Question/Delima about grass infields.

SIBullets,

Ouch, I think I can see where the problems are.

1. Is the 54' "mound" going to be flat?

2. The base paths are going to be the real problem. I suppose you could cut the infield grass in 10 feet and use "baseplugs that are flush to the ground when not using that base. It is going to look funky which ever way you go. I think that is why those length diamonds are skinned. Another solution is to do what UIC is doing and turf-grass in the entire field. You could do only the infield. I'm sure it's very expensive but it would solve the problem.

3. Maybe it's time for the JR High to play "BIG"

BTW- Maybe contact the UIC AD and find out what they plan on doing with the infield sod. PM me and I can set you up with a contact there.

RZ. Thanks. I have spoken to their coaches about our players but not the AD. Lots of problems. The only good part is that the jr high plays in the fall and us in the spring. I have thought about the playing big also. I dont think the jr high coach would go for it. I am inquiring in to Fieldturf for just the infield but I am sure it will be too expensive. I think my best optioon at this point would be to go cutting the corners off long to get the bases in the dirt. I have sent a pm for the info. Thanks again.

RZ has laid out the options. I would push for #3.

Cutting back the IF grass just enough to accomodate the 80' bases is not that huge a deal. But the mound is problematic. Either the 60' mound is very high, or the 54' mound is nearly flat.

The mound is the least of my worries. I wouldnt mind if they pitch off a little slope anyways. I could always fix the damage after the fall season. We played at a HS in Indiana this summer that had the bases rounded out quite a bit instead of squared off. I might consider that method since it didnt look to bad.

i think it's a great idea for the jr.high to play pony league dimensions.the kids are just coming out of ll and it's a good transition.
maybe you leave the grass in 10 feet like you say but do the mound over after the fall ,the school must have a grounds crew? we bought a portable mound for fall ball as we take all the mounds out for kick ball.

Field my son practices on has to accommodate both 54' and 60' pitching. That league moves home plate and has 2 sets of foul lines / foul poles. Home to first and 3rd to home basepaths are grass.

I think you make them play big. Don't give them a choice....the big kids need a grass infield. This ain't softball.