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Physician Assistant Studies students play volleyball on the new court surface.. Image by Evan Lewis

UAMS Installs New Turf Volleyball Court in West Campus Courtyard

May 21, 2026 | Students at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) now have a new place to unwind and stay active, following the installation of an artificial turf volleyball court on the west side of campus.

In July, a general discussion of a permanent court surface began among students in the Physician Assistant Studies Program. Jessica Stahulak, MHA, UAMS College of Health Professions associate dean of administration, heard requests from the students for a better play surface, and she began talking to Penny Talbert, UAMS landscape manager. With support from the provost, the project was launched.

Talbert said the need for a durable solution became clear as students frequently gathered to play volleyball in the grassy courtyard.

“Students tried to move their play around to avoid damaging the grass, but the wear kept occurring,” Talbert said. “We began discussing alternatives and felt artificial turf would provide a more sustainable option.”

Tony Costello, project manager in UAMS Campus Operations – Planning, Design and Construction, then got involved to bring the idea to life. Costello noted that the area’s high foot traffic had significantly degraded the soil prior to construction.

After a bidding process for a contractor to install a new surface, National Greens was selected, and they started work in late March and finished in about a week.

Costello said, “The new court provides a durable surface designed for long-term use while improving safety and appearance.”

The new volleyball court includes integrated court lines, a cushioned underlayment, a weed barrier, and perimeter curbing to protect the artificial turf when the natural grass nearby is being mowed and trimmed.

The response from students has been immediate and enthusiastic.

“As soon as we finished, students were out there playing,” Costello said. “It’s great to see them enjoying it. With the demands they face academically, this gives them a fun and healthy way to relieve stress.”

The new court marks the first athletic-style turf installation of its kind on the UAMS campus.

On Friday, May 8, Chancellor C. Lowry Barnes, M.D., officially marked the opening of the new turf volleyball court during a fun kickoff event with Physician Assistant students. Students gathered to enjoy popcorn and fruit bars while celebrating the addition of the new campus amenity. Barnes spoke about recognizing the importance of creating spaces that support student wellness, community, and engagement beyond the classroom.

Following the ceremony, Barnes spent time visiting with students, chatting about their experiences and enjoying the opportunity to connect in the courtyard’s newest gathering space.