THE ISSUE: Penn State Altoona sought a synthetic turf system to replace the natural grass soccer field at its Spring Run Stadium, which originally opened in 2002. Use of the natural turf surface had been limited in order to preserve it for varsity athletics. A new synthetic turf system, because of its durability, was expected to broaden the use of the field. In addition, improved drainage would minimize delays and cancellations caused by rainy weather.
THE JOB: Athletic field specialty contractor, Sports Construction Group, was brought in to construct the new field and install the turf. SCG excavated the old surface, built a new sub base and high-end drainage system, and installed SCG Trophy Turf, a true monofilament synthetic turf system. |
THE RESULTS: The resilience of SCG Trophy Turf has allowed the field to be used for varsity, club and intramural athletics; physical education classes; student recreation and community activities. Its increased use has reduced the wear-and-tear on the school’s other fields. Plus, it greatly reduced maintenance time and expenses by eliminating mowing, watering and fertilizing.
Playing on their new surface, the women’s soccer team amassed a 16-3-3 record, won the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference championship with a 3-0 victory over Penn State Behrend and earned a berth to the NCAA Division III tournament. |