3 INSPIRING GROWTH THROUGH LEARNING
Education and technical expertise sit at the heart of the GMA’s mission to elevate standards across the industry. Through its Technical and Learning (T+L) provision, the GMA empowers volunteers and professionals with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to deliver high-quality playing surfaces and green spaces across all levels of sport. Whether through formal qualifications, bespoke training, or expert consultancy, the GMA’s educational offering plays a vital role in shaping the future of grounds management - ensuring that best practice, innovation, and sustainability are embedded across the sector.
The GMA’s T+L provision is built around two distinct pillars:
1. Learning Provision – A comprehensive portfolio of courses and qualifications.
2. Technical (Consultancy) Provision – A robust suite of services and expert support.
2024 – 2025 has been a positive and transformative year for the T+L department and led to the reshape of both arms which aligns with the new GMA strategy. We have expanded the department with two strategic appointments, boosting the support and expertise available to the sector through high-quality training and consultancy.
Bojan Jovanovic has been appointed as Learning Programme Lead, and Fiona Lyttle takes on the role of Turf Care Advisory Support Lead. Together, they bring extensive experience that will enhance the GMA’s educational and advisory services for both professionals and volunteers. The appointments mark a significant step in the GMA’s ongoing mission to provide high-quality training and consultancy, supporting the development of skills and standards across the entire industry. As well as internal developments, we can also report positive external developments, from an increase in Learning interactions to an increase in Consultancy projects.
LEARNING PROVISION
The GMA offers around 50 formal learning experiences, ranging from short courses to long-form qualifications, these are designed to support the development of both volunteers and professionals across multiple sports and disciplines. Delivery is flexible, with both face-to-face and online options available, ensuring a fully blended learning experience. We currently deliver:
• 11 online training courses (one of which is in another language)
• 20 face-to-face training courses
• 17 qualifications
In addition to standard offerings, GMA has developed bespoke learning pathways in collaboration with key partners such as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Lawn Tennis Association and the All-England Lawn Tennis Club. As a result, approximately 2,300+ individuals are trained or educated through GMA annually (excluding PAS activities).
In 2024/25 we joined forces with the ECB to launch the ‘Apprenticeship Support Scheme’, designed to enhance the experience of grounds people apprentices in First Class Counties. This is a new way of engaging apprentices by utilising GMA training and Education to the standard apprenticeship to make a more sport specific apprenticeship for cricket.
This pilot initiative is designed to strengthen the future of cricket by attracting and supporting more aspiring grounds professionals.
With the demand for skilled grounds managers growing, the scheme aims to provide apprentices with not only the technical knowledge required for cricketspecific turf care but also the essential support they need to develop their careers.
It also aims to address broader industry challenges such as workforce retention and succession planning by making apprenticeships a more structured and attractive career pathway. At the same time, it provides additional support for existing grounds professionals, ensuring they have the resources and expertise to mentor and develop the next generation effectively.
The GMA provides tailored cricket-specific online courses to supplement apprentices’ learning, as well as bespoke webinars designed to enhance their knowledge and better prepare them for a career in cricket grounds management.
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Apprentices also have access to GMA membership, unlocking a range of benefits including the GMA Member Assistance Programme - a 24-hour confidential counselling and wellbeing service - alongside online technical resources, salary advice and guidance, legal consultation and much more.
TURFCARE ADVISORY (CONSULTANCY)
Our consultancy provision has seen significant growth throughout 2024-25 becoming a vital touch point within the organisation. Services now include site assessments, project administration, and handover support - positioning the GMA as a trusted authority in turf care expertise for renovation, development, and new site construction.
Importantly, the GMA’s consultancy work is closely integrated with its learning provision, ensuring that project developments are supported by relevant training and education. Over 100+ consultancy projects were undertaken during 2024–2025, many of which continue into the current year and beyond.
This area, alongside PAS, forms a cornerstone of GMA’s products and services.
ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Beyond the two main streams, the GMA continues to deliver independent, highquality information, advice, and guidance. All T+L-managed products and services include member discounts, with pricing now aligned to offer approximately 30% savings for members compared to non-members.
The GMA remains accredited by the Matrix Standard, the Department for Education’s benchmark for quality learning and impartial guidance - affirming our commitment to excellence in service delivery.
4 PROFILE RAISING EVENTS
Our annual events are a powerful platform for visibility, engagement, and recognition. For the GMA, they play a vital role in showcasing the professionalism, expertise, and impact of our members and wider industry. From regional workshops to industry exhibitions, these moments allow us to elevate the voice of grounds staff and reinforce the value they bring to sport, education, and public spaces.
By investing in high-profile events, we not only celebrate the achievements of our members but also create opportunities for collaboration, learning, and advocacy. These gatherings help us connect with stakeholders, influence policy, and inspire the next generation of grounds professionals.
We remain committed to ensuring our events reflect the calibre of our community, and that they continue to raise awareness, drive standards, and strengthen the reputation of the sector.
THE LAUNCH AND SUCCESS OF GMA CONNECT
Conceived as a regional hub for professional development, networking, and innovation, ‘GMA Connect’ has quickly proven itself to be more than just a series of events - it is a movement that is reshaping how grounds professionals engage with their craft and each other.
From its inaugural event at Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol to its follow-up at Durham County Cricket Club, GMA Connect has delivered on its promise to bring the industry together at a local level. These events have offered a rare blend of expert-led seminars, live equipment demonstrations, and hands-on workshops, all tailored to the evolving challenges of turf management in today’s climate.
This year’s theme, “Turf Management in the Current Climate,” resonated deeply with attendees, addressing pressing concerns such as weather unpredictability, soil health, and sustainable practices. Industry experts like Mark Hunt (Technical Specialist, Pro Data Weather System.), Alex Vickers (GMA Turf Consultant), Jack Langley (Deputy Grounds person at Ashton Gate) and Vic Demain (Head groundsman, Durham Cricket) provided invaluable insights, while panel discussions explored the broader implications of climate change on professional venues.
What truly set GMA Connect apart was its accessibility and inclusivity. With free entry for GMA members and a modest fee for non-members, the events welcomed a diverse audience - from elite sports grounds staff to educational institutions and even international visitors like the team from Dublin’s Croke Park. This wide reach underscored the event’s relevance and appeal across the sector.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to our Corporate Supporters, whose contributions were instrumental in making GMA Connect a success. The support from leading industry brands - including headline sponsor Cramer, as well as ISEKI, Fleet Line Markers, GKB Machines, and many others - added significant value. Their presence not only displayed innovative technology but also fostered direct dialogue between suppliers and end-users, helping to bridge the gap between innovation and practical application. Their commitment to the profession and willingness to engage with the community helped elevate the experience for everyone involved.
The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many praised the quality of the seminars, the opportunity to network, and the chance to see equipment in action. GMA Connect ensures that expertise and solutions are more accessible than ever.
In reflection, the success of GMA Connect lies not just in its execution, but in its vision - a vision of a more connected, informed, and resilient grounds management community. We believe it has set a new standard for industry engagement and laid the groundwork for future regional events that continue to empower professionals at every level.
Building on this momentum, we are now finalising plans for six GMA Connect events in 2026, expanding the reach of the series to ensure even greater national coverage. These events will cater to both professional and communitylevel grounds staff, reflecting our commitment to supporting every corner of the grounds management industry. By working more closely with National Governing Bodies (NGBs), we aim to make each event even more accessible, relevant, and impactful - delivering targeted learning, practical demonstrations, and networking opportunities that speak directly to the needs of today’s grounds staff, whatever their level or setting.
SALTEX 2024
Unmatched networking opportunities, high-calibre visitors, and innovation took centre stage, and SALTEX 2024 delivered exceptional value for attendees and exhibitors alike. Significant growth in key areas such as learning opportunities and social reach further solidified the event’s reputation as the premier destination for the grounds management industry
Uniting the industry
SALTEX 2024 welcomed 7,300+ attendees, offering them the chance to engage with 400+ leading brands in the grounds management sector. With 19 hours of industry networking, the event served as a hub for collaboration, insight-sharing, and relationship-building.
SALTEX brought together visitors from across the grounds management sector, from Premiership Rugby clubs to Independent Education providers, and Colin Campbell, a visitor from JCB, said: “I come here every year to see what new equipment there is, especially with the electrification of grounds care. It is remarkably busy, you can see a lot of the kit under one roof, on the same day, all in one place.”
Empowering professionals through education
Education remained a cornerstone of SALTEX 2024 with a Learning LIVE programme designed to elevate industry standards. Over 19 hours of educational sessions were delivered by 65 expert speakers, attracting more than 1,000 attendees keen to enhance their skills and knowledge. These sessions covered a wide range of topics, providing actionable insights for professionals managing everything from sports pitches to estate grounds.
Reinvestment back into the industry
As a not-for-profit organisation, the GMA has reinvested SALTEX revenue into grounds management since 1938. With the exhibition's success, this contribution grows each year, demonstrating SALTEX’s role in powering progress within the industry.
The GMA uses these funds to subsidise membership fees, offering essential support to grounds professionals, volunteers, and organisations. Revenue also helps subsidise GMA's unique suite of training courses and qualifications, both in person and online.
Since 2009, SALTEX revenue has supported the GMA’s Industry Awards, recognising excellence in grounds care across sectors. It also funds the annual #GroundsWeek awareness campaign which highlights the vital work of grounds staff and volunteers, celebrating their impact on sports and inspiring new recruits to the industry.
Attracting Key Decision-Makers
With 78% of attendees having purchasing power, SALTEX continues to attract an audience that drives industry change. This represents a 14% increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the growing influence of the event as a marketplace for innovative products and services.
Amplifying the industry’s voice
SALTEX’s digital presence reached unprecedented levels this year. Social impressions hit 2.6M (a 105% increase), and social reach climbed to 2.8M (+66.2%). Platforms like TikTok (75K impressions) and Spotify (165K impressions) also helped extend the exhibition’s message to a broader, more diverse audience.
A truly diverse audience
From football pitches and cricket grounds to business premises and golf courses, SALTEX 2024 attracted visitors managing all types of grounds. The UK regional breakdown map highlighted strong attendance from across the country, complemented by international visitors, further cementing SALTEX’s reputation as a global event.
Our Heartfelt Thanks
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who made the 2024 show such a success - our exhibitors, visitors, Learning LIVE presenters, panel members, and the dedicated GMA team. Your energy and contributions helped create a fantastic event. As we look ahead, we remain committed to evolving and enhancing SALTEX. With our new in-house team now in place, we are excited about the future of the show and the opportunities it presents.
We also recognise the changing landscape of industry events, with new exhibitions emerging and greater choice available. While we respect these developments, our focus at the GMA remains firmly on the value SALTEX delivers - grounded in our heritage, our expertise, and the tangible benefits it brings to those working in sports turf. We are proud of what SALTEX represents and will continue to invest in its growth for the good of the industry.
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: THE GMA INDUSTRY AWARDS 2025
The 2025 GMA Industry Awards, hosted at the iconic Anfield Stadium, marked a defining moment for the grounds management community. Set against the Grounds Management Association | 10
backdrop of Liverpool FC’s legendary home, the event brought together professionals, volunteers, and industry leaders to celebrate the very best in grounds care across the UK and Europe.
This year’s ceremony was a celebration of dedication, innovation, and community. Since its inception in 2009, the GMA Industry Awards have recognised excellence across the professional and voluntary sectors. The move to Anfield, following previous editions at Headingley Stadium and the NEC, added a new layer of prestige and excitement to the occasion.
Held on Thursday 13 March 2025, the event also served as the launchpad for #GroundsWeek, the GMA’s annual awareness campaign running from 17–23 March. This alignment reinforced the importance of grounds care professionals and volunteers, whose work underpins the success of sport at every level.
The evening featured a three-course meal, live entertainment, and invaluable networking opportunities, allowing guests to connect, share insights, and celebrate collective achievements. The atmosphere was electric, with Anfield’s rich history and vibrant energy elevating the experience for all in attendance.
As we reflect on the success of the event, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors ISEKI UK & IRELAND, Agronomic Services, DLF Seeds, ECB, Football Foundation, Husqvarna, ICL, Infinicut, Kubota, Origin Amenity Solutions, Premier League, Reesink UK, RFL, RFU, SGL and Syngenta, whose contributions made the evening possible. Their continued commitment to the sector ensures that excellence in grounds care is recognised and celebrated.
The 2025 GMA Industry Awards not only honoured outstanding individuals and teams but also reaffirmed the strength, passion, and professionalism that define the grounds management industry. It was a night to remember, and a powerful reminder of the impact this community has on sport, sustainability, and society.
#GROUNDSWEEK RETURNS WITH RECORD-BREAKING REACH
#GroundsWeek 2025 made a powerful comeback, driving an 84% surge in engagement compared to 2024 and reaching an impressive 18.3 million people through targeted PR activity. The campaign’s influence stretched far beyond the UK - with coverage even landing in Australia, thanks to international outlets like Mirage News.
We amplified the campaign by spotlighting GMA Industry Award winners, sharing their inspiring stories, and securing targeted regional coverage - including a standout feature with Ryan Golding, Head Groundsman at Leeds Rhinos, who called on the public to celebrate the sector’s unsung heroes.
Media interest peaked during the week itself, with 70% of PR coverage landing in real-time and the remaining 30% spread across the lead-up and aftermath. The Industry Awards played a key role in boosting visibility, contributing 9% of total coverage.
With PR as our central focus this year, the results speak volumes: #GroundsWeek reached an audience equivalent to 27% of the UK population, cementing its place as a high-impact awareness campaign for the sector.
5 PITCH ADVISORY SERVICE
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The 2024–2025 period marked the beginning of a new four-year contract with the Football Foundation to deliver the Pitch Advisory Service (PAS), continuing the GMA’s commitment to improving grassroots sports infrastructure across the UK. Year one has been a resounding success, with most delivery areas exceeding their key performance indicators (KPIs).
HEADLINE ACHIEVEMENTS
Cricket
1,215 delegates and volunteers engaged through PAS events.
631 grounds assessed via PitchPower.
Rugby League
Over 50% of community clubs now actively using PitchPower.
308 pitches assessed.
53 seminars delivered.
Rugby Union
1,274 pitches assessed via PitchPower497 site visits completed.
Football (England)
3,629 PitchPower reports generated.
12,939 pitches assessed.
466 site visits conducted.
Football (Wales) – PAS Wales launched in September 2024
145 site visits
203 pitches assessed.
287 sign-ups for online CPD sessions
Over £1.2 million allocated through 70+ Equipment Fund grants.
Since the inception of PAS in 2014, a total of 28,101 individual pitch inspections or assessments have been completed across all sports. Of these, 15,396 have been delivered since the launch of PitchPower in 2020.
PAS WALES: A STRATEGIC EXPANSION
The launch of Pitch Advisory Service Wales in November 2024 represents a major milestone in grassroots sports development. Backed by the Cymru Football Foundation (CFF) and funded by the Football Association of Wales (FAW), the initiative is already reshaping the landscape of Welsh football.
With only 21% of grass pitches in Wales currently rated as “good” under the GMA’s Grounds Management Framework, PAS Wales aims to significantly raise standards by providing expert guidance, site assessments, and access to funding.
With over 200 playing surfaces supported already, and growing engagement from clubs, the initiative is helping to enhance facilities and improve playing conditions. Since its launch, the programme has already facilitated over 145 individual site visits from GMA pitch experts, with over 70 Equipment Fund Grants allocated, amounting to more than £1.2m in funding.
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Building on a decade of success in England, where the service has transformed over 12,500 clubs and assessed 50,000 pitches, the GMA is now bringing its proven expertise to Welsh football.
The programme’s impact has been wide-reaching, not just in the number of clubs engaged, but also in the potential improvement of overall pitch quality across the region. One standout example is Cardiff Corinthians AFC, which secured over £18,000 in funding for essential maintenance equipment following a PAS site visit. The club has since transformed its pitch management approach, reduced cancellations, and improved playing conditions for the local community.
STRATEGIC INTEGRATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
The GMA has established a clear strategic framework that integrates all its products and services with PAS delivery. This turnkey model ensures clubs, local authorities, and volunteers benefit from a single point of contact and a suite of tailored services - enhancing both pitch quality and workforce capability.
GMA Online Training Courses Completed: 1,824
Football CPD (Wales): 287 sign-ups
Education remains central to PAS, ensuring that improvements in pitch quality are matched by increased knowledge and confidence among grounds teams and volunteers.
LOOKING AHEAD
The GMA is actively working with National Governing Bodies (NGBs) to explore expanded funding models that support a sustainable, impactful, and incentivised long-term approach beyond the current funding period. This strategy aims to:
Prevent pitch regression.
Retain and grow the trained volunteer workforce.
Ensure lasting impact at grassroots, community, and recreational levels.
As grassroots sport continues to face challenges - from climate pressures to increased participation demands - the PAS remains a vital tool in ensuring that playing surfaces are safe, resilient, and accessible for all. Funding is vital to not only improvements at grassroots, community, and recreational levels, but also the education that rides alongside that with the access to expertise and other areas that the GMA provide, and this ‘turnkey’ approach has been evident in ensuring that clubs, organisations, local authorities, and volunteers have one contact point and multiple services delivered by one organisation that will service their needs.
Areas the GMA are to explore with the NGBs are around expanding any funding package and requirements that focus on a sustainable, impactful, and incentivised long term – post funding period approach. This will ensure that less pitches will regress, and less trained volunteers will be lost at a time when an increase in workforce is desperately required at all levels.
6 DIGITAL EVOLUTION
The GMA continues to embrace the evolution and development of digital systems to enhance its services and member engagement. By integrating advanced digital tools and platforms, the GMA is streamlining operations, improving communication, and providing members with easier access to resources and training. This shift towards digitalisation includes the launch the new website, online learning modules, and webinars and events, all designed to support the professional growth of grounds management professionals and volunteers. The GMA’s commitment to digital innovation ensures that it remains at the forefront of industry advancements, fostering a more connected and informed community.
The new website, upgrade of our learning platform and CRM enhancements have all been completed. Below are some key highlights:
• User-Friendly Design: The new website features an intuitive and modern design, making it easier for members to navigate and find the information they need quickly.
• Enhanced Member Portal: Our dedicated member portal provides more self-service account management, GMA Shop, and exclusive content, enhancing the overall member experience.
• Mobile Optimisation: Recognising the importance of mobile access, the new website is fully optimised for smartphones and tablets, ensuring members can stay connected on the go.
• Resource Library: We are improving our digital resource library to include a wider range of articles, guides, and best practices in grounds management, accessible to all members.
• SEO and Analytics: Improved search engine optimisation (SEO) and integrated analytics helps us better understand member needs and continuously improve our online offerings.
These enhancements are designed to provide a more seamless and enriching experience for our members, supporting their professional growth and engagement with theassociation.
7 DRIVING PROGRESS ACROSS THE SECTOR
The GMA continues to power progress across the sector by championing innovation, professional development, and industry-wide collaboration. As the leading voice for grounds management professionals, the GMA remains committed to elevating standards, supporting sustainable practices, and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. Through strategic initiatives, enhanced member services, and a refreshed brand identity, we are not only preserving the GMA’s legacy but actively shaping the future of the industry.
BRAND REFRESH MARKS THE END OF GMA’S 90TH YEAR
As part of our strategic communications and engagement efforts, the GMA concluded its 90th year with the launch of a refreshed brand identity. This initiative was designed to honour the organisation’s legacy while positioning it for continued relevance and growth in the years ahead.
The new visual identity introduced earlier this year includes a modernised logo and a vibrant colour palette that reflects the energy, professionalism, and diversity of the grounds management community. The design incorporates four key elements:
Shield – symbolising trust and tradition.
Blade – representing growth and vitality.
Unity – reflecting inclusivity and collaboration.
Stripes – denoting precision and pride.
This refresh was not merely aesthetic; it was a strategic move to ensure the GMA remains resonant with both established professionals and emerging talent. It aligns with our broader goals of enhancing member engagement, increasing visibility across sectors, and reinforcing our commitment to excellence.
In line with this brand evolution, the Grounds Management Magazine also underwent a comprehensive redesign to reflect the new identity.
The rebrand has been well received across our membership and stakeholder groups, and it has already begun to support our outreach and advocacy efforts more effectively. It serves as a visual representation of our values and our vision for the future of grounds management.
We thank all our members, partners, and staff who contributed to this milestone and look forward to building on this momentum as we end our 91st year.
RAISING THE INDUSTRY ABOVE THE SECTOR
Over the 12 months spanning March 2024 to April 2025, a focused national and regional PR strategy has significantly elevated the visibility of the grounds management profession, positioning the GMA as the authoritative voice for the sector. A key highlight came in February 2025 during the Six Nations tournament, when proactive media planning resulted in high-impact national coverage in both The Telegraph and The Times, which reached over 300 million people.
Through tailored media angles and interview preparation with Jim Buttar, GMA Board Member and Head of Grounds and Technical Operations at the Allianz Stadium, we secured four pieces of coverage across print and online. These features offered rare behind-the-scenes insight into the expertise required to prepare world-class pitches, underscoring the critical role of grounds professionals in player safety and elite sport performance. By bringing that story to life through a first-hand journalist experience, The Times piece played a role in helping to inspire interest in grounds careers by showcasing the pride, skill and satisfaction that sit at the heart of the profession.
Beyond Twickenham, we continued to push the sector into mainstream national media through bespoke profiling opportunities, including targeted coverage for Edgbaston’s Gary Barwell in The Guardian, and an interview on Greg James’ popular Tailenders podcast – helping to connect new audiences, including key demographics like sports fans and younger listeners, with the people behind the pitches they love. Separately, we secured international recognition, with commentary on pitch quality and grounds expertise featured in The New York Times’ coverage of Euro 2024. Together, these placements overall have helped to move the perception of grounds management away from an unseen support role and towards a skilled, high-stakes profession that underpins the success of sport at every level.
At a regional level, National Apprenticeship Week (in February ’24) provided a strong platform to position grounds management as a viable and rewarding career path, with a coordinated outreach campaign profiling Leeds Rhinos’ Head Grounds person across titles including the Doncaster Free Press, Rotherham Advertiser, The Scarborough News and The Star. Along with a dedicated social media campaign, these pieces reached over 7 million people and encouraged young people to consider apprenticeship opportunities within the sector, helping to directly support workforce development and future talent pipelines.
This momentum was then carried into #GroundsWeek, which once again generated close to 30 pieces of local and regional coverage. Each piece carried a clear call to action for communities to recognise and celebrate the unseen work that keeps pitches, parks and green spaces maintained year-round, ensuring both appreciation and aspiration remained central to the GMA’s public narrative.
Throughout the year we have also secured multiple podcast appearances to discuss key industry topics, featuring outlets such as HortWeek, The Non-League Grounds Management Association | 17
Show, Agrovista, and Agri-Turf once again putting the GMA at the forefront of the industry.
ADVOCATING FOR OUR MEMBERS
At the heart of our organisation is a steadfast commitment to championing the professionals and volunteers who make sport possible. Whether on the field, behind the scenes, or maintaining the very grounds we play on, our members deserve respect, recognition, and unwavering support.
In August 2024, comments made on Sky Sports’ The Bench podcast - particularly by Former player Jon Wilkin - crossed a line. Referring to grounds staff as “psychopaths” was not only inaccurate, but deeply disrespectful to a group of professionals whose expertise and dedication are fundamental to the success of our sport.
We acted swiftly. Within hours, we issued a clear and uncompromising statement, working in partnership with the Rugby Football League (RFL) and other key stakeholders to challenge the remarks directly. Grounds staff are highly skilled, deeply committed, and play a critical role in ensuring player safety and match quality. They deserve respect - not ridicule.
Our stance was simple: we will always stand up for our members and call out language that undermines their professionalism. You can read our full response here
Advocacy is not just about reacting; it is about consistently reinforcing the value our members bring to the game. We remain vigilant, vocal, and proactive in defending their integrity and ensuring their voices are heard
8 WORKING WITH INDUSTRY PARTNERS
The GMA plays a pivotal role in advancing the sports turf, green spaces and the wider grounds care industry, and its collaboration with industry partners is central to this mission. Through strategic partnerships with manufacturers, suppliers, educational institutions, and professional bodies, the GMA strengthens its capacity to support members and drive innovation across the sector. These relationships enable the GMA to deliver high-quality training, share best practices, and promote sustainable and safe working environments for grounds professionals at all levels.
Our Corporate Supporters contribute not only resources but also expertise, helping the GMA stay at the forefront of technological and environmental developments. Whether it is through joint research initiatives, sponsorship of events like the GMA Awards, or co-developing educational content, these collaborations ensure that the GMA remains a trusted source of knowledge and advocacy. By working together, the GMA and its Corporate Supporters help raise the profile of the profession, attract new talent, and ensure that the industry continues to evolve in response to changing demands.
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Moreover, these partnerships reinforce the GMA’s role as a unifying voice for the sector. By engaging with stakeholders across the grounds management sector, we are better positioned to influence policy, promote standards, and champion the value of grounds management to sport, leisure, and public spaces. This collective effort not only benefits GMA members but also contributes to the longterm health and sustainability of the wider industry.
Going forward we will be launching new supporter packages and initiatives to encourage further investment back into the profession. Connecting our supporters and members to drive innovation and enhance expertise across the industry. Among others, 2025 will see the launch of a new initiative with long term GMA supporter ICL, highlighting upcoming industry talent and continued workforce development.
HUSQVARNA AND GMA UNITE TO CHAMPION GRASSROOTS SPORTS
In a powerful demonstration of industry collaboration, Husqvarna this year partnered with the GMA to launch the ‘Get Your Pitch Right’ initiative - an ambitious programme aimed at transforming grassroots sports facilities across the UK.
This partnership saw Husqvarna, a global leader in smart mowing and autonomous turf care solutions, join forces with the GMA to provide essential equipment, training, and expertise to community sports clubs. Through the initiative, selected clubs received state-of-the-art robotic mowers and access to professional guidance from GMA experts, helping volunteers maintain highquality playing surfaces with greater ease and efficiency.
The collaboration was further amplified by the involvement of Husqvarna’s sporting ambassadors including Peter Crouch, Kirsty Gallacher, and Henry Slade, lent their voices to raise awareness and support for the cause.
Click to watch video.
Such partnerships reflect a growing trend of industry giants choosing to collaborate with the GMA to support its mission of elevating standards and sustainability in turf management. This initiative not only empowers local clubs but also reinforces the vital role of grounds staff in making sport possible. As Husqvarna, stated: “We’re delighted to be partnering with the GMA to deliver this exciting scheme that will provide much-needed support and provisions to grassroots clubs and communities nationwide.”
Looking ahead, the GMA is excited to continue working closely with Husqvarna to shine a spotlight on these clubs and their progress. By sharing their stories and showcasing the impact of the programme, the GMA aims to inspire further investment and recognition for the volunteers and professionals who keep grassroots sport thriving. 
9 GROWING FOR THE FUTURE: THE NEXTGEN OF GROUNDS LEADERS
Every great movement begins with a spark - and for the GMA, that spark came with a bold decision: to reimagine how we champion the future of grounds management. The rebrand from GMA Young Board to GMA NextGen was a statement of intent. A promise to empower, inspire, and create opportunities for the next generation of leaders who will shape the landscapes of tomorrow.
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That promise has already begun to bear fruit. Following the rebrand, we celebrated our most successful recruitment drive to date with candidates whittled down to four new members whose passion and fresh ideas are helping to redefine what is possible in our industry. We are delighted to welcome Jack Leather (Liverpool FC), Flynn Good (Leicester FC), Luis Arregui (Real Madrid), and Oliver Mahon (Bradfield College) to the NextGen team. Their arrival signals more than growth - it is a sign of momentum, of a community that believes in progress.
Innovation has been at the heart of this journey. At SALTEX 2024, we proudly launched the brand-new Pioneer Legacy initiative - a recognition scheme that celebrates the achievements of both past and present members of GMA NextGen (formerly the GMA Young Board).
At its core is the Pioneer Mark, a unique legacy number awarded to each GMA NextGen member. These marks will be awarded retrospectively to previous members and will continue to be given to new members as they join.
The first three Pioneer Marks were presented at SALTEX 2024 to Louise Saunders, Joe Broadwood, and Anthony Facey, each of whom stepped down after a combined 20 years of exceptional service between them. We followed this up with GMA Young Board stalwarts and inaugural group members John Ledwidge (Manchester City FC), Niall Hazlehurst (Warrington Wolves Rugby Club), and Ryan Goulding (Leeds Rhinos) with their awards. The following were presented at the GMA Industry Awards in March: Liddy Ford (Wembley Stadium), Beth Gibbs (Wellington School), Jack Langley (Ashton Gate), Meg Lay (Lords Cricket), Nick Phillips (Tottenham Hotspur), Liam Cash and Tom Grafen (UK Area Manager SGL). You can learn more about the Pioneer Legacy here.
The group also delivered one of its most inspiring outreach initiatives yet: Schools into Stadia at Wimbledon. This event opened the gates of one of the Grounds Management Association | 21
world’s most iconic sporting venues, giving students a behind-the-scenes look at the science, skill, and passion that goes into creating world-class playing surfaces. For many, it was a first glimpse into a career they had never considered - turning curiosity into aspiration.
We also marked a major milestone in our journey: 10 years of Reesink sponsorship. Reesink’s support has been instrumental in helping GMA NextGen grow from a bold idea into a thriving network of future leaders. Their commitment to this opportunity has empowered many young professionals to take their first steps into the industry and flourish. This decade-long partnership is a shared vision for a stronger, more inclusive future in grounds management. We are proud to celebrate this legacy and look forward to continuing our work together to inspire the next generation.
Our voice is reaching further than ever before. Through a monthly column with Turf Business, we’ve created a space for NextGen perspectives to shine, sharing stories, insights and ideas that resonate across the industry, and with the launch of dedicated GMA NextGen social media channels, we’ve opened new doors for engagement - bringing the energy of this movement to a wider audience.
These milestones are small chapters in a bigger story - a story of growth and purpose. As we look ahead, one thing is clear: the next generation is not waiting for change - they are leading it.
Click to watch video.
Connect with the GMA NextGen Network today and help shape the future of grounds management: https://mailchi.mp/thegma.org.uk/gma-nextgennewsletter
