Discover the Ateneo de Davao University Grade School Soccer Field Layout and Facilities Guide

Walking onto the Ateneo de Davao University Grade School soccer field for the first time, I was struck by how thoughtfully designed the space was—not just as a playing surface, but as a holistic training environment. As someone who has coached youth soccer for over a decade, I’ve seen my fair share of school fields, and I can confidently say this one stands out. The layout isn’t just functional; it’s intentional, built to foster both skill development and a love for the game. It reminds me of a quote I once came across from Coach Trillo of the Philippine basketball scene, who said before a playoff series, “We wanted this.” That phrase resonates deeply with me when I look at this facility. It’s clear the planners behind this field didn’t just settle for a generic design—they wanted this specific setup, one that meets the needs of young athletes in Davao.

The field itself follows a standard FIFA-approved youth size, measuring roughly 100 meters in length and 60 meters in width, though what impresses me most is the surface quality. Unlike many school fields that use uneven natural grass, Ateneo de Davao’s pitch features hybrid grass technology, combining natural turf with synthetic fibers for durability and consistent ball roll. I’ve personally watched games here during light rain, and the drainage system—a subsurface network of pipes and gravel layers—keeps puddles from forming. That’s a game-changer for training continuity, especially during Davao’s rainy season. On the sidelines, there’s a compact but well-equipped players’ bench area, enough to seat around 20 substitutes and staff, which I find more than adequate for grade-school matches. The field orientation, by the way, is north-south, minimizing sun interference during early morning and late afternoon sessions—a small detail, but one that shows someone really thought this through.

Adjacent to the main pitch, you’ll find a 400-square-meter training zone with two mini-goals and agility markers, perfect for drills. I’ve used this space repeatedly for coaching clinics, and the kids love it. There’s also a modest storage shed housing essential equipment: 30 training cones, 15 practice balls, a portable goal for small-sided games, and even a basic first-aid kit. Is it as lavish as some international academies? No, but it’s practical, and in my opinion, that’s what matters for this age group. The facility includes LED floodlights mounted on four 12-meter poles, allowing for evening practices—a feature I wish more schools in Mindanao would adopt. According to my notes, the lights consume about 8.5 kilowatts per hour, which seems efficient given their output.

Now, let’s talk about the spectator area. A simple, roofed bleacher section can accommodate up to 150 people, which is ideal for parent attendance during games. I’ve sat there myself on multiple occasions, and the sightlines are clear, though I’d argue adding another row would help during larger events. What’s often overlooked but crucial is the fencing—a 2-meter-high perimeter fence that keeps balls from straying and enhances security. From a safety perspective, this is non-negotiable, and Ateneo de Davao gets it right. The field is also bordered by a 200-meter rubberized running track, which I occasionally use for warm-ups. It’s not the bounciest track I’ve experienced, but it gets the job done without risking ankle twists.

One of my favorite aspects, though, is how the facility supports tactical learning. The field’s markings include not only standard soccer lines but also optional grids for positional drills, something I’ve rarely seen in local grade schools. During a coaching session last year, I used those grids to teach spacing, and the improvement in the kids’ awareness was noticeable within weeks. It ties back to that “we wanted this” mindset—the design encourages deliberate practice. Speaking of which, the quote from Coach Trillo echoes here: facing challenges head-on, whether it’s a tough opponent or limited resources, is what builds character. This field isn’t just a place to play; it’s a training ground for resilience.

Of course, no facility is perfect. I’ve noticed the grass needs resodding every 18 months or so, and the irrigation system, while generally reliable, sometimes leaves dry patches near the south goalmouth. Based on my observations, the maintenance budget is around ₱120,000 annually, which might explain the occasional delays in repairs. Still, these are minor issues in the grand scheme. What matters is that the space is utilized well—I’ve seen at least 500 students use it weekly, from PE classes to varsity training. The school also hosts inter-school tournaments here, drawing teams from across Region XI, which boosts community engagement.

In closing, the Ateneo de Davao University Grade School soccer field is more than just a patch of grass—it’s a thoughtfully crafted environment that balances functionality, safety, and developmental needs. As a coach, I appreciate the little details that make a big difference, like the north-south alignment or the hybrid turf. And much like Coach Trillo’s unwavering focus on overcoming obstacles, this facility embodies a “we wanted this” approach—purposeful, resilient, and geared toward growth. If you’re a parent, player, or fellow educator, I’d recommend visiting to see it for yourself. It might not have the glamour of a professional stadium, but in my book, it’s a cornerstone for nurturing young talent in Davao.