Terrace Park.* A few months ago, a new soccer field was put in place of the old one.

The old soccer field was in desperate need of renovation. Some wouldn't even call it a field -- just a lumpy mound of soil and patches of crab grass that you would trip over! But out with the old and in with the new.

The new field is amazing, featuring fresh grass, clearly painted lines, new goal posts, and a smooth and even playing field. I know that now is an odd time to be outdoors, but when you are running around, the cold doesn't even bother you.

Earlier this week I met up with my friends from George Washington University -- Ryan, Mahmoud, Islam and Vlad. We played soccer for over an hour, and believe me, by the end of it, it could have been summer for all I knew.

Ryan, Mahmoud and Islam are all new to the States (as they call it), and they grew up in a culture of soccer enthusiasts. Needless to say I couldn't match up to their skill. Either way, we all had a great time, and enjoyed the amenities provided by McLean.

* The new turf field opened November 5, 2010. The $840,000 capital improvement project was funded by the McLean Youth Soccer Association and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors’ Mini Grant program, which is administered by the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. The project also included installation of bleacher and bench pads, installation of goal posts, the addition of a fully-accessible asphalt trail, improved field drainage, and landscaping. 

The field at Linway Terrace Park marks the 23rd field to be converted to synthetic turf in the past few years. Through innovative partnerships throughout the community, the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Athletic Council continue to address the existing shortage of rectangular fields in the county. 

Linway Terrace Park is located at 6246 Linway Terrace in McLean, VA.