By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
In mid-February the ceremonial ribbon was cut at the Great Bend Sports Complex to celebrate the completion of the installation of artificial turf at the five ballfields. Less than two months later, the Great Bend High School baseball and softball teams are breaking in the new playing surfaces.
GBHS baseball coach Randy Beck said the turf infields have already played a big role in keeping practices scheduled.
"In the past on dirt when we got moisture, it was questionable whether we were going to get on," said Beck. "We've been able to have way more practices because of the turf. We also play almost all of our games on turf. When you get to practice on turf and play on turf that is a definite plus, especially for our infielders."
USD 428 contributed $280,000 to the $1.37 million turf project handled by Hellas Construction. The Great Bend Recreation Commission added $200,000 and the City of Great Bend picked up the remaining expense. All three entities will get to experience the rewards of the turf infields and bullpen areas.
"It's been great for us," said Beck. "We don't have dust or dirt blowing in our face. We always have the opportunity to get clean, ground balls and not have to worry about lips or skipping on the dirt."
Both the high school baseball and softball teams play their home games at the Sports Complex. The Great Bend Recreation Commission will also make use of the facility along with dozens of tournaments this spring, summer and fall.
The Sports Complex joins Barton Community College with turfed baseball and softball facilities in Great Bend.