Tarleton State University, a member of the Texas A&M University System, awarded Hellas Construction the contracts to renovate the surfaces and stadium infrastructure of multiple athletic facilities on campus.
In July 2020, Tarleton State University accepted an invitation to join the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) and NCAA Division I. This move will impact student athletes for Tarleton’s 16 intercollegiate sports.
“Hellas is so pleased to be a part of the transformation going on at Tarleton State University,” said Hellas Business Development Manager, Mark Ball. “Dr. James Hurley is a great leader with a vision for making Tarleton a trend setter in the world of higher education. We are privileged to be a partner with them on numerous athletic projects. We enjoy working with the campus operations and the athletic department as they reclassify to NCAA Division I.”
The first phase of the multi-phase contract features renovations to Tarleton State University’s baseball, softball, and soccer fields.
Baseball/softball
Hellas installed Major Play Matrix synthetic turf with Ecotherm infill on the baseball and softball fields, plus a champions wall with new lighting fixtures. Major Play Matrix synthetic turf delivers consistent and predictable ball response, a shock-absorbent field of play and Helix Technology that adds memory and strength to the fibers, so the fibers spring back quickly after use. Ecotherm infill is a highly permeable non-toxic infill that provides temperature reduction up to 30⁰F and requires no water.
Soccer
Resurfacing of the stand-alone soccer field will include Matrix Real M, Soteria shock pads, Ecotherm infill, and new fencing, which has been completed. Matrix Real M has a unique blade shape and construction that encourages blade recovery.
Track and field
In March 2022, construction began on a new intramural track and field facility with retaining walls. Tarleton State selected an epiQ Tracks Z5000 system for the running track. The Z5000 is optimal for elite performance and used in Division I intercollegiate competition. The track is a 13 mm full pour system with high grade polyurethane and rubber, and it is certified by World Athletics, the international governing body for Track and Field. Certification rating confirms the track provides ideal shock absorption, firmness (vertical deformation), friction, and strength.
Once complete, the entire facility will also receive World Athletics certification. Earning World Athletics certification requires that the track and field facility must be designed and constructed to exacting standards and tolerances to ensure that all line measurements, distances, and elevations meet the stringent requirements for international and elite competition imposed by World Athletics.
The multi-purpose field inside the track will feature a FusionH XP2 synthetic turf system with RealFill infill, and new fencing. FusionH XP2 incorporates Helix shaped monofilament fibers and dual colored slit film fibers for a system that provides excellent durability, athletic performance, and aesthetics.
Stadium expansion
During summer 2022, Hellas crews will remove the existing running track and install 6,500-8,000 seats in a new end-zone bleacher system plus a scoreboard at Memorial Stadium.