What Is a Multi Use Games Area?

A Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) is a specialist area where a range of team sports can be played. These are popular in urban parks, schools, playgrounds and housing association centres. Teenagers in particular benefit from being able to meet up with friends and play competitive sports. Being part of a team encourages cooperation and respect and teaches the value of working together.

Multi Use Games Area allow the establishment of a specialised playing surface for hockey, 5-a-side football, netball, tennis and basketball. The advantage of a MUGA is that it is very cost-effective and can be used year round, even in poor weather conditions.

Game On: The Versatility and Benefits of Multi-Use Games Areas

The surfacing on a MUGA is designed to be free draining, so it won’t become waterlogged or muddy in bad weather. The surfaces can be made from a variety of materials, including artificial grass, porous macadam and polymeric rubber. All of these have specific qualities that suit different sports.

MUGA surfacing is also very hardwearing and offers a low maintenance solution for the caretaker of the area. Unlike natural grass, there is no need to water or cut the MUGA and regular brushing, decompaction and infill management will keep it looking and performing at its best.

A rooftop MUGA is an ideal way to add a versatile sports facility to any school or youth organisation, especially if space is at a premium. The Stepney Green Maths, Computing and Science College in London recently had a new rooftop MUGA installed from sports surface manufacturer Playrite using their Matchplay 2 product. This is a high-performance, sand dressed synthetic sports surface that gives a good feel under foot and is suitable for a wide range of team sports.