The two new turf fields at the Hilliard Athletic Complex may look just like any other turf field, but below the glossy green fibers lies a world of engineering.
Standard turf fields are made with a combination of synthetic fibers, backing material, and a type of infill, usually crumb rubber made from recycled tires. The two turf fields at the Hilliard Athletic Complex use something a little more unexpected: organic woodchips.
BrockFILL, an engineered wood particle, takes the place of traditional crumb rubber, creating an organic, safe-for-the-environment alternative to harmful plastics. Because the Hilliard Athletic Complex is located within the protected Clover Groff Run watershed, picking safe, sustainable materials was key when designing the fields. If any runoff from the turf fields was to make its way into the waterway, there would be no contamination.
So, just how are these woodchips engineered? Made through renewable softwood tree farming, the wood is harvested after 7-9 years of growth. From there, the wood is converted into many different types of goods, including infill. BrockFILL undergoes a 12-step manufacturing process that removes any splinters, buffs and rounds the particles, and sifts out dust. This ensures that each particle is the ideal size and shape, as well as free from sharp edges or slivers that could harm players on the field.
With all this analytical thinking going into such a small piece of material, do the woodchips even work? They do work, better even than traditional crumb rubber. Where crumb rubber heats considerably in the sun, BrockFILL maintains a much cooler temperature, lowering the field’s heat output and creating a cooler playing experience.
And much like standard infill, BrockFILL weighs down the turf fibers in a way that keeps them standing up straight, improving the performance and longevity of the turf. In terms of playability, there is no performance difference between crumb rubber and BrockFILL, other than the cooler playing conditions.
Come see it for yourself April 9 at the Hilliard Athletic Complex Grand Opening. From 6-7 p.m. the City will officially open the two turf fields and the 20 natural grass fields for play.
The event will include a musical offering from members of the Bradley High School Pep Band, a demonstration of the new robot field liner, and an opportunity for free play on the two turf fields. Plus, get a chance to cast your vote for the name of the robot field liner!
The event will be held at the turf fields at 3680 Cosgray Road. Enter the complex through the Alton Darby Cosgray roundabout.
