Xavier University Joins an Elite List of DoublePlay Baseball Programs

Xavier University has recently completed the conversion of J. Page Hayden Field from natural grass to FieldTurf’s baseball system, DoublePlay Series. The Xavier Musketeers join an elite list of programs that have opted to make the move to synthetic, a growing trend amongst elite NCAA baseball programs.

Conference champions in 2009, 2014, 2016 and 2017, Xavier University now competes in the Big East Conference. The Musketeers join programs like the University of Oregon, University of Louisiana Monroe, University of Notre Dame, University of Tennessee and University of Illinois to surface their venue with FieldTurf’s DoublePlay Series, to name a few.

“When we explored the available systems, it was clear that we wanted FieldTurf” said Billy O’Conner, Head Baseball Coach, Xavier University. “The science behind their product was impressive and their team was able to translate our needs & vision into a product that we could install on our field. The feedback from our team has been all positive and I can feel the group is excited and proud of their new home.”

In developing the product, FieldTurf analyzed ball-surface interaction, speed and consistency on a variety of systems and emulated the best results. DoublePlay Speed, and its counterpart, DoublePlay Natural, also was inspired and created in part via a collaboration between the company, players and coaches.

The field’s infill features PureSelect, an environmentally friendly product made from olive cores and designed to deliver all the benefits of a natural infill system, as well as provide heat reduction. Its heavyweight design mitigates infill migration, and the system does not require irrigation or annual replenishment.

The project was completed in collaboration with The Vasco Group, an Official FieldTurf Partner.

“From start to finish, the FieldTurf and Vasco teams have showcased their experience and knowledge. Our experience has been nothing short of extraordinary. We’d happily recommend FieldTurf and Vasco for programs interested in converting to artificial turf.” Tim Trucco, Director of Construction, Xavier University.

Why FieldTurf DoublePlay?

As artificial turf for baseball is quickly increasing in popularity, many collegiate programs, communities and facility owners are starting to weigh the advantages and cost of installing a synthetic surface instead of natural grass.

Here are key reasons why baseball should be played on artificial turf:

• Over a 10-year period, the cost per hour of a synthetic turf is less expensive than natural grass. Per a report prepared by Atlanta-based planning, engineering and landscape architecture firm Eberly & Associates for Woodward Academy.
• True playability and predictability. The FieldTurf Doubplay Series was engineered to consistently perform like a premier grass field. No more guesswork.
• Reduced maintenance and less abrasion.
• Less rainouts and increased practice and play time. FieldTurf DoublePlay is designed for all-weather playability, allowing programs to start their season earlier and finish later.