How to install a multisport field in 5 steps

How to install a multisport field in 5 steps

09/11/2020

Installation of a multisport field: 5 steps not to be missed!

In order to meet the needs and expectations of their citizens, more and more local authorities are choosing to invest in open-access multisport facilities. Both a place for sports practices and intergenerational encounters, this space dedicated to sports must be adapted to each project. Here are 5 tips to make your city stadium development a success:

  • Choose the best location:

It is essential to take into account local residents who may be bothered by noise pollution. If possible, a minimum distance should be established between sports equipment and homes to avoid conflicts. Nevertheless, a consultation can be carried out with the neighborhood to find alternatives such as time restrictions.

  • Choose the right dimensions:

There are standard dimensions available to optimize costs (9x18 m, 11x25 m or 15x33 m, among others). You can also opt for customized dimensions so that the available space is totally adapted to the location, between 2 buildings for example.

Attendance is also a determining variable when choosing the size of your sports equipment. It must be estimated according to the local infrastructures (public transport, size of schools, presence of other sports facilities, etc.). 

Finally, the height of the pediment and lateral sides grids meet practical and safety requirements to prevent balls from escaping the field. Indeed, the proximity of a road or a building will determine the appropriate height of the city stadium. Note that ball-impact guard systems, in standard or reinforced netting, can be added to the structure to gain even more height.

  • Choose the right materials:

It all depends on your expectations in terms of longevity and ease of maintenance. The climate is a determining factor. Depending on whether if your multisport will be subject to heat, rain, cold or sea spray, the right choice of materials is essential!

Steel is a material known for its strength. Its longevity is enhanced by its galvanization and/or the application of paint. Note that powder-coated steel meets both aesthetic criteria and high corrosion resistance.

Wood, even if it meets an ecological trend, remains subject to the impacts of balls and requires more maintenance. Some wood species are more suitable for outdoor use such as Robinia. HPL (resinous wood) is an interesting solution to bring a wooden look to the multisport field while being robust.

As for stainless steel and aluminum, they are extremely resistant to sea spray. However, they are limited in terms of aesthetics and above all remain relatively expensive.

  • Choose your options:

In order to choose your options, you must consider the sports you wish to see played on the equipment. For the practice of volleyball, badminton or tennis you will have to integrate multifunction posts. If basketball players are numerous, think about adding several basketball hoops even on the lateral sides or behind the goal (playground type) to allow simultaneous play. The mini side goals, as for them, allow playing several games at the same time by dividing the playing spaces.

Also take the public into account! If the multisport field is located near an elementary school, specific options such as playful and educational engraved panels can be considered.

Sporting street furniture completes these leisure areas: sitting/standing benches for spectators, meeting point, teqball or table tennis…

  • Comply with standards:

The development of a multisport field is very much framed by the EN 15312+A1 standard. It specifies the requirements, including safety ones, for the equipment itself, for its installation, control and maintenance. It applies to open-access sports equipment intended for public, individual and collective use, mainly used by children and adolescents.

It includes a specific requirement for the entry and exit of users with disabilities (access with a minimum width of 800 mm).

This type of equipment is not intended to be used by very young children, for example, under 36 months of age.

Each piece of equipment must be the subject of a certificate of conformity issued before it is put into service. It is preferable that this certificate is issued by a body independent of the manufacturer.

As you have understood, it is especially important to define your project well in advance: its objectives, its environment and its budget!

 

If you need any advice, contact QUALI-Cité