How to Install Backstop Netting

Backstop netting is barrier netting used in sporting venues that include baseball, hockey, lacrosse and soccer. It's manufactured from nylon or knotless polyethylene with reinforced borders to prevent fraying. Netting is used to protect spectators and bystanders from potential harm, like stray balls or pucks, while at the same time allowing good visibility to watch the game. Installation of small backstop nets only requires attachment to pre-designed metal poles. Complexes and arenas where professional sports are played, however, require installation of extensive netting and the additionally use of guy wires. Be sure to follow official rules and regulations regarding the installation of netting for your sport.

Things You'll Need

  • Poles
  • Mesh netting
  • Plastic or Velcro ties
  • Guy wires
  • Hammer
  • Stakes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Review any guidelines that your code or sport has pertaining to the setup of backstop nets. Check for rules that give, for instance, the specific number of feet that netting should be from the goal line, post or hoop. Remember that if rules are not followed, your team could forfeit wins later on if your mistakes are uncovered.

    • 2

      Measure the perimeter of the area in which netting is required. Proper measurements are needed in order to purchase the correct size and number of steel or aluminum poles and mesh netting material. Bordered mesh panels are available in many pre-cut sizes and may be suitable for your sporting application. Correct measurements should ensure that adequate protection is afforded to sporting viewers.

    • 3

      Set up vertical poles to hold the netting according to sports guidelines. Use standard sized pole sets that offer all you need. Pole sets include t-shaped bases that rest on the ground and required no digging to install. Poles are sectioned for assembly and they snap into place via built-in snap locks. Add enough sections to create the size of backstop desired. Sections should be positioned at a maximum distance of 30 feet to provide a sturdy structure.

    • 4

      Attach mesh netting to pre-cut holes in the poles using the attached rope tails or separate plastic or cloth-backed Velcro ties. Begin at each of the four corners, and then add ties along each side, matching one side with the others. Use enough ties so that the resulting net remains taught and flat.

    • 5

      Connect guy wires to the pre-cut holes near the top of the outermost poles. Thread the wire through the holes to make two equal portions of wire. Attach each end of the wire to a stake and then hammer them into the ground. Guy wires should be positioned at the maximal outward distance from the pole and at an equal distance from one another.