An important consideration when planning the layout of sports facilities is that of the orientation of a pitch.
The main games that need particular attention for correct orientation are cricket, football, rugby and tennis.
Main objective
"The object of the proper orientation of games pitches is to avoid siting the pitches so that the principal line of play will be in the direction of the sun when the latter is sufficiently low to interfere with players sighting the ball in or near that direction".
The size and slope of a field may prevent the ideal orientation of a pitch; however, wherever possible this should be considered at the very early stages of planning so that adequate grading etc. can occur to deliver the necessary pitch orientation to miminise the nuisance of the sun. This will ultimately enhance the enjoyability and fairness of play.
Full details of pitch orientation are provided by the article "The orientation of games pitches" by Brigadier-General P. Maud, in 'The Planning, Construction and Maintenance of Playing Fields' by P. W. Smith (OUP) 1950, pp48-54.
See our other articles which provide the correct orientation for sports surfaces.