Putting the Boot in!
Victoria Park’s world-class ‘third generation’ (3G) artificial grass pitch is already being heralded as transformative for match play here in Guernsey. We put this state-of-the-art surface under the spotlight to identify the many benefits it will deliver for footy fans, including a better player experience, and how we can all work to keep it in tip-top condition.
What are the benefits of 3G football pitches?
Artificial grass pitches (AGPs) provide a high-quality, durable surface that enables safe year-round sport. According to Sport England, a properly maintained pitch can sustain an average of up to 50 hours of use a week and around 1,400 playing opportunities. This is a vast improvement on grass pitches, which can withstand around six hours a week and 100 playing opportunities.
More importantly, 3G pitches can withstand virtually all weather conditions, meaning players can engage in sport and physical activity come rain or shine and with minimal cancellations.
Does the game change on a 3G surface?
Research commissioned by FIFA, and undertaken by Prozone, studied over 100 games and concluded that match play doesn’t change significantly between natural grass and 3G football turf surfaces. As on natural turf, ball roll and foot-surface reaction are better when the surface is wet, but pitches don’t need water to play on to meet football’s requirements.
Are there more injuries on 3G pitches?
FIFA commissioned research into 3G pitches to identify any trends relating to injuries. Over 10,000 injuries were compared, concluding that there was no significant difference in the types and number of injuries between natural grass and 3G football turf surfaces.
What boots should I wear to play on the 3G football pitch at Victoria Park?
Footwear can have a significant impact on 3G pitches. The right choice of footwear helps to prevent injury, improves the player experience and protects the surface. The pitch at Victoria Park has a long pile turf that gives a realistic grass feel whilst also being able to withstand heavy use. To keep the pitch in peak condition, players must ONLY use Artificial Grass (“AG”) boots to stop the fibres from becoming compressed and damaging the surface.
Here is a selection of useful AG sites which can cater for all needs and budgets:
https://www.adidas.co.uk/artificial_grass-football-shoes
https://www.adidas.co.uk/copa-mundial-boots/015110.html
What can’t I wear on the 3G Pitch?
The following footwear is prohibited, and players will not be allowed to enter the playing surface wearing the following:
- Bladed boots
- Boots with metal studs
- Flat-soled training shoes
- Everyday shoes
- Astro (dimpled) trainers
You can learn more about Victoria Park’s world-class 3G pitch here, and for more information about our new ‘Boot Locker’ scheme, in partnership with Aztech, click here.
