Major changes are taking place to the soccer field used by the Tulsa Roughnecks F.C. The Roughnecks have announced that a project will begin shortly at ONEOK Field that will allow the soccer field to be expanded and moved closer to the main seating bowl.

The major project will install a state-of-the-art retractable, pitcher’s mound system where the actual mound will be lowered below the field level for soccer matches and other events. The hydraulic process keeps the mound intact while dropping it below ground.

The ability to lower the pitching mound will help to maximize the utilization of ONEOK Field as concerts and other special events can now be set up much easier and quicker.

For soccer, the change will make it possible for the soccer field to move 12-13 yards closer to the seating bowl, allowing fans to be closer to the action. In addition, the field will expand to 70 yards wide to 110 yards long, ensuring the Roughnecks meet all the field requirements for a Division 2 club as set forth by the United States Soccer Federation.

The retractable pitching mound concept was designed by Esto Retractable out of Jeffersonville, Indiana and has been used at Louisville Slugger Field, home of the Triple A Louisville Bats and the USL’s Louisville City F.C. Esto Retractable is a Preferred Supplier of the United Soccer League.

To watch a video that shows the details of the project and the changes to the field, click HERE.

The project will begin shortly and will be completed before the start of the 2018 soccer and baseball seasons.

Fans wishing to see the layout of the new field and to purchase 2018 season tickets are invited to stop by ONEOK Field on Thursday, January 25 for an Open House from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Representatives from the Roughnecks Ticket Office and mascot Oil-E will be available to take fans inside the stadium to see the layout and to see available seat locations.

Fans attending the Open House will also be able to enjoy complimentary soft drinks, beer and popcorn. The entrance will be set up through the Administrative and Suite Entrance located on Elgin Avenue, next to the Ticket Office.

The Roughnecks 2018 home opener is scheduled for Saturday, March 24 when Tulsa will host Real Monarchs SLC at ONEOK Field.