Author: TJ and Lauren Oshie
As a professional hockey player with the Washington Capitals and a dad to four active kids, creating a safe and fun outdoor space for my family has always been a priority. My wife, Lauren, and I wanted a backyard that could handle our busy lifestyle—one that would be perfect for our kids to play, for me to practice my golf game, and even for our dogs to enjoy.
After doing some research, we chose Smart Turf. It was our first and only choice, and I wanted to share why it’s been a game-changer for our family.
Safety First for the Kids
With three little ones who love playing outside—especially soccer—it was essential to find a surface that was safe, clean, and durable. We knew we wanted the best, and Smart Turf stood out because it’s the only turf with built-in Microban antimicrobial protection. This feature was a huge win for us, knowing it inhibits the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew and reduces odors by 99%. We chose Playzone Plus for our kids’ play area, and it’s been the perfect choice.
Lauren felt the same way, emphasizing that Smart Turf’s Microban protection meant we wouldn’t have to worry about bacteria. It was a major factor in our decision, knowing that the play area would remain fresh and safe no matter how much our kids used it.
Perfect for Our Soccer Stars
Our kids are all about soccer, and they needed a play surface that could keep up with their energy. Playzone Plus is not only soft and safe, but it’s also incredibly durable. Whether they’re practicing kicks, running around with the dogs, or just tumbling around, it’s held up really well.
Having a turf that could handle that kind of activity without wearing down was a priority for us. Playzone Plus delivered, making it easy for the kids to practice their soccer skills right in our own backyard.
My Go-To Golf Practice Spot
I love to golf, and when we were planning our backyard, I knew I wanted a spot to practice my putting. Smart Turf’s Stimp 12 was the perfect solution for a professional-grade putting area right at home. It gives me a consistent and smooth roll, which is exactly what I need to work on my short game.
Stimp 12 has given me a true golf course feel without leaving home, making it a great space to refine my skills whenever I have a few spare minutes.
Built to Handle Pets
We’re not just a family of five—we also have dogs who love being outside just as much as the kids do. Finding a turf that could withstand both our children and our pets was a must. Smart Turf has proven to be pet-friendly and tough enough to handle everything from doggy sprints to muddy paws.
Low Maintenance, High Reward
One of the best parts of choosing Smart Turf is how low maintenance it is. With natural grass, we’d have to deal with mowing, watering, and fertilizing—not to mention the muddy patches that come with heavy play. Now, we get to enjoy a beautiful green space without all the hassle.
The quick drainage system is another bonus. We don’t have to wait for the grass to dry after a rainstorm, which means more playtime for the kids and more practice time for me.
Our Backyard Transformation
Choosing Smart Turf was about more than just looks—it was about finding a surface that fit our family’s needs. From the kid-friendly play area to myputting green, our backyard has become a true extension of our home. It’s where we spend time together, rain or shine, and I’m so glad we made the decision to go with Smart Turf.
Duane Jensen, President of Smart Turf, shared his excitement about our decision, saying, “We’re thrilled to see the Oshie family enjoying their new space with Smart Turf. Our goal is to provide the highest-quality turf that’s safe, clean, and built to last. Knowing that TJ, Lauren, and their family are making the most of their backyard with our products is exactly why we do what we do.”
If you’re thinking about updating your backyard, I can’t recommend Smart Turf enough. It’s a choice we made for our family, and it’s made all the difference.
