RIESEL SCHOOL BOARD SELECTS HELLAS CONSTRUCTION TO INSTALL MATRIX TURF

Austin, TX (Nov 7, 2017) – Riesel Indians will soon be battling competitors at Fair Park Field on Matrix® Turf with Helix Technology. The 60-year-old high school stadium currently has natural grass, but with the high maintenance costs and limited use of natural grass, they decided to make a much-needed switch to synthetic turf.

Riesel Athletic Director Robert Little said, “This needed to be done. I like grass but maintenance and upkeep are just not cost-effective.” He said the limited usage is the biggest factor in the decision to switch. “It just doesn’t make sense for the field to be used for the football team and a few track meets.” The field is only used right now 40 or 50 times a year because the field can’t handle the traffic.

Little is in his second year at Riesel. “When I was hired I told them that I would like to see the change to synthetic turf.” He said, “The superintendent agreed and we feel like now is a good time to make a change with our finances as they are right now.”

Fair Park Field was built in 1953 and was renovated in 2012. The renovation included new bleachers, press box, scoreboard, and even new natural grass. However, Little said conditions have made it difficult to grow and maintain grass successfully. “It’s been a lot of work and we don’t feel like we are getting all that we need from it.”

Little said the synthetic turf will allow for numerous organizations to use the field, including the band, baseball and softball teams. “The band shouldn’t have to practice on asphalt,” he said. “All the organizations can use a synthetic field and it will be nice not to drive across town to practice or play a game somewhere else just because we had some rain.”

The district plans on the traditional green field with the school colors in the end zones and their logo at centerfield. They selected Matrix Turf with Helix Technology, manufactured and installed by Hellas Construction. The turf consists of twisted fibers of two different blade sizes and colors, creating a more natural looking surface with enhanced playability that bounces back quickly after use, preventing “splashing out” of the infill material. Matrix Turf is the choice of schools and universities nationwide, and the trusted turf of the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans.

“Everyone is excited about it. Well, everyone except the seniors that are graduating,” Little said. “Even the community is excited. We have a great school and even though it’s been a few years since it was built, it still looks new,” Little said.

“This new field will add to the appeal of our school and our town for those looking to move to the area with kids in sports and it’s going to be a great gathering place for our community.”

Relevant Information
What is Matrix® Turf with Helix Technology?


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