Last Updated on March 15, 2023 by UDC Sports
Constructing a new sports field is an intriguing blend of science, engineering, and design, all working together to create the perfect stage for athletic competition. Behind (and beneath) every newly-built playing surface lies a fascinating array of innovations, considerations, and essential details that ensure optimal performance and safety of athletes, as well as an enjoyable experience for spectators.
From the birth of AstroTurf in the 1960s to the cutting-edge synthetic grass fields of today, sports field construction has continually evolved, driven by the quest for the ultimate blend of durability, sustainability, and—of course—playability.
In this article, we’ll delve into ten interesting facts that will take you on a behind-the-scenes journey into the fascinating realm of sports field construction.
1 – Synthetic Turf: A True Game-Changer
The first artificial turf, known as AstroTurf, was invented in the 1960s and installed in the Houston Astrodome, an indoor stadium.
It was initially designed as a solution to maintain grass in indoor venues with limited sunlight.
Over the six decades since it was first introduced, artificial turf has greatly evolved and diversified, leading to the development of various synthetic turf systems that are now used in a wide range of sports applications, both indoor and outdoor, around the world—including in high-profile stadiums like Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, home to the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons.
2 – Tailor-made Turf: Designing Sport-Specific Fields
Sports field construction often takes into account the sport-specific requirements, including dimensions, field markings, and turf type, to ensure optimal performance and safety for athletes.
Careful consideration of these factors is essential to accommodate the unique demands of each sport, whether that be soccer, football, baseball, or any other athletic pursuit.
By prioritizing these details, designers and construction teams can create a customized, high-quality playing environment that elevates the overall experience for athletes and spectators alike.
3 – Crowning Achievements
Many sports fields are designed with a slight crown or slope to facilitate proper drainage.
This helps maintain the playing surface’s integrity and prevents water-logging during heavy rainfalls.
Implementing a carefully planned drainage system not only improves the field’s playability and safety but also contributes to its longevity, potentially reducing the need for maintenance (and costly repairs) to some extent.
4 – Beneath the Surface
Subsurface drainage systems are commonly installed beneath the playing surface of sports fields to remove excess water quickly and efficiently.
These systems can include perforated pipes, gravel layers, or other materials to facilitate drainage.
By promoting rapid drainage, subsurface systems help maintain consistent playing conditions, reduce the risk of injuries due to slippery surfaces, and help protect the new field from issues caused by standing water.
5 – Going for the Green
The use of natural grass on sports fields can require a significant amount of water for irrigation.
To conserve water, many sports field construction projects utilize drought-resistant grass species or incorporate sustainable irrigation systems, such as rainwater harvesting or greywater recycling.
Synthetic grass is another green option, with some of the most sustainable fields making use of removed and reclaimed sports field turf.
6 – Mixing it Up: How Soil Impacts Field Performance
The type of soil used in sports field construction can significantly impact the field’s performance and durability. A blend of materials like sand, silt, and/or clay, called a “soil mix,” may be used to create an ideal balance between stability, traction, and drainage.
The unique characteristics of each soil component contribute to the field’s performance in different ways. For example:
- Sand is useful for drainage and aeration, preventing waterlogging and reducing the risk of compaction.
- Clay, while less permeable, adds stability and cohesion to the soil mix, preventing excessive movement and deformation during play.
Creating the right soil mix requires a deep understanding of the specific needs of the sport and the local environment. Factors such as climate, intended use, and maintenance capabilities must be taken into account.
7 – Eco-Excellence: Sustainability in Field Construction
In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in using environmentally friendly materials for sports field construction.
This includes the use of recycled materials, such as crumb rubber infill made from recycled tires, and the implementation of energy-efficient lighting systems.
Used artificial turf can also be professionally reclaimed from professional sports fields, rehabilitated, and used in the construction of new fields.
8 – Glaring Omissions: The Importance of Field Orientation
Field orientation is an important consideration in sports field construction, especially for outdoor fields.
Fields are typically oriented north-south to minimize the impact of sun glare on athletes and spectators during games.
In addition to reducing sun glare, proper field orientation can also help regulate temperature and wind exposure, further enhancing the playing experience for athletes—and the spectating experience for fans.
9 – Playing it Safe: Shock Absorption Systems
Athlete safety is a major priority in sports field construction. A well-designed sports field should provide a balance of firmness and cushioning to help minimize the impact on athletes’ joints, muscles, and ligaments during play.
This balance helps reduce the risk of injuries such as concussions, sprains, strains, and fractures. Several factors contribute to a field’s shock-absorbing properties, including the choice of turf, the underlying soil, and the use of specialized padding or infill materials.
Natural grass fields often rely on the composition of their soil mix and the grass itself to provide shock absorption. However, the level of cushioning can vary depending on the grass species, soil type, and maintenance practices.
On the other hand, synthetic turf systems incorporate a variety of materials, such as crumb rubber or silica sand, which can be engineered to provide a consistent level of shock absorption across the entire playing surface.
10 – Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: The Collaborative Process of Sports Field Construction
Building a new sports facility of any size is no small feat, and it requires a team of dedicated professionals working together to bring the vision to life. Depending on the individual project, the field construction can be a complex process, involving input from various stakeholders, as well as architects, turf managers, landscape architects, and engineers.
Civil and structural engineers can address technical aspects of the project, such as soil composition, drainage systems, and the structural requirements of any ancillary facilities, such as bleachers, locker rooms, or lighting systems. They can also ensure that the field is built on a solid foundation and is designed to withstand the rigors of athletic competition.
Proper management of sports construction projects ensures the final product meets the needs of athletes, teams, and fans alike. By working together, these professionals transform a simple patch of land into a vibrant stage where athletes can showcase their skills, and spectators can enjoy unforgettable moments of athletic excellence.
