First World-Class Artificial Soccer Pitch at Thulamahashe

8 April 2008

Thulamahashe stadium’s new R4.8 million pitch from GreenFields is the first world-class artificial turf installed in South Africa.

The project was commissioned by BushbuckridgeMunicipality and built by Johnson Construction in line with the Dept of Sport and Recreation’s directive to extend proper facilities to previously disadvantaged communities. The ultra-modern, low maintenance Thulamahashe field provides the perfect foundation to develop the talent and ball-skills of soccer-mad communities around Bushbuckridge, as well as host future PSL and COSAFA Cup fixtures. Officials anticipate that Thulamahashe stadium may also serve as a training venue or back-up for teams playing World Cup 2010 matches at Nelspruit’s Mbambela Stadium.

Synthetic turf is used internationally wherever climatic conditions and shortages of financial and technical resources deliver below standard pitches, problems endemic to Africa. Constant review of stadium construction criteria by the international soccer federations FIFA and UEFA yielded approval of artificial turf in 2004.

GreenFields synthetic turf is used in football stadia throughout Europe and provides a cost-effective and low maintenance field that does not require irrigation nor regular marking.

The 112m x 73m pitch at Thulamahashe Stadium, manufactured locally by Belgotex Floorcoverings, is constructed from GreenFields Real FT60 Slide for a perfect duo tone grass colour with permanent line markings. Made from unique monofilament fibres, designed to hold water and resist uv damage, GreenFields’ natural appearance ensures a perfect pitch all year round.

Construction took place over twelve weeks, beginning with the installation of the sub-base system, followed by the turf installation which requires an infill of sand and rubber below the grass to ensure correct ball roll and bounce with even energy restitution for player sliding.

Belgotex Floorcoverings assist with feasibility studies, technical specifications installation and after-sales service, offering an 8 year warranty on GreenFields. GreenFields BV has also won several tenders to install GreenFields on African soccer pitches as part of FIFA’s "Win in Africa with Africa" stadium upgrade project.

Issued on behalf of Belgotex Floorcoverings and GreenFields by:
Natalie Webster
Puzzle PR