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==Product==
==Product==
FieldTurf is an artificial turf composed of monofilament [[polyethylene]] blend fibres tufted into a [[polypropylene]] backing with a mixture of [[silica]] sand and cryogenic [[crumb rubber|rubber infill]]. FieldTurf was first patented in 1982.
FieldTurf is an artificial turf composed of monofilament [[polyethylene]] blend fibres tufted into a [[polypropylene]] backing with a mixture of [[silica]] sand and cryogenic [[crumb rubber|rubber infill]]. FieldTurf was first patented in 1982.

==History==
The FieldTurf system is fundamentally different than all others. It replicates a natural grass surface, but offers the durability and cost benefits of synthetic fields. FieldTurf is a safe alternative, resulting in a documented reduction of sports injuries. The sand and rubber infill system is the biggest technological development that the sport surfacing industry has seen in the last twenty-five years. This patented technology sets FieldTurf apart from all other sports surfaces.

Stable, firm not spongy, non-abrasive and uniform in traction, FieldTurf is engineered to play and feel like good natural grass. On FieldTurf, players perform with confidence - and never experience the accelerated fatigue and muscle / joint stress associated with lightweight, rubber-filled systems.

In September 1998, John Gilman introduced [[Tom Osborne]], legendary [[University of Nebraska]] football coach, to the turf product called FieldTurf. In December, Osborne traveled to high schools in [[Pennsylvania]] and [[Maryland]] to check it out. Mr. Osborne saw that it was good and once John told him that the "grass" the kids were practicing on was in fact FieldTurf, he suggested that the university consider FieldTurf for its stadium. Based on positive reactions from the players, the school decided to improve its stadium field a year early, and thus the Huskers took to the field for the 1999 season (an injury-free, 12-1 return to form) on FieldTurf.

With Nebraska playing on the FieldTurf product, the FieldTurf family was able to ensure that high schools, municipalities, college teams, and pro teams would be exposed to the many benefits of playing on the world's most trusted brand of artificial turf.

Today, more than 40 major [[NCAA]] universities have FieldTurf in their stadiums, with many more utilizing it at their practice sites. A selection of other universities that have FieldTurf in their football stadiums include [[Syracuse]], [[Rutgers]], [[Boston College]], [[Nebraska]], [[Ohio State]], [[Michigan]], [[Wisconsin]], [[Oregon]], [[Washington]], [[Kansas State]], [[Louisville]], [[Texas Tech]], [[Missouri]] and [[Harvard]]. In addition, 21 of the [[National Football League]]'s 32 teams have FieldTurf at their stadiums and/or practice complexes. Also, [[Major League Baseball]]'s [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]], [[Minnesota Twins]] and [[Toronto Blue Jays]] have FieldTurf at their respective stadiums. <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

==FieldTurf Pioneers==
'''John Gilman''' was the company's Chief Executive Officer from 1995-2007. Mr. Gilman was born in [[Montréal]], Quebec and held a Bachelor of Arts from Sir George Williams University (now Concordia University) in Montreal, Canada. From 1965 to 1966, he was a coach with the [[Montreal Alouettes]], where he was a professional player from 1961 to 1963. Subsequent to his professional football career with the [[Montreal Alouettes]] as a [[quarterback]] in the early 1960's, he developed extensive business experience with a company he founded in luggage manufacturing. At the time of his passing in 2007, John was an avid sportsman and influential businessman who was well respected by his associates, employees and colleagues. He was the Chairman-Elect of the Synthetic Turf Council and insured that the sports surfacing industry as a whole was heading in the right direction.

In 1995, John joined his good friend Mr.''' Jean Prevost''', FieldTurf President, and officially acted as Chief Executive Officer of FieldTurf Inc. from 1995-2004 setting countless records, milestones, and standards that would better the entire artificial turf and sports surfacing industry forever. In 2004, Tarkett, a flooring giant based in Europe, acquired FieldTurf and named John Gilman as worldwide [[CEO]] of the sports division, to nobody's surprise. Tarkett realised the value of the FieldTurf brand, patents, and emphasis on teamwork. Prior to officially joining FieldTurf, Mr. Gilman had always been an active figure in the sports community. It was John's dream to have the industry's ‘One Stop Shop’ for all high-quality sports flooring systems - and if you ask anyone that knows the company, it's Mission Accomplished. The company did this, in large part, by putting the customer first.

Since the mid-1990s, the company has continued to conduct extensive research and development in improving the quality and longevity of FieldTurf and it's application in the world of [[Football]], [[Soccer]], [[Baseball]], [[Golf]], [[Rugby]], [[Lacrosse]].

Jean Prevost is the company's President. Mr. Prevost was born in [[Montreal]], Quebec and holds a bachelor's degree in Economics and psychology from [[Middle Tennessee University]].

In the mid-1980s, Jean Prevost met Freddie Haas, Jr. Haas took out a series of patents on various concepts and eventually, Jean licensed some of these patents to market them. Prior to inventing and patenting all of FieldTurf's intellectual property, Mr. Prevost was a Canadian Professional Tennis player.

In March 2008, FieldTurf Tarkett appointed Joe Fields as Chief Executive Officer. Fields, a native of Ravenswood, West Virginia is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and holds a masters degree from the [[University of Oklahoma]]. Fields has held a number of senior positions in sports related industries, including Senior Vice President, Adidas North America and President of [[Speedo]] International.

"The synthetic turf industry is continuing to see rapid growth and FieldTurf Tarkett is the dominant force in the North American market and is the only global player," said Fields. "I believe that we are well positioned to perpetuate the rapid growth that was driven by John Gilman and that the FieldTurf team will be able to continue his vision of being the clear global leader in the sports surfacing industry," continued Fields. "I am absolutely thrilled to take on the leadership role at FieldTurf Tarkett."

Tarkett CEO Michel Giannuzzi stated, "Adding an experienced leader like Joe Fields to the outstanding executive team at FieldTurf Tarkett will no doubt help solidify our leadership position in the industry."<ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.


==Notable installations==
==Notable installations==
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| accessdate = 2007-01-28 }}</ref>
| accessdate = 2007-01-28 }}</ref>


== Criticism ==
In 2001, [[Arsenal F.C.]] had FieldTurf installed at their facility- Hale End Sports Ground.

In 2003, the [[Atlanta Falcons]] had FieldTurf installed in the [[Georgia Dome]].

[[Barcelona F.C.]] had FieldTurf installed at their facility Camp Nou in 2000.

In 2001, [[Chelsea F.C.]] had FieldTurf installed at their Chelsea F.C. Imperial College Sports Grounds facility.

[[Boston College]] had [[Alumni Stadium]] switched to FieldTurf in 2004.

In 2004, The [[Cincinnati Bengals]] switched the surface of [[Paul Brown Stadium]] to FieldTurf.

In 2001, [[Georgia Tech]] had FieldTurf installed in their Rose Bowl Field.

In 2001, The [[Green Bay Packers]] had their Don Hutson Center practice facility redone with FieldTurf.

One of the most picturesque college football venues, [[Harvard]] had [[Harvard Stadium]] changed to FieldTurf in 2006.

In 2005, FieldTurf took over the former [[Astroturf]] surface in the [[Indianapolis Colts]]' [[RCA Dome]].

In 2005, the [[Columbia Lions]] had FieldTurf installed in their [[Lawrence A. Wien Stadium]] home field to the Football team, and Soccer Stadium home to Columbia's Women's (2006-07 Ivy League Champions, with major help from their freshmen, the stellar class of '10) and Men's soccer teams.

In 2001, [[Liverpool F.C.]] had FieldTurf installed in their Melwood Training Ground complex.

The [[Louisville Cardinals]] had FieldTurf installed FieldTurf at Papa John Stadium in 2003.

In 2005, the [[Marshall Thundering Herd]] had FieldTurf installed at [[Joan C. Edwards Stadium]].

In 2001, the [[Maryland Terrapins]] had FieldTurf installed at the [[University of Maryland]] stadium.

In 2003, the [[McGill Redmen]] had FieldTurf installed in Percival Molson Stadium. The [[McGill Redmen]] share this home turf with the [[CFL]] team, the [[Montreal Alouettes]].

In 2003, the [[Miami University]] had FieldTurf installed in the [[Fred C. Yager Stadium]].

In 2003, the [[Michigan Wolverines]] had FieldTurf installed in the "Big House" ([[Michigan Stadium]]).

The [[Nebraska Cornhuskers]] had FieldTurf installed in [[Memorial Stadium]] in 1999.

Both the [[Minnesota Vikings]] and the [[Minnesota Twins]] play on FieldTurf at the [[Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome]], installed in 2004.

In 2006, FieldTurf recorded its fastest installation to date when they installed the field at [[New England Patriots]]' [[Gillette Stadium]].

In 2003, FieldTurf was installed at [[Giants Stadium]] home to both the [[New York Giants]] and the [[New York Jets]].

In 2002, the [[Ohio Bobcats]] had FieldTurf installed at Don Peden Stadium.

In 2007, [[Ohio Stadium]] home of the [[Ohio State Buckeyes]] went FieldTurf.

In 2002, the [[Oregon Ducks]] had FieldTurf installed at [[Autzen Stadium]].

In 2005, the [[Princeton Tigers]] had FieldTurf installed at the [[Princeton Stadium]].

In 2003, the [[Rutgers Scarlet Knights]] had FieldTurf installed in their [[Rutgers Stadium]].

In 2005, the [[St. Louis Rams]] had FieldTurf installed at the [[Edward Jones Dome]].

In 2005, the [[Rogers Center]] home to the [[Toronto Argonauts]] and [[Toronto Blue Jays]] had FieldTurf installed.

In 2003, the [[Hawaii Warriors]] had [[Aloha Stadium]] revamped with FieldTurf. [[Aloha Stadium]] is where the annual [[Probowl]] is played.

In 2004, the [[USC Trojans]] had FieldTurf installed at Howard Jones Field.

In 2002, the [[Utah Utes]] had FieldTurf installed at [[Rice-Eccles Stadium]].

In 2003, the [[Missouri Tigers]] had FieldTurf installed at [[Faurot Field]].

In 2003, the [[Wisconsin Badgers]] had FieldTurf installed at [[Camp Randall Stadium]].

== FieldTurf and the NCAA==
Among the [[NCAA]] Division 1 Colleges using FieldTurf are [[Syracuse]], [[Northwestern]], [[Oregon]], [[Oregon State]], [[Ohio State]], [[Kansas State]], [[Washington]], [[Washington State]], [[Pittsburgh]], [[Cincinnati]], [[Tulsa]], [[Utah]], [[BYU]], [[Georgia Tech]], [[Maryland]], [[Michigan]], [[Nebraska]], [[Northern Illinois]], [[San Diego State]], and [[Eastern Michigan]] etc...

The 2006-07 [[NCAA]] college bowl season was a veritable holiday festival of FieldTurf. In 2006-07, almost 40% (37.5%) of every single team that participated in a bowl game played their home games in a stadium that has FieldTurf.<ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== FieldTurf in the NFL ==
In May 2000, an agreement in principal was reached with the [[Seattle Seahawks]] of the [[National Football League]] to install FieldTurf at the [[University of Washington]], home of the Huskies, where the Seahawks have been playing since the beginning of the season while their new stadium was being built. When the time came for the Seahawks to decide which turf they wanted to install in [[Washington State]] Stadium, they opted for FieldTurf over natural grass.

Since then, 21 of the [[National Football League]]'s 32 teams have installed FieldTurf at their stadiums and/or practice complexes. In addition, FieldTurf has been used for the NFL Experience and the QB Challenge since 1999.

A record-breaking installation took place in November 2006. [[Robert Kraft]], Owner and Chairman of the [[New England Patriots]], placed a call to John Gilman, FieldTurf Tarkett CEO, about the installation of FieldTurf at [[Gillette Stadium]]. One catch. The complete installation had to be done in 12 days as the decision was taken on Monday, November 13, and the 2006 and the Patriots' next game at [[Gillette Stadium]] was November 26, 2006. The installation was finished in 8 days. The first game on the new turf was met with nothing but great comments about the FieldTurf surface from Patriots players, ownership, coaches, and fans.

The [[National Football League]] designated FieldTurf as ‘The Official Playing Surface of [[Super Bowl XL]],’ in 2006. [[Super Bowl XL]], which was played on Sunday, Feb. 5 at [[Ford Field]], marked the first [[Super Bowl]] played on the ‘new generation’ of artificial turf. This marked the ultimate high point in FieldTurf history.

The [[National Football League]] Players Association ([[NFLPA]]) releases their ranking of [[NFL]] stadium fields every 2 years. For the last three surveys, the results tabbed FieldTurf as the runaway leader among all artificial turf brands. In addition, FieldTurf always compares extremely favorably to the league's natural grass surfaces. In 2006, a total of 1511 active [[NFL]] players from all 32 teams completed survey forms.

In the 2006 survey, of the 31 [[NFL]] stadium fields rated by the players, FieldTurf's [[Qwest Field]], the home of the [[Seattle Seahawks]], was ranked 2nd, behind only the natural grass at [[Raymond James Stadium]] in Tampa. This marked the third consecutive survey over the past six years that Seattle has rated in the top five. The 2006 survey was the highest ranking ever for the FieldTurf system. [[Qwest Field]] ranked ahead of 18 of the [[NFL]]'s 19 grass surfaces - and with the amount of R&D and innovation that continuously goes into FieldTurf products, a #1 ranking is not far ahead.

FieldTurf was selected by [[NFL]] properties to install the demonstration field at the [[NFL]] Experience outside [[Pro Player Stadium]] prior to [[Super Bowl XXXIII]]. The field was used for many interactive events during the two weeks of the NFL Experience, including [[ESPN]]'s Linemen Challenge. Subsequent to the event, [[Trace Armstrong]], [[Miami Dolphins]] defensive end and president of the NFL Players Association, referred FieldTurf to the NFL Players Association for evaluation. <ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== FieldTurf and baseball ==
A $1 million U.S. contract was signed in March 2000 to install the revolutionary FieldTurf synthetic surface at [[Tropicana Field]] in Tampa Bay, home of [[Major League Baseball]]'s [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]]. [[ESPN]] cable television sports network showcased the FieldTurf baseball diamond to a national American audience by broadcasting the host Devil Rays game on April 9, 2000 against the [[Cleveland Indians]]. As of 2007, the [[Toronto Blue Jays]], the [[Minnesota Twins]], and [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]] all play their home games on FieldTurf.

Ripken Baseball and FieldTurf have been in a partnership since 2006. As part of the agreement, FieldTurf becomes the exclusive "Official Turf Provider of Ripken Baseball." The announcement was made at a press conference during the 2006 [[Major League Baseball]] Annual Winter Meetings.

As part of the multi-year arrangement between FieldTurf and Ripken Baseball, Ripken attends trade shows and major sales presentations on behalf of FieldTurf. He is the official "face" of FieldTurf's baseball division. As of 2007, there were 140 FieldTurf baseball fields, and that number is growing at a rapid pace.

"As we continue in our efforts to grow the game of baseball, we needed a strong turf partner and we found the best in FieldTurf," said Ripken. ‘FieldTurf looks like grass, feels like grass and plays like grass and I am proud to say that it is the official turf of Ripken Baseball.’

In addition to the [[MLB]] stadiums, FieldTurf is also utilized at various facilities throughout minor league baseball. FieldTurf's college baseball installations are also quickly expanding, including a FieldTurf baseball surface for two-time [[NCAA]] champion [[Oregon State]].

‘FieldTurf has been a great partner for all we are doing in baseball,’ says [[Cal Ripken Jr.]] ‘Their surface replicates the play of real grass better than any on the market, and it allows kids at our complexes to enjoy baseball regardless of the weather. A quality place to play is so important to the sports experience for kids, and FieldTurf goes a long way in providing that.’

The 2006 World Baseball Classic was the inaugural tournament between national baseball teams that included players from [[Major League Baseball]]. It was held from March 3 - March 20 in various stadiums around the world. Two of the stadiums featured FieldTurf: The Tokyo Dome in Japan and Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The tournament was won by Japan while the FieldTurf in both of these venues received rave reviews.
<ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== FieldTurf Soccer ==
The game of soccer has always been the most popular sport around the world. This has never been the case in North America until the turn of the new millennium. The U.S. men's soccer team propelled the country into a soccer craze in 2002 when they made it to the quarter-finals of [[the World Cup]] for the first time in the country's history. This strong showing has led to more men, women, and kids playing the game of soccer. With the demand for high-quality playing fields at an all-time high, leagues such as [[Major League Soccer]], cities, and schools all over the country needed to ensure they met the demand for quality playing fields. Enter FieldTurf. FieldTurf dramatically extends the playing time possible per field due to the resilience of its unique engineered turf system. It is without a doubt the industry's premier specialized soccer surface with excellent safety, playability, and ball roll characteristics.

[[BMO Field]] at Exhibition Place will serve as a permanent home for [[Toronto F.C.]] of [[Major League Soccer]] and the Canadian National team. It will also be accessible to community youth and adult soccer leagues. The stadium, outfitted with the industry's most advanced FieldTurf system, opened in time for the 2007 [[Major League Soccer]] season. The facility was also 1 of 2 FieldTurf venues to play host to the [[FIFA]] Under-20 World Cup Championship in July 2007, an event that garnered an audience of more than 600 million worldwide.

The [[FIFA]] U-20 World Cup Canada 2007 marks the first time in its history that [[FIFA]] has designated its second most important event, after the [[FIFA]] World Cup, to be played on artificial grass. Nearly half of the matches along with the championship final was played on FieldTurf, the most technologically advanced product in the industry. The world was watching on July 22, 2007 when the Argentinian U-20 National Soccer Team was crowned on FieldTurf. A third party survey was conducted on the morning of July 12, 2007 whereby the players on the U.S. Under-20 men's national soccer team were asked to rate the artificial playing surfaces that were used at the 2007 U-20 World Championship in Canada. The Results spoke for themselves. FieldTurf was overwhelmingly preferred to the other artificial turf brand used at one of the other venues.

In addition to a long list of North American soccer clients at every level including 8 professional soccer teams, many of Europe's top professional clubs have already installed one or more FieldTurf pitches for realistic grass training in all weather conditions, including [[F.C. Barcelona]], [[Glasgow Rangers]], [[SV Werder Bremen]], [[Middlesbrough F.C.]], [[Aston Villa F.C.]], and F.C. Lokomotiv among many others.

FieldTurf was the very first artificial surface to attain [[FIFA]] Recommended status due to its superior grass-like performance, which soccer players prefer. FieldTurf was the 1st artificial pitch to host a [[UEFA]] Cup Qualifying Round (Torpedo, Moscow); and the 1st to host a [[FIFA]] Soccer Tournament (Jeux de la Francophonie). FieldTurf has passed the international governing body's most stringent testing and has more FIFA Recommended pitches than anyone else. FieldTurf is also [[UEFA]] Certified.

[[FIFA]] Vice-President Jack Warner is a firm believer in the quality of top-grade new generation artificial turf and the many benefits it brings to the game of football worldwide. ‘FieldTurf is the future of football worldwide. At the Champions League in Europe, this is exactly the type of turf on which they play.’
<ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== FieldTurf merger with Tarkett ==
The agreement between FieldTurf and Tarkett Sports was completed in 2005. The integration of two largest sports surfacing companies has resulted in the creation of a single entity called FieldTurf Tarkett.

FieldTurf Tarkett is the largest entity in the sports surfacing industry and provides unparalleled leasing capabilities, engineering and manufacturing resources. In addition to its world-renowned FieldTurf and Prestige brands of artificial turf, FieldTurf Tarkett provides an equally impressive range of products that includes synthetic and hardwood basketball, volleyball and gymnasium flooring, squash and racquetball courts, floor protection and covering systems, and weight room flooring. Also in the range of FieldTurf Tarkett products are indoor and outdoor running tracks including the high performance 'Le Monde' track system, playground surfacing, and a complete range of tennis and golf surfaces.
<ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== FieldTurf Timeline ==
'''October 1985''' FieldTurf Pres. Jean Prevost meets PGA Tour player Freddie Haas.

'''January 1987''' After exhaustive testing, FieldTurf develops patented infill system.

'''March 1990''' FieldTurf product is in demand on golf, tennis and sports fields worldwide.

'''April 1995''' John Gilman, former player and CFL coach, joins FieldTurf Inc. as CEO.

'''January 1997''' FieldTurf is selected by Premiership's [[Middlesbrough F.C.]]

'''October 1997''' Ringgold HS in PA becomes first high school stadium with FieldTurf.

'''April 1998''' First independent safety tests conclude FieldTurf safer than natural grass.

'''May 1998''' FieldTurf offers clients a third party insured warranty.

'''December 1998''' [[Tom Osborne]] discovers FieldTurf at Ringgold High School in PA.

'''January 1999''' [[NFL]] picks FieldTurf for [[NFL]] Experience at [[Super Bowl XXXIII]].

'''May 1999''' [[University of Nebraska]] picks FieldTurf for practice facility.

'''August 1999''' Cornhuskers select FieldTurf for [[Memorial Stadium]].

'''December 1999''' FieldTurf opens European office in the UK.

'''March 2000''' [[F.C. Barcelona]] inaugurates FieldTurf training field.

'''March 2000''' FieldTurf installed at [[Tropicana Field]] for [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]].

'''May 2000''' [[Seattle Seahawks]] to play home games on FieldTurf at [[Husky Stadium]].

'''July 2000''' FieldTurf builds training pitch for Germany's Werder Bremen.

'''August 2000''' The [[Pittsburgh Steelers]] become the first [[NFL]] team to select FieldTurf.

'''September 2000''' [[Cleveland Browns]] select FieldTurf for their practice facility.

'''April 2001''' The [[Kansas City Chiefs]] pick FieldTurf.

'''June 2001''' First ever FIFA 1-Star rating for [[Boston University]]'s FieldTurf.

'''June 2001''' The [[Ottawa Renegades]] become the first [[CFL]] team with FieldTurf.

'''July 2001''' The [[NFL]] Quarterback Greats Club and [[AIG]] invest in FieldTurf.

'''August 2001''' The [[New York Jets]] choose FieldTurf for their practice field.

'''January 2002''' FieldTurf beats natural grass in first biomechanical turf tests.

'''March 2002''' FieldTurf is installed at the Tokyo Dome.

'''May 2002''' [[Seattle Seahawks]] choose FieldTurf for [[Qwest Field]].

'''June 2002''' FieldTurf gets first [[FIFA]] field certification in the UK at Walsall FC.

'''August 2002''' The [[Detroit Lions]] choose FieldTurf for [[Ford Field]].

'''March 2003''' FieldTurf selected for [[Giants Stadium]] - Giants, Jets, and [[Red Bulls]].

'''April 2003''' FieldTurf's first [[FIFA]] field certification at Middle East stadium in Bahrain.

'''June 2003''' The [[Denver Broncos]] install FieldTurf at Paul D. Bowlen practice facility.

'''July 2003''' First ever UEFA Cup qualifying round takes place on FieldTurf.

'''February 2004''' The [[NFL]]'s [[Pro Bowl]] is held on FieldTurf at [[Aloha Stadium]].

'''April 2004''' Metrodome, home of [[Minnesota Vikings]] and Twins, picks FieldTurf.

'''May 2004''' FieldTurf reaches 1000 sporting installations worldwide!

'''June 2004''' The [[Cincinnati Bengals]] select FieldTurf.

'''July 2004''' The [[NFLPA]] ranks FieldTurf 3rd in the [[NFL]] at [[Seahawks Stadium]].

'''July 2004''' [[Major League Soccer]] adds Real Salt Lake to Rice-Eccles Stadium FieldTurf.

'''July 2005''' [[San Diego Chargers]] practice field is outfitted with FieldTurf.

'''August 2005''' [[Indianapolis Colts]] and the [[St. Louis Rams]] pick FieldTurf for their domes.

'''September 2005''' FieldTurf secures first [[FIFA]] 2-star rating at Dundalk FC.

'''September 2005''' FieldTurf Tarkett becomes largest entity in sports surfacing industry.

'''February 2006''' FieldTurf designated "Official Playing Surface of [[Super Bowl XL]]".

'''March 2006''' The World Baseball Classic is played on FieldTurf.

'''April 2006''' FieldTurf Tarkett launches basketball court division in North America.

'''May 2006''' FieldTurf Tarkett launches Le Monde, world's fastest track system.

'''June 2006''' FieldTurf Tarkett launches ClayTech Tennis System.

'''August 2006''' FieldTurf launches FieldTurf DUO, the revolutionary multi-mono fiber turf system.

'''November 2006''' FieldTurf at Luzhniki Stadium hosts [[UEFA]] League Championship match.

'''November 2006''' FieldTurf completes [[Gillette Stadium]] installation in just 8 days!

'''February 2007''' [[NFLPA]] ranks FieldTurf 2nd ahead of 18 of the [[NFL]]'s 19 grass surfaces!

'''April 2007''' The [[Ohio State Buckeyes]] select FieldTurf for legendary [[Ohio Stadium]].

'''May 2007''' FieldTurf reaches 2000 sporting installations worldwide! <ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== Feedback ==
Quarterback for the [[New England Patriots]] [[Tom Brady]] has been a huge fan of FieldTurf once they installed it at [[Gillette Stadium]]. His comments on the product: "It's (FieldTurf) always nice. I think the quarterbacks like it (FieldTurf) because you can plant really well. It's different than playing out there in our sandpit because you can dig in and push off. I think everybody really likes the surface." <ref>[http://newsblaze.com/story/2008012807013800002.pz/topstory.html]</ref>.

[[Tom Brady]] also said "I like it a lot, I think there are throws we made, that we completed the other night, that we probably couldn't complete on grass -- just because the footing is so good and you can really push off and drive the ball, and the receivers can cut really well. And obviously we talked about the [11-yard] run after the game. On a terrible field, it's hard to move laterally. Like I said, the turf was probably the biggest factor in that run." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=2059&newsID=200&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D1]</ref>

[[New England Patriots]]' defensive end [[Richard Seymour]] says "It (FieldTurf) was awesome. We had our footing, we were able to move around, we felt quick, we felt fast. We didn't have to worry about sliding as much. We could stop and cut and do some different things that we want to do on a good surface." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=2059&newsID=200&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D1]</ref>

When asked about FieldTurf, All Pro [[Denver Broncos]] Wide Receiver said " That grass was incredible--the best field I ever played on. It's better than grass. No ruts. They ought to install that field at every stadium." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=221&newsID=89&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D91]</ref>

All star runninback [[Warrick Dunn]] thinks that FieldTurf "felt better than real grass. You have to get used to it, but once you get used to it, it compares to grass." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=670&newsID=138&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D61]</ref>

All Pro Linebacker [[Keith Brooking]] stated "You can tell a tremendous difference in that just running on it for the first time. I don’t feel any slower on it. I feel as quick, as fast." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=670&newsID=138&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D61]</ref>

[[NFL]] Linebacker [[Chris Draft]] commented that "I remember more than anything having gauss and tape on my arms after I ripped off skin after games. Coming off the field this week, I didn’t have any scratches and my legs really weren’t that sore." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=670&newsID=138&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D61]</ref>

When asked about FieldTurf[[NFL]] All Pro Offensive Lineman [[Marco Rivera]] responded "I think it’s awesome. It’s like natural grass. The reason they did it was to save our legs and back. This keeps the soreness out of your body." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=264&newsID=91&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D91]</ref>

All Pro [[NFL]] Safety [[LeRoy Butler]] said "That stuff(FieldTurf) is phenomenal. "It is going to save with injuries. Now we can practice a little bit longer." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=264&newsID=91&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D91]</ref>

Star Wide receiver for the [[Green Bay Packers]] [[Donald Driver]] says "FieldTurf is great. It's better than the hard turf because you get a good bounce off it. It's a lot faster (than grass) because you have that bounce when you come off it." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=264&newsID=91&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D91]</ref>

In September 2006, several top Canadian soccer players appealed to the [[Canadian Soccer Association]] to install a natural grass surface at [[BMO Field]] in Toronto.<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/Page/document/v4/sub/MarketingPage?user_URL=http://www.theglobeandmail.com%2Fservlet%2Fstory%2FRTGAM.20060927.soccer-turf28%2FBNStory%2FSports%2Fhome&ord=1161707942696&brand=theglobeandmail&force_login=true|title=Don't use artificial grass in Toronto FC stadium: players|work=globeandmail.com|accessdate=2007-02-12}}
In September 2006, several top Canadian soccer players appealed to the [[Canadian Soccer Association]] to install a natural grass surface at [[BMO Field]] in Toronto.<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/Page/document/v4/sub/MarketingPage?user_URL=http://www.theglobeandmail.com%2Fservlet%2Fstory%2FRTGAM.20060927.soccer-turf28%2FBNStory%2FSports%2Fhome&ord=1161707942696&brand=theglobeandmail&force_login=true|title=Don't use artificial grass in Toronto FC stadium: players|work=globeandmail.com|accessdate=2007-02-12}}
</ref> The Association has, however, decided to install FieldTurf despite the players' request.
</ref> The Association has, however, decided to install FieldTurf despite the players' request.


[[David Beckham]] had three FieldTurf fields installed at his David Beckham Academy in Greenwich. He apologized for having criticized the product, and admitted that he believes that it's a very good product.<ref>[http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=451617&&cc=5901]</ref>.
In addition, following [[David Beckham]]'s move to [[Major League Soccer]] in 2007, in which he arrived carrying an ankle injury,<ref>{{cite news|url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/6937950.stm|title=Beckham hopes to play against DC|work=[[BBC News]]|accessdate=2007-08-09}} </ref> he voiced his opinion that the league should convert to grass for all pitches, specifically singling out the FieldTurf brand<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.usatoday.com/sports/soccer/2007-08-09-728654547_x.htm|title=Beckham apologizes for turf remarks|work=[[USA Today]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}} </ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://blog.washingtonpost.com/soccerinsider/2007/08/beckham_speaks.html|title=Beckham Speaks|work=[[Washington Post]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref> (which he later partially recanted<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.24.com/sport/?p=SportArticle&i=627335|title=Beckham sorry for grass gaffe|work=24 Sport|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref>), while outsiders suggested that the FieldTurf pitch at Toronto had been a factor in his decision to instead sign with another team (he signed with the [[LA Galaxy]]).
In addition, following [[David Beckham]]'s move to [[Major League Soccer]] in 2007, in which he arrived carrying an ankle injury,<ref>{{cite news|url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/6937950.stm|title=Beckham hopes to play against DC|work=[[BBC News]]|accessdate=2007-08-09}} </ref> he voiced his opinion that the league should convert to grass for all pitches, specifically singling out the FieldTurf brand<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.usatoday.com/sports/soccer/2007-08-09-728654547_x.htm|title=Beckham apologizes for turf remarks|work=[[USA Today]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}} </ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://blog.washingtonpost.com/soccerinsider/2007/08/beckham_speaks.html|title=Beckham Speaks|work=[[Washington Post]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref> (which he later partially recanted<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.24.com/sport/?p=SportArticle&i=627335|title=Beckham sorry for grass gaffe|work=24 Sport|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref>), while outsiders suggested that the FieldTurf pitch at Toronto had been a factor in his decision to instead sign with another team (he signed with the [[LA Galaxy]]).


During a telephone interview on [[David Beckham's Soccer USA]] (UK version), former [[Aston Villa]] and current [[Red Bull New York]] striker [[Juan Pablo Ángel]] criticized the surface, saying, "I find it really hard to adjust to the [Giants Stadium] turf field... it takes me two or three days just to recover [after a match]."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://youtube.com/watch?v=Rw0x0QGvr5E|title=David Beckham's Soccer USA (UK version), Week 7|work=[[YouTube]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref>
During a telephone interview on [[David Beckham's Soccer USA]] (UK version), former [[Aston Villa]] and current [[Red Bull New York]] striker [[Juan Pablo Ángel]] criticized the surface, saying, "I find it really hard to adjust to the [Giants Stadium] turf field... it takes me two or three days just to recover [after a match]."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://youtube.com/watch?v=Rw0x0QGvr5E|title=David Beckham's Soccer USA (UK version), Week 7|work=[[YouTube]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref>


General Manager of the [[New England Revolution]] Craig Tornberg said in response to revamping [[Gillette Stadium]] with FieldTurf "Every effort and expense has been made over the years to have a great grass field here, with the sport of soccer always a major part of the consideration process. Now, this new field is a '''top-rated artificial pitch that complies to the highest FIFA international standards for soccer''', and will provide our players and fans with a consistently good field," <ref>[http://www.revolutionsoccer.net/search/index.cfm?ac=searchdetail&pid=22489&pcid=115]</ref>.
[[New England Revolution]] manager [[Steve Nicol]] is quoted as saying "there is no give in [FieldTurf]. Grass is still the best surface," <ref>{{cite news|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=452763&root=mls&&cc=5901|title=Artificial turf not to Beckham's liking|work=[[ESPNsoccernet]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref> in regards to professional soccer matches.
[[New England Revolution]] manager [[Steve Nicol]] is quoted as saying "there is no give in [FieldTurf]. Grass is still the best surface," <ref>{{cite news|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=452763&root=mls&&cc=5901|title=Artificial turf not to Beckham's liking|work=[[ESPNsoccernet]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref> in regards to professional soccer matches.


Revision as of 21:31, 17 July 2008

The wide plain of FieldTurf used at Toronto's Rogers Centre was installed after the 2004 baseball season.

FieldTurf Tarkett, a division of Tarkett Inc., is a Montreal-based company that manufactures and installs artificial turf playing surfaces identified by the FieldTurf trademark.

Product

FieldTurf is an artificial turf composed of monofilament polyethylene blend fibres tufted into a polypropylene backing with a mixture of silica sand and cryogenic rubber infill. FieldTurf was first patented in 1982.

Notable installations

(see List of FieldTurf installations for more installations.)

In 1999, the Metropolitan Oval, a soccer complex in New York City, was one of the first to install FieldTurf in the U.S.

In March 2000, FieldTurf replaced the original AstroTurf field at Tropicana Field, making the Tampa Bay Rays of Major League Baseball the first professional sports team to play on the FieldTurf surface.

In 2000, FieldTurf was installed in the University of Washington's Husky Stadium, replacing the AstroTurf surface, originally installed in 1968. Husky Stadium was used as the Seattle Seahawks home field from 2000-2001, following the demolition of the Kingdome in March 2000. This would be the first FieldTurf used in the NFL.

In 2005, Saprissa Stadium in San José, Costa Rica became the first stadium to host a FIFA World Cup qualifying match on FieldTurf.

In 2007, the FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada had almost 50% of its games played on FieldTurf [1].

As of 2007, seven of the eight Canadian Football League teams have installed either FieldTurf or a similar surface.

The University of Saskatchewan installed it in 2006 when the hosted the Vanier Cup.

Currently all but three National Football League venues have either FieldTurf or natural grass surfaces.

Super Bowl XL, featuring the Seattle Seahawks and the Pittsburgh Steelers, was the first time that the Super Bowl has been played on FieldTurf. The Ford Field installation differs slightly from the standard installation as the recycled rubber used is made from Firestone tires. [2]

Criticism

In September 2006, several top Canadian soccer players appealed to the Canadian Soccer Association to install a natural grass surface at BMO Field in Toronto. [3] The Association has, however, decided to install FieldTurf despite the players' request.

In addition, following David Beckham's move to Major League Soccer in 2007, in which he arrived carrying an ankle injury, [4] he voiced his opinion that the league should convert to grass for all pitches, specifically singling out the FieldTurf brand [5] [6] (which he later partially recanted [7]), while outsiders suggested that the FieldTurf pitch at Toronto had been a factor in his decision to instead sign with another team (he signed with the LA Galaxy).

During a telephone interview on David Beckham's Soccer USA (UK version), former Aston Villa and current Red Bull New York striker Juan Pablo Ángel criticized the surface, saying, "I find it really hard to adjust to the [Giants Stadium] turf field... it takes me two or three days just to recover [after a match]." [8]

New England Revolution manager Steve Nicol is quoted as saying "there is no give in [FieldTurf]. Grass is still the best surface," [9] in regards to professional soccer matches.

Gary O'Connor, current Birmingham City and Scotland striker, has recently spoken out against the FieldTurf surface at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, which hosted the England-Russia Euro 2008 qualifier on 17 October 2007. After a short summer term at Lokomotiv Moscow, O'Connor described playing on the FieldTurf surface as "a nightmare" and a "misfortune". [10] He noted the effects of the artificial surface during the run of play, saying, "The ball skids off the surface, so it becomes extremely hard to read where it is going to go."

In 2007, a Connecticut non-profit organization Environmental and Human Health Inc. (EHHI), released a report about the safety of recycled tire crumb rubber in artificial turf. [11] EHHI funded a study by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, a state agency, which independently reported [12] that under laboratory conditions when the crumb rubber infill was heated to 60 °C (140 °F), four components of crumb rubber volatilize into the vapor phase (outgas) in contact with the crumbs: benzothiazole (an irritant), butylated hydroxyanisole (a carcinogen and toxicant), n-hexadecane (an irritant) and 4-(t-octyl) phenol (corrosive to mucus membranes, a suspected endocrine disruptor [13]). FieldTurf, ALIAPUR (a French consortium founded by tire makers Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop Goodyear, Kléber, Michelin and Pirelli) [14], and ADEME (the French Environment and Energy Management Agency) released their own joint report concluding that there was no cause for concern to human health by inhalation of volatile organic compounds and aldehydes released by recycled tire crumb rubber surfaces. [15]

The safety of the rubber granules in artificial turf has been defended in other studies, such as the INTRON rubber study. [16].

See also

References

  1. ^ FieldTurf at FIFA U20 2007 FieldTurf at FIFA
  2. ^ "Ford Field, Detroit Lions". Sportsvenue Technology. 2002-08-24. Retrieved 2007-01-28. {{ cite web}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= ( help)
  3. ^ "Don't use artificial grass in Toronto FC stadium: players". globeandmail.com. Retrieved 2007-02-12.
  4. ^ "Beckham hopes to play against DC". BBC News. Retrieved 2007-08-09.
  5. ^ "Beckham apologizes for turf remarks". USA Today. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  6. ^ "Beckham Speaks". Washington Post. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  7. ^ "Beckham sorry for grass gaffe". 24 Sport. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  8. ^ "David Beckham's Soccer USA (UK version), Week 7". YouTube. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  9. ^ "Artificial turf not to Beckham's liking". ESPNsoccernet. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  10. ^ "O'connor warns England over plastic pitch". ESPNsoccernet. Retrieved 2007-10-14.
  11. ^ Dr. David R. Brown (2007). "Artificial Turf: Exposures To Ground-Up Rubber Tires: Athletic Fields, Playgrounds, Gardening Mulch" ( pdf). Environment & Human Health, Inc. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{ cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= ( help)
  12. ^ Mattina, MaryJane Incorvia; Isleyen, M.; Berger, W.; Ozdemir, S. (8/2007), Examination of Crumb Rubber Produced from Recycled Tires ( pdf), The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, AC006, retrieved 2007-10-26 {{ citation}}: Check date values in: |date= ( help)
  13. ^ Commission of the European Communities (2001), Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the implementation of the Community Strategy for Endocrine Disrupters - a range of substances suspected of interfering with the hormone systems of humans and wildlife ( pdf), COM(2001) 262 final, retrieved 2007-10-27
  14. ^ "Qui est Aliapur?". Retrieved 2007-10-26.
  15. ^ Dr. Robert Moretto (2007), Environmental and health assessment of the use of elastomer granulates (virgin and from used tyres) as filling in third-generation artificial turf ( pdf), ADME / ALIAPUR / FieldTurf Tarkett, retrieved 2007-10-26
  16. ^ INTRON rubber study

External links

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==Product==
==Product==
FieldTurf is an artificial turf composed of monofilament [[polyethylene]] blend fibres tufted into a [[polypropylene]] backing with a mixture of [[silica]] sand and cryogenic [[crumb rubber|rubber infill]]. FieldTurf was first patented in 1982.
FieldTurf is an artificial turf composed of monofilament [[polyethylene]] blend fibres tufted into a [[polypropylene]] backing with a mixture of [[silica]] sand and cryogenic [[crumb rubber|rubber infill]]. FieldTurf was first patented in 1982.

==History==
The FieldTurf system is fundamentally different than all others. It replicates a natural grass surface, but offers the durability and cost benefits of synthetic fields. FieldTurf is a safe alternative, resulting in a documented reduction of sports injuries. The sand and rubber infill system is the biggest technological development that the sport surfacing industry has seen in the last twenty-five years. This patented technology sets FieldTurf apart from all other sports surfaces.

Stable, firm not spongy, non-abrasive and uniform in traction, FieldTurf is engineered to play and feel like good natural grass. On FieldTurf, players perform with confidence - and never experience the accelerated fatigue and muscle / joint stress associated with lightweight, rubber-filled systems.

In September 1998, John Gilman introduced [[Tom Osborne]], legendary [[University of Nebraska]] football coach, to the turf product called FieldTurf. In December, Osborne traveled to high schools in [[Pennsylvania]] and [[Maryland]] to check it out. Mr. Osborne saw that it was good and once John told him that the "grass" the kids were practicing on was in fact FieldTurf, he suggested that the university consider FieldTurf for its stadium. Based on positive reactions from the players, the school decided to improve its stadium field a year early, and thus the Huskers took to the field for the 1999 season (an injury-free, 12-1 return to form) on FieldTurf.

With Nebraska playing on the FieldTurf product, the FieldTurf family was able to ensure that high schools, municipalities, college teams, and pro teams would be exposed to the many benefits of playing on the world's most trusted brand of artificial turf.

Today, more than 40 major [[NCAA]] universities have FieldTurf in their stadiums, with many more utilizing it at their practice sites. A selection of other universities that have FieldTurf in their football stadiums include [[Syracuse]], [[Rutgers]], [[Boston College]], [[Nebraska]], [[Ohio State]], [[Michigan]], [[Wisconsin]], [[Oregon]], [[Washington]], [[Kansas State]], [[Louisville]], [[Texas Tech]], [[Missouri]] and [[Harvard]]. In addition, 21 of the [[National Football League]]'s 32 teams have FieldTurf at their stadiums and/or practice complexes. Also, [[Major League Baseball]]'s [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]], [[Minnesota Twins]] and [[Toronto Blue Jays]] have FieldTurf at their respective stadiums. <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

==FieldTurf Pioneers==
'''John Gilman''' was the company's Chief Executive Officer from 1995-2007. Mr. Gilman was born in [[Montréal]], Quebec and held a Bachelor of Arts from Sir George Williams University (now Concordia University) in Montreal, Canada. From 1965 to 1966, he was a coach with the [[Montreal Alouettes]], where he was a professional player from 1961 to 1963. Subsequent to his professional football career with the [[Montreal Alouettes]] as a [[quarterback]] in the early 1960's, he developed extensive business experience with a company he founded in luggage manufacturing. At the time of his passing in 2007, John was an avid sportsman and influential businessman who was well respected by his associates, employees and colleagues. He was the Chairman-Elect of the Synthetic Turf Council and insured that the sports surfacing industry as a whole was heading in the right direction.

In 1995, John joined his good friend Mr.''' Jean Prevost''', FieldTurf President, and officially acted as Chief Executive Officer of FieldTurf Inc. from 1995-2004 setting countless records, milestones, and standards that would better the entire artificial turf and sports surfacing industry forever. In 2004, Tarkett, a flooring giant based in Europe, acquired FieldTurf and named John Gilman as worldwide [[CEO]] of the sports division, to nobody's surprise. Tarkett realised the value of the FieldTurf brand, patents, and emphasis on teamwork. Prior to officially joining FieldTurf, Mr. Gilman had always been an active figure in the sports community. It was John's dream to have the industry's ‘One Stop Shop’ for all high-quality sports flooring systems - and if you ask anyone that knows the company, it's Mission Accomplished. The company did this, in large part, by putting the customer first.

Since the mid-1990s, the company has continued to conduct extensive research and development in improving the quality and longevity of FieldTurf and it's application in the world of [[Football]], [[Soccer]], [[Baseball]], [[Golf]], [[Rugby]], [[Lacrosse]].

Jean Prevost is the company's President. Mr. Prevost was born in [[Montreal]], Quebec and holds a bachelor's degree in Economics and psychology from [[Middle Tennessee University]].

In the mid-1980s, Jean Prevost met Freddie Haas, Jr. Haas took out a series of patents on various concepts and eventually, Jean licensed some of these patents to market them. Prior to inventing and patenting all of FieldTurf's intellectual property, Mr. Prevost was a Canadian Professional Tennis player.

In March 2008, FieldTurf Tarkett appointed Joe Fields as Chief Executive Officer. Fields, a native of Ravenswood, West Virginia is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and holds a masters degree from the [[University of Oklahoma]]. Fields has held a number of senior positions in sports related industries, including Senior Vice President, Adidas North America and President of [[Speedo]] International.

"The synthetic turf industry is continuing to see rapid growth and FieldTurf Tarkett is the dominant force in the North American market and is the only global player," said Fields. "I believe that we are well positioned to perpetuate the rapid growth that was driven by John Gilman and that the FieldTurf team will be able to continue his vision of being the clear global leader in the sports surfacing industry," continued Fields. "I am absolutely thrilled to take on the leadership role at FieldTurf Tarkett."

Tarkett CEO Michel Giannuzzi stated, "Adding an experienced leader like Joe Fields to the outstanding executive team at FieldTurf Tarkett will no doubt help solidify our leadership position in the industry."<ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.


==Notable installations==
==Notable installations==
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== Criticism ==
In 2001, [[Arsenal F.C.]] had FieldTurf installed at their facility- Hale End Sports Ground.

In 2003, the [[Atlanta Falcons]] had FieldTurf installed in the [[Georgia Dome]].

[[Barcelona F.C.]] had FieldTurf installed at their facility Camp Nou in 2000.

In 2001, [[Chelsea F.C.]] had FieldTurf installed at their Chelsea F.C. Imperial College Sports Grounds facility.

[[Boston College]] had [[Alumni Stadium]] switched to FieldTurf in 2004.

In 2004, The [[Cincinnati Bengals]] switched the surface of [[Paul Brown Stadium]] to FieldTurf.

In 2001, [[Georgia Tech]] had FieldTurf installed in their Rose Bowl Field.

In 2001, The [[Green Bay Packers]] had their Don Hutson Center practice facility redone with FieldTurf.

One of the most picturesque college football venues, [[Harvard]] had [[Harvard Stadium]] changed to FieldTurf in 2006.

In 2005, FieldTurf took over the former [[Astroturf]] surface in the [[Indianapolis Colts]]' [[RCA Dome]].

In 2005, the [[Columbia Lions]] had FieldTurf installed in their [[Lawrence A. Wien Stadium]] home field to the Football team, and Soccer Stadium home to Columbia's Women's (2006-07 Ivy League Champions, with major help from their freshmen, the stellar class of '10) and Men's soccer teams.

In 2001, [[Liverpool F.C.]] had FieldTurf installed in their Melwood Training Ground complex.

The [[Louisville Cardinals]] had FieldTurf installed FieldTurf at Papa John Stadium in 2003.

In 2005, the [[Marshall Thundering Herd]] had FieldTurf installed at [[Joan C. Edwards Stadium]].

In 2001, the [[Maryland Terrapins]] had FieldTurf installed at the [[University of Maryland]] stadium.

In 2003, the [[McGill Redmen]] had FieldTurf installed in Percival Molson Stadium. The [[McGill Redmen]] share this home turf with the [[CFL]] team, the [[Montreal Alouettes]].

In 2003, the [[Miami University]] had FieldTurf installed in the [[Fred C. Yager Stadium]].

In 2003, the [[Michigan Wolverines]] had FieldTurf installed in the "Big House" ([[Michigan Stadium]]).

The [[Nebraska Cornhuskers]] had FieldTurf installed in [[Memorial Stadium]] in 1999.

Both the [[Minnesota Vikings]] and the [[Minnesota Twins]] play on FieldTurf at the [[Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome]], installed in 2004.

In 2006, FieldTurf recorded its fastest installation to date when they installed the field at [[New England Patriots]]' [[Gillette Stadium]].

In 2003, FieldTurf was installed at [[Giants Stadium]] home to both the [[New York Giants]] and the [[New York Jets]].

In 2002, the [[Ohio Bobcats]] had FieldTurf installed at Don Peden Stadium.

In 2007, [[Ohio Stadium]] home of the [[Ohio State Buckeyes]] went FieldTurf.

In 2002, the [[Oregon Ducks]] had FieldTurf installed at [[Autzen Stadium]].

In 2005, the [[Princeton Tigers]] had FieldTurf installed at the [[Princeton Stadium]].

In 2003, the [[Rutgers Scarlet Knights]] had FieldTurf installed in their [[Rutgers Stadium]].

In 2005, the [[St. Louis Rams]] had FieldTurf installed at the [[Edward Jones Dome]].

In 2005, the [[Rogers Center]] home to the [[Toronto Argonauts]] and [[Toronto Blue Jays]] had FieldTurf installed.

In 2003, the [[Hawaii Warriors]] had [[Aloha Stadium]] revamped with FieldTurf. [[Aloha Stadium]] is where the annual [[Probowl]] is played.

In 2004, the [[USC Trojans]] had FieldTurf installed at Howard Jones Field.

In 2002, the [[Utah Utes]] had FieldTurf installed at [[Rice-Eccles Stadium]].

In 2003, the [[Missouri Tigers]] had FieldTurf installed at [[Faurot Field]].

In 2003, the [[Wisconsin Badgers]] had FieldTurf installed at [[Camp Randall Stadium]].

== FieldTurf and the NCAA==
Among the [[NCAA]] Division 1 Colleges using FieldTurf are [[Syracuse]], [[Northwestern]], [[Oregon]], [[Oregon State]], [[Ohio State]], [[Kansas State]], [[Washington]], [[Washington State]], [[Pittsburgh]], [[Cincinnati]], [[Tulsa]], [[Utah]], [[BYU]], [[Georgia Tech]], [[Maryland]], [[Michigan]], [[Nebraska]], [[Northern Illinois]], [[San Diego State]], and [[Eastern Michigan]] etc...

The 2006-07 [[NCAA]] college bowl season was a veritable holiday festival of FieldTurf. In 2006-07, almost 40% (37.5%) of every single team that participated in a bowl game played their home games in a stadium that has FieldTurf.<ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== FieldTurf in the NFL ==
In May 2000, an agreement in principal was reached with the [[Seattle Seahawks]] of the [[National Football League]] to install FieldTurf at the [[University of Washington]], home of the Huskies, where the Seahawks have been playing since the beginning of the season while their new stadium was being built. When the time came for the Seahawks to decide which turf they wanted to install in [[Washington State]] Stadium, they opted for FieldTurf over natural grass.

Since then, 21 of the [[National Football League]]'s 32 teams have installed FieldTurf at their stadiums and/or practice complexes. In addition, FieldTurf has been used for the NFL Experience and the QB Challenge since 1999.

A record-breaking installation took place in November 2006. [[Robert Kraft]], Owner and Chairman of the [[New England Patriots]], placed a call to John Gilman, FieldTurf Tarkett CEO, about the installation of FieldTurf at [[Gillette Stadium]]. One catch. The complete installation had to be done in 12 days as the decision was taken on Monday, November 13, and the 2006 and the Patriots' next game at [[Gillette Stadium]] was November 26, 2006. The installation was finished in 8 days. The first game on the new turf was met with nothing but great comments about the FieldTurf surface from Patriots players, ownership, coaches, and fans.

The [[National Football League]] designated FieldTurf as ‘The Official Playing Surface of [[Super Bowl XL]],’ in 2006. [[Super Bowl XL]], which was played on Sunday, Feb. 5 at [[Ford Field]], marked the first [[Super Bowl]] played on the ‘new generation’ of artificial turf. This marked the ultimate high point in FieldTurf history.

The [[National Football League]] Players Association ([[NFLPA]]) releases their ranking of [[NFL]] stadium fields every 2 years. For the last three surveys, the results tabbed FieldTurf as the runaway leader among all artificial turf brands. In addition, FieldTurf always compares extremely favorably to the league's natural grass surfaces. In 2006, a total of 1511 active [[NFL]] players from all 32 teams completed survey forms.

In the 2006 survey, of the 31 [[NFL]] stadium fields rated by the players, FieldTurf's [[Qwest Field]], the home of the [[Seattle Seahawks]], was ranked 2nd, behind only the natural grass at [[Raymond James Stadium]] in Tampa. This marked the third consecutive survey over the past six years that Seattle has rated in the top five. The 2006 survey was the highest ranking ever for the FieldTurf system. [[Qwest Field]] ranked ahead of 18 of the [[NFL]]'s 19 grass surfaces - and with the amount of R&D and innovation that continuously goes into FieldTurf products, a #1 ranking is not far ahead.

FieldTurf was selected by [[NFL]] properties to install the demonstration field at the [[NFL]] Experience outside [[Pro Player Stadium]] prior to [[Super Bowl XXXIII]]. The field was used for many interactive events during the two weeks of the NFL Experience, including [[ESPN]]'s Linemen Challenge. Subsequent to the event, [[Trace Armstrong]], [[Miami Dolphins]] defensive end and president of the NFL Players Association, referred FieldTurf to the NFL Players Association for evaluation. <ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== FieldTurf and baseball ==
A $1 million U.S. contract was signed in March 2000 to install the revolutionary FieldTurf synthetic surface at [[Tropicana Field]] in Tampa Bay, home of [[Major League Baseball]]'s [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]]. [[ESPN]] cable television sports network showcased the FieldTurf baseball diamond to a national American audience by broadcasting the host Devil Rays game on April 9, 2000 against the [[Cleveland Indians]]. As of 2007, the [[Toronto Blue Jays]], the [[Minnesota Twins]], and [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]] all play their home games on FieldTurf.

Ripken Baseball and FieldTurf have been in a partnership since 2006. As part of the agreement, FieldTurf becomes the exclusive "Official Turf Provider of Ripken Baseball." The announcement was made at a press conference during the 2006 [[Major League Baseball]] Annual Winter Meetings.

As part of the multi-year arrangement between FieldTurf and Ripken Baseball, Ripken attends trade shows and major sales presentations on behalf of FieldTurf. He is the official "face" of FieldTurf's baseball division. As of 2007, there were 140 FieldTurf baseball fields, and that number is growing at a rapid pace.

"As we continue in our efforts to grow the game of baseball, we needed a strong turf partner and we found the best in FieldTurf," said Ripken. ‘FieldTurf looks like grass, feels like grass and plays like grass and I am proud to say that it is the official turf of Ripken Baseball.’

In addition to the [[MLB]] stadiums, FieldTurf is also utilized at various facilities throughout minor league baseball. FieldTurf's college baseball installations are also quickly expanding, including a FieldTurf baseball surface for two-time [[NCAA]] champion [[Oregon State]].

‘FieldTurf has been a great partner for all we are doing in baseball,’ says [[Cal Ripken Jr.]] ‘Their surface replicates the play of real grass better than any on the market, and it allows kids at our complexes to enjoy baseball regardless of the weather. A quality place to play is so important to the sports experience for kids, and FieldTurf goes a long way in providing that.’

The 2006 World Baseball Classic was the inaugural tournament between national baseball teams that included players from [[Major League Baseball]]. It was held from March 3 - March 20 in various stadiums around the world. Two of the stadiums featured FieldTurf: The Tokyo Dome in Japan and Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The tournament was won by Japan while the FieldTurf in both of these venues received rave reviews.
<ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== FieldTurf Soccer ==
The game of soccer has always been the most popular sport around the world. This has never been the case in North America until the turn of the new millennium. The U.S. men's soccer team propelled the country into a soccer craze in 2002 when they made it to the quarter-finals of [[the World Cup]] for the first time in the country's history. This strong showing has led to more men, women, and kids playing the game of soccer. With the demand for high-quality playing fields at an all-time high, leagues such as [[Major League Soccer]], cities, and schools all over the country needed to ensure they met the demand for quality playing fields. Enter FieldTurf. FieldTurf dramatically extends the playing time possible per field due to the resilience of its unique engineered turf system. It is without a doubt the industry's premier specialized soccer surface with excellent safety, playability, and ball roll characteristics.

[[BMO Field]] at Exhibition Place will serve as a permanent home for [[Toronto F.C.]] of [[Major League Soccer]] and the Canadian National team. It will also be accessible to community youth and adult soccer leagues. The stadium, outfitted with the industry's most advanced FieldTurf system, opened in time for the 2007 [[Major League Soccer]] season. The facility was also 1 of 2 FieldTurf venues to play host to the [[FIFA]] Under-20 World Cup Championship in July 2007, an event that garnered an audience of more than 600 million worldwide.

The [[FIFA]] U-20 World Cup Canada 2007 marks the first time in its history that [[FIFA]] has designated its second most important event, after the [[FIFA]] World Cup, to be played on artificial grass. Nearly half of the matches along with the championship final was played on FieldTurf, the most technologically advanced product in the industry. The world was watching on July 22, 2007 when the Argentinian U-20 National Soccer Team was crowned on FieldTurf. A third party survey was conducted on the morning of July 12, 2007 whereby the players on the U.S. Under-20 men's national soccer team were asked to rate the artificial playing surfaces that were used at the 2007 U-20 World Championship in Canada. The Results spoke for themselves. FieldTurf was overwhelmingly preferred to the other artificial turf brand used at one of the other venues.

In addition to a long list of North American soccer clients at every level including 8 professional soccer teams, many of Europe's top professional clubs have already installed one or more FieldTurf pitches for realistic grass training in all weather conditions, including [[F.C. Barcelona]], [[Glasgow Rangers]], [[SV Werder Bremen]], [[Middlesbrough F.C.]], [[Aston Villa F.C.]], and F.C. Lokomotiv among many others.

FieldTurf was the very first artificial surface to attain [[FIFA]] Recommended status due to its superior grass-like performance, which soccer players prefer. FieldTurf was the 1st artificial pitch to host a [[UEFA]] Cup Qualifying Round (Torpedo, Moscow); and the 1st to host a [[FIFA]] Soccer Tournament (Jeux de la Francophonie). FieldTurf has passed the international governing body's most stringent testing and has more FIFA Recommended pitches than anyone else. FieldTurf is also [[UEFA]] Certified.

[[FIFA]] Vice-President Jack Warner is a firm believer in the quality of top-grade new generation artificial turf and the many benefits it brings to the game of football worldwide. ‘FieldTurf is the future of football worldwide. At the Champions League in Europe, this is exactly the type of turf on which they play.’
<ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== FieldTurf merger with Tarkett ==
The agreement between FieldTurf and Tarkett Sports was completed in 2005. The integration of two largest sports surfacing companies has resulted in the creation of a single entity called FieldTurf Tarkett.

FieldTurf Tarkett is the largest entity in the sports surfacing industry and provides unparalleled leasing capabilities, engineering and manufacturing resources. In addition to its world-renowned FieldTurf and Prestige brands of artificial turf, FieldTurf Tarkett provides an equally impressive range of products that includes synthetic and hardwood basketball, volleyball and gymnasium flooring, squash and racquetball courts, floor protection and covering systems, and weight room flooring. Also in the range of FieldTurf Tarkett products are indoor and outdoor running tracks including the high performance 'Le Monde' track system, playground surfacing, and a complete range of tennis and golf surfaces.
<ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== FieldTurf Timeline ==
'''October 1985''' FieldTurf Pres. Jean Prevost meets PGA Tour player Freddie Haas.

'''January 1987''' After exhaustive testing, FieldTurf develops patented infill system.

'''March 1990''' FieldTurf product is in demand on golf, tennis and sports fields worldwide.

'''April 1995''' John Gilman, former player and CFL coach, joins FieldTurf Inc. as CEO.

'''January 1997''' FieldTurf is selected by Premiership's [[Middlesbrough F.C.]]

'''October 1997''' Ringgold HS in PA becomes first high school stadium with FieldTurf.

'''April 1998''' First independent safety tests conclude FieldTurf safer than natural grass.

'''May 1998''' FieldTurf offers clients a third party insured warranty.

'''December 1998''' [[Tom Osborne]] discovers FieldTurf at Ringgold High School in PA.

'''January 1999''' [[NFL]] picks FieldTurf for [[NFL]] Experience at [[Super Bowl XXXIII]].

'''May 1999''' [[University of Nebraska]] picks FieldTurf for practice facility.

'''August 1999''' Cornhuskers select FieldTurf for [[Memorial Stadium]].

'''December 1999''' FieldTurf opens European office in the UK.

'''March 2000''' [[F.C. Barcelona]] inaugurates FieldTurf training field.

'''March 2000''' FieldTurf installed at [[Tropicana Field]] for [[Tampa Bay Devil Rays]].

'''May 2000''' [[Seattle Seahawks]] to play home games on FieldTurf at [[Husky Stadium]].

'''July 2000''' FieldTurf builds training pitch for Germany's Werder Bremen.

'''August 2000''' The [[Pittsburgh Steelers]] become the first [[NFL]] team to select FieldTurf.

'''September 2000''' [[Cleveland Browns]] select FieldTurf for their practice facility.

'''April 2001''' The [[Kansas City Chiefs]] pick FieldTurf.

'''June 2001''' First ever FIFA 1-Star rating for [[Boston University]]'s FieldTurf.

'''June 2001''' The [[Ottawa Renegades]] become the first [[CFL]] team with FieldTurf.

'''July 2001''' The [[NFL]] Quarterback Greats Club and [[AIG]] invest in FieldTurf.

'''August 2001''' The [[New York Jets]] choose FieldTurf for their practice field.

'''January 2002''' FieldTurf beats natural grass in first biomechanical turf tests.

'''March 2002''' FieldTurf is installed at the Tokyo Dome.

'''May 2002''' [[Seattle Seahawks]] choose FieldTurf for [[Qwest Field]].

'''June 2002''' FieldTurf gets first [[FIFA]] field certification in the UK at Walsall FC.

'''August 2002''' The [[Detroit Lions]] choose FieldTurf for [[Ford Field]].

'''March 2003''' FieldTurf selected for [[Giants Stadium]] - Giants, Jets, and [[Red Bulls]].

'''April 2003''' FieldTurf's first [[FIFA]] field certification at Middle East stadium in Bahrain.

'''June 2003''' The [[Denver Broncos]] install FieldTurf at Paul D. Bowlen practice facility.

'''July 2003''' First ever UEFA Cup qualifying round takes place on FieldTurf.

'''February 2004''' The [[NFL]]'s [[Pro Bowl]] is held on FieldTurf at [[Aloha Stadium]].

'''April 2004''' Metrodome, home of [[Minnesota Vikings]] and Twins, picks FieldTurf.

'''May 2004''' FieldTurf reaches 1000 sporting installations worldwide!

'''June 2004''' The [[Cincinnati Bengals]] select FieldTurf.

'''July 2004''' The [[NFLPA]] ranks FieldTurf 3rd in the [[NFL]] at [[Seahawks Stadium]].

'''July 2004''' [[Major League Soccer]] adds Real Salt Lake to Rice-Eccles Stadium FieldTurf.

'''July 2005''' [[San Diego Chargers]] practice field is outfitted with FieldTurf.

'''August 2005''' [[Indianapolis Colts]] and the [[St. Louis Rams]] pick FieldTurf for their domes.

'''September 2005''' FieldTurf secures first [[FIFA]] 2-star rating at Dundalk FC.

'''September 2005''' FieldTurf Tarkett becomes largest entity in sports surfacing industry.

'''February 2006''' FieldTurf designated "Official Playing Surface of [[Super Bowl XL]]".

'''March 2006''' The World Baseball Classic is played on FieldTurf.

'''April 2006''' FieldTurf Tarkett launches basketball court division in North America.

'''May 2006''' FieldTurf Tarkett launches Le Monde, world's fastest track system.

'''June 2006''' FieldTurf Tarkett launches ClayTech Tennis System.

'''August 2006''' FieldTurf launches FieldTurf DUO, the revolutionary multi-mono fiber turf system.

'''November 2006''' FieldTurf at Luzhniki Stadium hosts [[UEFA]] League Championship match.

'''November 2006''' FieldTurf completes [[Gillette Stadium]] installation in just 8 days!

'''February 2007''' [[NFLPA]] ranks FieldTurf 2nd ahead of 18 of the [[NFL]]'s 19 grass surfaces!

'''April 2007''' The [[Ohio State Buckeyes]] select FieldTurf for legendary [[Ohio Stadium]].

'''May 2007''' FieldTurf reaches 2000 sporting installations worldwide! <ref>
[http://www.fieldturf.com/company/index.cfm]</ref>.

== Feedback ==
Quarterback for the [[New England Patriots]] [[Tom Brady]] has been a huge fan of FieldTurf once they installed it at [[Gillette Stadium]]. His comments on the product: "It's (FieldTurf) always nice. I think the quarterbacks like it (FieldTurf) because you can plant really well. It's different than playing out there in our sandpit because you can dig in and push off. I think everybody really likes the surface." <ref>[http://newsblaze.com/story/2008012807013800002.pz/topstory.html]</ref>.

[[Tom Brady]] also said "I like it a lot, I think there are throws we made, that we completed the other night, that we probably couldn't complete on grass -- just because the footing is so good and you can really push off and drive the ball, and the receivers can cut really well. And obviously we talked about the [11-yard] run after the game. On a terrible field, it's hard to move laterally. Like I said, the turf was probably the biggest factor in that run." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=2059&newsID=200&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D1]</ref>

[[New England Patriots]]' defensive end [[Richard Seymour]] says "It (FieldTurf) was awesome. We had our footing, we were able to move around, we felt quick, we felt fast. We didn't have to worry about sliding as much. We could stop and cut and do some different things that we want to do on a good surface." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=2059&newsID=200&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D1]</ref>

When asked about FieldTurf, All Pro [[Denver Broncos]] Wide Receiver said " That grass was incredible--the best field I ever played on. It's better than grass. No ruts. They ought to install that field at every stadium." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=221&newsID=89&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D91]</ref>

All star runninback [[Warrick Dunn]] thinks that FieldTurf "felt better than real grass. You have to get used to it, but once you get used to it, it compares to grass." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=670&newsID=138&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D61]</ref>

All Pro Linebacker [[Keith Brooking]] stated "You can tell a tremendous difference in that just running on it for the first time. I don’t feel any slower on it. I feel as quick, as fast." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=670&newsID=138&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D61]</ref>

[[NFL]] Linebacker [[Chris Draft]] commented that "I remember more than anything having gauss and tape on my arms after I ripped off skin after games. Coming off the field this week, I didn’t have any scratches and my legs really weren’t that sore." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=670&newsID=138&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D61]</ref>

When asked about FieldTurf[[NFL]] All Pro Offensive Lineman [[Marco Rivera]] responded "I think it’s awesome. It’s like natural grass. The reason they did it was to save our legs and back. This keeps the soreness out of your body." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=264&newsID=91&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D91]</ref>

All Pro [[NFL]] Safety [[LeRoy Butler]] said "That stuff(FieldTurf) is phenomenal. "It is going to save with injuries. Now we can practice a little bit longer." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=264&newsID=91&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D91]</ref>

Star Wide receiver for the [[Green Bay Packers]] [[Donald Driver]] says "FieldTurf is great. It's better than the hard turf because you get a good bounce off it. It's a lot faster (than grass) because you have that bounce when you come off it." <ref>[http://www.fieldturf.com/football/testimonials.cfm?installID=264&newsID=91&searchCriteria=state%3Dall%26keyword%3D%26year%3Dall%26sport%3Dfootball%26country%3Dall%26resultCount%3D30%26sortOrder%3DnewsDate%20DESC%26startRow%3D91]</ref>

In September 2006, several top Canadian soccer players appealed to the [[Canadian Soccer Association]] to install a natural grass surface at [[BMO Field]] in Toronto.<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/Page/document/v4/sub/MarketingPage?user_URL=http://www.theglobeandmail.com%2Fservlet%2Fstory%2FRTGAM.20060927.soccer-turf28%2FBNStory%2FSports%2Fhome&ord=1161707942696&brand=theglobeandmail&force_login=true|title=Don't use artificial grass in Toronto FC stadium: players|work=globeandmail.com|accessdate=2007-02-12}}
In September 2006, several top Canadian soccer players appealed to the [[Canadian Soccer Association]] to install a natural grass surface at [[BMO Field]] in Toronto.<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/Page/document/v4/sub/MarketingPage?user_URL=http://www.theglobeandmail.com%2Fservlet%2Fstory%2FRTGAM.20060927.soccer-turf28%2FBNStory%2FSports%2Fhome&ord=1161707942696&brand=theglobeandmail&force_login=true|title=Don't use artificial grass in Toronto FC stadium: players|work=globeandmail.com|accessdate=2007-02-12}}
</ref> The Association has, however, decided to install FieldTurf despite the players' request.
</ref> The Association has, however, decided to install FieldTurf despite the players' request.


[[David Beckham]] had three FieldTurf fields installed at his David Beckham Academy in Greenwich. He apologized for having criticized the product, and admitted that he believes that it's a very good product.<ref>[http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=451617&&cc=5901]</ref>.
In addition, following [[David Beckham]]'s move to [[Major League Soccer]] in 2007, in which he arrived carrying an ankle injury,<ref>{{cite news|url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/6937950.stm|title=Beckham hopes to play against DC|work=[[BBC News]]|accessdate=2007-08-09}} </ref> he voiced his opinion that the league should convert to grass for all pitches, specifically singling out the FieldTurf brand<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.usatoday.com/sports/soccer/2007-08-09-728654547_x.htm|title=Beckham apologizes for turf remarks|work=[[USA Today]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}} </ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://blog.washingtonpost.com/soccerinsider/2007/08/beckham_speaks.html|title=Beckham Speaks|work=[[Washington Post]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref> (which he later partially recanted<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.24.com/sport/?p=SportArticle&i=627335|title=Beckham sorry for grass gaffe|work=24 Sport|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref>), while outsiders suggested that the FieldTurf pitch at Toronto had been a factor in his decision to instead sign with another team (he signed with the [[LA Galaxy]]).
In addition, following [[David Beckham]]'s move to [[Major League Soccer]] in 2007, in which he arrived carrying an ankle injury,<ref>{{cite news|url= http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/6937950.stm|title=Beckham hopes to play against DC|work=[[BBC News]]|accessdate=2007-08-09}} </ref> he voiced his opinion that the league should convert to grass for all pitches, specifically singling out the FieldTurf brand<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.usatoday.com/sports/soccer/2007-08-09-728654547_x.htm|title=Beckham apologizes for turf remarks|work=[[USA Today]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}} </ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://blog.washingtonpost.com/soccerinsider/2007/08/beckham_speaks.html|title=Beckham Speaks|work=[[Washington Post]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref> (which he later partially recanted<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.24.com/sport/?p=SportArticle&i=627335|title=Beckham sorry for grass gaffe|work=24 Sport|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref>), while outsiders suggested that the FieldTurf pitch at Toronto had been a factor in his decision to instead sign with another team (he signed with the [[LA Galaxy]]).


During a telephone interview on [[David Beckham's Soccer USA]] (UK version), former [[Aston Villa]] and current [[Red Bull New York]] striker [[Juan Pablo Ángel]] criticized the surface, saying, "I find it really hard to adjust to the [Giants Stadium] turf field... it takes me two or three days just to recover [after a match]."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://youtube.com/watch?v=Rw0x0QGvr5E|title=David Beckham's Soccer USA (UK version), Week 7|work=[[YouTube]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref>
During a telephone interview on [[David Beckham's Soccer USA]] (UK version), former [[Aston Villa]] and current [[Red Bull New York]] striker [[Juan Pablo Ángel]] criticized the surface, saying, "I find it really hard to adjust to the [Giants Stadium] turf field... it takes me two or three days just to recover [after a match]."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://youtube.com/watch?v=Rw0x0QGvr5E|title=David Beckham's Soccer USA (UK version), Week 7|work=[[YouTube]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref>


General Manager of the [[New England Revolution]] Craig Tornberg said in response to revamping [[Gillette Stadium]] with FieldTurf "Every effort and expense has been made over the years to have a great grass field here, with the sport of soccer always a major part of the consideration process. Now, this new field is a '''top-rated artificial pitch that complies to the highest FIFA international standards for soccer''', and will provide our players and fans with a consistently good field," <ref>[http://www.revolutionsoccer.net/search/index.cfm?ac=searchdetail&pid=22489&pcid=115]</ref>.
[[New England Revolution]] manager [[Steve Nicol]] is quoted as saying "there is no give in [FieldTurf]. Grass is still the best surface," <ref>{{cite news|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=452763&root=mls&&cc=5901|title=Artificial turf not to Beckham's liking|work=[[ESPNsoccernet]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref> in regards to professional soccer matches.
[[New England Revolution]] manager [[Steve Nicol]] is quoted as saying "there is no give in [FieldTurf]. Grass is still the best surface," <ref>{{cite news|url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=452763&root=mls&&cc=5901|title=Artificial turf not to Beckham's liking|work=[[ESPNsoccernet]]|accessdate=2007-10-06}}</ref> in regards to professional soccer matches.


Revision as of 21:31, 17 July 2008

The wide plain of FieldTurf used at Toronto's Rogers Centre was installed after the 2004 baseball season.

FieldTurf Tarkett, a division of Tarkett Inc., is a Montreal-based company that manufactures and installs artificial turf playing surfaces identified by the FieldTurf trademark.

Product

FieldTurf is an artificial turf composed of monofilament polyethylene blend fibres tufted into a polypropylene backing with a mixture of silica sand and cryogenic rubber infill. FieldTurf was first patented in 1982.

Notable installations

(see List of FieldTurf installations for more installations.)

In 1999, the Metropolitan Oval, a soccer complex in New York City, was one of the first to install FieldTurf in the U.S.

In March 2000, FieldTurf replaced the original AstroTurf field at Tropicana Field, making the Tampa Bay Rays of Major League Baseball the first professional sports team to play on the FieldTurf surface.

In 2000, FieldTurf was installed in the University of Washington's Husky Stadium, replacing the AstroTurf surface, originally installed in 1968. Husky Stadium was used as the Seattle Seahawks home field from 2000-2001, following the demolition of the Kingdome in March 2000. This would be the first FieldTurf used in the NFL.

In 2005, Saprissa Stadium in San José, Costa Rica became the first stadium to host a FIFA World Cup qualifying match on FieldTurf.

In 2007, the FIFA U-20 World Cup Canada had almost 50% of its games played on FieldTurf [1].

As of 2007, seven of the eight Canadian Football League teams have installed either FieldTurf or a similar surface.

The University of Saskatchewan installed it in 2006 when the hosted the Vanier Cup.

Currently all but three National Football League venues have either FieldTurf or natural grass surfaces.

Super Bowl XL, featuring the Seattle Seahawks and the Pittsburgh Steelers, was the first time that the Super Bowl has been played on FieldTurf. The Ford Field installation differs slightly from the standard installation as the recycled rubber used is made from Firestone tires. [2]

Criticism

In September 2006, several top Canadian soccer players appealed to the Canadian Soccer Association to install a natural grass surface at BMO Field in Toronto. [3] The Association has, however, decided to install FieldTurf despite the players' request.

In addition, following David Beckham's move to Major League Soccer in 2007, in which he arrived carrying an ankle injury, [4] he voiced his opinion that the league should convert to grass for all pitches, specifically singling out the FieldTurf brand [5] [6] (which he later partially recanted [7]), while outsiders suggested that the FieldTurf pitch at Toronto had been a factor in his decision to instead sign with another team (he signed with the LA Galaxy).

During a telephone interview on David Beckham's Soccer USA (UK version), former Aston Villa and current Red Bull New York striker Juan Pablo Ángel criticized the surface, saying, "I find it really hard to adjust to the [Giants Stadium] turf field... it takes me two or three days just to recover [after a match]." [8]

New England Revolution manager Steve Nicol is quoted as saying "there is no give in [FieldTurf]. Grass is still the best surface," [9] in regards to professional soccer matches.

Gary O'Connor, current Birmingham City and Scotland striker, has recently spoken out against the FieldTurf surface at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia, which hosted the England-Russia Euro 2008 qualifier on 17 October 2007. After a short summer term at Lokomotiv Moscow, O'Connor described playing on the FieldTurf surface as "a nightmare" and a "misfortune". [10] He noted the effects of the artificial surface during the run of play, saying, "The ball skids off the surface, so it becomes extremely hard to read where it is going to go."

In 2007, a Connecticut non-profit organization Environmental and Human Health Inc. (EHHI), released a report about the safety of recycled tire crumb rubber in artificial turf. [11] EHHI funded a study by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, a state agency, which independently reported [12] that under laboratory conditions when the crumb rubber infill was heated to 60 °C (140 °F), four components of crumb rubber volatilize into the vapor phase (outgas) in contact with the crumbs: benzothiazole (an irritant), butylated hydroxyanisole (a carcinogen and toxicant), n-hexadecane (an irritant) and 4-(t-octyl) phenol (corrosive to mucus membranes, a suspected endocrine disruptor [13]). FieldTurf, ALIAPUR (a French consortium founded by tire makers Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop Goodyear, Kléber, Michelin and Pirelli) [14], and ADEME (the French Environment and Energy Management Agency) released their own joint report concluding that there was no cause for concern to human health by inhalation of volatile organic compounds and aldehydes released by recycled tire crumb rubber surfaces. [15]

The safety of the rubber granules in artificial turf has been defended in other studies, such as the INTRON rubber study. [16].

See also

References

  1. ^ FieldTurf at FIFA U20 2007 FieldTurf at FIFA
  2. ^ "Ford Field, Detroit Lions". Sportsvenue Technology. 2002-08-24. Retrieved 2007-01-28. {{ cite web}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= ( help)
  3. ^ "Don't use artificial grass in Toronto FC stadium: players". globeandmail.com. Retrieved 2007-02-12.
  4. ^ "Beckham hopes to play against DC". BBC News. Retrieved 2007-08-09.
  5. ^ "Beckham apologizes for turf remarks". USA Today. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  6. ^ "Beckham Speaks". Washington Post. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  7. ^ "Beckham sorry for grass gaffe". 24 Sport. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  8. ^ "David Beckham's Soccer USA (UK version), Week 7". YouTube. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  9. ^ "Artificial turf not to Beckham's liking". ESPNsoccernet. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  10. ^ "O'connor warns England over plastic pitch". ESPNsoccernet. Retrieved 2007-10-14.
  11. ^ Dr. David R. Brown (2007). "Artificial Turf: Exposures To Ground-Up Rubber Tires: Athletic Fields, Playgrounds, Gardening Mulch" ( pdf). Environment & Human Health, Inc. Retrieved 2007-10-26. {{ cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= ( help)
  12. ^ Mattina, MaryJane Incorvia; Isleyen, M.; Berger, W.; Ozdemir, S. (8/2007), Examination of Crumb Rubber Produced from Recycled Tires ( pdf), The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, AC006, retrieved 2007-10-26 {{ citation}}: Check date values in: |date= ( help)
  13. ^ Commission of the European Communities (2001), Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament on the implementation of the Community Strategy for Endocrine Disrupters - a range of substances suspected of interfering with the hormone systems of humans and wildlife ( pdf), COM(2001) 262 final, retrieved 2007-10-27
  14. ^ "Qui est Aliapur?". Retrieved 2007-10-26.
  15. ^ Dr. Robert Moretto (2007), Environmental and health assessment of the use of elastomer granulates (virgin and from used tyres) as filling in third-generation artificial turf ( pdf), ADME / ALIAPUR / FieldTurf Tarkett, retrieved 2007-10-26
  16. ^ INTRON rubber study

External links

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