Matchplay 2 has proven to be the best solution for all schools.
In 2014 Sacred Heart secondary school was transformed into the university Academy of engineering (UAE) under the umbrella of the Southbank University. In 2018 project manager Jamie Waller and head of physical education Giles Smith investigated the upgrade their existing games area to an artificial grass surface.
Having discussed the project with other manufacturers, it was decided a tufted product would be the best possible option, the school contacted Steve Byrnes from Playrite, and a site meeting was arranged to discuss the options that UK manufacturer PlayRite and approved partner ETC Sports Surfaces Ltd could offer.
Playrite having the largest range of artificial sport surfaces in the UK were able to offer the tufted solution, but it was felt the Matchplay 2, needle punch surface would give the school more versatility, with less maintenance and better porosity.
ETC sports an approved partner with Playrite are SAPCA (Sports and Play Contractors Association) accredited sports pitch and tennis court contractors, were appointed as the main contractor, this included removing fencing, installation of a dividing net system, base remedial and porosity repairs, the installation of an in-situ rubber crumb shockpad and installation of Matchplay 2.
The Matchplay 2 has now been in operation for almost two years. This has given the University great versatility with inlaid lines for 3no. tennis courts, 3no. netball courts, hockey and 7-a-side pitch.
This project has proved to be a great, cost-effective solution to upgrading an existing, poorly draining, fretted macadam surface.
