Hellas Construction installs new fields for Garland Independent School District

Garland (Texas) Independent School District (ISD) is revamping its sports facilities with newly installed football, baseball and softball fields from Hellas Construction. Homer B. Johnson Stadium and Williams Stadium now have Matrix Helix synthetic turf alongside the practice fields for Naaman Forest High School, Rowlett High School and Sachse High School. Garland High School, Lakeview Centennial High School, North Garland High School and South Garland High School also have Matrix Helix synthetic turf at the two main stadiums for their home games, paired with a Cushdrain and Ecotherm infill.

Garland ISD executive director of athletics Ron Griffen praised the Cushdrain’s benefits below the surface, emphasizing its impact absorption and ability to reduce concussions. The Cushdrain also enhances field drainage after inclement weather, ensuring gameplay is not delayed.

“The Cushdrain really absorbs the impact and also helps reduce concussions,” Griffen said.

The Ecotherm infill, installed by Hellas at all five football fields in Garland ISD, plays a crucial role in maintaining field temperatures up to 30 degrees F cooler than traditional infill products. Hellas also installed V300 epiQ tracks at each Garland ISD campus facility. EpiQ tracks use eco-friendly, non-petroleum-based materials in the poured-in-place multi-layer application of polyurethane and rubber granules.

Naaman Forest, Sachse, and Rowlett saw the installations of Major Play synthetic turf on the baseball and softball fields. According to the company, Major Play turf looks and plays like natural grass, marking a significant upgrade for Garland ISD. Superintendent Ricardo Lopez, Ph.D., says it’s the first time Garland ISD has played baseball and softball home games on synthetic turf.

According to the company, the Major Play Matrix Helix turf system, celebrated for its optimal cleat interaction, stable footing and excellent shock absorption, has been well-received by players and staff alike, ensuring a safe and top-quality playing experience. The helix-shaped curled monofilament fibers securely hold the infill in place, eliminating concerns of migration and splashing. Additionally, Thermoblend infill by Hellas helps reduce field temperatures by up to 30 degrees F compared to traditional infill products, further optimizing playing conditions.

The opening ceremonies at Naaman Forrest were a highlight this past season. Hellas’ vice president of business development, Randy Bullock, joined GISD representatives to inaugurate the fields.

“The quality of the turf is second to none,” said Lopez. “The beautiful part was the kids and parents smiling ear to ear. They know it was a long time coming, and they deserved it,” said Lopez.