Soccer Field Lighting

rowing popularity of soccer in the United States hasinstalling soccer field lighting due to the high voltage
lead to a subsequent rise in the number of leagueslevels that are being used.
that play recreationally. As a result, soccer fields haveSoccer field lighting needs to be mounted properly on
been popping up in various places, and they must bepoles. The US Soccer Foundation recommends
properly lit for the night-time safety of the players.always using galvanized steel poles and mounting
When looking to install soccer field lighting, it is bestassemblies. To mount just two fixtures on a metal
to consult with an electrician and local municipalpole requires a light angle iron cross arm for metal
outdoor lighting codes. Another prime resource hailspoles. This is for use with the all the soccer field
from the US Soccer Foundation, which offerslighting fixtures sold. There are also options for 3 and
recommendations for soccer field lighting for optimal4 lights for either metal or wooden poles. The poles
illumination.should be placed at least 20 feet from the sideline
Lighting needs vary depending upon the size of theand outside of fences to avoid injury. The lights
field and the number of spectators. For example, ashould be mounted at a height to minimize glare for
field 180' x 330'designed for nighttime competitionthe spectators and spillage outside the soccer field.
without spectators requires a minimum of 30By reducing the amount of light that spills over,
footcandles of horizontal target illuminationnearby neighbor complaints will be reduced, and
continuously, while a professional stadium needs atelectricity will be saved as the lighting will function
least 75 footcandles. One footcandle is equal to onemore efficently. The ballasts and electrical equipment
lumen spread over one square foot to show theshould be in aluminum enclosures at least 10 feet
quantity of the light being put out from the soccerabove the ground, there should be a safety
field lighting. The amount of voltage available fromdisconnet for each. Check the US Soccer
the ballast – a transformer - should be takenFoundation's recommendations for soccer field lighting
into consideration when choosing lighting as well.and a licenced electrician for further information on
Multi-tap ballast for soccer field lighting allows forconnections and mounting of the lighting.
greater flexibility. All of our soccer field lightingFor any lighting needs, it is always recommended to
configured for either multi-tap ballasts for 120, 208,consult with an expert electrician. They will know the
240, and 277 volts or choose the 480 volt ballast.local municipal codes and the proper handling and
The lamp should match with the ballast. For example,installation of high voltage soccer field lighting, but
if you need a metal halide soccer field lightingconsult the soccer field lighting page for any of the
sportslighter fixture it should be paired with a metallighting fixtures and mounts that are required by the
halide 400 watt ballast . It is best to constantly workelectrician.
with a qualified professional when choosing and