ESTO SCORES

INSIDE The Football Association The International Rugby Board KNVB K Sint-Truidense V.V. (STVV) Heracles Almelo The New Saints FC Edition 1 Contents contents

Thinking of using synthetic turf ? 4. 5 Welcome

5. Case Study: The Football Association

8. Case Study: The International Rugby Board (IRB) For the latest advice and information visit 12. 8 www.theESTO.com Case Study: KNVB

16. Case Study: K Sint-Truidense V.V. (STVV)

18. Case Study: Heracles Almelo

20. 18 Case Study: The New Saints Football Club

21. ESTO Full members

ESTO - The European Synthetic Turf Organisation provide free impartial advice and information to help you make decisions regarding all aspects of synthetic turf. From choosing a supplier through to installation and maintenance. Keeping you up to date with products and developments in the marketplace. Including the latest case studies in all sports at professional and community level.

www.theESTO.com 2 3 Welcome Case Studies The Football Association Welcome Welcome to the first edition of ESTO Scores, the new publication from the European Synthetic Turf Organisation that highlights some of the great work our members and partners are delivering and the difference synthetic turf is making to the success of sports clubs, leisure facilities and pitches all across Europe.

We all know that the benefits for synthetic turf are numerous and the impact installation after installation has, is positive across a wide range of benefits reflected in ESTO’s five key pillars: Community, Economics, Education, Environment and case study Performance. The aim of ESTO Scores is to showcase these same benefits CASE STUDY: with real case studies, so our collective list of prospective The Football Association stakeholders and policy makers can better understand why they should consider and choose quality synthetic turf as they look to invest in new capital projects and the installation of synthetic turf. As the sport’s national “Promoting the development of the facilities and investment manager for governing body, The Football game amongst all ages, backgrounds The FA. In this inaugural issue we have highlighted projects in Wales, and abilities in terms of participation “Our aim is to provide every team Association (The FA) is and quality. This also involves the Netherlands, England, Belgium, Georgia and even an IRB with access to a synthetic turf promoting the availability of the sport supported project in New Zealand, to show the advantages responsible for all regulatory pitch, which we initially equate to to the greatest possible number of for professional sports clubs, community sports clubs, public aspects of football in approximately an average of 60 people.” authorities, rugby and football and in doing so, showcase the England. teams per pitch to meet their training versatility of synthetic turf across a range of applications. Therefore, the ability to ensure high or playing requirements.” Described as the country’s ‘National quality football facilities throughout Whilst The FA understands the Game’, English football has never both professional and amateur We hope that this new publication will form a useful tool for all as benefits of synthetic turf, the experienced such high numbers of levels is of utmost importance to the we aim to enlighten key stakeholders and policy makers to the challenge remains to ensure that spectators and participants - as well delivery of such objectives. long term benefits of synthetic turf. as vast levels of revenues and media clubs, managers and players alike are provided with the knowledge and interest - in its history. Consequently, Aims and targets If you would like to put forward case studies please do contact us factual awareness to make informed the scope of the game across all Working in partnership with England’s decisions regarding playing surfaces: as we would welcome the opportunity to hear the excellent work levels of participation is considerable: largest sports charity, the Football that is truly making a positive difference to players, athletes and Foundation, The FA has so far “We do have an issue whereby • 7 million participants plus 5 million developed more than 5700 projects there is a lack of knowledge and coaches that play on synthetic turf pitches right across Europe. in schools to the value of over £630m to improve understanding concerning synthetic THE EUROPEAN SYNTHETIC TURF ORGANISATION • 37,500 clubs playing facilities. In an increasing turf. One of The FA’s main aims is number of cases, such projects therefore to increase such levels by • 125,000 FA affiliated teams involve the installation of synthetic providing factual information directly • 45,000 pitches within 21,000 turf pitches. to key decision makers, especially facilities leagues. As a result, this will “We currently have around 450 encourage informed decision-making As part of its responsibility to develop full size 3G synthetic turf pitches regarding a club’s use of synthetic and regulate the sport at all levels in England, of which The FA has turf,” explains Mark. throughout England, The FA cites one helped to fund at least 30% of of its key activities as: these,” confirms Mark Pover, national

4 5 Case Studies The Football Association

Case study 1: Case study 2: Planning for the future Sutton Coldfield Town FC Woodley Sports Centre As The FA commits to continuous and increased levels of investment In the summer of 2011, semi- Limited into synthetic turf throughout professional side Sutton Coldfield In the summer of 2005, Woodley England, in 2012, The FA’s Football Town FC installed a full size synthetic Sports Football Club installed a FIFA Services Division will release a guide 3G turf pitch at its Central Ground RECOMMENDED ONE STAR full size to the use of synthetic turf. playing facilities. synthetic turf pitch as part of a facility Designed to dispel rumours and raise As a replacement to the existing redevelopment at its ground in Stockport, Cheshire. awareness, the document has been natural turf surface, the new pitch produced to address one of The FA’s is used by two senior sides (both in Prior to the installation, the semi- main challenges, that is, a lack of the National League pyramid), local professional side was forced to knowledge and understanding football teams, schools and colleges. postpone an average of 10 games regarding the benefits of installing The pitch is also available for private per season as a result of the poor and using synthetic turf playing hire and hosts coaching courses and durability of the existing natural turf surfaces. private functions. playing surface. The document, which has been Since the installation, the pitch is also Since the installation, the club has written by The FA facilities and used for a weeknight 5-a-side league benefitted from a significant reduction investment team along with input and a new Sunday football league. in match cancellations, as well as from the industry, aims to answer a fall in maintenance costs. This “We have found the new playing any questions regarding the use of is combined with a rise in revenue synthetic turf; “We have produced the surface much safer than natural generation from the site through grass,” comments director and document so that it is fully accessible private pitch hire, which is facilitated and relevant to all parties; from general manager of Sutton Coldfield by the greater usage levels that Made up of six companies, the players and managers, clubs and Town FC, Neil Murrall. “Despite a Overcoming challenges the new synthetic turf surface can Framework is responsible for the leagues to groundsmen and officials. significant increase in pitch usage, we One of the existing issues faced by support. design, construction, installation and have seen fewer match cancellations The FA concerns the relationship “The document provides a maintenance of all FA-funded 3G As well as hosting semi-professional and have found the quality of between the pitch surface criteria Our synthetic turf pitch comprehensive guide to synthetic synthetic turf pitches. This is in line side Woodley Sports FC, the centre turf, answering all the frequently performance and durability of the and the level of play it is installed to with The FA’s focus on the provision is also used by Stockport County asked questions clearly and pitch first rate.” support; “A certain level of disparity is everything that we of quality facilities and also in the Ladies FC, Stockport College succinctly, using industry research to The installation, which was carried currently exists between these two support of the clubs who own and hoped it would be and Academy of Sport and a number of support the advice and information out following guidance from The factors,” acknowledges Mark Pover. use such pitches. football coaching companies. The provided,” confirms Mark.

FA, is an example of the results that “For example, a 60m x 40m pitch “more. The surface gives pitch also meets the training and The document will be available elevated levels of knowledge and installed for a junior grass roots club Any installations that The FA is match day requirements for a number on The FA’s website and will be understanding regarding synthetic does not – and should not – need to involved in are tested to meet us a first-class pitch of local senior and junior clubs, as circulated to all leagues and clubs turf can deliver; “Sutton Coldfield be built to the standards required by the appropriate criteria for their well as hosting a number of school

to use week in, week throughout England. Town FC is fully aware of the benefits international competitions. It does level of competition; The FA is and community sports days and and successes that synthetic turf however need to be safe for the also concerned with the business out and the additional events. Artificial turf is evidently growing in can bring to a club,” explained Mark players who use it.” management and operations of the “We have in the region of 1500 popularity throughout England. Pover. “Employing professional pitch, whilst continually reviewing and “ Supported by The FA, there is a focus In line with its attention on raising revenue generated people using our site each week, so it expertise at the key stages, having testing the surface. on education and awareness for clubs education and awareness levels of is important that we can facilitate the detailed designs and the correct for the football club across all levels, to ensure decision synthetic turf, The FA is focused on varying needs of these groups,” project management ensured the makers are aware of the benefits that matching the level of football and explains Hannah Sullivan, facility delivery of a quality installation”. more than justifies the synthetic turf can generate. competition with the appropriate manager for Woodley Sports Centre. “Not only that, but the club synthetic pitch requirements, without investment that was “Whilst we have benefitted recognises the importance of efficient compromising health and safety. considerably from the opportunities management and maintenance of the made in the new pitch. In recent years, The FA has replaced that the synthetic turf surface has surface, as well as the relationship its own performance criteria with generated, we are fully aware of the between upkeep and increased usage FIFA’s Quality Concept for Football ongoing commitment to maintenance levels.” Turf. It has also partnered with the Neil Murrall and efficient management of the By January 2012, the synthetic turf Rugby Football Union – the national Director and general manager site in order to preserve the pitch’s pitch at Sutton Coldfield Town FC governing body for rugby union in Sutton Coldfield Town FC performance, safety and longevity.” had already hosted 100 matches England – to adopt a manufacturer- since its installation just six months led approach for any FA-funded before. pitches.

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Case Studies

International Rugby Board (IRB) The One Turf programme is “ a significant step forward for our sport with far reaching benefits. There is little doubt “ that this programme will boost participation while having distinct benefits for other sports.

Bernard Lapasset IRB chairman case study

CASE STUDY: Case study 1: Following a review of the existing the usability of the pitch was International Rugby Board (IRB) Shevardeni Stadium, Georgia facilities which included no changing imperative; the quality and robust rooms, uneven playing surfaces and nature of the synthetic pitch has As one of the world’s fastest no seating for spectators, the IRB ensured that play can continue developing rugby nations, Georgia commissioned a project in throughout the year. This has As part of the programme, the IRB “The One Turf programme will deliver has experienced a tremendous association with Georgia Rugby subsequently aided the durability and Over recent years, the Union to renovate and improve the announced a list of Preferred Turf a unified framework for standards growth in the popularity of the sport playing state of the natural turf pitch, International Rugby Board stadium’s infrastructure. Producers and IRB Accredited Test of production, installation and since the early 1990s. With national the use of which has been reduced, in (IRB) has been instrumental Institutes, whose role it is to oversee maintenance of synthetic turf that will players competing at high levels The redevelopment included full turn lowering maintenance costs. across Europe, Georgian rugby has in supporting and profiling the production, installation and pave the way for rugby matches from size natural grass and synthetic turf benefited from advanced levels of The new facilities as part of the maintenance of synthetic surfaces the community level up to the test pitches; the synthetic pitch was the benefits and successes worldwide in accordance to the IRB’s technical knowledge and skill which constructed in compliance with Shevardeni Stadium have encouraged arena to be played on the surface, of synthetic turf. technical, performance and player sees the national team currently IRB Regulation 22; the framework greater levels of community which has numerous benefits in welfare criteria. ranked fifteenth in the IRB World for player welfare and performance involvement and engagement, with In 2011, the IRB launched its One Turf countries where there are challenges Rankings. standards in relation to synthetic playing time increased to up to eight programme. Focused on regulating Commenting on the programme when with growing conditions or access to surfaces. hours a day. As a result, teams of all and standardising the development, it was first launched, IRB chairman Supporting the sport’s growing facilities is difficult.” ages and abilities can hire the pitch performance and maintenance of Bernard Lapasset said: “The One popularity Identifying the benefits Turf programme is a significant step Working with national governing on a regular basis, generating further synthetic turf worldwide, the initiative The installation of the new synthetic forward for our sport with far reaching bodies and clubs across the world, Home to FC WIT Georgia and used income to support the growth of the was introduced in line with the turf pitch has generated significant benefits. There is little doubt that this the IRB has supported a range of by both football and rugby teams, sport in the region. IRB’s wider vision to grow the sport benefits to rugby in the region. programme will boost participation the Shevardeni Stadium in Tbilisi globally. significant synthetic turf installations. while having distinct benefits for other underwent significant redevelopment As a country that often experiences sports. in 2010. severe climatic conditions, improving

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Case Studies International Rugby Board (IRB) Case study 3: “ College Rifles Rugby Union We play on average thirty hours of rugby Football and Sports Club, a week, with no complaints and no New Zealand Following the success of the national cancellations; we therefore believe that we team at the recent IRB Rugby World have the ideal surface for the wider Cup, the popularity of rugby in New Zealand has never been greater. “ promotion of rugby. Situated in Auckland, home to Eden Park, College Rifles RUFC is the proclaimed home of rugby for the Derek Rope local community. General Manager, College Rifles RUFC The build up to the Rugby World Cup - hosted by New Zealand for • Encouraging hard work, ethics and the second time in the tournament’s commitment history - stimulated a significant period of growth for the sport; this • Learning and experiencing the joy Case study 2: club able to host matches in the and comradeship of being in a North West because of poor weather Burnage RFC was reflected in increasing numbers Burnage RFC of participants at community level. team that sets goals and strives to conditions. The facilities are also used achieve them Following the acquisition of new by Aviva Premiership rugby union now has the In 2009, College Rifles RUFC installed

sponsorship revenue, Burnage RFC side Sale Sharks. a new synthetic turf pitch as part of The installation of the synthetic pitch became the first club in the North luxury of a 3G actively assists in supporting the The club has benefitted from greater the club’s growing sports facilities. West of England to install a synthetic achievement of the wider objectives community engagement, hosting pitch that will be The installation was to be the third

pitch for rugby union. of the club. College Rifles RUFC several club and cup competitions for synthetic playing surface at the club, a facility for the which already has both an indoor regularly holds festival weekends; Compliant with IRB Regulation 22, the region. The pitch is also available these involve all junior teams who the synthetic pitch replaced the for private hire, the revenue from “ synthetic training surface and caged players and for the local play throughout the day, followed by “ outdoor synthetic turf training area. existing natural surface in 2010 with which pays for the maintenance costs post-match social functions open the focus on attracting more players, of the site. community. We have The new pitch, which replaced the to all family members. Such events teams and engagement from the local existing flood-prone natural turf, was are facilitated by the durability and community. The increase in footfall at the club has moved into the 21st also benefitted its other facilities, to subsequently retested in 2010, in line versatility of the new playing surface. with IRB Regulation 22 requirements. Before and after the installation include a significant increase in the century with a Likewise, the club hosts a wide The original natural turf pitch was revenue generated by the clubhouse, Supporting the local community variety of sports, which include as well as membership and general first class facility. touch rugby, football and lacrosse. used by approximately 40 players The club, who believes that its interest levels to boost the profile of The new surface is hired out on average three hours per week. “longevity and success has been the club. regularly by local teams, providing a Since the installation of the synthetic aided by the focus on its younger significant contribution to the revenue pitch, which has created all of the Advantages reflected in Tony Fox-Leonard members”, prides itself on its generation of the club. associated benefits of synthetic turf team’s results community engagement. As part of including better quality, durability and Project Coordinator for BRFC this, College Rifles RUFC highlights Coupled with the extensive use by the sustainability, the surface can now be “It is surely no coincidence that the numerous benefits to participating club’s rugby teams, which includes used up to 35 hours per week and by during the first season using the in team sport as part of the club’s over 40 junior sides and 11 senior over 500 players across both junior pitch, three of our four senior teams leagues. Since the installation, we environment, to include: teams, the synthetic turf surface has and senior teams. were promoted,” said Stuart Hogg have recruited enough new players received excellent feedback and has from Burnage RFC. • Meeting new people During its first year of use, Burnage to establish a fifth XV – this is the first ably supported the growth of the RFC achieved a 100% completion “Our first XV even made club history time we have been able to do this in • Retaining a good level of health club as a sporting hub for the local Case studies produced with rate of all fixtures, often as the only by being promoted to the national 25 years.” and fitness community. permission from the IRB

10 11 Case Studies KNVB

Figure 1: Synthetic turf installations 2001 - 2011

Synthetic turf installations across the Netherlands - by district 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Total North 2 3 8 5 7 5 7 22 14 18 12 103 East 1 4 9 17 15 18 30 53 44 52 20 263 South I 2 6 10 4 10 9 17 21 31 20 17 147 South II 0 0 3 4 11 5 8 14 16 7 20 88 West I 7 12 17 21 30 23 46 56 62 71 34 379 West II 5 8 14 25 16 26 30 71 44 34 37 310 Total 17 33 61 76 89 86 138 237 211 202 140 1290

Figures correct as of 11.11.2011

The growing popularity of of synthetic turf, both amateur and maintenance to ensure synthetic synthetic turf professional leagues have seen turf surfaces continue to deliver the a noticeable reduction in fixture outlined benefits: “Pitch owners As Figure 1 shows, the Netherlands cancelations. Competition need to understand what sort of has witnessed a momentous increase schedules are therefore becoming maintenance is required, how to in synthetic turf installations over less affected, avoiding fixture deliver this and also what the financial case study the past 10 years, in line with the backlogs and a problematic build-up implications are so that they can announcement in 2001 that amateur of rearranged matches. be sure that the decision to install a leagues could use synthetic turf Clubs can also use synthetic turf synthetic turf surface is the right one.” pitches for competitive matches. CASE STUDY: pitches all year round, providing Supporting community The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) In 2006, confirmation then followed them with the option to host summer from the professional leagues, tournaments and friendlies. This is a engagement and player sparking the installation of 1014 significant difference in comparison development pitches over five years; 79% of the to the seasonal availability of natural The increasing numbers of total number of new synthetic turf turf pitches, which can require 10 With over 1.2 million • The development of new and both professional and amateur levels synthetic turf pitches throughout pitches introduced since 2001. – 12 weeks maintenance over the the Netherlands has helped to exciting is of utmost importance. The KNVB is summer. Similarly, unlike natural turf, members, the Royal Dutch One of the driving factors behind facilitate higher levels of community competitions, recognised in both therefore an advocate for high quality the durable nature of a synthetic turf the switch to synthetic turf is the engagement. As part of the support Football Association (KNVB) amateur and professional football playing surfaces, both natural and pitch means heavy usage will not country’s limited available space, as offered by the KNVB, its website is the largest national • Using the sport as a platform for synthetic, as Patrick Balemans, policy compromise the playing surface in Patrick explains; “The west of Holland provides a platform for teams to governing body for sport in promoting social responsibility advisor for the KNVB, explains: terms of its quality and player safety, in particular is densely populated, so as Patrick confirms: access a list of nearby clubs who the Netherlands. • Significantly increasing the “A major part of my activities is about the low volume of available space have synthetic turf pitches. Clubs number of Dutch youth players standards; in summary, helping to means that the option to install “A synthetic turf pitch is equal to two are actively encouraged to seek Working on behalf of the country’s that progress to a professional ensure the ideal conditions for the separate surfaces for training and or three natural pitches in terms of alternative options before cancelling most popular sport, the primary level game. Falling back on quality pitches matches is no longer viable. The the frequency of use. Unlike natural matches and the online resources objective of the KNVB is to stimulate is highly important – generally, and durability and quality of synthetic turf turf which is dependent on weather, provided by the KNVB stimulates • Using the environment of football and support the growth of football. In even more so in countries such as the solves this problem.” maintenance and usage, a synthetic engagement and interaction between to engage with sports volunteers turf surface remains the same 2009, the organisation launched its Netherlands.” local teams. Synthetic turf vs. natural turf new policy named ‘Scoring Together’; As part of maintaining and delivering throughout the year.” a list of key objectives targeted for the KNVB’s vision, ensuring high Since the Netherlands has However, Patrick does acknowledge completion by 2014. These include: quality football facilities throughout experienced its growth in popularity the importance of efficient

12 13 Case Studies KNVB

This also provides additional revenue the pitch because of poor conditions, streams for clubs, who can hire then the standards or methods and out their facilities to local sides for procedures to measure the conditions training and / or matches. have to be improved,” confirms In line with the KNVB’s Scoring Patrick. Together policy, the properties of It is no coincidence that the rising synthetic turf directly contribute to levels of positive player feedback the development of youth talent from correlate with an increase in the a community level. As a supporter of number of synthetic turf installs. As the FIFA Quality Concept for Football the levels of technology, research Turf programme, the KNVB advocates and understanding of synthetic turf the benefits of high quality synthetic develop, the doubts and initial turf installations. In relation to youth concerns had by players are football, teams can therefore play on a surface that is reliable, consistent in combated, as the sport continues to its quality and specifically designed flourish on synthetic turf. to negate many of the issues that Summary players often experience on natural turf. The combination of player and club feedback coupled with the statistics As players move from the amateur to on new synthetic turf installations is professional game, it becomes definitive proof of the popularity of progressively more important that synthetic turf throughout the they train on the same surface that Netherlands. they play on; as such, synthetic turf is increasingly popular amongst Dutch Encouraged by the KNVB, both

players. amateur and professional teams Listening to player feedback are experiencing the real benefits of synthetic turf on performance-related,

The top Dutch leagues have in place commercial and social levels. a system whereby the captain of the visiting team rates the pitch Key facts after every match. Although early • Football is the most popular sport assessments of synthetic turf pitches “ in the Netherlands and the fastest were not always positive, the recent growing sport amongst women A synthetic turf pitch is equal to two or developments in technology have led and girls to a definite change in opinion, as three natural pitches in terms of the Patrick Balemans explains: “Synthetic • Dutch football consists of two frequency of use. Unlike natural turf which turf is now very common in the professional leagues, one semi- Netherlands; because of the high professional league and seven is dependent on weather, maintenance and quality of these pitches and the tiers of amateur leagues, divided continuous development that “ up into six districts usage, a synthetic turf surface remains synthetic turf is experiencing, rates will improve automatically.” • In May 2005, Eredivisie side the same throughout the year. Heracles Almelo was the first club The KNVB also acknowledges the in European top flight football to importance of listening to player receive a FIFA RECOMMENDED 2 Patrick Balemans opinion, particularly in relation to the STAR approval Policy advisor for the KNVB durability, safety and playability of the pitch; “If the players complain about

14 15 Case Studies K Sint-Truidense V.V. (STVV)

The required time spent on 2 STAR site, STVV now plays on a maintenance for a synthetic turf pitch pitch that has been designed and is also considerably less than natural tested to ensure delivery of optimum turf, which is therefore reflected in playing comfort and maximum player Many of today’s

a reduction in maintenance costs. delivery. professional players Coinciding with the pitch installation, The benefits of training and playing STVV renovated the pitch draining on synthetic turf are particularly have already become system which now facilitates surface

relevant to youth players, as the pitch water to be used for irrigation during surface remains consistent; STVV’s accustomed to using drier weather. youth teams have already been using “ synthetic turf pitches Commercial viability synthetic turf regularly at their training facilities. “ Whilst there is an evident significant in training or when initial cost associated with the Summary playing abroad; the new installation of a synthetic turf pitch, Unlike other clubs, STVV won’t STVV recognises the commercial require a typical eight week summer generation of synthetic opportunities and benefits that the break for pitch renovation; the club new surface can generate: will be safe in the knowledge that turf has meant feedback “We will see more and more clubs their facilities and, most significantly, has been very positive. considering switching to synthetic their pitch can be used without the turf when renovating or building new concern of wear and tear that is case study stadia; these facilities are increasingly associated with natural turf. being used as ‘event complexes’ and The instantaneous flexibility that CASE STUDY: our new pitch gives us the option of the new pitch offers will continue organising a full day’s programme of K Sint-Truidense V.V. (STVV) to generate significant benefits for Roland Duchâtelet activities, which just isn’t possible on the club, who has fought hard for a Former Chairman STVV natural turf”, explains Roland. number of years for the right to play The introduction of synthetic turf at on synthetic turf. In the summer of 2011, Following the installation, the site Capitalising on the benefits of the Stayen stadium will allow STVV to Pro League club K Sint- was visited by FIFA on 26 July synthetic turf promote its facilities to the public 2011 for a full inspection. The Since the inaugural competitive and corporate community, as the Truidense V.V. (STVV) pitch is now accredited as a FIFA match on the new pitch took place on club’s ability to now host corporate became the first professional RECOMMENDED 2 STAR site, the 7 August 2011, STVV has welcomed days and community tournaments Belgian football team to use highest level awarded as part of the extensive benefits provided by the throughout the year is underpinned synthetic turf for all home FIFA’s Quality Concept for Football switch to playing on synthetic turf. by the versatility and durability of the Turf programme. new playing surface. matches. “Laying a synthetic turf surface Competing with natural turf Twice Belgian Cup finalists, STVV Withstanding testing conditions has provided us with numerous advantages. By installing a FIFA gained promotion to the Belgian Pro As well as 15 home league matches In order to receive the FIFA RECOMMENDED 2 STAR pitch, we League as winners of the Belgian a season, teams in the Belgian RECOMMENDED 2 STAR can offer the same technical playing accreditation, the surface was second division in the 2008/09 Pro League also participate in two season. The club, nicknamed ‘The properties as a natural grass pitch, subjected to a series of laboratory domestic cup competitions, European Canaries’, is made up of two senior but on a surface that can withstand tests. Analysis was carried out on cups, playoff games and friendlies. teams, two female sides and a youth greater usage throughout the the durability, strength and climatic programme. In a country where sports fixtures season”, explains Roland Duchâtelet, resistance of the pitch, as well as former STVV chairman and supporter player-to-surface and ball-to-surface The synthetic pitch was installed can often be affected by the winter of the use of synthetic turf. interaction. in 2011 as part of a redevelopment weather conditions, the Belgian Pro scheme at the club’s Stayen stadium League was forced to reschedule In recognition of the requirements of During the site inspection, further in Sint-Truiden, Limburg. its playoff matches in the 2009/10 competing teams, STVV invited its tests were carried out focusing season. This was as a result of a first opponents, AA Gent, to train on primarily on ball reaction and The agreement was signed following the pitch prior to the match. player interaction, to include shock a long-standing campaign by former fixture backlog which was caused, absorbency, surface deformation, slip STVV chairman Roland Duchâtelet, in significant part, by the number Since the installation, STVV has seen resistance and traction. who has argued in favour of using of matches postponed due to poor the postponement of fewer matches synthetic grass pitches for first and weather conditions affecting the as a result of the advanced durability The inspection uses the benchmark second division matches throughout playing surfaces throughout the and quality that the synthetic surface of natural turf in its ideal condition. Belgium. season. offers in comparison to natural turf. As a certified FIFA RECOMMENDED

16 17 Case Studies Heracles Almelo

of natural turf in its ideal condition. As fixtures during the winter months. a certified FIFA RECOMMENDED 2 As one of the most significant STAR site, Heracles Almelo plays on advantages of synthetic turf, such a pitch that has been designed and pitches can be used all year round tested to ensure delivery of optimum whilst guaranteeing a consistent, high playing comfort and maximum player quality playing surface. The particular delivery. turf installed at the Polman Stadion Before installing a synthetic turf pitch, does not only mimic natural turf in its Heracles Almelo consulted its players feel and playability, but the look of the as part of the pitch design process. surface isn’t affected under natural Patrick Balemans, policy advisor for / artificial light. This is particularly the Royal Dutch Football Association important for matches that are (KNVB), has emphasised his backing televised. for involving players in such a In light of the problems caused by decision: “If the players complain fixture cancellations, the synthetic turf about the pitch because of poor surface at the Polman Stadion has conditions, then the standards or been used by other sides in the past methods and procedures to measure when adverse weather conditions the conditions have to be improved.” have meant that they cannot use their Adopting technological own facilities. This includes the youth innovations team for rival side FC Twente, who have used Heracles Almelo’s pitch for In line with the installation of the training in previous seasons. synthetic turf surface, Heracles Almelo invested in a brand new Players and coaches alike benefit monitoring system. Using 50 from using a surface which maintains wireless sensors built into the pitch, its quality and consistency all year the system records hours of play, round, guaranteeing the same conditions throughout. Feedback levels of play intensity as well as from the club highlights a positive frequency / intensity of maintenance. playing experience for the team, The information is then collated case study underpinned by the pitch’s durable and analysed by Heracles Almelo’s and reliable nature. technical staff, who then compare the findings against the team’s Supporting the popularity of CASE STUDY: performance. synthetic turf in the Netherlands Heracles Almelo Described as the first ‘smart synthetic Over the past few years, the turf system’ in the world, the Netherlands has experienced a information is also used to facilitate significant increase in the number of In 2003, professional football achieved a world first by becoming currently plans in place to build a new The FIFA RECOMMENDED 2 STAR new developments and innovations in newly installed synthetic turf pitches. the first ever football club to receive 15,000 seated stadium. accredited pitch – FIFA’s highest synthetic turf. When Heracles Almelo first installed club Heracles Almelo a FIFA accreditation for its synthetic The club’s ground expansion followed certification for synthetic turf - was Increasing pitch usage its pitch in 2003, there were 111 installed a full size synthetic pitch surface in May 2005. the title-winning season of 2004/05, subjected to a series of laboratory synthetic turf surfaces throughout the As part of their scheduled season turf pitch at its ground, the Club background which saw Heracles Almelo win tests in order to achieve its grading. country. By November 2011, this had fixtures, the Polman Stadion hosts Eerste Divisie (currently known as the Analysis was carried out on the increased to 1290. Polman Stadion, in Almelo, Founded in 1903, the club adopted 17 home league matches and KNVB Jupiler League for 2011/12 season) durability, strength and climatic Supported by its assertion as the first Netherlands. This installation its current name, Heracles Almelo, in Cup home draws, as well as home and be promoted to the Netherlands’ resistance of the pitch, as well as club to receive a FIFA accreditation 1998. Following this, the club moved legs for the UEFA Europa League, of was part of a UEFA pilot top flight of professional football, player-to-surface and ball-to-surface for its synthetic turf pitch, Heracles to its current facilities, the Polman which Heracles Almelo have reached Eredivisie. The club has remained in interaction. Almelo is one of three ‘benchmark’ programme, which was Stadion, in 1999. the opening play-off round in both this division ever since. clubs / facilities that have been used During the site inspection, further 2009/10 and 2010/11 seasons. The carried out across two The ground, which was originally to exemplify the high quality and Achieving a sporting first tests were carried out focusing pitch is also used several times a seasons involving several built with a capacity of 6900, was standards expected of synthetic turf primarily on ball reaction and week for training. expanded in 2005 to hold 8500 In May 2005, Heracles Almelo European clubs. player interaction, to include shock surfaces that cater for professional spectators, after reaching maximum became the first ever club to receive As such, it is essential that the football. The remaining two are the absorbency, surface deformation, slip Heracles Almelo, which was one of capacity each week. In line with the a full FIFA accreditation as part of surface can withstand high levels of Amsterdam Arena which is used as a resistance and traction. the first Dutch sides to play all of its club’s long term vision for continued the FIFA Quality Concept for Football usage, particularly in a climate that training facility for AFC Ajax and the home matches on synthetic turf, also growth and success, there are Turf. The inspection uses the benchmark can often adversely affect sports KNVB’s own training ground in Zeist.

18 19 Case Studies ESTO full members The New Saints Football Club

CASE STUDY: The New Saints Football Club members

In September 2007, Park UEFA Europa League and the playing characteristics of professional Champions League, famously being football. Hall, the brand new playing drawn against Liverpool FC in the Bonar Yarns & Fabrics LTD GreenFields BV In recent seasons, The Saints have facilities for Welsh Premier first qualifying round of the 2005/06 Caldrum Works Nylonstraat 7 enjoyed spells in both the UEFA season. St Salvador Street 8281 JX Genemuiden League side The New Saints Champions League and Europa Dundee DD3 7EU, The Netherlands Football Club opened in League, following the club’s Moving to a new stadium United Kingdom successes at a domestic level. Oswestry, Shropshire, As the new home to The New Saints Tel +31 38 3372010 Consequently, the installation of the England. FC, Park Hall was opened on 1st Tel +44 1382 346 100 Email [email protected] new synthetic turf pitch has ensured September 2007. As a £3 million Email [email protected] Web www.greenfields.eu As a newly constructed site, Park Hall that The Saints now have a playing redevelopment project, the facilities Web www.bonaryarns.com includes a full size FIFA surface that meets the criteria as at Park Hall include a health and RECOMMENDED 2 STAR synthetic outlined by UEFA for all European cup fitness suite and leisure centre, a Hatko turf football pitch, alongside a health competitions, therefore removing the floodlit full size synthetic turf FIFA Desso Sports Systems Maresal Çakmak Cad. Park and fitness suite and leisure facilities. RECOMMENDED 2 STAR pitch and logistical and financial implications of Robert Ramlotstraat 89 Apt:57/A No:1 Club background 1000-seated stand with planning playing at another team’s ground. 9200 Dendermonde Iskenderun permission in place to accommodate Belgium Hatay Now known as The New Saints FC, Maximising pitch usage and up to 3000 spectators. Turkey or ‘The Saints’, the club in its current efficient maintenance Tel +32 52 262 660 Web www.dessosports.com Tel +90 312 438 0395 set up was formed in 2003 following Before opting to install a synthetic turf As well as being used for all home Email [email protected] a merger between Oswestry Town FC pitch at the new facilities, senior matches by The New Saints FC, the Web www.hatkosport.com and Llansantffraid FC. Prior to this, management at The Saints undertook synthetic turf pitch is also used to DOMO Sports & Leisure Grass the side was the first football club extensive research to ensure that host matches for a Monday night Industriepark West 43 in the UK to rename itself after its all parties concerned were happy league, as well as a veteran’s league 9100 St- Niklaas Italgreen sponsor, when it became known as with the final decision. As part of and cup competition. Total Network this process, the team visited Saltley Belgium Via Crusnigo 11 Solutions (TNS) FC. Leisure Centre in Birmingham and Similarly, the pitch is also used by 24030 Villa d’Adda Tel +32 3 780 45 75 carried out a full scale practice match The New Saints’ Academy, Saints in Italy Before moving to Park Hall, The New Email [email protected] on the synthetic turf pitch. This the Community coaching scheme, Saints FC played at the Recreation Web www.domosportsgrass.com Tel +39 0 357 84 178 surface was the same one that would local school coaching and holiday Ground in Llansantffraid-ym-Mechain, Email [email protected] be chosen for installation at Park Hall. camps, summer tournaments, a small village in Powys, Mid-Wales. corporate events and private facility Web www.italgreen.it The new synthetic turf surface Following the club’s recent hire. Edel Grass B.V. appearances in European cup was part-funded by the Football Fabrieksstraat 13 competitions, The Saints opted to Foundation, England’s largest sports In line with the high demand and 8281 BW Genemuiden Juta move facilities in order to comply with charity. usage experienced by the pitch, The The Netherlands Dukelska 417 New Saints FC has adopted a firm 544 15 Dvur Kralove nad Labem stricter league requirements and to Adopting the FIFA Quality also ensure that European matches focus on maintenance. In order to Tel +31 38 425 00 50 Czech Republic could be played at its home ground; Concept for Football Turf preserve the longevity of the playing Email [email protected] previously, The Saints had to play The installation of the synthetic turf surface, The Saints have increased Web www.edelgrass.com Tel +420 499 314 559 European cup matches at the surface at Park Hall signalled a first the maintenance contract in line with Email [email protected] Racecourse Ground, home to for the Welsh Premier League – The the club’s domestic success and Web www.jutagrass.cz

National Conference side Wrexham Saints became the first side to have appearances in Europe, to ensure Fieldturf Tarkett SAS 2 Rue De L’egalite FC. a full size FIFA RECOMMENDED 2 that the club’s pitch and facilities 92748 Nanterre STAR playing surface. maintain its FIFA accreditation. Lano Sports As one of only two full time France Zuidstraat 44 professional clubs competing in the As the highest level awarded by FIFA This has been made possible by 8530 Harelbeke Welsh Premier League, The Saints to synthetic turf pitches, a FIFA the increase in revenue generation Tel +33 1 41 20 40 40 Belgium are five-time Welsh Premier League RECOMMENDED 2 STAR for the club, which is underpinned Email [email protected] champions, five-time Welsh Premier accreditation is awarded to surfaces by the quality and durability of the Web www.fieldturf.com Tel + 32 56 654 290 League runners up and five-time that not only meet the stringent new synthetic turf surface, which Email [email protected] League of Wales Cup winners. The criteria outlined by FIFA, but are facilitates greater levels of usage all Web www.lanosports.com club has also played in both the designed specifically to mirror the year round.

20 21 ESTO full members

members Community

Mondo S.p.A. Saltex Oy Piazzale Edmondo Stroppiana, 1 Sahatie 1 Alba Frazione Gallo 62900 Alajärvi Italy Finland Economics

Tel +39 0173232111 Tel +358 6 557 0700 Email [email protected] Email [email protected] Web www.mondoworldwide.com Web www.saltex.fi Education Nurteks Carpet Ten Cate Thiolon Cemal Yener Tosyali Cd. No:42 G. van der Muelenweg 2 Vefa Untapani 7443 RB Nijverdal 34470 Istanbul The Netherlands Turkey Tel +31 548 633 944 Environment Tel +90 212 511 19 86 Email [email protected] Email [email protected] Web www.tencate.com/grass Web www.nurteks.com.tr

Tessiture Pietro Radici S.P.A PE-BA Grass Via Ugo Foscolo 152 Performance Haci Sabanci OSB 24024 Gandino 5.Ocak Cd. Inonu Bulvari Italy No.4 Yakapinar Adana Tel +39 035 715411 Turkey Email [email protected] Web www.radigreen.com Tel +90 322 394 3432 Email [email protected] Web www.pe-ba.com TigerTurf EMEA 229 Ikon, Droitwich Road DY10 4EU Hartlebury Polytan Sportstättenbau GmbH United Kingdom Gewerbering 3 86666 Burgheim Tel +44 1299 253 966 Helping you make the right choice. Germany Email [email protected] Web www.tigerturfworld.com Tel +49 8432 870 Email [email protected] Web www.polytan.de Unieco Sport Via Meuccio Ruini 10/A 42124 Reggio Emilia Radici Pietro Industries & Brands Italy Via Cav. Pietro Radici 19 24026 Cazzano S. Andrea (BG) Tel +39 0522 795 611 Italy Email [email protected] Web www.uniecosport.com Tel +39 035 72 42 42 The European Synthetic Turf Organisation Email [email protected] 6, Avenue E. | Van Nieuwenhuyse | B - 1160 Brussels Web www.sit-insport.it T: +32 2 676 74 72 | F: +32 2 676 74 74 | www.theESTO.com

22 23 6, Avenue E. Van Nieuwenhuyse B - 1160 Brussels T: +32 2 676 74 72 F: +32 2 676 74 74 www.theESTO.com