New high-tech turf installation underway at Canutillo

The football field at Canutillo stands out for obvious reasons. Namely, it’s blue.

But the new turf being installed this spring will stick out for more reasons than its unusual color.

Hellas Construction is busy installing a new blue field that features a “Cushdrain” elastic layer that is paved into place.

That bottom layer of the field improves drainage and also increases shock absorption to help reduce concussions, according to the company.

It’s similar technology to the fields the Cowboys and Texans play on in the pro ranks – also built by Hellas. For the Canutillo Eagles, it was a worthwhile investment.

“You know, we’re very lucky that the school board and the district has decided to invest in this kind of turf. I won’t be here when they replace it again, but the kids are really excited about it because, you know, you mention the Dallas Cowboys to them and it’s a big deal,” said Canutillo football coach and athletic director Scott Brooks. “And talking about how some of the colleges have it, it’s neat.”

In addition to the improved drainage and overall quality, the company says the softness of the field helps players perform at their best.

“What we hear very often at Hellas is not only does the field look and play much better, but also it’s softer,” said Hellas spokesperson Jeff Power. “It has a feel to it that is almost like a ‘spring-into-action’ for the athletes. It’s really an opportunity to not only look good out there, but feel good.”

Hellas states that they built approximately 90-percent of the fields used for high school football and soccer in El Paso.

“You can take some of the classic stadiums in El Paso like Jones Stadium, home of the El Paso Tigers, and it takes it to a whole new level,” said Power. “Here’s a stadium that was built in 1916, and yet with that turf and that El Paso skyline in the background, it’s a phenomenal look.”