Turf field planned at Skylands Stadium

As the Sussex County Miners enter their 10th anniversary season, the organization plans to install a state-of-the-art turf field at Skylands Stadium, 94 Championship Place, Augusta.

Work is expected to be completed this spring.

“We’re entering a very exciting time in our organization’s history,” said Michael Dorso, owner and president of the Miners. “The new turf field represents more than just a superior playing surface - it symbolizes our continued commitment to growth, reliability and building a sustainable future for sports and entertainment in the region.

“Our mission after 10 years is to demonstrate to our fans, partners and the broader Sussex County community that we are here to stay and plan on elevating this franchise to greater heights.”

The decision to install a turf field comes as the Miners celebrate back-to-back seasons of record attendance.

“We’ve seen firsthand how passionate our fans and partners are,” said Vincent Sangemino, the team’s general manager. “It’s because of them that an investment of this magnitude is possible.”

The synthetic turf will minimize the impact of weather on games.

“Rainouts have long been a challenge, but with this new surface, we can drastically reduce the number of postponed games and shorten rain delays,” Sangemino said. “Fans will be able to come to the ballpark with confidence that even if a shower is forecasted, the game will go on.”

The turf field also will provide a professional, safe and reliable playing surface for year-round use, significantly expanding opportunities for adult and youth sports programs throughout Sussex County.

It will be available to rent for community events, practices and games.

New restaurant

In addition, the Miners have teamed up with the Barnyard, an award-winning Branchville restaurant, to operate the stadium’s new restaurant and bar and oversee concessions operations.

The Barnyard voted Best Burger and Best BBQ in 2023 and 2024 by the New Jersey Herald’s Best of Sussex County Community Choice Awards.

“The addition of the Barnyard at Skylands Stadium continues our long-standing tradition of offering fans a welcoming atmosphere and superior food and beverage options,” Dorso said.

“We’re proud to collaborate with Paul and Amy Fiorentino of the Barnyard. Their 30-plus years of combined food industry experience, award-winning cuisine, passion for excellence and reputation for exceptional hospitality will enhance the stadium’s dining experience for our 10th anniversary season and beyond.

“With the Barnyard on board, we envision Skylands Stadium becoming a premier destination for sports, entertainment and dining.”

The Fiorentinos said, “We’re beyond excited to bring the Barnyard to Skylands Stadium. As a family from Sussex County, we take great pride in serving our community and can’t wait to provide Miners fans an unforgettable dining experience - in the restaurant and concessions.

“We want to offer more than just ballpark food - we want the Barnyard to be the go-to gathering place for families and food lovers in North Jersey.”

Sangemino said, “Providing the best possible experience for our fans has always been our top priority. The Barnyard will raise the bar for ballpark dining and ensure outstanding food and service throughout the stadium.

“Fans can also expect shorter concessions wait times and new product offerings to take their gameday experience to the next level.”

Fans will get their first look at the improvements during the Miners’ annual Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival on Saturday, May 3.

The event takes place on the field and features food, drinks, live music, games and more.

Tickets are $5. They may be purchased online at skylandsstadium.com/foodtruck

The Miners will open their season Thursday, May 8.

For information. send email to contact@scminers.com or call 973-383-7644.