A big boon for sports, safe for players

July 19, 2012 12:00 am | Updated 04:41 am IST

The recent Fr. M. Devasia Memorial Inter School Basketball Tournament saw a major innovation, which, if replicated in schools and educational institutions, could prove a big boon for sports.

For the first time in the tournament’s decade-long run, the half-day spent in installing SnapSports’ interlocking modular flooring was well worth the effort. Not only did it conceal the ugly concrete surface under, but gave the players a free run on court, enhancing performance and yet preventing serious injury.

International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Commissioner Norman Isaac, familiar with the surface, having seen it at a Youth Nationals previously and the PSG College, Coimbatore, was quite impressed.

“This flooring enables players to move fast, reducing not only the scope, but also the impact of injury, when they fall. Thanks to the grip and sound footing it provides, players are a lot more comfortable,” said the experienced FIBA referee, who has officiated in many international events.

While it cannot match the FIBA specified Canadian maple wood surface used indoors for most standard competitions, there are several factors favouring SnapSports’ surface. “The interlocking tiles can be fitted both indoors and outdoors, drainage of water from rain is instant and needs no maintenance. Add to it the 12-year warranty shield the firm assures, the buyer can be certain of value for money,” says Lt. Col. John K. John (Retd.), Director, Operations, Great Sports Infra.

It’s versatility of usage, easy-to-install-dismantle, non-maintenance and portability aspects, as also it’s injury-free/dust-free turf have been well-received. Some educational institutions such as Jain International School (Hyderabad and Aurangabad), The Aryan School (Dehradun), Vagdevi Vilas School (Bangalore), Chirec Public School (Hyderabad) and Miranda House Women’s College (Delhi) have already installed SnapSports.

With thousands of installations worldwide, it continues to be the preferred modular surface for amateur and professional level play and could well redefine sports infrastructure in India.

A. JOSEPH ANTONY

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