New Pivot Performance Turf Soccer Field at Oakland Elementary School Enhances Student Engagement and Inclusivity

New Soccer Field Installation at Burckhalter Elementary

On February 5, 2026, Burckhalter Elementary School in Oakland, California celebrated the installation of a brand new Pivot® Performance Turf soccer field, marking a significant enhancement in student wellness and community engagement. The project, undertaken by TenCate in partnership with Valley Precision Grading (VPG) and Synthetic Grass Warehouse (SGW), created the only dedicated green space available on the school's campus.

The new turf, designed specifically for performance and safety, does not require the use of black crumb rubber or any infills yet still provides a natural grass feel and functionality under high-intensity play. This innovative surface aims to encourage physical activity among students while also ensuring their safety during play.

The installation was part of a broader initiative funded in part by the Playing for Keeps Association. The Pivot field and accompanying agility mat were officially revealed during the Vincent Country Safe Zone Activity Day, hosted by Cigna Healthcare on February 3, 2026. This event focused on promoting wellness, education, and empowerment for students, and it featured various fitness sessions led by former NFL athletes, NFL Flag programming, and several skills challenges.

Joe Fields, CEO of TenCate Americas, praised the collaboration, stating, "The VPG and SGW teams delivered exceptional play surfaces on an accelerated timeline, and we are incredibly proud of their craftsmanship and commitment. At TenCate, we aim to create safe places for students to learn, play, and grow."

The installation of the soccer field and agility mat is seen as much more than just a donation. Tommi Vincent, co-founder of Love Thy Neighbor CDC, emphasized its importance: "The donation and installation of a full-sized youth turf soccer field and the agility turf is more than a gift; it's a commitment to growth, inclusion, and possibility. This investment ensures every child at Burckhalter Elementary for generations to come has a space to move, play, and feel seen."

TenCate Grass: Pioneers in Turf Solutions

TenCate Grass stands out as a leader in the synthetic turf industry, boasting over 300 years of expertise and a global presence in more than 60 countries. Their team is committed to designing and delivering high-performance turf systems that cater to sports, landscaping, and outdoor living needs. The company employs approximately 5,000 people worldwide, who work in collaboration with local experts to ensure the highest standards in all projects.

The Pivot® Performance Turf not only enhances the play experience but also represents a significant step towards making sports accessible and safe for every child. As schools increasingly focus on the mental and physical well-being of their students, initiatives like this serve to bridge the gap between educational and recreational environments, providing inclusive spaces that are vital for personal development and community engagement.

Overall, the new soccer field at Burckhalter Elementary is poised to make a lasting impact on the students and the local community, emphasizing the importance of active play in the formative years of education. With ongoing support from organizations like the Playing for Keeps Association and visionary companies like TenCate, the future of play at Burckhalter Elementary looks brighter than ever.