– The University of Houston Volleyball program completed another phase of its facility improvements, when the Cougars unveiled their new playing surface at the $60-million Fertitta Center.The team will play its home competitions on Taraflex, a Gerflor manufactured product that is quickly becoming the preferred flooring solution for the NCAA Division I level. The premium material is an international class surface which will be used for volleyball at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as well as the games in Rio 2016, London 2012 and Beijing 2008."Being able to compete on Taraflex really elevates the experience for the team and our fans. With the look and playability, it makes the Fertitta Center feel like it was designed for volleyball," first-year Houston Head Coachsaid.Taraflex is renowned worldwide for its superior long-term safety features, protection of athletes and enhanced grip and slide for the best playability. The padding makes diving, sliding and jumping easier on the players' bodies, while its sleek and durable design turns any facility into a volleyball-centric-arena. Vector Concepts is the regional distributor for Taraflex and facilitated in the court installation."Taraflex was the right solution for volleyball in the Fertitta Center. It adapts the facility to make the environment specific for the volleyball program," Senior Associate Athletics Director for Capital Projects T.J. Meagher said.The Senoh net system, complete with Carbon Fiber poles, has been provided by Sports Imports. Senoh is also the exclusive provider of volleyball net equipment for the Olympic Games since 1964.The 2019 season will commence a new era in the program when the team plays all of its home matches in the Fertitta Center. Volleyball last played in the facility – previously known as Hofheinz Pavilion – in 2006.The final stage of the facilities upgrade is currently underway, as a 4,500-square-foot space near the court will house the team's locker room, players' lounge, nutrition center and satellite sports medicine room as well.Follow Houston Volleyball on Twitter and Instagram at @UHCougarVB, and "Like" UHCougarVB on Facebook Fans can help support the Houston Volleyball program by joining the Point HOUSTON Club. To find out more information about the Point HOUSTON Club, visit UHCougars.com or call Cougar Pride at (713) 743-GoUH.