A qualitative vision of artificial turf football fields: Elite players and coaches

Abstract

This study identified the most important parameters for the design and safety of artificial turf football fields according to professional footballers and coaches. Two semi-structured interviews were conducted. The sample consisted of 32 professional players and 25 professional coaches. The players and coaches emphasised that the main problem with artificial turf was the increased risk of injury. The consensus of the interviewees was that it is essential for artificial turf to be installed gradually in elite competitions, starting with youth football. It would allow players to be slowly acclimatised to the surface through their developmental stages. When they reach elite competitions, they would be able to play comfortably either on natural or artificial turf with fewer problems.

Keywords: Sport facilities; Surface; Safety; Satisfaction; Perception

South African Journal for Research in Sport, Physical Education and Recreation, 2013, 35(2): 105-120