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Soundscapes of Success - The Silent Heroes of Elite Sports Facilities

CategoryApplications
Published25 Oct 2023
Written ByRebecca Fox
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Elite sports teams are constantly on the hunt for that elusive competitive edge, and their strategies span a wide spectrum, from the physical and psychological to the unconventional.

One intriguing trend, notably pervasive among Australian football codes, revolves around a remarkable transformation in their training facilities. These venues are being elevated to new heights, ensuring that players and staff have access to the most cutting-edge resources and creating an environment conducive to peak performance.

Exterior of building with landscaping and pathExterior of building with landscaping and path
Heffron Centre by CoOp Studio & ADCO Constructions, NSW

One such story of transformation and excellence is exemplified by the Penrith Panthers, a notable NRL club. In 2016, the club made a pioneering move in the league by investing a staggering $22 million into a state-of-the-art high-performance centre situated right at their training ground. This visionary project was championed by the club's former Director of Football, Phil Gould, who, in doing so, not only secured the club's future but also set off a chain reaction among NRL clubs. Competition then unfolded as these clubs sought to outdo each other to create the ultimate elite training environment.

Interior of building with white ceiling, lighting and curved chairs.Interior of building with white ceiling, lighting and curved chairs.
Baldivis Recreation Centre by SITE Architecture & Crowthers Construction, WA

As a distinguished player in the acoustics space, Decor Systems has been privileged to be part of this transformative journey and contribute to many prestigious facilities. Notable among these are the Clive Berghofer Centre (QLD), a bastion for the Brisbane Broncos, and the Heffron Centre (NSW), the beloved home of the Rabbitohs.

However, the reach extends even further, touching various other sports and recreational venues that are setting new benchmarks for what it means to be exceptional in sporting facilities, including the Baldivis District Sporting Complex (WA).

Boardroom with table, desk chairs and feature ceiling incorporating horse logo and lighting.Boardroom with table, desk chairs and feature ceiling incorporating horse logo and lighting.
Brisbane Broncos HQ, QLD

Now, let's delve into the unsung heroes of these sports facilities: acoustic panels. These unassuming components play a pivotal role, often behind the scenes, but their impact is profound. Their inclusion is far from an afterthought; it's essential for the attainment of goals related to high-performance standards, versatile utilisation, and overall safety.

Sports hall with expansive timber ceiling and basketball hoops.Sports hall with expansive timber ceiling and basketball hoops.
Baldivis Recreation Centre by SITE Architecture & Crowthers Construction, WA

Enhancing Performance

Acoustic panels are athletes' quiet allies, diligently working to create an environment that encourages optimal performance. By taming noise and minimising echo, these panels enable athletes to sharpen their focus, improve communication with teammates and coaches, and operate at the zenith of their capabilities. This is especially crucial in sports, where milliseconds can differentiate between victory and defeat, and seamless teamwork is non-negotiable.

Meeting room with table, office chairs and custom walling featuring a rabbit design and slatted panels.Meeting room with table, office chairs and custom walling featuring a rabbit design and slatted panels.
Heffron Centre by CoOp Studio & ADCO Constructions, NSW

Versatile Use

The modern sports facility is a chameleon, transforming itself to host a myriad of events. These venues are expected to do everything from sports spectacles to concerts and community gatherings. Acoustic panels, with their adaptable nature, come to the rescue, allowing venues to tune their acoustics to match the requirements of each activity. This versatility ensures that sports facilities remain at the heart of their communities, catering to diverse interests.

Gym area with people training on weightsGym area with people training on weights
Heffron Centre by CoOp Studio & ADCO Constructions, NSW

Safety

Safety is paramount in the world of sports. Acoustic panels, by mitigating excessive noise and distractions, ensure that athletes can perform at their best, free from interruptions that could lead to accidents and injuries. In sports, where precision and concentration are the bedrock of success, these panels act as silent sentinels guarding against potential hazards.

Bay Pavilions in Batemans Bay, NSW

Audience Experience

A sports facility is not just about the athletes; it's also about the fans. Acoustic panels significantly impact the audience's experience. By controlling noise and reverberation, these panels allow spectators to immerse themselves in the game, follow every play, relish crystal-clear announcements, and fully engage with the event. The result? An electrifying and unforgettable fan experience.

Sports hall with angled ceiling and maroon eagle graphic on the wall.Sports hall with angled ceiling and maroon eagle graphic on the wall.
Cewood is a high-performing product for recreation and sports centres

Compliance

Sports facilities operate within a web of regulations set by governing bodies. Acoustic compliance is a critical aspect of these regulations. It ensures a level playing field for athletes, offers consistent performance conditions, and, most importantly, safeguards the welfare of all participants.

In a gym looking from inside out with a score board and several exercise bikes in a rowIn a gym looking from inside out with a score board and several exercise bikes in a row
Heffron Centre by CoOp Studio & ADCO Constructions, NSW

Aesthetics and Branding

Acoustic panels do more than just control sound; they are also style statements. Decor panels can be customised to match the facility's aesthetics and branding. They not only serve a functional purpose but also contribute to the venue's visual identity, creating a memorable atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on athletes and fans alike.

Community Relations

Sports facilities are often at the heart of their communities. Maintaining harmonious relations with the neighbours is of paramount importance. Effective noise management, facilitated by acoustic panels, goes a long way in reducing noise pollution and disturbances for nearby residents. This contributes to a sense of good community citizenship, fostering positive relationships and a sense of belonging.

The Armidale School Gym - NSW

Acoustic panels are the unsung champions of sports facilities, working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that these venues are conducive to peak performance, versatile in use, and safe for all. Their impact extends far beyond the world of sports, creating unforgettable experiences for athletes, fans, and communities.

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