Goddard High School joined a growing list of clients Hellas Construction is adding to their resume. A company committed to customer service, Hellas impressed Facilities Director Craig Phelps and their proximity to Goddard was a big factor.
“Six months before they started working we sat down with Hellas to determine design, type of turf, colors and layout. Once we had board approval we were able to start the work. Hellas had an office in Wichita and that was a big factor for me. If something happened to the field at 2pm during gym class, I knew they could be there to fix it by 6pm when the game is about to start,” said Phelps.
Goddard Athletic Director Brian Buchanan was sold on the quality of the field Hellas installs and replacing the astro turf was a big step for the school.
“At Goddard we were very fortunate to be able to replace our turf with Hellas at District Stadium. The quality of turf Hellas provides is being used by teams all over the country including the NFL,” said Buchanan.
The varsity football field is shared between Goddard and Eisenhower. Eisenhower Athletic Director Eric Armstrong was very familiar with Hellas and what they brought to the table.
“We share a varsity football field with Goddard,” said Armstrong. “We have our own facility on our campus that we play soccer and sub varsity football. It is a Hellas field as well. Both schools are also getting baseball and softball turf right now as well.”
For Phelps, not having to prepare a field after inclement weather is a big advantage for the teams and his staff.
“The fact that our baseball and softball teams can have a field that’s playable after bad weather is huge. We play 17 games and many years they were only able to play 12. That put them at a huge disadvantage for the playoffs. Plus the turf is just safer. No funny hops unlike real grass,” said Phelps.
Mr. Buchanan pointed out the construction on other facilities continues as they prepare other venues with the Hellas product.
“Hellas actually just finished our baseball and softball fields this past month. Amazingly, the company started in September and completed the turf and fencing the first part of December. Currently they are installing new turf, track, and lights at the Challenger Complex used by both middle schools in the Goddard School District,” said Buchanan.
One quality you continually hear from Athletic Directors when discussing Hellas and the process, is their incredible customer service.
“Hellas’ costumer service and work ethos have been unbelievable,” said Armstrong. “Fields provide a safest play environment possible. Having Hellas fields also provide a faculty that our student, coaches and fans can be proud of.”
