Parsons Field was adorned with unparalleled accolades recently, earning a Two-Star rating from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

Northeastern University's facility for men's and women's soccer and baseball was recognized as the first FIFA Two-Star surface in all of college sports. Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots, was the first turf in the country to receive the score from FIFA.

Since Northeastern's recognition of housing a Two-Star FIFA playing surface, the University of Wisconsin recently earned the same honor at Engelmann Field.

The Two-Star rating is the highest-possible rating for an artificial turf field.

To be granted this mark of distinction, there are approximately 10 tests that the playing surface must pass, including ball rebounding, ball rolling, shock absorption, vertical deformation, rotational resistance, stud slide value and stud deceleration value, surface friction / abrasion, sub-ambient and elevated tests, simulated wear and artificial weathering.

If Gillette Stadium was ever to host a tournament, FIFA could call upon Parsons Field as a practice site for those teams and players.

Northeastern can now proudly exclaim it owns one of the best playing surfaces across the board in collegiate athletics.