Baumwelt served as sports field designer and project manager for the conversion of the University of Puget Sound’s Logger Baseball Field infield from natural dirt to a state-of-the-art synthetic turf system designed to meet NCAA standards.
The project addressed long-standing drainage and playability challenges that had frequently resulted in standing water and rainouts. In the past, university staff and players often had to undertake extensive maintenance efforts to dry the infield and restore playable conditions. The new synthetic turf infield was designed to provide a consistent, high-quality playing surface that supports reliable use throughout the season.
A key innovation in the project was the incorporation of a subsurface drainage system integrated within a shock pad beneath the turf. The shock pad features drainage grooves that efficiently direct stormwater to a collector trench, reducing the overall drainage footprint while improving system performance. In addition to improving drainage, the shock pad enhances athlete safety by providing impact attenuation across the playing surface. The pad manufacturer guarantees that the surface hardness will remain below specified thresholds for the first 25 years of installation, helping reduce the risk of head injuries and joint stress.
Throughout the design process, Derrick worked closely with university leadership and athletics staff to guide key decisions. This included organizing site visits to previously installed fields and connecting the university with past clients so they could evaluate similar systems in operation. This collaborative approach ensured the university felt fully informed and confident in their selections.
The project also incorporated updates aligned with recent NCAA rule changes, ensuring the facility will remain compliant for future seasons while delivering a durable and high-performing field for Logger Baseball.
The completed turf infield significantly improved the reliability and playability of Logger Baseball Field while reducing ongoing maintenance demands. By combining innovative drainage design with enhanced player safety features, the project demonstrates Baumwelt’s ability to deliver technically sophisticated athletic facilities that balance performance, durability, and athlete well-being.