There is a fundamental difference between playing indoor soccer and playing soccer indoors. And, only a building of significant size and stature can offer both.
The new Ultimate Soccer Arenas Complex in Pontiac, Michigan, is one of those rare facilities. It is believed to be the largest indoor soccer facility in North America.
However, the Ultimate Soccer Arenas Complex's enormous size is not the only feature that sets this 267,000-square-foot arena apart from the rest. It was constructed, from the first beam to finishing exterior touches, in just 88 days.
The speedy construction process can be attributed to the use of pre-engineered metal. The structure was built by Michigan-based Wolverine Steel Erectors, Inc. with materials supplied by Varco Pruden Buildings, one of the nation's largest providers of metal building system and a division of BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc. Wolverine Steel Erectors, Inc. is an independent authorized Varco Pruden builder.
Some 1,275.8 tons of steel were used in the project.
"We wanted a building that was more durable than stretch fabric or inflatable sport facilities," said George Derderian, owner and General Contractor of the Ultimate Soccer Arenas Complex. "A metal building provided the permanence, delivery and design we wanted. VP's quality was unsurpassed."
Varco Pruden provided the Vee Rib wall profile in ash gray, as well as the blue standing seam roof. Pre-engineered metal allowed for the massive clear span necessary to support the building without interior beams. Other materials, such as wood, would have been nearly impossible to use.
"Pre-engineered metal was quick and effective because all of the materials were delivered to the site ready to be assembled," said Jeff Huffman, Vice President of Wolverine Steel Erectors, Inc. "This type of structure was more cost efficient to build and maintains a higher resale value than many other types of building materials."
The project began in August 2007 and was completed just a few months later in November 2007. After just one season of operation, the Ultimate Soccer Arenas Complex has greatly impacted the community.
The soccer complex is home to the Michigan Bucks Soccer Team and the All American League for Lacrosse. But these players are not the only ones trotting up and down the fields.
Every person, regardless of age or financial ability, has the opportunity to play in these arenas. Michigan Youth Soccer teams as well as leagues of all ages can register. A pro-bono program was even designed for children from less affluent families to learn to play soccer at zero cost to parents. The program proved successful with 166 youngsters participating during its first year.
The soccer and lacrosse venue offers many modern amenities, designed to enhance the overall facility experience. The Ultimate Soccer Arenas Complex houses a full service restaurant, pro shop, state-of-the-art "Strength, Speed and Agility" Training Center, team party rooms, coaches lounges, referees room, locker rooms, HD TV and wireless access, European coffee shop, snack and ice cream shop and a full service pub.
"After nine years as a very involved soccer dad, I could not be more thrilled that all of the 'goals' of the Ultimate Soccer Arenas Complex were achieved," said Derderian. "I was very impressed with the speed of construction and overall finished product."
Most visitors agree, The Ultimate Soccer Arenas Complex is a premier place to play soccer indoors.