The stadium at Stockton University is undergoing a significant makeover as the campus prepares to host Haiti's national soccer team.
Wednesday, May 27, 2026 9:40PMThe field at G. Larry James Stadium at Stockton University in Galloway, New Jersey, is undergoing a significant makeover as the campus prepares to host Haiti's national soccer team ahead ofCrews are installing new turf, replacing last year's Bermuda grass that did not withstand a harsh winter.
Lincoln Financial Field in South PhiladelphiaIn a few weeks, the stadium will serve as the home base practice facility for Haiti's national team as it prepares for tournament play. The team will have access to the entire sports center, including locker rooms, offices and conference spaces.
"They have the entire sports center. Locker rooms, offices, conference rooms, the whole arena," said Jeff Haines, associate athletic director at Stockton University. Haines, a former soccer coach, said efforts to bring a team to campus have been underway for three years. Stockton previously hosted Brazil-based club Flamengo during the FIFA Club World Cup last year, which served as a trial run for future international teams.
Field conditions are a critical component of preparations, according to organizers, who emphasized the importance of replicating professional playing environments.
"Grass is very important. It's gotta be cut to the exact height. It's gotta be perfectly rolled so that they can train here and replicate what's gonna happen in their stadiums, which will be a very high-end grass too," said Tim Lenahan, team services venue officer working with FIFA, Stockton and Haiti. Security will also be heightened during the team's stay.
Officials said most practices will not be open to the public.
"Thirty armed state police here, and some FIFA security, and our sheriff's department, and also our police department. So there will be a lot of security here," Haines said. Stockton has previously hosted an international World Cup team, serving as a training base for Saudi Arabia in 1994. Officials said they hope to provide a welcoming environment for Haiti during its stay.
"They open their arms for the teams. The teams feel very comfortable here over the years, and I think that's going to happen for Haiti as well," Lenahan said. Haiti's team is expected to arrive in New Jersey on June 8 ahead of its June 19 matchup against Brazil in Philadelphia.
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