SPECTO® Fence at Adventure Sports & Entertainment in Jackson, New Jersey, Withstood Tornado Winds When your outdoor sporting facility calls for durable fencing, few solutions come close to the sheer strength of SPECTO® Fencing Systems from Grand Slam Safety. Adventure Sports & Entertainment based in Jackson, New Jersey, noticed how tenacious our fencing products can be when the unexpected rolls through — in this case, tornado winds. What Happened? A tornado swept through Ocean County, New Jersey — a place where crowds go to enjoy theme parks, outdoor activities and sporting events. Adventure Sports & Entertainment was in the storm's path leaving facility managers and crews concerned about several outdoor fields. The facility hosts baseball, softball, soccer and flag football games. Employees at the venue were pleased to find that the SPECTO® Fencing Systems around their six baseball fields survived the 120 mph winds. While other outdoor fencing solutions would crumble under these conditions, Grand Slam Safety's offerings could handle it. Our SPECTO® Fencing Is Engineered to Last One of the characteristics that separates SPECTO® Fencing Systems from alternative solutions is the failsafe breakaway clips. During the Ocean County tornado incident, these clips detached, and a few Velcro sections were damaged — both parts are easily replaceable. Rather than paying to replace all of the fences around the baseball fields, Adventure Sports & Entertainment can pick up the necessary components. The Value of Advanced Safety Netting and Fencing SPECTO® Fencing Systems help prevent accidents during games. You can customize the perimeters of baseball fields as well as softball fields with tension-based technology intended for safe interactions between the players and fencing. Only 30 inches of space is needed between the mesh barriers and hard surfaces to catch an athlete in a sprint. Request a Consultation From Grand Slam Safety Want to learn more about your options for outdoor baseball fencing? Contact Grand Slam Safety to set up a consultation today.

Different divisions and leagues may require varying field dimensions, which directly influences the size of the outfield fence you need. If your facility has multiple leagues for different age divisions, you'll want fencing that can fit all your requirements. Grand Slam Safety offers adjustable fencing options. Here's a look at how you can measure an outfield fence. Field Size According to Leagues & Division When you're designing a baseball field for different leagues and divisions, there are several considerations to keep in mind to ensure you have suitable dimensions for each group. You have to consider the distance between base paths, including the distance between the home plate to the mound and the necessary size of the foul pole. There are some common dimensions for youth leagues such as foul lines having to be a minimum of 200 feet to the outfield fence and 275 feet to the center field fence for a little league baseball field. Pinto baseball field dimensions consist of foul lines that are 125 feet to the fence and 175 feet to the center field fence. Steps to Mapping Out the Field Follow these steps to design your own field from scratch: Position home plate so it's centered in the middle of the backstop. Run a tape measure from one corner of the backstop in the direction of where home plate will go. Repeat this step with the opposite corner of the backstop. The start of home plate (the side closest to the backstop) will act as an apex. The left and right corners of the backstop should create an invisible triangle with the bottom of home plate. Position a stake at the back of the home plate. You'll use this as a point of reference later. Trace a line from the back of the home plate over the pitcher's mound and to the center of the second base. The distance should be based on the appropriate league. Locate the first and third bases by running a tape measure from the second base to each base separately. This distance will depend on the league. The corners of the first and third bases should create an arc with the back of the home plate and the center of the second base. Draw lines from the foul-side corners of first and third base to the back of home plate. This can help you determine the correct angles of the first and third bases. Locate the pitching rubber by referencing the back of home plate and the center of second base. The rubber mound should be equidistant from these two points. Align the outer sides of the pitching rubber with the outer sides of the home plate. Length of the Outfield Fence There are several variations and types of outfield fences. The size of the field and the types of leagues usually determine the length. Outfield fences grow gradually in size at each level to match the players' development and experience. Here are the common outfield fence length sizes for different divisions: Pinto: This is a transitional division where children between the ages of 7 and 8 can play baseball at a competitive and instructional level. The length of the outfield fence for this division is 200 plus feet. Little League: This is a division in baseball for boys and girls 8 to 12 years old. The length of the outfield fence for the little league is 225 plus feet. Bronco: The Bronco division is for 11 and 12-year-old players who play at a competitive level. The outfield fence length for Bronco is 250 plus feet. Pony: The Pony division is for 13 to 14-year-old players preparing for high school baseball. The outfield fence length for this division is 300 plus feet. High School, College and Pro: These divisions feature players who compete in a professional setting at an advanced level of play. The outfield length for these divisions is 400 plus feet. Height of the Outfield Fence The different levels of play also determine the height of the outfield fence. For divisions such as Pinto, Little League, Bronco and Pony, the fence should be at least 4 feet high with foul poles that extend at least 6 feet above the baseball outfield fence length. For high school, college and pro divisions, an outfield fence that is at least 6 feet tall is the recommended height, and 8 feet is the preference. You can use an outfield fence calculator to calculate the size of the fence you need. Contact Grand Slam Safety for Your Fencing Needs At Grand Slam Safety, we offer a range of baseball outline fencing. Our fences can be temporary or permanent, and they are customizable to meet your specific needs. We can help you find durable and safe fencing that is perfect for you. Contact us today to get a quote.

Indoor pickleball leagues seem to grow more popular each year. Teams across the country enjoy this high-speed game, which has some similarities to tennis. If you want athletes to play pickleball in your recreation center, it's important to know indoor pickleball court dimensions, which differ from an outdoor court. This is your guide to indoor pickleball court sizes and how to verify you're following the rules of the game according to the governing body, USA Pickleball (USAP). What Is Indoor Pickleball? Indoor pickleball is a sport with two or four players that involves using paddles to pass a plastic ball over a net. All of the rules of outdoor pickleball apply to indoor leagues. The main difference is that most outdoor leagues play on hardcourt surfaces similar to tennis matches while indoor leagues use gymnasium flooring. Another key variation between indoor and outdoor pickleball is the type of game ball used. Indoor pickleball leagues use regulation balls with 26 holes, while outdoor leagues use balls that have 40 small holes. The difference in court surfaces calls for game balls of different hardnesses and weights. Standard Indoor Pickleball Court Sizes Whether you're picking up a paddle for the first time, you're in the process of making your own court or you need a temporary setup for recreational games, it's helpful to know the typical pickleball court sizes. A standard indoor pickleball court is 44 feet long by 20 feet wide. Both of these measurements include game lines. An indoor court should have a pickleball net that sits 36 inches tall from the ground at each side and 34 inches tall in the center. A standard indoor pickleball court has a centerline on each side of the net that splits the court into right- and left-side serving sections. Additionally, there is a 7-foot non-volley zone that extends from the net outward. Players are unable to step inside this zone while hitting the ball. Considerations for Pickleball Courts When you're creating a pickleball court, there are a few things to consider. Review the details below to learn more about the correct ways to host an indoor pickleball event. 1. Pickleball Court Size in Feet vs. Meters It helps to know pickleball court sizes in more than one unit of measurement. For a quick reference, an indoor pickleball court is 13.41 meters in length by 6.10 meters in width. 2. The Rules for Mini Indoor Pickleball Courts The smallest indoor pickleball court size acknowledged by USAP is the standard 44 feet by 20 feet layout. Any game played on a court smaller than these dimensions will not count toward official tournaments. 3. Game Lines The game lines for an indoor pickleball facility must be 2 inches in width. You'll require sidelines, baselines, centerlines and non-volley lines to create a regulation court. Trust Grand Slam Safety for Pickleball Court Construction Grand Slam Safety specializes in creating custom sports courts for indoor and outdoor venues. Our entire process from design to installation is handled in-house for consistent results. Prioritize safety and create a court that can be used for multiple sports when you work with our professionals. You can get a quote for your pickleball project by filling out our contact form.

If you're looking for a way to make your gym more versatile or need a way to separate two areas without the hassle of new construction, a curtain may be the answer. With so many gym divider curtain options available today, choosing the right one can feel challenging. Why Gym Divider Curtains Are Important Gym divider netting solutions allow you to: Maximize indoor space: Gym divider curtains are great ways to boost usable space, create multipurpose fields or separate different areas of your gym. Enjoy cost benefits: Divider curtains are much more affordable than permanent alternatives and allow you to change the look of your gym at will. Adaptable to your gym's design: You can customize gym dividers to match your brand colors, ceiling height and layout, from simple mesh curtains to elaborate divisions with custom logos. Leverage warranties: A 10-year limited warranty from Grand Slam Safety ensures you can rest easy knowing your investment remains protected against material defects. How to Choose Your Sports Divider Curtain Follow these three steps when choosing your sports divider curtain: Assess your gym's architectural layout: Take note of the number of walls, windows and doors, as well as how much space you have between these elements and how big each space should be to find the curtain size best suited for your facility. Determine the level of containment and visibility you need: Mesh and netted curtains allow for complete visibility, while our heavier vinyl fabric provides more containment — the choice is yours! Inquire about the Edge Seal option to protect your vertical curtain border and stop flying objects from escaping the perimeter. Decide how you want to motorize the curtain: Opt for an electric motor, which will make it easy to open and close the curtain or you can go with a hand-operated system that requires no electricity. Ultimately, the most important thing is finding something that works for everyone involved — from athletes to coaches — and doesn't interfere with anyone's ability to play their best game. Gym Divider Netting Options Popular gym divider netting options include: Fold-up: Often made from durable materials like canvas or vinyl, this budget-friendly option folds up when not in use, making it easy to store and transport. Roll-up: This standard option has a cable-free rolling mechanism, allowing for easy opening and closing. Walk-draw: No electric components are required — all you need is a string or rope to pull the netting back and forth. Top-roll: The top-roll system is an electrically operated, low-maintenance gym divider netting option that's sleek, easy to store and perfect for any setting. Peak-fold: Peak-fold gym divider curtain options are truly custom. They follow the contours of your ceiling, so you can maximize your space and take full advantage of every inch of available height. Shop Grand Slam Safety At Grand Slam Safety, we believe that every gym owner should be able to provide their employees and athletes with a safe and comfortable environment. Our quality netting systems offer the best of both worlds — the functionality of removable systems with the quality of permanent ones. Let us take care of the design and installation so you can focus on what you do best. Browse our inventory today or contact our team to learn more about how to pick the right gym divider curtain!

Turf is a significant part of any sports complex, and it provides a variety of benefits. However, it is important to understand what the different types of artificial turf offer so that you can choose the option that best suits your needs. Types of Sports Complex Turf Here are the different types of turf used for both outdoor and indoor sports facilities: Nylon Turf Nylon is the most durable and resilient type of all other turfs. Nylon can withstand high temperatures and impact and still maintain its shape and original condition. It is also abrasion-resistant, meaning it is not worn out by friction or rubbing. While its qualities make it strong and long-lasting, nylon fibers are stiffer than other turf and maintain an upright position. Nylon turf is expensive to manufacture, making it the most costly type of turf. Polyethylene Turf Polyethylene turf is one that looks and behaves most like grass compared to other types. If you're looking for turf that is durable but soft to the touch, polyethylene is a perfect choice. It requires minimal maintenance as it only needs occasional raking to preserve its shape. Polyethylene turf is commonly used for soccer fields or tennis courts. Polypropylene Turf Polypropylene is an inexpensive turf, making it an ideal choice if you want to save on costs. It is not as resistant to wear and tear as other turfs, though, and it is also not as long-lasting. You can expect to be changing your turf every few years. Polypropylene is mostly suitable for low-traffic activities. If you have high-impact sports like soccer or football in your complex, nylon and polyethylene might be better options. Things to Consider Deciding which type of turf to use for your sports facility requires many considerations. Here are a few to keep in mind when making your decision: Type of sports: The different types of turfs vary in strength and performance. The turf you choose will be influenced by the sports that are going to be played on your field. Face weight: Face weight is the amount of material used for the turf per square yard. If you want a more durable turf, pick one with a higher face weight. Pile height: This is an important factor in your turf's functionality. It is important to choose a turf with a pile height that offers the right amount of traction for players. Build Your Sports Complex With Grand Slam Safety At Grand Slam Safety, we are committed to turf field safety and ensuring high performance. We will help you find a turf that works best for your facility's needs. Contact us to request a quote.

Running a sports facility requires a great deal of planning and thought, and you must keep your goals in mind at every step. Prioritizing your target market, equipment, business operations, and the health and safety of your staff and visitors is vital to run a successful sports facility. How to Start an Indoor Sports Facility You want to consider the location of your sports facility and the customers you want to attract, as well as your expenses, equipment and space. Every factor that goes into starting your sports facility should be mapped out and detailed, making it easier to implement. Here are some key factors to consider when creating your sports facility: Your target market: Defining your customers will help you develop a sports program that aligns with their needs. A sports program created with your audience in mind will help provide the services they are looking for and prices that they can afford. Creating your sports program: Consider the games and services you want to offer at your sports facility. Ensure your building has enough space to accommodate different games, schedules, age groups, recreational areas and locker rooms. Planning your budget: Consider how much money you can spend on equipment, lighting, aesthetics, safety procedures and staff salaries. Hiring and training your staff: Allocate a budget for hiring and training staff to ensure that the services are well managed. Prioritizing team-building activities is essential for empowering and motivating your team, resulting in happier customers and employees. Managing your operating costs: Power and utility bills, equipment and maintenance costs can add up quickly. Stay on top of your overheads and manage your expenditure effectively by finding ways to save on energy consumption and rental fees. Digitizing your sports facility: Make your business more efficient by digitizing your booking systems and programming. Technology can speed up daily processes and help run your sports facility more efficiently. What a Sports Complex Business Plan Looks Like A robust business plan will help you start and run your indoor sports facility successfully. Indoor sports facilities business plans clearly outline your business's objectives, marketing strategy, operations, finances and future goals. Here is a brief example of what to include in your business plan according to best practices: Objectives: Include a brief outline of the products or services your sports complex will offer and define your target market. Highlight who your competitors are and how your sports facility plans to make money. Complex marketing strategy: Define your brand identity, messaging and logo, and research your target market and competitors to establish your prices. Detail any promotions and events you plan on having at the sports facility, and list the sales and marketing tools you will need for advertising and generating leads. Complex operations: Detail what your sports facility will look like, how much space you will need, the number of staff you will hire and estimates of the money you will need for rent and salaries. Your operations include all the necessary sports facilities equipment, like nets, fencing, balls, volleyball courts and basketball hoops. Financing: Estimate your monthly revenue from promotions, events and membership fees, and record your monthly sports complex expenses. Create a system for tracking your monthly profit margin. Exit strategy: Plan for the future by describing your personal exit plan and whether you plan on selling your sports facility or closing it in 10-15 years. It's essential to detail who you plan on selling your business to and how you plan to profit from selling your equipment and other assets. Types of Sports Facilities You Can Have Various indoor sports facilities incorporate games like track and field, basketball, weightlifting, tennis and soccer. Some indoor facilities offer amenities like custom batting nets. If you want to include as many sports as possible, a multi-sport facility may be the way to go. Multi-sports facilities divide the space into separate courts or training areas and mix-and-match what games get played where. You can use a soccer court for tennis or use your open areas for strength training and yoga. Some multi-sport complexes include custom baseball nets, basketball courts, rock climbing structures and bodyweight training areas. You can get creative with the setup of your sports facility. For example, you may install a net on your basketball court so that it can be used for volleyball. You can also use curtain dividers and install netting to maximize the safety of your spectators and athletes. When considering how to use your sports facility's space, consider nets, fencing and curtain dividers to offer as many sports as possible while keeping your spectators and athletes safe. Do Indoor Sports Facilities Make Money? Sports facilities can generate high revenue by offering multiple games, open areas, equipment and competitive membership fees. Many individuals and families flock to sports facilities because they are a space for the entire community. One of the most significant advantages that contribute to revenue is that sports facilities help encourage physical activity and are often open to the public at affordable rates. Many sports complexes offer comfortable and safe spectator areas so that spectators can pay to watch games and other events. A sports facility that caters to families and spectators by providing a clubhouse, food stalls and kids' areas can make more money daily or when hosting a special event. Sports complexes can also make money by sponsoring local sports teams and getting them to promote their sports facility by training at their complex. Sports facilities are popular because they cater to a broad market. They provide a well-rounded service in communities and allow people to participate in sports, spectate and enjoy the facility with friends and family. Advanced sporting equipment, designs, lighting, air-conditioning, entertainment areas and safety measures in sports facilities can attract more people and help drive revenue. Maintaining Your Sports Facility Maintaining your sports facility is essential for upkeeping its appearance and prioritizing the safety and health of your visitors. Your visitors' safety is crucial in a sports facility. You'll want to service your equipment regularly to prevent injury or harm and install protective nets and fencing to maximize the safety of athletes and spectators. Sports facilities must inform visitors and athletes of any potential danger or injuries in their sports complex. Sports facility staff can ask all athletes and families to acknowledge and agree to the safety regulations and rules of the sports complex by asking them to sign a waiver. Athletes must also be made aware of safety procedures in case of an injury or other harm at the facility. Prioritizing cleanliness in sports facilities is vital for the health of athletes and their families. Proper maintenance includes regularly cleaning equipment, courts, nets, spectator areas and other areas of the sports facility. Maximize Your Sports Facility Success With Help From Grand Slam Safety Grand Salm Safety is passionate about helping you create a quality and safe sports facility for your community. We offer expert advice on multi-sport facility programs and provide fencing and netting to increase safety and comfort. Our SPECTO® Fencing Systems are more effective in absorbing impact than chain-link fencing. Take a look at the case studies of the clients that have worked with us so far and contact us for expert advice or a consultation on your sports facility!

Pickleball is quickly becoming one of America's favorite pastimes. It's no wonder, too — it's similar to many classic games Americans love, like ping pong, tennis and badminton. It's a simple, low-impact recreation accessible to players of all ages. Learn more about what pickleball is, why it's so popular and how to play. What Is Pickleball? Pickleball is a fast-paced game that rolls ping pong, tennis and badminton into one family-friendly paddle sport. The rules are straightforward and easy to remember. Very little equipment is needed. All you need is a paddle for each player, a low net and a perforated plastic ball. It's also addictive — once you start playing, you won't want to stop. You could happily lose hours to pickleball matches. Why is pickleball so addictive? It's a fast-paced, competitive game that tests your balance, hand-eye coordination and agility — all while being low-impact and endurance-building. Why Is Pickleball Becoming So Popular? Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., and pickleball clubs are popping up everywhere. In many places, pickleball is more popular than tennis. Here are some reasons why pickleball is becoming so popular amongst sports enthusiasts: Pickleball is perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. If you love and know how to play tennis, ping pong or badminton, you'll quickly pick up the rules of pickleball. This sport is easy to learn and teach others, so it's perfect for players of all ages or skill levels. Pickleball is a fun, social pastime that keeps players active. A pickleball court is significantly smaller than a tennis court. You can fit four pickleball courts in a tennis court and use the same size court for both singles and doubles games. The small court size makes chatting with your teammates and opponents easier while staying active. Pickleball offers low-intensity, low-impact exercise. Pickleball is a low-impact, low-intensity game. The court size is small enough to keep players with joint problems or limited mobility from placing excessive strain on their bodies while they play. Pickleball is an ideal sport for parks and recreation facilities. Resorts, parks and sports recreation complexes are hopping on the pickleball bandwagon. Why? It's easy to convert a tennis court into several pickleball courts to meet the growing demand for the game. How to Play Pickleball Playing pickleball is simple. Like a tennis court, a pickleball court has two sides divided by a low net. In the center of the court, there's a "non-volley zone," which is commonly referred to as the "kitchen." The kitchen is a 14-foot wide box that extends 7 feet beyond the net on both sides. To begin, choose a serving team. One serving team member must underhand serve the pickleball diagonally across the court into the opposite service box. Unlike tennis, pickleball has a two-bounce rule — so the opposing team must return the serve so the ball bounces twice before the "rally" begins. Once the opposing team returns the serve, a rally starts. During a rally, anyone can volley the ball over the net. The rally continues until someone makes a fault. When someone makes a fault, the opposing team earns a point. Faults include the following: The ball bouncing twice. The ball hitting someone above their paddle-side wrist. Someone hitting the ball into the net or out of bounds. Touching the net with a paddle or body part. Not serving diagonally. Volleying in the kitchen. Serving in front of the baseline. If the serving team wins a rally when playing doubles, the players on the serving team switch sides, so the same server serves the ball across the other diagonal. However, if the serving team loses a rally, players stay where they are, and the serve goes to the other player on the serving team. The first team to land 11 points wins the match. What Are the Differences Between Pickleball and Tennis? You might have noticed pickleball and tennis have a lot in common. But what sets them apart? Several rules make pickleball unique, including the rules of the "non-volley zone," or kitchen. The kitchen is what makes pickleball genuinely unique. It is a safety feature that prevents players from being hit by their opponent's spikes due to the smaller size of the court. Players cannot be in the kitchen or standing on the boundary line when their paddle comes into contact with the ball. And if a player hits the ball and falls into the kitchen due to forward momentum, that's still considered a fault. Here are some other key differences between pickleball and tennis: The gear: A pickleball paddle is smaller than a tennis racquet but larger than a ping-pong paddle. It also features more padding. A pickleball ball is similar to a whiffle ball and is made of perforated hard plastic, so it won't bounce as high as a tennis ball. The court: A pickleball court is much smaller than a tennis court at 20 feet wide by 44 feet long. For reference, tennis courts are significantly larger at 120 feet long by 60 feet wide. The serve: Tennis games require an overhand serve. Pickleball serves must be underhanded. The two-bounce serve rule: After the serving team's serve bounces into the opposite service box, the other team must return the ball. The return serve must bounce before the rally begins. Why You Should Include Pickleball in Your Sports Complex Plans The demand for pickleball courts is rising, thanks to the sport's growing popularity. Adding a few pickleball court lines to your sports complex's current tennis, squash or other courts can meet those demands. Adding pickleball courts also expands your sports program offerings, bringing in new business and making your sports complex a hub for pickleball fans in your area. Pickleball courts can help meet the needs of sports enthusiasts looking for low-impact alternatives to their favorite games — helping you keep the whole community active. Contact Us for Pickleball Sports Complex and Netting Solutions If you want to create a pickleball venue or add pickleball courts to your sports complex, reach out to Grand Slam Safety. Our experts specialize in designing functional, accessible, safe, indoor pickleball-friendly venues. We'll partner with you to design and install an indoor pickleball court system that provides players with a safe space to compete year-round. Contact us today to learn more about our multi-sport complex design and consulting services.

Playing sports indoors often involves additional safety considerations. Though ball fields are the same size indoors and outdoors, the enclosed space may need adjustments. Different sports have varying requirements to protect players. For those who design and build sports complexes, you should keep the following sports safety tips in mind while managing and planning facilities. Indoor Safety by Sport Every sport has specific protection standards. Often coaches tell players to stretch and hydrate before games to prevent muscle injuries and dehydration. Beyond these basic requirements, each sport has unique needs based on the demands it places on athletes. Here are some safety concerns in a sports facility for a few traditionally outdoor sports: Baseball According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), baseball results in an estimated 178,670 injuries per year. Players wear gear like helmets to stay safe during the game, but hits from a stray bat or ball may cause damage that a helmet can't protect against. An indoor field may also have conditions athletes aren't used to, like a harder surface, increasing the likeliness of injury. Football Football, a physical sport, results in injuries more often than baseball. The most recent CPSC report noted that football resulted in 387,950 injuries in a year. To prevent injuries, individuals wear helmets and special padding, but their environment can also cause harm. Architects should consider adding protective surfaces to goal posts, bleachers and walls in an indoor space for greater safety. Soccer Though soccer results in less physical contact than football, it can still lead to injury. Stray balls or contact with hard surfaces like bleachers or nearby walls are common hazards. Athletes can wear equipment like shin guards to protect them from kicks and balls, but this gear cannot prevent other common injuries. In an indoor space, facilities should include nets or padding to protect players from running into walls or bleachers. These features can also guard spectators from flying balls that might cause injury. Safety in Facility Management Facility management is a job responsibility focused on making sure every component of a space works appropriately. When a facility functions well, its users are healthy and productive. If you are responsible for ensuring protection in sports complexes, here are some of the best safety practices for indoor sports: Hang safety signage: Signs remind athletes of potential dangers so that they know what to look out for. You might post signs with rules for the usage of a specific area, like a baseball field or track. Signage might also warn spectators to stay clear of a marked region during gameplay. Keep the facility clean: Clearing clutter, messes and other tripping hazards from spaces should be a top priority for sporting facilities. When managing a facility, you should ensure floors are clear of dirt and water that might cause people to slip. Also, you should store stray balls or other athletic gear out of the way when not in use. Inspect equipment: Equipment breaking during use can be harmful to players. Check gear regularly to ensure it's not damaged or worn, as long-term use might cause it to break down. Most sporting equipment must also meet industry safety standards to be fit for use. Mark play areas: Different sports need specific play areas. Ensure that each necessary play area is marked off, so athletes know exactly where the boundaries are. In rooms that accommodate multiple sports, you may need to mark each court in a different color. Color-coding allows individuals to distinguish the play area easily. If players aren't sure of boundaries, they may suffer injuries from tripping or colliding with surfaces. Safety in Facility Design If you're responsible for designing a sporting facility, whether for a college sports complex or a private recreation project, remember that players depend on safe design so that they feel comfortable entering the facility. A secure facility allows college athletes to focus on improving performance and other individuals to rely on a well-designed facility for exciting play during free time. Whatever athletes your facility will serve, their well-being is a top priority. Here are some safety measures for indoor sports to consider. The Sports Programming Offered Many sporting facilities today accommodate various sports. Some sports are traditionally indoors, like basketball and gymnastics. Others, like football, soccer and baseball, usually take place outdoors. If you plan to bring an outdoor field indoors, your play area must mimic outdoor conditions as closely as possible. It must also accommodate other safety needs due to the indoor setting, which might have less open space around it. Players and Spectators Consider who will populate your sporting complex and whether you have enough room to serve them. If you plan to host tournaments or other events with many spectators, ensure you will have space for them. Also, include adequate safety measures to ensure viewers can watch games with peace of mind. Smooth Flow Athletes and spectators want to move around efficiently and without danger. In a sporting facility, the design should allow spectators to move in and out of bleachers without fear of flying balls. Players will also benefit from the ability to travel to different courts quickly, especially during tournament games. Divider curtains can solve both of these issues. These products allow spectators to move around freely without having to watch out for balls. Players can also move quickly from one court to another without interrupting other games that are in progress. Request a Quote for Sports Complex Design Grand Slam Safety can help you design a sporting facility that maximizes space and helps limit injury with netting, curtains and fencing. It's important to address safety early in the design process because adding protective features at the end may increase costs and extend construction times. Grand Slam Safety has experience installing a wide range of safety equipment for indoor sporting facilities. Our experts can work with you from the beginning of the design process to the end. We can help incorporate protection measures that adapt to the unique needs of your complex. Get in touch with us today to discuss your project, and let us help you create a safe space for play.

Playing sports can help individuals stay healthy and bring communities together. It helps to have a controlled environment to practice frequently. You can promote an exceptional playing experience with the right facility. Here, we'll take a look at the numerous advantages of building sports facilities in cities and what they can do for a local community. What Are the Benefits of Sports Facilities? If you're wondering about the importance of sports facilities for professional or recreational sports, review the information below to learn some of the major benefits of having a sports complex in your town. Providing A Controlled Environment Sports complexes give people the resources they need to exercise throughout the year. Of course, indoor varieties enable you to play a sport rain or shine, but even outdoor facilities provide users with court lines, netting and smooth surfaces for gameplay. Depending on the setup, players can be protected from environmental elements like UV rays, heavy winds and rain. Some outdoor facilities sit in a shaded location where intense heat is not an issue. An indoor or outdoor sports complex might be just what your community needs to dodge inclement weather and stay on schedule with practices and events. A Luxurious Experience With an indoor sports facility, recreational and professional athletes can compete with accessible heating and air conditioning. Another perk of a sports complex is adequate lighting. Players have the freedom to start games at any time. A sports court can also include amenities like lockers, changing rooms, restrooms and concession areas. Leaves a Versatile Space An indoor or outdoor sports court leaves room for flexibility. This applies to physical activities and events. For example, you might construct an indoor basketball court that can also be used for volleyball games and racket sports. Someone could instruct yoga or weight lifting classes in the space, too. Your sports complex uses can even extend beyond fitness. This controlled space can also be effective for events like music concerts or fundraisers. How Do Cities Benefit From Sports Teams? Professional sports teams bring tourists to locations they may not have visited before. In some cases, this can bring new customers to small businesses around the venue. Sports franchises can become the main attraction of a city, especially when famous athletes draw attention to charitable causes by raising money for local schools or hospitals. The Economic Impacts of New Sports Facilities Creating a new sports complex within a city is known to boost the local economy. The all-new sports complex will require workers. Your city could see new part-time, full-time and temporary openings for security, cleaning or food service. Indoor and outdoor sports facilities also work to bring large groups of people together. There is room for increased local spending when touring sports teams, musical acts, speakers or comedians are in town. Choose Grand Slam Safety for Sports Complex Solutions Grand Slam Safety carries numerous products to reimagine sports complexes. Increase player safety with one-of-a-kind solutions like our mesh SPECTO® perimeter fencing you can use for various activities. We're also known for our floor-to-ceiling netting products to protect spectators viewing from upper levels. Browse our sports complex safety solutions today or contact the professionals at Grand Slam Safety with questions!

Installing a protective netting system helps keep baseball fans safe from injuries from misdirected line drives and foul balls. As ballparks big and small begin to extend or install netting systems, Grand Slam Safety is your baseball netting and baseball fencing solution to ensure your fans are safe while they enjoy their favorite game. History of Netting Used in Baseball The history of baseball safety netting is almost as long as baseball's history, with the installation of the first baseball safety netting in 1879. Ballparks have moved seats closer to the field to allow fans to feel closer to the game. With closer seating, distracting billboards and the increased use of mobile phones, many teams have added additional netting to protect fans. When Did the MLB Put Nets Behind Home Plate? As more fans began experiencing severe injuries from foul balls entering the stands, all 30 major league baseball teams extended netting around the home plate in 2018. Since this decision, the Major League Baseball Players Association has tried several times to convince the MLB to expand netting from foul pole to foul pole to add additional protection for fans. Importance of Baseball Field Netting for Fan Safety Like any sport, safety is always a priority during baseball games. Installing baseball field netting can protect the spectators, athletes, coaches and property from injuries and damages. While many baseball fields already have netting behind the home plate, it does not extend far down the baselines, leaving a large area of the stands at risk. Installing baseball field netting around the entire field is a simple way to protect everyone in the baseball stadium. Fans Injured by Foul Balls Catching a foul ball sounds like a great chance to own a piece of the game, but it can be risky. Fans may believe that they can catch the ball or duck when a player hits a foul ball their way. However, it only takes a few seconds for the ball to travel over hundreds of feet, instantly injuring spectators. Baseball safety netting makes these types of injuries entirely preventable. Contact Grand Slam for Baseball Netting Safety for Your Facility Ensuring everyone at a baseball game is safe is easy with Grand Slam Safety. We are your one-stop shop for high-quality outdoor and indoor baseball safety fencing and netting for high school, college and professional settings. Contact us today to learn more about our netting options!

There is something so nostalgic about a well-maintained baseball field, bringing back childhood memories or stoking dreams for future baseball stardom. However, a lot of work goes into ensuring a baseball field instills those dazzling and inviting sensations when you step onto the field. If you are looking for ways to upgrade your baseball field or give it the love and attention it deserves, we have compiled this maintenance guide to promote the safety, functionality and beauty of your playing area! How Are Baseball Fields Maintained? In some ways, baseball field maintenance is comparable to lawn maintenance. You'll need to water and mow the grass, trim weeds, clean up debris and ensure you don't overwater the grass to keep it in tip-top shape. However, baseball field maintenance also calls for numerous considerations irrelevant to yard upkeep. The unique considerations for baseball field maintenance involve aesthetics, playability and, above all, safety. Concerning the field's playability, each area has special maintenance requirements, while the field's safety includes and extends beyond the playing area to the fences, bleachers and other structures. To ensure the playing space meets high standards for aesthetics, playability and safety, maintenance workers generally follow these guidelines: Grade the infield so water drains off the field after rainfall Regularly drag and rake the field to maintain the infield grade and prevent ruts and puddles from forming that could impede playability and present safety hazards Clearly and thoroughly communicate proper baseball field care and etiquette to everyone using the field Conduct soil testing annually and aerate the soil Provide the soil with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy Water the grass according to the soil's dryness and overall moisture retention With every mow, ensure the grass maintains at least one-third of its growth to prevent decline Schedule regular mowings so you can keep the baseball field grass at its desired height without removing more than one-third of its growth Examine and maintain the baseball field before and after every use and ensure it isn't used when wet Perform general maintenance and repairs on structures around the field to ensure their proper function and safety for both spectators and participants, including the fences, dugouts, bleachers and other miscellaneous structures Baseball Field Maintenance Checklist Given the unique considerations and many tasks required to maintain a baseball field safely, a checklist can be helpful to ensure your field performs with optimal function and safety and is aesthetically pleasing. Outfield To maintain the outfield, you should: Ensure at least 75% of the field is covered with turfgrass Check that there are no bare spots that leave hard soil exposed Ensure no standing water is on the field Make sure turfgrass has a uniform color, density and height Remove any burrs, thistles and thorns Fix any gopher holes, mounds or ruts Communicate the importance of caring for the outfield grass to coaches and parents Infield Baseball Infield Maintenance Includes: Ensuring the clay is loose enough and not too coarse for safe sliding but not so loose that it impedes traction Checking that the running paths are level and the bases, home plate and pitcher's rubber are securely anchored Removing lip or soil buildup between the infield and outfield boundary Ensuring the skinned area is dry — and if not, facilitating proper drainage Postponing play if the soil sticks to your shoes Making sure the pitcher's mound, batter's box and home plate areas are in good condition and conform to league requirements Bleachers and Dugouts Keep up with your bleachers and dugouts by: Tightening all nuts and bolts Ensuring an adequate supply of waste bins Removing any litter and debris ensuring wooden sitting areas are free from splinters, protrusions and sharp edges Fencing When checking your fencing, ask yourself: Are the fences in good condition? Does their condition or construction present a potential safety hazard? Are the fences so far out that a home run is a pipe dream, or are kids given a chance to hit it out of the park? Overall Playing Surface For the overall surface, do these things: Remove all tools and baseball field maintenance equipment from the field after completing maintenance Remove any litter and unsafe debris from the playing area Ensure the lighting is in good condition for evening ball Check that sprinkler heads are installed according to the manufacturer's recommendations and don't protrude onto the playing surface Time irrigation systems to accommodate safe play and shut off at an appropriate time so the field is dry before it's used How Often Should You Drag a Baseball Field? Dragging your baseball field ensures the skinned areas stay smooth to eliminate hazards, maintain ideal playability and prevent unsightly divots in the clay. Divots and ruts in the clay regularly occur whenever a baseball field is used. They are unsightly and can contribute to "bad hops" and, worse, sprained ankles and the like. Therefore, it is important to drag the clay after every use, game or practice. The divots can also make good homes for puddles after rainfall, causing further ruts and hazards. If you're looking for a way to improve your baseball field drainage, a good place to start is by investing in a quality dragging system. How Often Should You Aerate a Baseball Field? You should aerate your baseball field at least once every summer, and twice if the soil is especially hard. Plan to conduct soil testing before aerating the field so you know what to expect. If the field requires multiple aerations, space them six weeks apart. Aerating is important as it frees up compacted soil so that more oxygen and water can get to the roots, resulting in healthier grass. Baseball Field Restoration As you go about maintaining your baseball field, you may notice some structures have seen better days. Whether it's the bleachers, dugouts, turf or fences, rundown structures can present safety concerns and make your field appear poorly maintained and unpleasant to look at. In such circumstances, a baseball field restoration may be worth it to protect the safety of everyone playing on the field and watching in the stands, all while transforming the area into something you can feel proud to look at. Consider Improving Your Baseball Field Fencing to Improve Safety and Visibility The chain-link fence has long been the go-to standard for any amateur-level baseball field as a practical and cost-effective solution. It defines the field of play, protects spectators from errant foul balls and prevents anyone from walking onto the field during play. However, there has been a dawning realization that chain-link fences are not necessarily the safest option, especially for young ball players, nor are they all that aesthetically pleasing. They can be unforgiving to run into, are practically immovable, difficult to customize and present serious safety hazards if they have any protruding rusty wires. In response to the downsides of chain-link fences, innovative alternatives that prioritize safety and flexibility without compromising function and playability have sprung to the forefront. One such option is Grand Slam Safety's SPECTO® system, constructed out of tough, weather-resistant weaves. It offers a cradling effect when players run into it at full speed, as opposed to the jagged metal of chain-link fences with no give. SPECTO® fences are safe, removable and highly durable, so you can rely on them for years for various purposes. By upgrading your fencing to one of these alternatives, you will enhance the look of your baseball field and drastically decrease hazards and injuries caused by unsafe or unforgiving fences. Contact Grand Slam Safety for Superior Baseball Field Fencing to Ignite Your Baseball Field Restoration Modernize your baseball field with SPECTO® fencing from Grand Slam Safety! We have been supplying safe and superior baseball field fencing to clients across America since 2008, we and would love to set up your baseball field with our state-of-the-art fencing system. To learn more information about our SPECTO® fencing systems, we invite you to contact us today. Begin the process of installing SPECTO®fences on your field with Grand Slam Safety!

Artificial turf fields have become more popular over the years and have slowly phased out traditional grass fields. Turf allows for year-round sports without worrying about how the weather will affect natural grass. When the weather isn't a factor, sports can be played anywhere — regardless of climate. Other benefits of turf fields include increased play time, fewer injuries and fewer maintenance requirements. With all the benefits turf offers, you might wonder, what is the process for building an artificial turf field? Planning for Installation Planning for artificial turf field installation is a detailed task. The project can take months of planning, meetings and budgeting. A school board or community may have to vote on whether or not to install the field. Understanding the planning and construction process can help ensure success regardless of whether you're building a new field or replacing an existing grass field. The first step in installing a turf field is pre-construction. In this phase, it is crucial to commit to a plan with supporting reasons for the field's implementation. Determining your main reason for undertaking this project can help you determine other factors, including budget, location, timeline and requirements. Location is the next factor to consider. If you plan to replace an existing turf or grass field, the location is known. However, you may not have an exact site picked out if you are considering new construction. You will need to get a soil sample from this area to see if that location is suitable for a turf field to be built. The conditions in the area you want to build may also play a part in the planning process. When building an indoor field, the primary concern is to make sure the ground is suitable for a facility and to create a smooth, level surface for the turf to be placed on. How Much Does a Turf Field Cost? Budget is one of the most critical factors in building an artificial turf field. Knowing how much it costs to build an artificial turf soccer field and other sports fields can help make your purchasing decision easier. The price of your turf field will vary depending on the size of the field you want to develop, the equipment costs, supply costs and labor costs. Replacing an existing turf field often comes with a lower price than a new installation. As an increase to the initial construction cost, you can add a pad to help absorb the impact that a field undergoes. This helps with the longevity of your field and makes future replacements less expensive. Maintenance costs are another factor to consider when installing an artificial turf field. You'll need to account for the cost of chemical disinfectants, additional infill, drainage maintenance, repainting field lines and more. In addition to establishing your budget, you need to figure out where the investment for the field will come from. There are few ways to offset the cost. Consider sharing the field with other teams or schools. This can spread out the financial investment and leverage the amount of use the field will receive. You can also build a multipurpose field that accommodates multiple sports. How Do You Lay Artificial Turf Indoors? After you have determined the facility you want to lay artificial turf in, it’s time to prepare for installation. The following steps detail the process for laying artificial turf indoors: 1. Place Subfloor Creating a solid subfloor for placement is the first step to building a turf field. After the subfloor has undergone the curing process, it’s necessary to clean the floor to remove any remaining chemicals. The cleaning process includes sweeping, vacuuming and mopping to remove dirt, grease and oils that may prevent the shock pad or turf underside from adhering. 2. Plan Turf Once the turf arrives, it needs to be unrolled to fall back into its original shape. At this point, you want to map out where you will place the turf and make any measurements to ensure easy installation. Once you have the turf mapped out, make any necessary cuts while leaving room for joining turf and any extra trimming that needs to be done. 3. Adhere Turf Next, apply the adhesive to the clean subfloor. Once applied, let the adhesive air-dry for 15-30 minutes before laying the artificial turf. The dry time may vary depending on the airflow and temperature of the facility. It is essential to move slowly and only apply adhesive to an area that can effectively be worked. After laying the turf, roll it with a weighted roller per the manufacturer’s installation specs. Use the roller in all directions to help the underside of the turf adhere to the subfloor properly. 4. Add Turf Fill The last step in turf installation is to add the turf fill. Use a power broom to get the turf blades standing up. Then, using a drop spreader, apply the turf fill to the field. The goal is to spread the fill as evenly as possible, press it into the turf and have the blades standing straight up. Sports You Can Play on Artificial Turf The point of an artificial turf field is to replicate the look and feel of natural grass. It is perfect for a variety of sports, including football, soccer, lacrosse, baseball and softball. Colleges, high schools, recreational facilities and professional sports facilities have all been turning to artificial turf as it helps to eliminate many of the problems that plague natural grass fields. Indoor turf fields are sport-ready regardless of the season or weather that may deter outdoor games. Artificial fields can withstand the heavy use that tournaments demand, and they require little maintenance — making them the perfect transition between types of sports. As turf technology has evolved, turf is now a safer option than natural grass as it helps lessen the impact of a player hitting the ground. Choose Grand Slam Safety for Your Indoor Artificial Turf Project If you're looking for reliable safety instructions for your artificial turf football field or other turf sports fields, contact the experts at Grand Slam Safety. We are your go-to business for keeping your turf field safe and looking great. Including our durable netting and fencing products around your indoor turf field can help keep players and spectators safe. Check out our selection of indoor SPECTO® sports fencing today.

If you have a softball or baseball team, installing an indoor or outdoor commercial batting cage will help you hone your skill, train athletes and just have fun. Batting cages are the basic training vehicle for baseball and softball, and with Grand Slam Safety, they can be a reality for you. What Do You Need for Batting Cages? Before you start shopping for batting cages, consider your needs — including how much use the batting cage may get, how many athletes will be using it and what level of ability or athleticism the users will have. Knowing the size of your outdoor space or indoor space and having a budget in mind can help, too. Once you have a general idea, think about comfort and safety. Take a second look at where you want your cage to be. If it’s in an outdoor spot, make sure the sunlight will not cause glare for players. Consider lighting if you want the batting cage accessible at night. How Much Space Do You Need for a Batting Cage? You need enough space for a good swing and room for players and coaches. Standard batting cage netting can be 70 feet by 14 feet wide and about 12 feet high. Custom netting cages and those for more experienced athletes may be higher. You'll need about 4 feet of clearance around the batting cage if there are obstructions nearby, like a chain-link fence or a tree. How Do You Prepare the Ground for a Batting Cage? Before you install an outdoor batting cage, make sure you can dig down for fence posts. Grass will wear down readily and need frequent maintenance, so it's not an ideal surface. Artificial turf stays green and even without much care. You can also choose rubber flooring, which can work for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Professional batting cages sometimes have sports court material or concrete for added durability. Before putting down surfacing, you'll need to smooth out the ground. Outdoors, you can use utility sand. Another option is to box off an area and put down cement under the batting cage for added stability and even ground. How Much Would It Cost to Build a Batting Cage? Costs can vary widely, from a few thousand dollars for a simple outdoor kit to over $80,000 for a professional or commercial batting cage with custom features and multiple batting stations. You'll also need a pitching machine, accessories and hardware. If you're building outdoors, you'll have added costs for features like outdoor lights and artificial turf or rubber mats. Should You Hire a Professional for Batting Cage Installation? It's possible to install a basic backyard or at-home batting cage yourself, especially if your project is for a young child or just for fun. You can use batting cage kits, but be sure to level the ground and make the installation secure and safe. In most cases, it’s best to leave installation to the pros. With a professional installation at home, you can improve the value of your property and ensure safety for anyone practicing in the batting cage. You can even work with a professional team to create a batting cage that you or your athlete can grow into, making it a smart long-term investment. If you have a commercial property or are creating a batting cage for a team, it’s even more important to work with a professional installation team to limit your liability and to ensure the practice space can stand up to more robust use. You'll have peace of mind knowing your batting cage is compliant with all relevant laws. Start Your Batting Cage Frame Construction Today Are you ready to swing for the fences? Grand Slam Safety can help with professional installation services for indoor and outdoor batting cages. Our years of experience will get you in the game and keep you safe. It’s right there in our name. Check out our batting cages today or contact us to discuss your project.

Whether you’re playing soccer, football, baseball or softball, what’s under your feet matters. Some players have strong preferences for either grass or turf, and experts agree that each surface has significant advantages and drawbacks that can impact player performance and safety. The Difference Between Turf and Grass Grass is a natural surface that many players grow up playing on. Grass allows balls to bounce more naturally, and it’s a softer surface to land on. In hot weather, grass has cooling properties. However, this type of field needs to be carefully maintained. Poor preservation can affect passes, kicks, running and player performance. Turf is more predictable, as it's a man-made material designed to look like grass. This surface is often installed with rubber padding underneath. Turf is less likely to suffer quality issues after rain or develop uneven areas. It’s easier to maintain and keep ready for the next big game. Also, balls bounce higher on turf, and the speed of games is faster. Is It Better To Play Football on Grass or Turf? Football can be played on either grass or turf, but many professional games use turf. The fast pace of football makes it well suited to this field surface, which is always short. Turf will also not get churned up during a game, and it provides a flat, even surface for running players. Turf or Grass for Baseball and Softball? Baseball and softball fields can consist of either grass or turf. Practicing baseball is best on indoor turf because it allows players to practice running to catch pop flies without worrying about tearing up the field. For games, grass surfaces are attractive in the summer and can keep players cool. Players may have personal preferences, but both surfaces are effective. Can You Play Soccer Better on Grass or Turf? In soccer, some players enjoy digging their cleats into grass. However, turf allows players to practice and play in all conditions, as rain and other elements don't affect the playing surface as much. This material also provides a more stable playing field. Contact Grand Slam Safety for Turf Installation For more than a decade, Grand Slam Safety has been focused on keeping athletes safe while allowing them to perform at their peak, and that means paying attention to their playing surfaces. We lead the sports construction process through every step so we can maintain quality, and we manufacture, install and provide maintenance for our products. If you’re serious about athlete safety and performance, contact Grand Slam Safety about our sports turf installation.

Visiting a ball field sets you up for an experience like no other. If you're responsible for creating an outdoor baseball or softball field, it's important to plan out your project accordingly. To help you get started, we've created a general guide to how to build a baseball field. Things to Consider When Planning Baseball and Softball Field Construction Before you can begin designing an outdoor ball field, it's important to take a step back and assess your requirements for spectators, coaches and athletes. Baseball and softball fields look different based on their purpose and location. Some of the top considerations for your project are as follows. 1. Safety of Players and Spectators Baseball and softball field construction calls for you to think about how players and spectators will move about the facility. From an athlete's standpoint, the eye is always focused on the ball. Creating level surfaces and padded barriers will help players keep their heads in the game. While professional ball fields are required to have padding, it's not mandatory for college stadiums. Placing durable pads along fences, dugouts and surfaces behind home plate can protect athletes from injury. Spectators can typically sit toward the outfield, behind the batter or along foul lines during a game. Baseline fencing will help to protect attendees from getting hit by a wild pitch or foul ball. You can improve the spectator experience by investing in mesh fencing for visibility. 2. Uses for the Ball Field The dimensions of baseball and softball fields change based on application. If you're creating a baseball field, keep the following measurements in mind: Tee-ball: Bases are positioned 50 feet apart. There are no homerun wall requirements for a tee-ball field. Little League baseball: There should be 46 feet between the pitching rubber and the home plate. Place bases 60 feet from each other. High school and college baseball: A regulation baseball field will have the bases spread 90 feet apart. The distance between home plate and the pitching rubber should be exactly 60 feet and 6 inches. Consider these dimensions for softball field construction: Youth softball (ages 10 and below): Ensure each base is 55 feet from the next. Leave 35 feet between the pitching platform and home. High school and college softball: Regulation dimensions have baselines measuring 60 feet. Keep 43 feet of space between the pitching rubber and home plate. 3. How Many Acres in a Baseball Field? How many acres is a baseball field? On average, you'll need about 4.5 acres of land to complete a regulation-size baseball field with a 90-foot base layout. Softball fields with a 60-foot baseline typically require a minimum of 1.5 acres for just the field. Additional space is necessary for parking and any food stands. 4. Seating Arrangements Think about how many spectators you intend to seat when creating a baseball or softball field. Additional space is necessary for parking and any food stands. 5. Water Drainage All baseball and softball fields fall under a native soil, modified native soil, sand-based or synthetic turf design. Grading down surfaces is necessary to ensure the playing field is flat. In some cases, professional builders will construct baseball and softball fields on top of sand and gravel layers to promote drainage after inclement weather. 6. Access to Experts Field consultants and professional installers can guide you through the baseball field construction process. It's a good idea to hire a qualified surveyor. You'll also need someone to perform a soil analysis to determine whether you should treat or replace the native topsoils for drainage purposes. Equipment and Materials Needed to Create a Ball Field During the budgeting process, be sure to account for equipment and materials needed to host a game and maintain playing surfaces. Some of the items on this list are more expensive than others, but all are essential for the upcoming season: Bleachers: Evaluate seating requirements and be sure to purchase enough installations for friends, family and local fans. Make a point to account for the traveling team, too. Bases: No baseball or softball field is complete without bases. These can be reused, and you should store them in an enclosed area. Fencing: Baseball fences offer a way to enclose the playing area and keep players and spectators safe. Netting: Incorporating baseball or softball netting is a great way to create indoor practice facilities near your ballpark. Dugouts: Extra padding and materials will be necessary to build dugouts for the home and traveling teams. Field maintenance equipment: Protective tarps, rakes, carts and drag mats will help you keep your field in top condition. How Much to Build a Softball or Baseball Field? You can expect to spend anywhere from a few hundred dollars if you're repairing an existing field to tens of thousands of dollars if you're starting from scratch. Your baseball or softball field project will range in price depending on your intended purpose. Although your average costs included when constructing a ballfield may vary, setting a budget for your project long before construction begins is the best way to bring your vision to life with fewer risks. There are ways you can cut costs when constructing a baseball or softball field. Consider how often teams will be using the ball field to determine which features are appropriate for your applications. For example, opting for real grass versus artificial turf is one way you can reduce the total price. While real grass calls for routine seeding and upkeep, it's less expensive upfront. You can also lower the costs of building a baseball or softball field by purchasing portable fencing. Affordable outdoor fencing options enable you to change the layout of the park to meet the standards of youth, high school and college games. Purchase Baseball and Softball Fencing From Grand Slam Safety Grand Slam Safety is your source for custom solutions for all of your sporting needs. We have durable fencing products that work to keep spectators and athletes safe during the biggest games of the season. Save money during the design and installation stages of your construction project by browsing our removable baseball fencing sections online. We also offer softball fencing products to help you phase out chain link installations. If you have any questions about creating a baseball or softball field, we're here to help. Contact us online to learn more about our offerings.