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Bill Belichick, one of the most accomplished coaches in NFL history, shocked the sports world when he returned to coaching-this time at the collegiate level.
After ending his legendary tenure with the New England Patriots following the 2023 season, Belichick was named the head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels.
It's a bold new chapter for both Belichick and UNC football, marked by sweeping changes to the roster and even the playing surface at Kenan Stadium.
Belichick, known for his meticulous approach to the game, wasted no time reshaping the program.
Along with securing nearly 20 transfers to bolster the team, the coach has spearheaded a significant the Tar Heels' facilities: the removal of artificial turf and the return to natural grass at Kenan Stadium.
The change signals not only a fresh start for the team but also Belichick's long-term commitment to creating an ideal environment for his players.
Belichick's Impact Beyond the Sidelines
One of the most noticeable changes under Belichick's leadership is the decision to reinstall natural grass at Kenan Stadium.
According to Thomas Goldkamp of On3, the project is already underway and is expected to take 12 weeks to complete. T
his move will restore the field to its natural grass appearance from 2017 to 2019. Funded by The Rams Club-a group of loyal UNC ers-the initiative is aimed at enhancing the game-day experience for players and fans alike.
Belichick played a key role in advocating for this transition. UNC explicitly acknowledged his influence in a press release, stating, "The decision to convert back to grass was made in consultation with new [coach Belichick]-with the best experience for the program in mind."
Carolina Director of Athletics, Bubba Cunningham, also underscored the importance of the upgrade.
"With our current turf reaching the end of its lifespan, the timing made sense to return Kenan Stadium to its natural grass roots," Cunningham said.
"Our staff takes great pride in maintaining a top-tier field that reflects the excellence of UNC Football, and we look forward to cheering on the team as it competes on a world-class natural grass surface next season."
A Promising Future for UNC Football
The reintroduction of natural grass aligns with a broader trend in sports, as many teams recognize its benefits for player safety and performance.
Grass fields are often associated with reduced injury risks, a factor likely on Belichick's mind as he prepares his team for a grueling season.
The new field will debut on August 30 when the Tar Heels face off against the TCU Horned Frogs, marking the official start of the Belichick era at UNC.
The move to natural grass is emblematic of the coach's broader vision for the program: to prioritize excellence in every aspect, from the players' development to the facilities they use.
Belichick's arrival has already generated excitement among fans and players, with hopes that his expertise can elevate the Tar Heels to new heights.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on UNC to see how this legendary coach leaves his mark on the college football world.