Optimizing FC Twente’s stadium pitch

A case study for field managers

In professional football, the quality of the pitch is more than a cosmetic concern, it’s a critical element of performance, safety, and reputation. FC Twente, a top-tier Dutch football club, recently completed a comprehensive renovation of its stadium field at De Grolsch Veste. The project showcases how technological innovation, sustainability, and expert leadership can converge to produce an elite playing surface. For field managers across the sports world, it offers actionable insights into modern turf management.

Leading with expertise: Henry de Weert’s vision
At the heart of the renovation project stands Henry de Weert, FC Twente’s experienced field manager. Turf management runs in his blood – his grandfather and father were both greenkeepers – and de Weert has applied that legacy with passion and precision since joining the club in 2010.

His approach to pitch care centers on one key principle: control. “I now have many more levers to pull,” de Weert said, referring to the new systems integrated into the field. This greater control allows him to respond with accuracy to weather changes, match schedules, and turf health, ensuring a consistently high-quality surface. His work reflects a blend of tradition and innovation, where deep-rooted knowledge meets advanced technology.

Smart infrastructure: The DrainTalent Pro-system
A core component of the renovation was the installation of the DrainTalent-pro system, a high-tech solution for soil and water management that offers unprecedented oversight. The system is embedded 35 centimeters below the surface and consists of a network of drainage pipes connected to a centralized pump and filtration unit. This setup is governed by software that constantly monitors and fine-tunes the overall soil moisture level.

The ability to actively drain or infiltrate water to the pitch ensures that the turf stays at optimal moisture levels, regardless of external weather conditions. This creates a more stable growing environment and dramatically reduces the chance of waterlogging or dry areas.

For each match, de Weert uses the DrainTalent flush cycle. This involves the infiltration of a specific amount of water, which is then extracted shortly afterwards. These cycles create an ideal recovery environment for the pitch after matches.

De Weert also insisted on including manual override valves to complement the system’s automation. In the event of a power outage or technical failure, these valves allow for direct control over drainage, a crucial fail-safe for any field manager reliant on automated systems.

Sustainable water use: Drawing from local sources
One of the standout sustainability measures in the renovation was the decision to draw water from the nearby Twente Canal. This move away from tap water use significantly reduces environmental impact and operational costs. Water is extracted from the canal, filtered to meet irrigation standards, and then used by the DrainTalent system to maintain turf health.

This approach addresses two key challenges in modern turf care: environmental responsibility and resource efficiency. It also reflects a broader trend in sports facility management to find local, renewable sources for field maintenance needs.

Turf composition: Hybrid grass system
To enhance the durability and resilience of the pitch, FC Twente opted for a hybrid grass system. This involves sowing a blend of natural grass and stitching artificial fibers, resulting in a surface that can withstand the rigors of frequent matches and training sessions.

The choice of the appropriate grass seed mixture was made in consultation with experts in the field. The final blend included 100% tetraploid and diploid ryegrass varieties, known for their durability and aesthetic appeal.

Additionally, improvements to the soil composition and the addition of high-quality topdressing material laid the foundation for strong, resilient root development, a non-negotiable for stadium fields that face frequent use.

Conclusion
The transformation of FC Twente’s stadium pitch is a compelling example of what can be achieved through the right combination of technology, expertise, and environmental awareness. For field managers, it reinforces the value of proactive planning and investment in systems that offer long-term returns, both in turf quality and sustainability.

Whether managing a local training ground or an international stadium, the principles applied at FC Twente can guide decisions and inspire innovations that make a measurable difference. The future of turf management isn’t just greener, it’s smarter.