Feel the cool turf beneath your feet. You stand at DeSilva Memorial Field and Track. This isn’t just any sports field. It’s a place steeped in history and remembrance.
Originally opened as St John’s Stadium in 1978 DeSilva Memorial Field and Track holds a special place in the heart of St John’s University. In 1998 the field was rededicated. It honored John DaSilva a beloved hockey star who tragically died in a car accident. DaSilva Memorial Field and Track now serves as a poignant reminder of his legacy. It’s home to the men’s lacrosse and women’s track and field teams. The field boasts a seating capacity of 1200.
Imagine the roar of the crowd during a thrilling lacrosse match. Picture the intense focus of athletes as they sprint around the track. The field was resurfaced in 2004 with a new FieldTurf surface. This ensured optimal playing conditions for the athletes. The adjacent D’Angelo Center a massive five-story student center also serves as a press box for games and events. It was completed in 2010. It stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to its students and athletics.
The track itself underwent a significant renovation starting in the fall of 2013. This $1.5 million investment created a state-of-the-art Regupol track facility. The new track hosted its first meets in 2014. These included the Annual Monday Track and Field Meeting and the inaugural Tom Farrell Classic. Competitors from numerous local colleges and track clubs flocked to this impressive venue.
This isn’t just a place for competition. It’s a place where memories are made. It’s a place where athletes push their limits. It’s a place where the spirit of John DaSilva lives on. It’s a vibrant part of St John’s University and the wider community. DaSilva Memorial Field and Track stands as a symbol of athletic excellence and lasting tribute. It continues to inspire future generations of athletes and students.