In recent years, hockey has rapidly gained popularity in Turkey at both amateur and professional levels. Although the Turkish Hockey Federation was established in 2002, the history of field hockey in the country dates back to the pre-Republic era.
Historical records show that field hockey was played among schools and communities even before the foundation of the Republic, particularly in major cities such as Istanbul and Izmir. Tournaments held in the 1920s and 1930s reflect the deep-rooted tradition of hockey in Turkey.
Today, field hockey is played at a professional level on dedicated synthetic turf hockey fields developed through modern infrastructure investments. These fields are constructed with artificial turf surfaces, which are more durable, cost-effective, and weather-resistant compared to natural grass. Synthetic surfaces enhance athlete performance while meeting federation-level requirements.
Hockey Match at Tokyo 2020 Olympics – olympics.com
In accordance with international hockey standards, modern fields incorporate shock-absorbing pad layers, specially engineered artificial turf fibers, and professional drainage infrastructure. As a result, synthetic turf hockey fields ensure player safety and support high-tempo gameplay.
How Is a Synthetic Turf Hockey Field Built?
The construction process of a modern field hockey pitch involves three primary stages:
Perimeter Fencing and Lighting Systems
For safety and spectator separation, fencing and lighting installations are completed:
- Foundation channels are excavated, formwork is installed, and BS20 concrete is poured and cured.
- Anchor pipes are welded with vertical and horizontal support pipes, reinforced with diagonal “X” cross bracing.
- Galvanized and PVC-coated mesh fencing with 50×50 mm spacing is installed.
- 4-meter steel cables are tensioned along the long sides and goal lines for additional support.
- 4 galvanized lighting poles with maintenance platforms are erected, each fitted with 1000W metal halide projectors.
Substructure and Drainage Systems
A professional base layer ensures structural integrity and water drainage:
- The ground is graded into a crown shape and compacted to prevent water accumulation.
- Drainage trenches of 50×50 cm are excavated in a herringbone pattern for water discharge.
- Geotextile fabric and sand bedding are laid, followed by the placement of flexible perforated pipes (drenflex), which are sealed using the wrapping method.
- Crushed stone or plant mix backfill is applied, and a concrete or asphalt layer is poured.
- A total of 5 rainwater manholes (1 main and 4 auxiliary) are constructed.
- For the irrigation system, a water tank, sprinkler heads, and control manhole are installed.
Artificial Turf Installation
The most critical phase of a hockey field is the application of synthetic turf, which directly impacts performance:
- A full surface Shock Pad is laid beneath the turf to ensure impact absorption.
- Synthetic turf rolls are spread across the field and joined at the seams using polyurethane-based adhesive tape.
- Field lines (white or yellow) are cut to precise measurements and securely bonded to the surface.
Upon completion of these steps, the hockey pitch is fully prepared for official matches and international competitions.