Foundation Announces First Scholarship Winner
2024 Technical Meeting Preview -Sessions List, Highlights and More
Corporate Logos Now Allowed on NCAA Football Fields: What Should Field Installers Know?
Build It Right
The American Sports Builders Association, a non-profit trade association comprised of builders, designers and suppliers for sports facilities, exists to promote the highest standards of design, construction and maintenance.
ASBA
Chairman
Randy Resley
ASBA Executive Director
Fred Stringfellow, CAE | fred@stringfellowgroup.net
Editor
Mary Helen Sprecher | maryhelen@sportsbuilders.org
2331 Rock Spring Road
Forest Hill, MD 21050
Tel: 443-640-1042
Fax: 443-640-1031
Email: info@sportsbuilders.org
Build It Right is a publication of the American Sports Builders Association © 2024. All Rights Reserved. For more information or to order additional copies, contact the ASBA headquarters office. Unless otherwise noted, all images are copyright ASBA and their respective owners. Unless otherwise noted, all articles are copyright ASBA. Direct requests for reprint to the ASBA headquarters office. The American Sports Builders Association prints Build It Right to provide its members and other interested parties in the sports design, construction and supply profession with a forum for the discussion of topics of interest to the entire industry. The ideas and opinions expressed in Build It Right are solely those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent the view, positions or policies of ASBA, its members, its board of directors, officers or staff. ASBA is not responsible for any claims made in any advertisements, and does not endorse any manufacturer, supplier or vendor. ASBA does not warrant the performance of any member or member employee or subcontractor. Some images and content art © Adobe Stock Images, Pixabay, Unsplash and Pexels
LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN
HEADLINE NEWS
ASB Foundation Announces First Scholarship Winner Indoor Sports Flooring Workshops: What’s Happening, What’s Upcoming Meeting Report: ASTM Committee F08 Coming Soon to the Bookshelf: The New Tennis Courts Book!
ACADEMY NEWS
ASBA Academy Provides Mid-Term Update and Sneak Peek at 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
An Interview with Mike Nealy, CEO, USA Pickleball
MEETING
Technical Meeting Preview
Meeting
As I write this, we’re in the middle of our busiest season….out in the field – building, troubleshooting and creating venues and facilities that will provide hours of enjoyment for people in our communities. It’s a gratifying profession and one that continues to evolve. I often marvel at what we’re able to produce for our customers.
The evolution of designing and building these impressive surfaces and facilities is made possible by the new technologies, innovations and products that are coming into our industry each and every day. It can be daunting to stay on top of these changes, as exciting as they may be.
ASBA has always helped me to navigate these innovations and new technologies through its numerous vehicles – by attending the educational sessions at the Technical Meeting, talking to suppliers who participate as sponsors and exhibitors at the Technical Meeting and through conversations I have with fellow members at each of the events ASBA holds throughout the year.
More recently, we’ve developed and curated an impressive online library of resources that help those new to sports construction; as well as those researching new processes and technologies. This year, we launched the ASBA Academy, with nearly 75 participants, to further expand the knowledge base of those entering the industry. Through the ASBA
LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN
Academy, we are helping to train and educate some of our newer employees through curriculum and through a network of peers and mentors.
Additionally, we’ve added a series of regional hands-on training workshops for those in the indoor sports flooring part of our industry to provide a more structured learning environment for some of our newer members of ASBA.
Where would we all be without ASBA in the center of this universe for sports
The Waterproofing Experts
builders and designers? I’ll look forward to seeing many of you in Orlando in December for this year’s Technical Meeting. Let’s meet to continue this lifelong learning journey and help each other figure out how to harness the tools and resources that are available to help us each grow and strengthen our businesses. ★
Sincerely,
Randy Resley
Moisture Mitigation & Floor Leveling Systems
KOSTER American Corporation | www.kosterusa.com
2585 Aviator Dr Virginia Beach, VA 23453
Phone: 757-425-1206
E-mail: info@kosterusa.com
Randy Resley
HEADLINE NEWS
American Sports Builders Foundation Announces First Scholarship Winner
Mary Helen Sprecher
Last year, ASBA announced the creation of the American Sports Builders Foundation. One of the goals of the Foundation is to support students on their paths to careers in the industry.
Andrew Graf of Pennsburg, Pennsylvania has been honored as the first winner of the ASB Foundation Scholarship. Graf, a recent graduate of Upper Perkiomen High School, will be attending the Pennsylvania College of Technology, where he plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in construction management.
Graf has worked summers with Baver Construction, where he has gained an understanding of working in the field and onsite project development. Aaron Baver described Gras as “a highly motivated individual who was able to absorb the experiences/teachings afforded to him and to apply them quickly.”
Daniel Moyer, Graf’s high school teacher in engineering and technology says he is “dependable, responsible, hardworking and willing to accept challenges.”
Graf has already set his goals for the future, noting, “After college, I would like to work for a construction company that specializes in sports-related projects such as stadiums, fields, arenas and courts. My goal is to work up to the level of a project manager or superintendent. During this time, I would enjoy traveling to various jobsites and working within the construction industry as well as the sports industry.”
The ASB Foundation joins ASBA in congratulating Andrew Graf and wishing him much success in the future.
Want to help more students like Andrew Graf? Watch your inbox for information on upcoming activities of the ASB Foundation. You’ll also hear about these efforts at the upcoming Technical Meeting. ★
Andrew Graf
HEADLINE NEWS
Indoor Sports Flooring Workshops: What’s Happening, What’s Upcoming Kaylee Derby, ASBA Director of Education and Training
ASBA’s Indoor Sports Flooring Community has hosted several events. Didn’t get there? Here is a synopsis of what you missed.
Regional Sports Flooring Hands-On Workshop
April 24-25, 2024 | Chattanooga, Tennessee
The two-day regional workshop was hosted by Praters Athletic Flooring in Chattanooga. This workshop focused on floor design and gave workshop attendees hands-on opportunities to work with different types of stains, paints, decals and stencils. Praters’ design team also gave a symposium on gym floor design.
Stations were then created, allowing attendees to get hands-on experiences with the different types of applications and John Prater and his team gave expert advice on all types of applications, issues and solutions. This experience provided participants with valuable techniques to get the job done right.
Resilient Sports Flooring Installation Training
May 14-16, 2024 | Chicago, Illinois
Over three days in Chicago, participants engaged in an immersive Resilient Sports Flooring Installation Training, covering essential topics such as concrete surface preparation and vinyl sports flooring installation.
Attendees learned the importance of proper surface preparation, methods for evaluating and repairing concrete substrates, and techniques for achieving the correct Concrete Surface Profile (CSP). The training also included pre-installation tasks for vinyl sports flooring, adhesive application, proper alignment, seam management and heat welding.
The event was a success, equipping participants with valuable expertise for their projects.
Upcoming meetings, both taking place in Cheyenne, Wyoming, are as follows:
ASBA Regional Sanding School
November 4-7, 2024 | Cheyenne, Wyoming
ASBA Regional Gym Floor Paint & Finish School
November 11-14, 2024 | Cheyenne, Wyoming
More detailed information on these meetings, including preliminary agendas and hotel options, is available at sportsbuilders.org/page/wyoming-regional
Keep up on all upcoming events by going to ASBA’s website, www.sportsbuilders.org, and looking under the word “Meetings” on the top blue toolbar. ★
HEADLINE NEWS
Meeting Report: ASTM Committee F08
Ed Norton, PLA
The American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) Committee F08 on Sports Equipment, Playing Surfaces, and Facilities met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in May to review standards and work items to maintain ASTM standards.
ASBA has an ASTM Advisory Council and sends delegates to attend ASTM committee meetings on behalf of ASBA, and to report back to the Board of Directors, as well as the membership, about the latest developments. The ASTM F08 Committee typically meets twice per year in May and October.
The purpose of Committee F08, which contains approximately 25 technical subcommittees, is the “standardization of specifications, test methods and practices for sports equipment, surfaces, and facilities to reduce inherent risk of injuries and promote knowledge as it relates to these standards. The committee shall coordinate this work with other ASTM technical committees and other organizations in this area.” For this meeting, ASBA representatives focused on subcommittees: F08.52 Miscellaneous Playing Surfaces, F08.64 Natural Playing Surfaces, F08.65 Artificial Turf Surfaces and Systems and F08.66 Sports Facilities.
F08.52 announced that the revision of F0355 (Test Method for Impact Attenuation of Playing Surface Systems, Other Protective Sport Systems, and Materials Used for Athletics, Recreation and Play) was approved. Also, in F08.52, a series of existing Standards are to be balloted as-is.
F08.64 is currently addressing guidelines for the maintenance of warm and cool season grasses to replace the current Guides.
A critical development in F08.65 was the impact of PFAS (Poly-fluoroalkyl Substances) on the environment and how regulations could impact the synthetic turf industry. Currently, there is pending legislation to restrict, phase out or ban PFAS in 32 states. While some states have regulated the inclusion of PFAS in specific consumer products, others, like Maine and Minnesota, have passed laws that require disclosure and ultimately the removal of intentionally added PFAS in any commercial or industrial product. The Subcommittee is collaborating on a Practice for testing PFAS in synthetic turf.
Other work items in development are a Standard Test for Thermal Stability of Infill Material Used in Artificial Turf Sports Fields and Playgrounds, as well as Sieve Analysis of Granular Infill Materials Used in Artificial Turf Surfaces.
Existing Standards under review include:
• F3102 Standard Guide for Specifying, Measuring, and Managing Impact Attenuation of Synthetic Turf Playing Systems
• F1936 Standard Specification for Impact Attenuation of Turf Playing Systems as Measured in the Field
• F3189 Standard Test Method for Measuring Force Reduction, Vertical Deformation, and Energy Restitution of Synthetic Turf Systems Using the Advanced Artificial Athlete
• F3146 Standard Test Method for Impact Attenuation of Turf Playing Systems Designated for Rugby
In F08.66, a new Standard Guide for Tennis Court Fencing and Other Perimeter Enclosures was approved. Other work items in progress are:
• New Standard for the Specification, Selection, Design, and Maintenance of Fencing for Outdoor Recreational Activities Areas, Play Spaces and Playing Fields used in a Publicly Accessible Site
• New Standard Guide for Sports Facility Padding
• Baseball and Softball Guide
The ASTM process moves at a slow but rewarding pace. There are many ASBA members who participate in ASTM and countless others that are impacted by ASTM’s work. All members are encouraged to get involved to strengthen the sports industry.
Note: Interested in getting involved with the ASBA’s committee for ASTM, or in another sector of the membership? Check out the full listing of ASBA’s volunteer opportunities at sportsbuilders.org/page/volunteer ★
Coming Soon to the Bookshelf: The New Tennis Courts Book!
Mary Helen Sprecher
Now on final approach to the ASBA bookshelf is one of the most popular and respected publications, Tennis Courts: Construction and Maintenance Manual. This book, which is expected to publish in the fourth quarter of 2024, will contain new and updated information.
The book, which is co-produced by ASBA and the USTA, is revised every four years to cover updates to the sport and to the technology, both of which together shape the facilities players use. Here is a synopsis of what we can expect to see in the new edition:
• A new chapter on tennis court technology
• Expanded information on facilities for adaptive tennis
• Expanded information and details on specific types of tennis facilities, including competition-specific facilities, and tennis training centers/teaching courts
• Expanded information on selection of a design professional, such as an architect or engineer
• Updated information on lighting
• Updated information on trees and other vegetation
• Updated information on hard courts (asphalt), including control joints
• An expanded chapter on surfacing systems (outside those of traditional hard courts and soft courts), including prefabricated overlayments and infilled turf
• Updated diagrams and photos
The book has also been updated and streamlined overall to create a more concise publication and to make information easier to find.
The Joint Editorial Board members, who have been working on the new edition of the book, include the following:
• Fred Kolkman, Chairman
• Chuck Jettmar
• Jeff Nichols
• Ryan Ferrera
• Jennifer Grissom
Additional input from the members of ASBA and USTA has been used as well. ★
ACADEMY NEWS
ASBA Academy Provides Mid-Term Update and Sneak Peek at 2025
Kaylee Derby, ASBA Director of Education and Training
The ASBA Academy is already halfway through its inaugural year. Here is an update of some of the activities and accomplishments:
• The Academy is having online quarterly meetings during 2024 with its last meeting being held in person at the Technical Meeting in Orlando.
• Over 60 participants are completing assignments in the ASBA Learning Management System in preparation for each online meeting. Each meeting consists of engaging presentations.
• Participants are able to ask questions during presentations or at any time during the year through the ability to access Academy Subject Matter Experts online. Speakers share topic information and real life experiences to help participants develop a solid foundation of knowledge and problem solving skills out on the job sites.
• The 2024 Academy class will finalize their course at the 2024 Technical Meeting in Orlando.
Reviews of the Academy have been very strong, with comments that included the following:
“I would recommend this course to someone who has just entered this niche construction field. This course addresses the basic building blocks associated with this industry.”
“If you are just starting to learn about the industry and about track construction, it is extremely helpful getting to know the basic information.”
“I enjoyed this course as a field building newbie!”
“A lot of good speakers from all parts of the country. You will definitely learn something from each session, even if you are an expert in the subjects, because of the wide range of experience from the speakers.”
“I would recommend the course to anyone new to the industry, new to a sports building firm, or unfamiliar with what ASBA can offer.”
“It is worth it. There is much to learn and the time commitment is not a large ask.”
With so many people finding ways to praise the Academy, it’s obvious the ASBA is filling a need.
2025 ASBA Academy Information
The ASBA Academy consists of three separate courses (one for each of ASBA’s divisions – Courts, Fields and Track). Each course’s curriculum will span the entire year with quarterly sessions. The first three session will be conducted virtually, and the fourth session will be held in person at the ASBA Technical Meeting and Trade Show held in December 1-5, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. Additionally, the course will provide self-paced learning opportunities and more. Participants will select one division course when they register.
The ASBA Academy, developed by industry experts, is a comprehensive look into the world of sports facility construction and design. Guided by the ASBA Construction and Maintenance Manuals, the curriculum for each course will explore all facets of construction techniques, planning and design, working with contractors and owners, site development, drainage, construction, bases and surfaces, safety and much more. Instructors will guide learners through the content and share real life experiences bringing benefit to the discussions.
Throughout the Academy, learners will:
• Gain expert insights in sports construction techniques
• Master sports construction terminology and concepts
• Apply ASBA Standards for superior construction practices
• Build a network of mentors and peers
• Earn the Certificate of Accomplishment demonstrating commitment to professional development
Not sure how to go about it? No worries! The Academy offers a virtual orientation to let you know what is expected. After that, 1.5-hour sessions are offered in March, June and September.
To enhance students’ learning journey, assignments will be required between sessions, ensuring a comprehensive understanding and active participation in subsequent discussions. These assignments may include engaging reading materials, technical video sessions and more. The pinnacle of the ASBA Academy will be the in-person session held at the 2025 ASBA Technical Meeting and Trade Show in San Antonio. A final exam will also be held.
More information on the ASBA Academy is available on the website. To explore, or to register for the 2025 Academy, please visit sportsbuilders.org/page/academy ★
ATHLETIC FACILITY PLANNING
INDUSTRY VIEWS
An Interview with Mike Nealy, CEO, USA Pickleball
Industry Views is a regular column in Build It Right, featuring an interview with an industry partner whose work is helping to drive evolution. Have a suggestion for someone to interview? E-mail our editor at maryhelen@sportsbuilders.org
ASBA sat down with Mike Nealy, CEO of USA Pickleball, to learn about the latest trends in the fast-growing sport, and the latest goals and plans of the organization.
American Sports Builders Association: Pickleball is trending younger every year.
Mike Nealy: Yes, it is. The largest group playing right now is the 20 to 30 age group. Another area where the sport is expanding is at the college level – it is just growing like crazy; there are a lot of clubs starting up.
American Sports Builders Association: Why does it appeal to colleges?
Mike Nealy: It’s not an expensive sport for colleges to get into. They can implement it without a lot of overhead costs. It’s also something we’re seeing being put into P.E. curriculums for younger kids –middle school and high school. We’d like to grow that – we want to get equipment into the hands of people in the younger age groups.
American Sports Builders Association: Are there other factors in the growth of the sport?
Mike Nealy: One nuance is the changeover of some of the big store spaces to pickleball clubs. Malls are struggling to keep tenants and bring in people, and in places where stores have closed, pickleball companies are moving in. They are able to put up to 16 courts onto each level of a two-level store, and they’re always busy. It’s great – there are parking, rest rooms, elevators, lighting, HVAC, everything you need right there.
American Sports Builders Association: What are the numbers like for player population?
Mike Nealy: The SFIA came out with its annual report, and that showed there were close to 13 million people playing the game, which is an increase of a couple hundred percent. If that growth continues through 2028 or 2030, we’ll be surpassing tennis. I really hope both games can coexist because tennis is a great sport; however, a lot of people are migrating to pickleball.
American Sports Builders Association: What would you say is the top reason pickleball is growing so much?
Mike Nealy: It’s the camaraderie. You don’t really get that in any other sport right now. It is a very welcoming sport. People enjoy playing it and they enjoy the way they feel and they want to share that. It’s also great in that parents can play it with their kids, adults can play with their spouses, friends can play one another –not a lot of sports are conducive to that.
American Sports Builders Association: What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the sport right now?
Mike Nealy: We have a shortage of courts. There just aren’t enough places to play. Certainly, it’s something park and rec organizations are recognizing. Clubs are ramping up as well.
American Sports Builders Association: The number of tournaments is also on the rise. Are you hearing questions from people about putting in competition-ready facilities?
Mike Nealy: We are. One of the things we hear a lot is, “How many courts do I need to draw in a tournament?”
American Sports Builders Association: Last fall, USA Pickleball announced they were launching the Quiet Products category. How is that coming along?
Mike Nealy: We have one certified paddle so far that can help reduce the sound the ball makes when it is hit. Whether courts are being built or whether the facilities are being converted, it’s important to keep the acoustics in mind.
American Sports Builders Association: We’ve talked about the college market and we know it’s being played professionally. What is the next step for pickleball?
Mike Nealy: I am talking to the IOC folks. This is the kind of sport they want. It has the growth, the participation, it’s not gender-specific – I think we’ll be hearing more. ★
Bringing Together The Sports Design And Construction Community
Note the new weekday pattern!
The ASBA Technical Meeting & Trade Show will be held at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, Florida from December 3-6, 2024. Professionals in the sports design and construction industry worldwide will gather for learning, networking and business development.
SESSIONS LIST
* = AIA/ASLA CEU Eligible
All session/event names & times are subject to change
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3
8:30 AM
Golf Outing – Shingle Creek Golf Club (Optional Activity/Additional Cost)
Sponsored by: Liberty Tire Recycling
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4
8:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Board of Directors Meeting (By invitation only)
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
General Registration
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Exhibit Hall Set-Up
11:45 AM – 3:00 PM
Academy Class (2024 Academy Registrants Only)
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
PTI Session: Design/Construction/ Maintenance of PT Concrete Courts (Optional Activity/Additional Cost, see pg. 15 for more information)
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Tennis/Pickleball/Padel Tournaments –USTA Tennis Center (Optional Activity/ Additional Cost)
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Women’s Networking Reception
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
JEB Committee Meeting (Committee members only)
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Courts Division New Member/First Time
Attendee Reception (By invitation only)
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Track Division New Member/First Time
Attendee Reception (By invitation only)
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Fields Division New Member/First Time
Attendee Reception (By invitation only)
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Welcome Reception in Exhibit Hall
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
General Registration
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Breakfast - Exhibit Hall Open
9:15 AM – 10:45 AM
Division Meetings
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Concurrent Sessions 1:
• 1A Courts: Tennis Roundtable (Intermediate)
• *1B Track: Track Maintenance (Intermediate)
• *1C Fields: Case Study – West Point Flood (Intermediate)
• *1D Indoor Sports Surfaces: Indoor Game Line Paint
• 1E General: Understanding Economic Trends
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Lunch - Exhibit Hall Open
1:15 PM – 2:15 PM
Concurrent Sessions 2:
• *2A Courts: Concrete/Post-Tension (Advanced)
• *2B Track: England Athletics – New Concepts in Athletic Facility Design (Intermediate)
• *2C Fields: Developing the Playing Surface for the World Cup (Advanced)
• *2D Indoor Sports Surfaces: Moisture Mitigation and Site Prep (Advanced)
• 2E General: Protecting Yourself as a Contractor
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Concurrent Sessions 3:
• *3A Courts: Planning for and Mitigating Noise Issues in Racquet Sports (Intermediate)
• *3B Track: Field Event Construction (Advanced)
• *3C Fields: Cracking the Code: Demystifying Synthetic Turf Performance Data (Advanced)
• *3D Indoor Sports Surfaces: Rolling & Static Loads (Advanced)
• 3E General: Artificial Intelligence 3:45 PM – 4:45 PM
Concurrent Sessions 4:
• *4A Courts: The Benchmarking of Surface Performance for Pickleball (Intermediate)
• *4B Track: Track Asphalt Inspections (Advanced)
• *4C Fields: Irrigation Design to Utilization (Intermediate)
• *4D Indoor Sports Surfaces: Courting Success: Design and Layout Considerations for Great Court Spaces (Intermediate)
• 4E General: Leadership/Handling Stressful Situations
• 4F General: Artificial Intelligence (Same Session as 3E) 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Networking Reception in Exhibit Hall
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
General Registration 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Individual Breakfast Meetings
• CTCB Breakfast (Certified Tennis Court Builders only)
• CTB Breakfast (Certified Track Builders only)
• CFB, CFB-N, CFB-S Breakfast (Certified Field Builders only)
• Professionals Division: Division Update (Professional members only)
• Supplier Division: Division Update (Supplier members only)
9:15 AM – 10:15 AM
Concurrent Sessions 5:
• *5A Courts: Design Consideration of Padel Construction
• *5B Track: Offsite Double Track Session
• *5C Fields: City of Aventura, FL MultiSport Field Renovation - Contaminated Soil Removal Case Study (Intermediate)
• 5D Indoor Sports Surfaces: Managing Customer Expectations (Intermediate)
• 5E General: Leadership/Handling Stressful Situations (Repeat of 4E)
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM
Break in Exhibit Hall
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Concurrent Sessions 6:
• *6A Courts: Design and Build: What Goes Into Creating the New Wave of Racquet Sports Facilities
• *6B Track: Offsite Double Track Session
• *6C Fields: Synthetic Turf and PFAS: Perspectives from Designers, Contractors and Suppliers
• *6D Indoor Sports Surfaces: Open Forum on Finishes (Intermediate)
• *6E General: Geotechnical Testing and Reporting
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Lunch - Exhibit Hall Open
1:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Exhibit Hall Breakdown
1:45 PM – 2:45 PM
Concurrent Sessions 7:
• *7A Courts: Illuminating Ideas for the Modern Court Builder (Intermediate)
• *7B Track: PT Concrete (Intermediate)
• *7C Fields: Synthetic Turf Maintenance/ Impact on Longevity (Intermediate)
• *7D Indoor Sports Surfaces: Environmental Demo/Disposal
*7E General: Jobsite Grade Control: Understanding Vertical and Horizontal Control in Sports Facility Construction
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Board of Directors Meeting (By invitation only)
6:00 PM
Reception/Dinner – Facilities of the Year Awards
Design, Construction, and Maintenance of PT Concrete Courts*
The Post-Tensioning Institute (PTI) Seminar is scheduled for Wednesday, December 4, 2024, starting at 12:00 pm and concluding at 4:00 pm at the Rosen Shingle Creek Orlando. The seminar is specifically designed for court participants.
This seminar presents design and construction recommendations for posttensioned concrete courts based on the DC10.3-20: Design, Construction, and Maintenance of Post-Tensioned Concrete Courts. This seminar is intended for designers, contractors, inspectors, and owners’ representatives. It also covers common maintenance, construction, and detailing issues. Highlights include general considerations, design requirements, detailing considerations, construction practices, sample specification provisions, elongation, final effective force, and conversion factor tables.
Covered Topics:
• Introduction to PT fundamentals and systems
• Design
• Detailing
• Construction
• Tendon stressing
• Tendon finishing
• Jobsite troubleshooting
• Project maintenance
• Landscaping
*Optional activity available at addtional charge.
Registration Deadline: November 1, 2024
Attendees will receive DC10.3-20: Design, Construction, and Maintenance of Post-Tensioned Concrete Courts as the text. PDH certificate issued to attendees approximately 2 weeks after seminar.
Good Sports at the Technical Meeting: Tennis, Pickleball AND the
All-New
Padel Tournament
Want to unleash your competitive streak in Orlando this year? Here’s your chance.
ASBA will present its traditional tennis and pickleball tournaments at the Technical Meeting, as well as a brand-new event: the first-ever ASBA Padel Tournament!
All events will be held on Wednesday, December 4 at the beautiful USTA National Campus.
ASBA thanks sponsor Riteway, LLC for its support of all three events.
Registration information for all three tournaments will be available at the same time as overall registration for the Technical Meeting. Keep an eye on your email!
Technical Meeting Testimonials
Want to learn more about why you should attend the Technical Meeting? Here are the thoughts from a few attendees of past meetings:
“I was impressed with the level of detail presented during the panel discussions. Everyone was open to providing information about new materials, markets and processes. The exhibit hall was top notch, with an excellent mix of companies across the industry.”
“Thanks for the excellent job! Love the networking and sharing that goes on now! Good to see indoor back in the mix.”
“Best educational sessions I have been to and the trade show was easy to get around.”
“This was one of the best meetings in the last 25 years.”
“Great conference and congrats on having over 1,100 attendees!”
SPONSORS
FEATURED ARTICLES
Corporate Logos Now Allowed on NCAA Football Fields: What Should Field Installers Know?
Mary Helen Sprecher
Photo courtesy of Gary McLaughlin on Unsplash
Colleges (and venues where colleges play) that are looking for new sponsorship income will be glad to hear that the NCAA has approved the presence of commercial logos on the field for regular-season games in all three divisions, starting with the 2024 season.
Under the new rule, corporate advertisements can be placed in three spots on the field: A single advertisement centered on the 50-yard line is allowed, in addition to no more than two smaller flanking advertisements elsewhere on the field. This could be done on a game-by-game basis or for the whole season.
And, of course, the NCAA has reasons:
“One rationale for the rule change is to align regular-season games in home stadiums with those already existing advertisement allowances for games played in the postseason bowl games and neutral-site games. This move also provides an additional revenue opportunity for schools that have not been available during the regular season.”
Of course, even without NCAA’s blessing, some schools have been putting logos on the field, and reaping the benefits of it, for years. Some never have and may never do so.
The new ruling gives field installers the chance to check in with their clients and to discuss the need for logo templates that, in the case of grass fields, will need to be reapplied as part of regular maintenance. Synthetic fields will require a more specific approach and a discussion of professionally applied logos.
The current rule applies only to NCAA football; however, other NCAA sports are also played on fields, including field hockey, lacrosse and soccer. In addition, there are plenty of other high-visibility sports surfaces, where logos could grab eyeballs (not to mention sponsorship dollars); these include ice, hardwood, pool floors or decks, etc. ASBA will release information on logos on all surfaces as it becomes available. ★
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CONTRACTOR REGISTERED
PLAYING BY THE RULES
ASBA periodically recounts rule changes that may affect the way facilities are constructed, marked or appointed (including equipment that is either experimental, recommended or mandatory.) Rule changes affecting athletes (uniforms, sportsmanship, NIL issues, etc.) or the game itself (what constitutes a foul, etc.) are not covered here. Information presented here is only reviewed briefly; full information can be gained through the governing bodies mentioned.
NFHS: Changes to Boys’ Lacrosse
Rules 1-2-7 and 1-2-8 will now feature an accompanying diagram that will aid in the correct field setup for the table and coaches’ areas along the sideline. The diagram will also reflect minor adjustments to the table area measurements that will align it with the markings in the NCAA and USA Lacrosse rules books and are intended to streamline the on-the-fly substitution process.
NFHS: Changes to Track & Field
In Rule 6-9-22 regarding venue specifications, an additional sentence states that “the plane of the crossbar shall not be less than 4 inches from the landing pad.”
NOTE: NFHS lists rules changes on an ongoing basis and ASBA members are encouraged to keep up with these changes by going to the NFHS website. A complete listing of all rules changes is available at www.nfhs.org. Click on “Activities & Sports” at the top of the home page and select the desired sport. ★
Leader in POST-TENSION INNOVATION
TRUSTED PARTNER FOR OVER 15 YEARS
PCC Sports focuses on enhancing our Structural Post-Tensioning System for athletic courts, running tracks, and synthetic turf bases. We understand that building an athletic space is not only about the playing surface itself. We take a comprehensive approach, examining every aspect of your site to deliver a solution that fits your unique requirements and ensuring you get an unbeatable value for your investment.
ETHAN STANFILL CHIEF EXPERIENCE OFFICER
816-876-6975 | ethan@pcc-sports.com
WHERE IN THE WORLD IS ASBA?
As part of its continuing effort to position itself as an industry resource in sports construction issues, ASBA regularly attends industry meetings. Some of those are the following.
AUGUST - US Open Tennis Championships/USTA
Courts Division President Todd Dettor and Executive Director Fred Stringfellow will attend the US Open in New York, NY and meet with USTA representatives.
OCTOBER - National Recreation & Parks Association
ASBA will have a presence as an exhibitor at this year’s NRPA Annual Conference in Atlanta, GA, October 8 and 9. If you’re planning to be at NRPA, stop by ASBA’s Booth #2665 to say hello.
DECEMBER - ASBA Technical Meeting
ASBA’s members, leadership and staff will gather at the Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, FL for ASBA’s Technical Meeting and Trade Show from December 3 through 6. Please note the new weekday pattern of this year’s meeting. Check www.sportsbuilders.org for detailed schedule information.
ASBA IN PRINT - Where are ASBA’s Technical Articles Appearing?
ASBA publishes technical articles in a variety of publications across all divisions, using quotes from its members. Would you like to receive questions for an upcoming article? Contact technical writer, Mary Helen Sprecher, at maryhelen@sportsbuilders.org
Coach & Athletic Director: “Best Practices for Track & Court Maintenance,” July 2024
NIAAA Athletic Administrator: “Maintenance Schedules for Indoor Sports Surfaces,” Winter 2024
Park & Rec Business: “Designing Dog Parks: Considerations and Alternatives for Dog-Friendly Areas,” June 2024 ★
GET IN THE
HIGH PERFORMANCE LED SPORTS LIGHTING
HIGH PERFORMANCE LED SPORTS LIGHTING
The ZONE™ LED sports light features a sleek low profile design and high performance LEDs paired with precise silicone optics to produce superior levels of illumination, uniformity and cutoff. Available in two sizes and multiple lumen outputs for any court sport application. Optional wireless control systems available. Proudly made in America.
The ZONE™ LED sports light features a sleek low profile design and high performance LEDs paired with precise silicone optics to produce superior levels of illumination, uniformity and cutoff. Available in two sizes and multiple lumen outputs for any court sport application. Optional wireless control systems available. Proudly made in America.
TRENDING TOPICS
ASBA keeps an eye on subjects that are getting attention at the sports facility level. Here is a brief review of a few of those.
Padel World Summit Draws Enthusiasts to Study Burgeoning Sport
The inaugural Padel World Summit studied all aspects of the sport. Held in Málaga, Spain from May 21 to 23, the event offered a program that included the following:
• Competition matches, Exhibition matches, Analyses of recent competitions
• A forum for startup companies
• Paddle and ball tests
• Coaching and training sessions
• Sessions focusing on the growth of the sport in various areas including Asia and the USA
• Padel for athletes with disabilities
• Investing in padel
• Padel injuries and treatments
• Club management and facility investment
• Sustainability
• A.I. in padel
• League play, Pro tours
• Maintaining harmony among racquet and paddle sports
The Padel World Summit 2024 was organized by the International Padel Cluster (IPC), a global organization of manufacturers, producers and distributors of products for padel. More information is available at padelsummit.com.
Cheer, Flag Football to be Podium Sports at the International World Games
The 2025 International World Games in Chengdu, China will have two new permanent podium sports: competitive cheer and flag football.
Flag is already set to be featured as a showcase sport in the Summer Olympics
in Los Angeles in 2028; however, as a showcase sport, its inclusion in future Games is at the discretion of the host city. (Fun fact: Women’s flag is an emerging sport at the NAIA level.)
Other showcase sports in L.A. are baseball and softball, squash, cricket and lacrosse. Of those, squash and cricket stand to benefit the most from getting a U.S. audience; the others are well known to the wider sports audience.
Cheer, meanwhile, has never been featured in the Olympics, although the USA did send a cheer squad to entertain crowds at the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang. (South Korea issued the invitation to the U.S. as well as to several other countries, who sent national teams.) USA Cheer continues to hope for future Olympic inclusion.
Esports Holds First-Ever College Signing Day
Gaming joined the ranks of football and other sports, hosting its inaugural National Esports Signing Day. The event took place on May 30 in collaboration with gaming high school esports platform Play VS and USA TODAY High School Sports (which actually has been following high school esports closely).
There has been an uptick in the construction of dedicated esports facilities, ranging from college gaming rooms to full-size stadiums (Esports Stadium Arlington in Arlington, Texas and the HyperX Arena in Las Vegas are two examples of the latter).
Using Sports Facilities to Attract High School Students to Skilled Trades
Philadelphia Phillies and NEST, a facility management company, have launched the Skilled Trades All-Star Program, a dynamic initiative aimed at helping Philadelphia-
area high school youth find their place in the skilled trades.
The initiative kicked off on April 24 when local high school students from Mercy Career & Technical High School visited Citizens Bank Park to learn the trades required to operate an MLB stadium. Another event later this summer will feature participants from MyWIC, an all-girls construction camp.
Emerging Sport Acrobatics & Tumbling Nears Milestone
Acrobatics & Tumbling, an NCAA Emerging Sport for Women that uses elements of both gymnastics and cheer, but removes the crowd-leading aspect, is close to taking the next step toward becoming an NCAA championship sport.
The sport, governed by the National Collegiate Acrobatics & Tumbling Association (NCATA), is contested indoors in gyms with protective matting. It currently has 37 programs; 40 are needed for the sport to move to the next level.
Most recently, women’s wrestling, another emerging sport, achieved the milestone of 40 programs. If wrestling continues its movement through all the necessary steps required by NCAA, it could host its inaugural championship in 2026.
USGA Publishes Report, “Environmental Benefits of Golf Courses”
The USGA has published a research paper on the ecological benefits of golf courses. Among the facts listed: While golf courses make up less than 0.1% of all green space in the USA, they have outsized benefits, including promoting urban cooling and adding to biodiversity. The report is available at usga.org. ★
PERFORMANCE PICKLEBALL COURT INSTALLED IN HOURS
The Pickle Flex Pro is a portable, comfortable, high-performance indoor pickleball court that can be setup in as little as two hours. The court comes ready for temporary or permanent installation for a wide range of facilities, from clubs to convention centers.
This professional-grade court is made with interlocking tiles, and coated in vibrant Har-Tru Sports Coatings. Consistent ball bounce, speed of play, and foot traction are all rated excellent. The Pickle Flex Pro is specifically designed for added force reduction and energy restitution — letting you play longer, more comfortable matches with less stress on your body.
The Pickle Flex Pro is available in two sizes, Standard and Mini, and features our signature color combination — Championship Blue, Light Blue, and Championship Green. Custom colors and multi-court arrangements are available on request.
Installing a high-performance indoor pickleball court has never been easier.
+ High-Performance
+ Portable or Permanent
+ Made with 62% Recycled Material
+ Available in Two Sizes
+ Easy Quick Installation — 4 people, 2 hours
MEMBER NEWSLINE
Want your company featured in Member Newsline? Please send information to ASBA using the form available on our website at sportsbuilders.org/builditright You’ll find it on the Build It Right Magazine page under the News tab that is located on the top right-hand corner of the home page. All member news must be submitted through this portal. ASBA reserves the right to edit all information submitted.
ASB GlassFloor Debuts at Basketball Champions League Event
The ASB GlassFloor made a historic debut at the Basketball Champions League Final Four in Belgrade, impressing athletes and spectators alike with its innovative design. Known for its superior playability, the glass surface received recognition for its elasticity, providing enhanced ankle protection compared to conventional floors. Athletes praised its performance during matches, marking a significant milestone for the German company.
In addition to its athletic benefits, the ASB GlassFloor demonstrated versatility by seamlessly transitioning between business events and sports activities at the venue. Its durable construction facilitated swift changes from ceremonies to team practices, requiring minimal cleaning.
A notable innovation at the finals was the integration of live game statistics directly onto the glass surface using ASB’s GlassCourt OS software. This feature, a first in official games, displayed real-time data and dynamic graphics, transforming the floor into an interactive information hub and elevating the spectator experience.
The event highlighted the ASB GlassFloor’s advanced playability and innovative capabilities, solidifying its place in sporting arenas as a groundbreaking technology for future tournaments. ★
California Sports Surfaces Announces Contractor ProProgram
California Sports Surfaces (CSS) announced the launch of its new Contractor ProProgram, enabling access to exclusive tools and resources for its most loyal contractor customers to grow their businesses.
By registering for the Contractor ProProgram, contractors in the U.S. and Canada can unlock a full catalog of exclusive prizes, incentives and marketing support. Benefits include Exclusive Rewards, Premium Lead Generation, Additional Marketing Support as well as Project Profiles.
“California Sports Surfaces brands lead the industry with exclusive technology advancements, helping athletes across a variety of sports be the best they can be,” said Sara Jonas, Vice President of Marketing, ICP Group. “With the launch of the ProProgram, we’re excited to extend our leadership position to supporting and rewarding our loyal contractors.” ★
Ecore Propels Athletic Excellence with Game-Changing Surfaces at Spooky Nook Champion
Mill
Spooky Nook Champion Mill is the largest indoor sports complex in North America with nearly 700,000 square feet of space for fitness and personal training, youth programs, recreational sports leagues and other athletic events. Ecore’s high-performance flooring emerged as the ideal solution to enable individuals to achieve and exceed their athletic and personal fitness goals and was specified in the following locations:
• Multi-purpose Sport Courts: Bounce
2 Motivate Class I provides the look of real wood but with more durability.
• Indoor Turf Area: FlexTurf Monster and RageTurf Rally enable athletes to gain traction and maintain stability without using cleats.
• Fitness Center: Performance Monster and FlexTurf Monster provide slip resistance, support and stability.
• Group Exercise Studios: Baller Motivate Class I and Balanced Motivate Class I are tailored for light strength and conditioning, resist scuffing and offer constant usability.
• 200-Meter Track: Performance Rally absorbs impact force and returns energy back to the user.
• Basketball and Pickleball Courts: Baller Rally Class II features reinforced wear layers and wood colors to create court accents and borders.
• Main Fitness Floor: Performance Beast Plus withstands extreme weight impacts and minimizes bar bounce.
• Restrooms and Locker Rooms: HydroGrip Motivate provides slip resistance, ergonomic support and underfoot comfort. ★
Frasure Reps Supplies Lighting for Award-Winning
Tennis Facility
The North Carolina State University Club in Raleigh, NC has opened their new nine court tennis facility. The nine clay courts
Photo courtesy of Basketball Champions League
are illuminated with (72) LSI Zone Large fixtures. The average light level on all courts exceeds 70 footcandles. The facility will add eight new pickleball courts soon.
The facility was recently presented with a 2024 USTA Outstanding Facility Award. This award recognizes North Carolina State University Club’s exemplary tennis venue and commitment toward the growth and development of tennis in the community. ★
Har-Tru Sponsoring Two of Eight US Open Tournaments
Har-Tru Sports Coatings is the official surface of the Mubadala Citi DC Open and the National Bank Open presented by Rogers, two of the eight US Open Series tournaments.
Har-Tru sponsors these important events not only by providing a specialized surface, consulting and court care for these tournaments but by furthering the sport, creating community engagement and supporting youth players in DC and throughout the Canadian provinces.
Har-Tru’s personnel, being players, understand player performance, and use the company’s nearly 100 years of industry experience to create the best courts possible. Nationally and internationally, the company shares a goal of growing the game and empowering players for generations to come. ★
Celebrating 45 Years of HNP Landscape Architecture
As HNP Landscape Architecture celebrates its 45th year of business, the firm extends gratitude to its clients, colleagues and partners. The firm’s growth has been marked by an increasing variety and scale of projects. Founded in 1979 with work in residential and corporate planning and landscape design, HNP now offers landscape architecture and planning services for universities, school systems, city parks and a full range of athletic venues across most sports and competition levels.
The team collectively brings more than 180 years of experience and holds professional registrations in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina and Arkansas. Active involvement with the ASBA and the ASLA ensures that the firm stays at the forefront of industry standards. Recognition from both ASBA and ASLA attests to the quality of its work. In the past two decades alone, over 20 fields, courts and tracks designed by HNP have been celebrated for excellence by ASBA. HNP values diverse project experiences to balance practicality and imagination.
Despite the evolving landscape of technology and processes, HNP’s dedication to quality remains unwavering. The firm believes that strong client relationships are the cornerstone of continued growth and success. Looking to the future, HNP remains committed to delivering exceptional landscape architecture exceeding client expectations. ★
QCI provided extensive turnkey service, including the post tension slabs construction, installation of the acrylic surfacing system and striping, court accessories and bleachers.
This community can now enjoy a facility that provides premium Tennis and Pickleball options. ★
Surge Entertainment Center Is First Sportsfield Specialties Padel Court Installation
Sportsfield Specialties is proud to announce the completion of its first padel court installation at the Surge Entertainment Center in Metairie, Louisiana. This marks a significant achievement for the company as it ventures into the growing padel market in North America. The project features Sportsfield’s cutting-edge PaDelhi™ Panoramic Padel Court Systems, setting a new standard for quality and performance in padel court construction.
The Surge Entertainment Center is known for its diverse recreational offerings. Drew Forsyth, the owner and lead contractor at Magnolia Sports Construction, stated, “The Sportsfield Specialties padel court installation has been a remarkable journey. The innovative design and high-quality court offer an outstanding playing environment, guaranteeing a premium experience for all players.”
Quality Court Industries Announces New Project in Hattiesburg
Quality Court Industries, LLC (QCI) recently built eight new outdoor post tension Tennis and eight new outdoor Pickleball Courts for the Lamar County Tennis and Pickleball Complex in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.
The PaDelhi™ Panoramic Padel Court Systems are designed with player safety and game quality in mind, incorporating features that enhance durability and
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minimize maintenance. The system’s design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also engineered to withstand intense gameplay and various weather conditions.
This installation aligns with Sportsfield Specialties’ broader aim of popularizing padel throughout the United States by developing and delivering top tier padel courts, catering to the rising demand from casual and competitive players. It exemplifies the company’s dedication to innovation, quality and the promotion of emerging sports. ★
University of Oklahoma Love’s Stadium: A Field for Champions
The University of Oklahoma has long been known for its rich winning tradition in football and basketball; however, there was a growing desire to provide the same level of excellence for its seventh national championship and now eighth softball program. The dream took shape when Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, a prominent Oklahoma-based company, provided a generous donation.
United Turf and Track, based in Oklahoma, was selected as the sports field construction company and CFB. Construction of the new stadium started in 2022, and United Turf and Track started on the field build in October 2023 with a completion date of mid-February 2024 before the home season opening tournament that OU was hosting.
Due to the timing of field completion, the 10” sand based rootzone system featured Tahoma 31 thick cut, overseeded bermudagrass sod grown on plastic and ready for immediate play after being installed. The infield mix is DuraEdge Pro with DuraEdge Platinum conditioner and DuraPitch mound and pitching clay. The
warning track is DuraTraxx mix. The synthetic turf foul territory surrounds and bullpens are AstroTurf Diamond RBI with nylon rootzone with BrockFill infill over the top of a BrockPad. The irrigation system includes a water softener, fertigation injection system and QuantumFlo booster pump. ★
HAS YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION CHANGED?
Need to update your address? Have you changed your e-mail or website? Is there a new employee you’d like to list?
Please help ASBA keep its records updated by letting us know!
This is the information that we will be using for ASBA’s Online Membership Directory – please make sure we have the most updated and accurate information.
To update any information, please contact Kristin Evans at kristin@sportsbuilders.org
ADIDAS USA PADEL COURTS
USA COMPLIANT OUTDOOR & INDOOR PADEL COURTS BY AFP COURTS
OUTDOOR INDOOR
ADIDAS USA PILLARS RF 105
ADIDAS USA PANORAMIC RF 165
FEATURES
165 mph wind speed resistance.
3/32”, 1/8”, and 3/16” pre-galvanized steel.
Folded and reinforced mesh.
13/16” thickness anchor plates.
Hilti anchor rods and injectable mortar for maximum performance.
7 7/8” × 7 7/8” × 3/16” S350GD Z275 steel tubes in glass zone.
Structural metal tube joints.
Possibility of 15/32” tempered glass or 5/16”+5/16” laminated toughened glass with 0.09” SentryGlassTM interlayer.
AFP Turf. Certified by Instituto de Biomecánica (IBV).
AFP Lighting 8×240 W.
Broad colour range available according to the client’s corporate needs.
ADIDAS FX3.0 +
ADIDAS PANORAMIC 180 +
ADIDAS PANORAMIC AFP +
ADIDAS HIGH COMPETITION
FEATURES
Wind speed resistance not required.
3/32”, 1/8”, and 5/32” pre-galvanized steel. Folded mesh.
Ends offer panoramic views without corner pillar.
Special 3 5/32” × 6 5/16” adidas netpost.
15/32” tempered glass.
AFP Turf. Certified by Instituto de Biomecánica (IBV).
AFP Lighting 8×240 W.
Exclusive adidas High Competition curved lighting pillars.
Broad colour range available according to the client’s corporate needs.
ASBA MEMBERS
New Members & Certified Builders
NEW MEMBERS
Builder
• All Pro Surfaces LLC
• C & C Courts, Inc. dba Sport Court North
• Champion Courts, Inc.
• East Coast Sealcoating
• GMC Contractors Inc.
• MCL Construction
• Memphis Coatings Company
NEW CERTIFIED BUILDERS
• Midwest Field Solutions LLC
• North State Resurfacing Co.
• NovoTurf S.A. de C.V.
• PICKLETILE™
• Smoke Builders, LLC
• Specialty Turf Supply, Inc
• Teko Outdoor Living
• USA Court Builders
• Dustin Boudreau, CFB-S, CTB | Geosurfaces*
Professional
• SME
Provisional
• CSTM Built Court Construction
Supplier
• Sports Venue Padding, Inc.
• The FOD Control Corp
* The information on Dustin Boudreau, CFB-S, CTB, was incorrectly listed in the last issue of Build It Right. His company is Geosurfaces. ASBA regrets this error.
