A retractable athletic surface for use on an athletic field containing an opening within the athletic field into which a foundation is secured. Supporting the retractable athletic surface in the opening is a platform. A drive motor secured to the platform drives one or more systems for raising and lowering the platform within the opening. Upper and lower stops are secured to shaft stop assemblies which are present within slots inside walls of the foundation. These upper and lower stops support the retractable athletic surface in either a raised or lowered position.