Old Game Gets New Life in Peotone

Park District Engages STI to Install Synthetic Turf Bocce Court

Peotone, Illinois, May 5, 2006 – The modern age of Bocce Ball officially began this spring when STI (Synthetic Turf of Illinois) completed the area’s first outdoor synthetic turf Bocce Ball court for the Peotone Park District at the village’s main community park.

Bocce Ball as it is known today was popularized in America by the Italians, but is believed to have first been played by the ancient Egyptians 7200 years ago. Traditional court surfaces are made from oyster shells and clay. Today, Peotone area residents can play on the most evolved Bocce surface yet, chosen by the park district for its durability and easy maintenance. Plans are underway for a summer tournament and possible leagues in the future.

According to Randy Cross, Director of the Peotone Park District, reaction from area players has been very favorable, particularly about the trueness of the surface. In Bocce, the surface must allow the balls to roll fast, but not bounce. Ease of maintenance and quick drainage are also important considerations. According to STI President Doug Steeves, the 3/4" nylon fringe material STI used for the surface fills the requirements perfectly.

About working with STI, Cross said, “I have been very pleased with the professional manner in which STI went about the installation. They consulted with me prior to beginning work and completed the installation in a timely manner. Their attention to detail and the care they took to leave the area clean and neat is very much appreciated.”

STI is an authorized distributor for Synthetic Turf International. STI offers custom design and expert installation of top quality professional putting and chipping greens, bocce ball courts, artificial grass, sport fields, and backyard turf. For more information, visit www.syntheticturfofillinois.com or call 815-462-TURF (8873).