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Strength Coaches and Turf Selection

In recent years, the role of strength and conditioning coaches has evolved significantly, particularly in how they influence the selection of athletic turf. A crucial discussion point at the upcoming Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association (CSCCa) National Conference in Fort Worth, Texas, is centered around the new innovations in synthetic turf, particularly focusing on TenCate's Pivot® Performance Turf. This advancement underscores the changing priorities of athletic programs that are increasingly realizing the impact of playing surfaces on performance and injury prevention.

The Shift in Focus

Traditionally, the decision-making process surrounding turf selection was dominated by facility management teams, who emphasized durability and maintenance. However, as strength coaches become more involved, the approach is shifting towards assessing how these surfaces can affect athletes' training routines and overall performance consistency throughout the season. According to Joe Fields, CEO of TenCate Americas, “Facilities teams and performance staff are working more closely together, combining their perspectives,” acknowledging that consistent performance in turf is essential for maintaining athlete availability.

The Advantages of Pivot Performance Turf

TenCate's Pivot Performance Turf is engineered without performance infill, making it a revolutionary product designed to mimic natural grass while eliminating the drawbacks commonly associated with traditional synthetic options. Athletes benefit from consistent traction, which enhances speed, acceleration, and change of direction while drastically reducing the risk of injuries. Mitch Hauschildt, the Prevention, Rehabilitation, and Physical Performance Coordinator at Missouri State University, reports lower rates of lower extremity injuries since installing the Pivot turf at their football stadium. He states, “Pivot encourages our athletes to be more efficient movers and play within their physical capabilities.”

The importance of this cannot be overstated, especially when considering that athletic programs aim to maintain consistent performance across their rosters. Athletes are more likely to remain available for training and competition when they train on adequate surfaces.

Experience Pivot Firsthand at CSCCa

At the CSCCa conference, TenCate will exhibit its Pivot turf at Booths 228 and 230, offering attendees the chance to experience the innovative surface firsthand. Additionally, TenCate supports conference activities by providing a dedicated area for hands-on demonstrations, where coaches can test the turf’s performance through various running patterns typically used during training sessions. This direct experience allows coaches to assess how well the surface holds up under repeated use and how it meets their high standards for predictability and performance.

Dr. Colin Young, TenCate’s Global Director of Research and Development, emphasizes that even small-scale tests can effectively illustrate the feel and response of the turf: “Once they're in cleats and moving, even in a small space, they can start to feel how the surface responds and whether it's consistent from step to step.”

Enhancing Player Safety and Performance

As conversations around turf selection evolve, the emphasis on athlete safety, performance, and minimizing injury risk remains paramount. Everyone involved in the decision-making process seeks predictability in playing surfaces, which can significantly aid in managing workloads and controlling athlete fatigue. The insights gathered from coaches about how a surface supports their athlete's day-to-day needs have become a critical aspect of turf selection.

The trend indicates a future where strength and conditioning coaches are key players not just in athlete preparation but also in the fundamental aspects of athletic program infrastructure like turf. The CSCCa conference is set to open discussions that could reshape how collegiate athletic programs evaluate and select playing surfaces for years to come.

To summarize, the integration of strength and conditioning insights into turf selection is a crucial development that reflects a broader trend towards enhancing athlete performance while maintaining safety. As demonstrated by TenCate’s Pivot Performance Turf, there are innovative solutions available that meet the demands of today’s athletic programs, ensuring that athletes can train effectively and sustainably.

For more information on TenCate and its innovative turf solutions, visit www.tencategrass.us.