Western Illinois: Hanson Field Undergoes Turf Installation [Archive]

anygivensaturday

September 13th, 2011, 03:55 PM

Western Illinois University announced the official completion of their Matrix synthetic turf field by Hellas Sports Construction on time as promised for their home season opener against Jacksonville University. Joining an elite group of clients that include the Dallas Cowboys Stadium, the Cotton Bowl, Baylor University, Idaho State, the Alamodome and Northern Arizona University, WIU is in good company.

Assistant Vice President/Director of Athletics, Dr. Tim Van Alstine states, "We are so pleased with the Matrix turf 46 and the exceptional patented infill system. The entire Hellas team was awesome to work with; one of the best, if not the best construction crews we have had on our campus. They know their business and their product; they willingly answered our questions and they really gave us a true sense of confidence. The quality of their work and their product is second to none."

The Matrix system is the turf industry’s paramount product and is comprised of special monofilament (spinneret) yarns in different sizes, shapes and colors. This configuration creates the best traction and system stability possible, and under stadium lighting the color combination provides excellent light deflection. The environmentally friendly backing and high strength coating provides an unparalleled tuft bind. Its durability and playability is highly superior to other turf products available in the market.

The Hanson Field project required removal of the previous grass surface and major construction to prepare for the new Matrix system. Subsequently a javelin runway and four new pits for the long jump and triple jump were installed and the discus/shot put area was redesigned.

This project is part of the Target: Western Forward Facility Initiative, which was launched in September 2001. In 2007, the east side of Hanson Field underwent a renovation with seating and concessions stands. Future plans include a video scoreboard display, west side seating, a press box facility, coach’s offices and campus classrooms.

Click here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nzp1qP7g3mA&feature=feedbul) to see Hanson Field’s time lapse.