Athletic Complex

[RatFink]

I managed to peruse the new athletic facilities this afternoon.

First the new outdoor practice field is nearly complete. It has four

tall light standards with what appears to be decent illumination

potential. Haven't seen it lit up so I'm not sure.

The new turf is slightly different from the AstroPlay of the Rubber Bowl

and fieldhouse. The new turf is called Pro Grass. Other than not

having a deep under base it is pretty much the same as the others.

The whole field simply slopes 1 and 1/2 degrees for drainage.

The field includes permanent yellow lines for soccer.

The sod/grass portion was still just dirt. But, was being actively

being groomed today.

Next, I wormed my way inside the new student/athlete complex.

First, its HUGE. Note, I said HUGE not just big. Everything about

it is HUGE.

The basketball courts look several times more impressive than

the pictures on the web. Each court has its own scoreboard.

Some offices in the complex are already occupied.

The pool area looks ready for use and includes a glass wall

through which you can see into Ocasek.

Lots and lots of carpet.

Lots of machines still to be set up.

The climbing wall is just completed today.

A worker from the firm doing the interior work told me that this

whole complex is almost as nice as the one that Louisiana State

is considering building. The crew is based in Baton Rogue.

The football practice field is mind boggling. Talk about HUGE.

The diffuse ceiling lighting made the field a bit erie with the cloud

cover and no interior lights on.

I quickly retreated having encountered a couple of UA police

in the building.

The complex will do the Zips proud.