SPECIAL SECTION
Choosing the Right
Athletic Fence Athletic field fencing can serve a variety of functions, from controlling crowds and supporting security efforts for fans and players, to delineating separate sporting fields and creating distinct areas like dugouts and spectator sections. With all these multiple purposes, Tim Rutkoski, president of Rutkowski Fencing Inc. (RFI) in Swoyersville, Pennsylvania, says determining the right fencing design and solution for your application will depend on a number of factors related to the sport and facility design needs. RFI’s field crews install thousands of feet of athletic field fencing each year, giving them a depth of experience in this sector of the fence industry. Rutkoski provides an overview of important considerations for athletic fencing installations. COMMON TYPES OF ATHLETIC FIELD FENCING The most widely used type of fencing for athletic fields is chain link, given its versatility, durability and economical cost. Surprisingly difficult to scale or break through, chain link fencing also provides a certain level of visibility that’s crucial in an athletic setting, particularly those that entertain spectators. A low-maintenance solution, chain link fencing can be easily repaired by retying the links or replacing the panels. “All of these factors make chain link, whether steel, aluminum or vinyl-coated, an excellent and popular choice for athletic field fencing,” says Rutkoski. Another common type of athletic field fencing is ornamental commercial-grade aluminum or steel. These options support the fencing structure’s strength and stability while offering a more enhanced visual aesthetic than that of industrial aluminum or steel. “Ornamental fences complement various stadium and athletic field designs and can create an attractive look, which is especially favorable in areas facing roads or entrances to the athletic field,” he explains. 3 FACTORS FOR DETERMINING FENCING DESIGN Making a decision about the type and design of athletic field fencing to employ for your project involves focusing on three main elements first, according to Rutkoski: purpose, height and strength/durability.
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SEPTEMBER 2023 | FENCE NEWS USA
Purpose: What purpose(s) will the fencing structure be fulfilling? This is a critical question to ask, as the answer lends direction to the type of material and design components necessary to meet your requirements. Will the fence serve as a general perimeter to the field? Or are there more specific functions, like designating player areas, creating boundaries, protecting spectators from balls and equipment, controlling crowds and securing access points? Height: Once you know your purpose, you can garner a clearer idea of what height requirements should be applied. If, for example, the fencing is a simple enclosure to set off the perimeter of the athletic field, you probably don’t need to erect something with a lot of height. If, on the other hand, your fencing structure will serve to protect fans or nearby vehicles from foul balls, flying equipment or other hazards, height should be a major consideration. If greater height is required, installation factors, such as increased depth of post digging and other structural implications have to be considered. Strength & Durability: This element circles back to purpose. The purpose of your athletic field fencing will dictate the strength and durability needed. This is likely to vary depending on the type of sport you’re dealing with. Sports that involve potential impact with the fence (from people or equipment) will likely require more durable materials. Continued on p26