AMES, Iowa – Record-setting crowds, exciting victories and an electric atmosphere have become the norm in Jack Trice Stadium the last two seasons.

But there is more to Jack Trice Stadium than this. If you haven't noticed, it boasts one of college football's most plush and beautiful fields.

Nationally recognized among its peers, the natural green grass of Jack Trice Stadium was named the 2012 College Football Field of the Year by SportsTurf Managers Association (STMA).

Athletics turf grounds manager Tim Van Loo has put in the time and diligent work to make Jack Trice Stadium look gorgeous. Van Loo and his student staff, Blake Nelson, Colton Metzger, Josh Lenz, Adam Gregersen and Kevin Hansen, gathered for a photo shoot this morning to commemorate their outstanding achievement.

The Cyclone sports turf crew will appear on the cover for an upcoming issue of SportsTurf Magazine.

“It's always good to be recognized by your peers,” Van Loo said. “It's also quite humbling.”