As I work on my yard work these last few weeks, I can empathize with lawn manicurists as to why they would post a “Keep off the Grass” sign. The arduous work of lawn crews is to be commended. Colleges offer programs directed towards lawn maintenance. Clemson, for example, indicates that the degree is useful for environmental purposes and reduction in sports related injuries.
The Los Angeles Times in 2017 reviewed which type of fields the NFL players prefer. Between artificial turf, synthetic surface, fake grass, and real grass; real grass won popular vote. In this article, Arizona was the favorite grass and Pittsburgh was not so much.
Needless to say the injuries and soreness sustained from the surface affected the score. In addition, it was mentioned that the outcome of the game could be dependent on the weather elements on the respective surface. This reminds me of when I played on a tennis team, it was better to practice outdoors versus indoors because the weather elements would provide that additional practice challenge.
Cornell University provided some key points to consider when choosing a playing surface:
- How will the traction be for the players?
- How will pests and pesticides be managed?
- What is the budget for the field installation and maintenance?
- Who will be caring for the field?
- Who will have access to the field? If there are multiple uses for the field, how will that affect the longevity?
- Consider rotating the areas of play on the field.
- What conditions will make the field unsafe?
- Will the appearance represent the home team well?
- What are the means for field drainage?
- How will spectators affect the field, ie leaving garbage in the stands.
The above are just a few considerations to scratch the “surface.”
Resources:
http://catalog.clemson.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=18&poid=4331
https://www.latimes.com/sports/nfl/la-sp-nfl-ask-farmer-20171111-story.html
