Playing across from IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital is officially in the past for the Ball State soccer team.

Construction on the new soccer field at the Briner Sports Complex was completed early this month, just in time for the start of practice for the 2011 season.

The field will be located east of the field hockey area and north of the track near Schuemann Stadium.

Outside help from donors led to the decision to create a new field.

"A large donor had given money toward improvements to athletics fields in that area," said Greg Graham, the director of Facilities Planning. "It was a large gift of monies to be paid for that. We can't use state money for things like this."

Coincidentally, the old field south of campus was needed this year to expand the geothermal project. Ball State was lucky enough to receive funding for a new field at the perfect time.

"The two are not directly related," Graham said. "We would have to temporarily relocate soccer and come back to the field next year." It will be used as a recreational field for Burris schools [next year]."

The improved field condition and location should benefit the soccer team in its upcoming fall season.

"It's a state-of-the-art facility, so we're very fortunate to be able to play on [the field]," coach Craig Roberts said.

A camp of high school students had the first opportunity to play on the field a few weeks ago before Ball State began its preseason practice.

Parking for soccer, field hockey and track and field is available north of the Alumni Center. Lots near the baseball field were also paved during the summer.

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