Making the transition from grass to turf marks a major step for the Crimson, and now Yale is the only Ivy school still playing its home games on grass. Artificial turf dramatically speeds up the game and is considered a prerequisite for a top-caliber field hockey program.

"Playing on grass was just retarding us as a program," Kalil said. "Top-10 teams won't even play on grass--it's simply not worth their while. Our coach [Sue Caples] really pushed for it, and we are so appreciative. It can only work to Harvard's advantage."

The Crimson plays a non-league game against UNH on Friday before opening its Ivy schedule on Sunday against Columbia. The Crimson finished tied for second in the Ivy last season at 5-2, behind perennial national powerhouse Princeton, which was undefeated in league play.