Grounds Management - Winter 2023

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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WINTER 2023

WELCOME

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Time to celebrate!

SALTEX 2023 features highly in the GMA calendar as we welcome exhibitors and visitors from the UK and abroad - as well as our distinguished speakers who will focus on the issues and innovations that create interest and debate within our industry.

The GMA promotes lifelong learning and an introduction to the new Grounds Management Framework, which can be used to progress your career, is also taking place during Learning LIVE at SALTEX. In this issue, we feature a special report on the women's team that delivered the recent Women's Ashes tournament - and team members will also be speaking at SALTEX. The GMA is committed to the advancement of women in the sportsturf sector. With the rise of women's sport and the promotion and profile of sport in general for women, the challenge for our sector is to open the doors and opportunities to give e- women an equal opportunity � to progress and thrive in a <I traditionally male environment.

0 With a decreasing population � � of under 18s in the UK, our industry 5 faces challenges in attracting � young recruits. However, we have � great role models and advocates, ::e and applaud those who are leading � the charge. ::i Be it at grassroots or professional ± "-- level, there is much to be celebrated � C'J as we enter the GMA Awards season, and we look forward to

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5:: showcasing the inspirational people

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u Geoff Webb, GMA CEO

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GROUNDS MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION

THINK

REGULARS

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TWO-MINUTE UPDATE

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News from across the industry

The GMA's 2023 Industry Awards; lifelong learning opportunities; how the GMA continues to invest in the future

54 60 SECONDS WITH...

Mike Brear on his 32 years with Rigby Taylor

FEATURES

20 BREAKING BOUNDARIES

Women's Ashes' all female grounds team is a first

25 NGB UPDATE

28 RAISING THE GAME IN EUROPE

37 PAS UPDATE

32 THE ITAL IAN JOB

Football Foundation review of multi-sport funding

Hessle volunteers' successful pitch improvements

38 TECHNICAL INSIGHT

Quantifying 'the going' ; phosphite in turfgrass

45 MAINTENANCE TIPS

What to do in winter

KAREN MAXWELL

Editor of Grounds Management magazine

Lee Guerriero talks UEFA pitch challenges and strategy

Oliver Grice-Hewitt's award­ winning ways at Udinese Calcio FC

48 SALTEX PRODUCT SHOWCASE

We check out some of the exciting products on display at the sector's leading expo

DR ANDY CARMICHAEL Freelance writer and sportsturf academic

COLIN HOSKINS

Freelance writer and industry expert

GROUNDS MANAGEMENT Editorial address: 28 Stratford Office Village, Walker Avenue, Walvertan Mill East, Millan Keynes MK12 5TW/ t: 01908 312511 GMA membership and general enquiries: t: 01908 312 511 / e: membership@thegma.org.uk Magazine subscriptions: Jo Cornford t: 01908 312511 / e: accounts@thegma.org.uk Subscriptions: £30 UK/ £50 Europe/ £70 rest of world Published on behalf of the Grounds Management Association by: Think, 20 Mortimer Street, London wn 3JW/ t: 020 3771 7200 Editor: Karen Maxwell t: 07866 736597 / e: editor@thegma.org.uk Head of communications: Jennifer Corter e: jcarter@thegma.org.uk Managing editor: Kirsty Fortune Group art director: Jes Stanfield Client engagement director: Jack Watts To advertise in this magazine: Tony Hopkins: t: 020 3771 7251/ e: tony.hopkins@thinkpublishing.co.uk/ Mica Enwright t: 020 3771 7211/ e:mica.enwright@thinkpublishing.co.uk

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The new government strategy encourages people of all ages and abilities to engage in sporting activity

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GMAAND INDUSTRY NEWS

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Government Get Active strategy combats UK's low exercise levels The UK government has launched a new initiative with the target of getting an additional 3.5 million people physically active by 2030.

The new 'Get Active: A strategy for the future of sport and physical activity' follows a decline in activity rates, as figures from the Sport England Active Lives Survey indicate that more than 11 million adults are doing less than 30 minutes of activity in total a week - instead of the recommended 150 minutes - and 53 per cent of children and young people are not meeting the guidance of taking part in at least 60 minutes of activity a day.

The new participation targets include over 2.5 million adults and over one million children, and are intended to reach people of all ages and backgrounds.

It is the first sport strategy to be published since 2015 and follows the government's investment of almost £4.oom in grassroots facilities. This is alongside investment of over £6oom for school sport and PE over the next two years, with a focus on making inclusion equal for girls and boys.

SAVE THE DATE - THE GMA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

This year's Annual General Meeting (AGM) for GMA members will take place virtually on Wednesday 22 November. Only Full Individual members and Associate members are entitled to vote. Please visit the members area of thegma.org.uk website for a reminder of GMA member benefits.

If you're a GMA member and would like to join this year's meeting, please register by calling 01908 552989 or email the Membership Services team at: membership@thegma.org.uk.

For more information, visit: thegma.org.uk/agm2023

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John Deere offers ex-Forces personnel technician careers John Deere has launched a resettlement programme for military service personnel offering new career opportunities working on its agricultural and professional groundscare machinery.

Members of the Armed Forces have been identified as ideal candidates to bring their unique skill sets and experience to technician roles within UK and Ireland dealerships.

Responding to a global shortage of qualified technicians in the machinery sector, the Military Hiring Programme will follow in the footsteps of a successful scheme launched in the US, which attracts more than 1,000 potential new recruits a year.

"The Armed Forces produce people who are highly skilled, motivated and extremely competent, and many already have the engineering skills needed to become qualified technicians," said Allan Cochran, John Deere branch training manager.

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Appointments INFINICUT®

INFINICUT® has appointed two new territory sales managers Mark Clifford-Kennedy and Gareth Rogers - who will provide expert knowledge and support to customers across the southern and northern counties.

GREEN MECH

Neal Hussey brings over 30 years of industry experience to his new role as direct sales manager at GreenMech. He will be working with customers and after-market dealers across the Midlands, and supporting dealers in Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire.

EDGBASTON T20 AN ECO SUCCESS Edgbaston Stadium hopes that the T20 international against New Zealand this summer can become the blueprint for a greener future for a sport threatened by the impact of climate change.

A report published by the British Association for Sustainable Sport (BASIS) entitled Hit For Six warns that cricket is the most vulnerable field sport to a warming climate due to floods or drought.

The third match in the T20 international series at the stadium was a 'Go Green' game that put in place a range of measures designed to reduce its carbon footprint and encourage biodiversity.

Renewable energy was used to power the 25,000-seat stadium, red meat was banned from the hospitality areas and car parks were shut with fans arriving on shuttle buses. Other Go Green initiatives included issuing England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Blast

REDEXIM

cards made from paper containing wildflower seeds, using sustainable food packaging and preparing the pitch with electric mowers.

The Go Green game sets the challenge of making every cricket fixture sustainable.

"There is a footprint at cricket matches and Edgbaston is looking to address that,'' lain James, ECB head of facilities services, told the BBC. "We need to see the learning before we can understand the rate [at which] we can all get there."

A report is being compiled to highlight the exact carbon footprint of the fixture.

Redexim has appointed Allen Whellans as its new area sales manager for the North. He brings over 10 years of experience in groundscare sales and a further eight years working in greenkeeping, and will work across North Yorkshire, Cumbria, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

KUBOTA

Kubota (UK) has appointed Will Barker as agricultural and groundscare dealer manager for the East Midlands and Eastern Counties. As part of his university education, Will joined Kubota's marketing department as a placement student, which gave him a good grounding in the tractor manufacturing business.

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THE LATEST INDUSTRY HEADLINES FROM THE GMA

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SPORTS TURF AMENITIES LANDSCAPING TRADE EXHIBITION

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l l l Investing in the future The GMA Board Report highlights our achievements over the past year, including a focus on recruitment, the launch of the Grounds Management Framework, a successful SALTEX 2022 and much more

BY GEOFF WEBB, GMA CEO & DAVID CARPENTER, GMA CHAIR

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ddressing the overall recruitment and retention issues facing the sector has remained the GMA's core focus this year. Members' responses to GMA surveys are consistent in the message that we need to shift attitudes and encourage more young people into

the sector. This will require a combined effort from a wide range ofstakeholders, including those within sport's national governing bodies (NGBs) with an interest in maintaining sports facilities. It is also a rallying cry to all ofthose in the turfcare sector: your support is vital and we hope

to see more industry-wide collaborations in the coming years.

We are aware that the recent cost ofliving crisis has exacerbated the recruitment issue, and on the back ofthe pandemic the industry has also witnessed a rise in mental health concerns and

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WE HAVE MOVED FROM CAPABILITY BUILDING TO IMPLEMENTATION AS WE FOCUS ON THE LONG-TERM GOALS OUTLINED IN OUR STRATEGY expected hours of work have often contributed to this. An ageing workforce with a limited demographic reinforces the clear message of the GMA's 2019 survey, Sport's Vital Profession, that we face a 'ticking time bomb' as we look for solutions to fill the skills gap and address the key issues that impact recruitment.

SUPPORTING OUR SECTOR From previous GMA research linked to #GroundsWeek 2021, in a survey of 2,000 general consumers 72 per cent of respondents agreed that grounds management is vital to sport and 23 per cent would encourage young people to consider it as a career path. However, only 11 per cent of the surveyed adults would consider it for themselves.

Without an attitude shift, sport in the UK will face significant and potentially permanent challenges, despite our sector contributing approximately £39bn to the economy each year.

The GMA launched #GroundsWeek in 2021 to raise the sector's profile, and encourage everyone to take the time to think about what grounds staff and volunteers do to make sport possible. The GMA Awards as well as initiatives such as Schools into Stadia, which is run by the GMA Young Board, are also raising the profile of'sport's vital profession'.

GROWING VOLUNTEERS Findings from the GMA's 2021 research report revealed that volunteers are the backbone of enabling sport and play: they make up 56 per cent of the grounds management sector and contribute £12om to the sports sector.

More than 37,000 grounds volunteers in England offer their time to ensure sport at grassroots level can go ahead by supporting the 3.8 million children who play sport on a weekly basis.

Despite this, only 9 per cent of children and 15 per cent of adults would currently consider volunteering as a groundsperson in the future. Encouraging volunteers of all ages - especially younger ones - is

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more important than ever, as two-thirds of community grounds volunteers are over 60 years old.

FIVE-YEAR STRATEGY In 2022, the GMA reviewed its 2021 Five-Year Strategy and built an expanded team. This year has been about getting the right people and resources in place - and, in 2023, we have moved from capability building to implementation as we focus on the priorities and long-term goals outlined in our strategy.

The reset strategy has three long-term goals: to attract new talent and accelerate the growth of a diverse workforce, to support sustainable business growth and protect the sector's interests, and to build industry reputation and promote the sector's contribution to society and the economy.

The strategy outlines six priority areas that will inform and influence the association's work to achieve those three goals: workforce development, people and culture, services and support, industry representation, data and digitisation, and funding and investment.

The reviewed Five-Year Strategy will be published alongside the GMA's 2022 Workforce Survey, which will be announced during SALTEX 2023.

Our strategy recognises the importance of a diverse workforce

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GROUNDS MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK The long-awaited Grounds Management Framework was launched at Lord's Cricket Ground earlier this year.

This is a central focus of our strategy, and will help to improve the status and standing of the sportsturf sector. The framework measures technical and educational competencies in a system that helps individuals progress by gaining knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of sportsturf management.

It also highlights sports ground standards to accurately determine how good a playing surface is and what can be done to improve it.

PITCH ADVISORY SERVICE The GMA's Pitch Advisory Service (PAS) continues to build on the solid foundations laid during 2021/2022. In 2022/2203, the multi-sport element of the programme has focused on maximising benchmarking data and planning carried out during the previous year.

The football arm of the PAS has continued to build on the success of the Football Foundation's PitchPower app (a tool for inspecting and improving grass pitches) and the Grass Pitch Maintenance Fund. The app has also been developed across all sports.

Operating to agreed key performance indicators (KPis) across NGB partners, the PAS has exceeded expectations: England & Wales Cricket Board: 39 of 40 county cricket boards have access to the County Pitch Advisor network and 34 practical workshops were delivered during the year.

Football Foundation: The PAS has exceeded all KPI targets for this year and continues to support development of the PitchPower app.

Rugby Football League: 143 face-to-face visits were carried out, an increase of 43 per cent on this year's target and a 150 per cent increase on year one.

Rugby Football Union: The number of initial site visits carried out increased by 68 per cent against target.

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GMA LEARNING March 2022 to April 2023 was an exciting year for the GMA's Technical and Learning department. We have continued to develop online training courses, reinvigorated the appetite for face-toface training and have started to reshape GMA qualifications. Approximately 1,500 people are educated or trained through the GMA per year and we now offer 11 online training courses, 20 face-to-face training courses and 17 qualifications.

The GMA provides unrivalled independent information, advice and guidance, and many of the products and services managed by the department carry member discounts. The GMA also continues to be accredited by the matrix Standard - the Department

OPERATING TO AGREED KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS ACROSS NGB PARTNERS, THE PAS HAS EXCEEDED EXPECTATIONS GROUNDS WINTER 2023 MANAGEMENT

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BRIEFING GMA BOARD REPORT

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EVERYTHING THE GMA EARNS GETS PLOUGHED BACK INTO THE INDUSTRY THROUGH INVESTMENT IN RESOURCES AND INITIATIVES THAT BENEFIT THE SECTOR

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for Education's standard for ensuring the delivery of high-quality learning, impartial advice and guidance.

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS During the next 12 months, we will be introducing a new membership offer that is designed to simplify the GMA member journey with realigned categories that are more relevant to the varied nature of the sectors in which our membership works.

This will link to the GMF by creating a portable CV for our members alongside a revised set of member benefits that reflect the issues faced today. We have upgraded our customer relations management system and our learning portal as we expand our range of online courses. We have also developed a new website, which will go live in spring 2024.

PROFILE-RAISING EVENTS Pre-pandemic confidence returned to SALTEX 2022. With nearly 15 per cent more visitors than the 2021 show, SALTEX offered visitors the widest array of equipment and products to explore, with more than 400 brands on display.

Over 8,300 attendees from across the UK and more than 50 countries streamed through the doors over the two-day event, signalling a return to pre-pandemic levels.

These figures confirm SALTEX as the industry's must-attend event for all those involved in the groundscare and turfcare industries.

As a not-for-profit organisation, everything the GMA earns gets ploughed back into the industry through investment in resources and initiatives that benefit the groundscare sector.

SALTEX contributes massively to our ability to help raise the profile of our industry - from those supplying goods and services to those working within it.

GMA INDUSTRY AWARDS The 2022 GMA Industry Awards ceremony made a welcome return after the pandemic, with more than 500 of the sector's leading groundscare experts from the professional and volunteer sectors, industry suppliers, NGB representatives and influential sports administrators in attendance to honour the expertise, dedication and passion of exceptional grounds personnel.

The 2023 GMA Industry Awards will be held at Headingley Stadium on 29 November and will be hosted by sports broadcaster Hayley McQueen. #GROUNDSWEEK The GMA launched #GroundsWeek in March 2021 as part of its Grounds for Sport initiative where funds were reinvested into raising the profile of turfcare and grounds management with the objective of supporting growth and diversification of future workforces.

The objective of #GroundsWeek 2023 was to celebrate the vital role the groundscare sector plays in community

and professional sport across the country, while encouraging more people to consider a career in the sector.

As an awareness campaign, media coverage was a key part of reaching new audiences. We achieved 19 per cent more coverage than last year's campaign, including across national and broadcast media outlets - reaching 6.6 million people. This resulted in an 143 per cent increase from 2021 in web searches of #GroundsWeek, highlighting the effectiveness of the campaign in exposing the groundscare sector to new audiences.

During #GroundsWeek 2023, the GMA's Young Board of Directors held its first Schools into Stadia event since the pandemic at Lincoln City FC's LNER Stadium. This event forms part of the wider 'Get into Grounds' strategy to inspire the next generation. The students were shown the basics of soil nutrition and sustainability before heading into the stadium to carry out a pitch assessment.

They also enjoyed a practical session, which included learning how pedestrian cylinder mowers, verti-draining and the use of lighting rigs are important aspects of pitch maintenance.

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GMF information can be found at: thegma.org.uk/GMF-about The 2023 Workforce Survey will be presented at SALTEX 2023 For details of the GMA AGM 2023, see page 4 and visit: thegma.org.uk/ agm2023

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amenity solutions

Give turf a kick start vvith the Cold Start range for optimum cold temperature grovvth Cold Start is a range of conventional release, mini-granular fertiliser with nitrogen for growth in cooler conditions.

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he 2023 GMA Industry Awards ceremony, which will be held at the iconic Headingley Stadium in Leeds on Wednesday 29 November, is a popular highlight in the industry's annual calendar. The evening will be centred around celebrating excellence in grounds management, the recognition of individual and team achievements across the entire groundscare sector, and networking with colleagues.

This year's awards include 17 industry­ wide categories, with individual awards including Young Groundsperson of the Year, Newcomer of the Year and Volunteer Groundsperson of the Year, along with sport-specific team awards.

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INVALUABLE SUPPORT The GMA would like to thank the event's Platinum sponsor, ISEKI UK & Ireland, for its commitment to recognising the importance of raising the profile of the individuals and teams that have made the awards shortlist, in addition to sponsoring the Independent School Grounds Team of the Year award.

Alongside ISEKI, other GMA Corporate PLUS member companies that are supporting some of these awards through sponsorship include: e lNFINICUT

Professional Tennis Courts Grounds Team of the Year

eDLF SEEDS

GMA Grounds Manager of the Year

eORIGIN AMENITY SOLUTIONS

Young Groundsperson of the Year eSGL

Professional Football Grounds Team of the Year (Elite)

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SEEDS & SCIENCE

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Professional Rugby League Grounds Team of the Year

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Environmental & Sustainability Impact Award

THE PREMIER LEAGUE, THE RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION, THE RUGBY FOOTBALL LEAGUE, AND THE ENGLAND AND WALES CRICKET BOARD are among the national

governing bodies also showing their appreciation for the industry's valuable contribution to 'making sport possible' by sponsoring awards for their respective sports.

As the GMA is a not-for-profit organisation, all proceeds from this event are used for the benefit of the industry.

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HELPING YOU TO GET A WINNING PITCH

Husqvarna CEORA™ enables you to deliver the best results on sports fields, every time.

CEORA™ is a virtually silent autonomous machine that can cover up to 75,000m2, allowing

you to trim both time and expenses. Our cutting system with razor blades in combination with a systematic cutting pattern delivers a pitch with impressive turf quality, and one that is

consistently dense and green with deeper grass roots. It also requires less time and money for maintenance. Create the right conditions for players to perform their very best game.

Visit husqvarna.com or scan the QR code to learn more about CEORA™ or request a demo.

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HUSQVARNA CEORA'" AVAILABLE NOW

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THE INDUSTRY AWARDS IS THE PERFECT FULL-CIRCLE EVENT, PROVIDING GROUNDS STAFF AND INDUSTRY MEMBERS WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO REFLECT ON THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS FROM THE PREVIOUS YEAR

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BROADCASTING THE INDUSTRY'S EXPERTISE

The host of this prestigious ceremony will be highly respected and award­ winning sports broadcaster Hayley McQueen, who is best known for her work as the lead anchor at Sky Sports News. With a career spanning over 20 years and experience reporting on some of the most high-profile sporting events in the world - including the UEFA Champions League, FIFA World Cup, European Championships and the 0 lympic Games - Hayley will bring a touch of class to the ceremony.

Commenting on the event, GMA CEO Geoff Webb said: "As the GMA Industry Awards draw closer, I am looking forward to representatives from the entire sector coming together to celebrate the remarkable achievements of those who work within it.

"The Industry Awards is the perfect full-circle event, providing grounds staff and industry members with an opportunity to reflect on the challenges and accomplishments from the previous year. The celebratory atmosphere is testament to the exceptional work of the worthy winners and this year the GMA is particularly excited to welcome guests to Headingley Stadium, a natural fit for such a special ceremony."

Get involved

The GMA Industry Awards will take place on Wednesday 29 November at Headingley Stadium, Leeds. To find out more about the ceremony, our sponsors or to donate to the MND Association, visit the official awards website at: gmaindustryawards.uk

MNDA support The GMA has also announced that the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) will be the official charity partner at this event. With the awards ceremony being hosted at Headingley Stadium, the GMA is keen to support a charity close to the hearts of many sporting heroes, especially those whose careers have been spent at the stadium.

In 2019, it was announced that Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow MBE had been diagnosed with MND and since then he and his teammate Kevin Sinfield OBE have been campaigning for support, with Kevin taking on a range of challenges to raise funds for the MNDA. All event guests, industry representatives and organisations are encouraged to support this worthy cause.

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l l l The GMA is committed to helping everyone in groundscare - from new recruits to seasoned professionals - expand their knowledge and expertise

BY DAN PREST, GMA HEAD OF TECHNICAL AND LEARNING

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oday's desired groundscare skill sets are as varied as the wide range of playing surfaces being maintained.

There is no doubt that regardless of whether you are a paid professional or a willing volunteer, you will, whatever the weather, be trying your very best to 'get the game on'.

To support you in doing this, the GMA has been working with some of the national governing bodies of sport to develop an unrivalled bank of information, advice and guidance.

These essential guidelines are mostly available through the GMA's training and education opportunities, which

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are aimed at providing you with up­ to-date information - be it technical knowledge, practical advice or the skills needed to manage a successful team.

Within the GMA portfolio of training and education opportunities you can choose from 11 online training courses; 17 off-the-shelf one- to five-day face-to­ face courses (bespoke options are also available); and 22 online qualifications.

A LIFE OF LEARNING The GMA's extensive learning portfolio supports the ethos of lifelong learning.

This is the essence of 21st-century learning and embedding this through professional working practice with continuous professional development (CPD) and reflective activities is a key process in confidence building and self-development.

Lifelong learning is not only about what the GMA can provide. We always offer independent support based on your individual requirements and are recognised by the matrix Standards for

Groundkeeper

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"GMA TRAINING HAS CERTAINLY PROVIDED MORE KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THE JOB I DO AND HAS HELPED ME DEVELOP MORE CONFIDENCE IN MY ABILITIES" TOMMY SCARGILL, GROUNDSPERSON, WHITGIFT SCHOOL - LEVEL 3 TECHNICAL DIPLOMA IN TURF SURFACE MANAGEMENT

providing independent information, advice and guidance.

We continue to signpost learning opportunities offered by other organisations to help those who work within the industry understand the extent of the 'education ecosystem'.

QUALITY BENCHMARK As the GMA's Grounds Management Framework develops into the main benchmark for quality standards within the turfcare industry, the number of

HorseHopper

BRIEFING GROW WITH THE GMA

of learners who completed a GMA online course said they made good to significant improvement in their overall soft skills of learners said GMA courses improved their problem-solving skills of learners said GMAcourses boosted their understanding of the subject matter

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of learn�rs said GMA 10 courses improved their skills in communicating a specific subject matter of learners said GMA courses improved their time-management skills

education and training opportunities will also increase, helping both new recruits and those who are interested in career progression to expand their turfcare knowledge.

Whatever your style of learning, the UK's education system offers something for everyone - often it's just a matter of being pointed in the right direction.

The GMA can help you choose the course, qualification or training provider that is best for you. The only thing you have to do is decide when to start your learning journey.

"THE GMA IS THE LEADING ORGANISATION IN OUR INDUSTRY AND THE COURSES IT PROVIDES ARE GREAT FOR LEARNING ONLINE AT YOUR OWN PACE"

CHRIS HORSLER, GROUNDSPERSON, BEDFORD SCHOOL - LEVEL 3 CERTIFICATE IN SUPERVISORY MANAGEMENT

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SPECIAL REPORT WOMEN IN GROUNDS

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Gloucester CCC's Meg Lay pulled together a team of nine women sportsturf professionals to help prepare the grounds for this year's Women's Ashes cricket tournament. We look at the potential legacy this initiative has created

BY DAVID LYNCH, FREELANCE JOURNALIST

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ou need only look at the events of this summer to know that women's sport is thriving in England. A first ever FIFA Women's World Cup final appearance for the Lionesses, Six Nations victory in rugby union and a cricket team that inflicted Australia's first One Day International (ODI) series defeat in a decade all provided reasons for the nation to be proud.

However, the value of the latter success, which came as part of a thrilling � edition of the Women's Ashes, runs far � deeper than most would be aware. It i': t;, was not only those who took to the pitch � that showed they are just as capable as g who male counterparts of putting on a � gripping spectacle - that message was � also delivered by those who prepared i the pitch for the Edgbaston ODI meeting � between England and Australia. u,

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HATCHING THE PLAN This significant moment came about thanks to a conversation between Claire Daniel, operations director at Edgbaston, and Meg Lay, New Zealand groundsperson at both Gloucestershire CCC and Western Storm.

The pair met through the Women in Cricket Employee Network, and it was a discussion among that group about an all-female grounds team delivering the US Women's Open that sparked the idea. The premise was simple: if it could be done in golf, then why not cricket?

Although, as Meg explains, things weren't quite that easy: ''When I said we could do the event, I knew it would be hard, but I didn't realise how hard.

"As far as I was aware, I was the only woman working in international cricket last year. There were only another two working in cricket - one, Carlie Lambert, was an apprentice at New Road and the other, Jasmine Nicholls, had started at Headingley four weeks earlier - so we had three team members and we needed nine.

"I got in touch with the GMA and its Pitch Advisory Service as well as various educational establishments, and scoured the internet, but kept coming up short."

However, Meg persevered and eventually created a nine-strong team - including a number of women who had previously worked in other sports meaning the hard work of preparing the pitch could finally begin.

PITCHING IN Zibby Parker, whose work at Essex CCC and Felixstowe & Corinthians CC made her one of the more experienced members of the group in terms of cricket, describes the feeling of starting out as "equally terrifying and exciting".

Fortunately, her fears were eased by the buy-in of Edgbaston Stadium's head of sports, turf and grounds, Gary Barwell, and the rest of his team.

Zibby recalls: "The [EdgbastonJ team couldn't have been nicer or more .... welcoming. Even though the end result � is the same in terms of preparing a pitch, � everybody does it in a slightly different � way. I thought they might be a bit � precious, but they weren't at all - they 60 were just brilliant. That relaxed us and . I enjoyed every minute." z � As leader of that new-look grounds � team, Meg fully agrees: "The whole team � at Edgbaston were amazing and really :S accommodating. Gary gave some great

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Clockwise from right: Meg rolls the square at Edgbaston ahead of the Ashes; marking out the square; Jasmine, Meg, Carlie and Libby show off their pitch; Jasmine line marking

RECRUITMENT RESONATES WITH MEG, BUT SHE IS ALSO MOTIVATED

BY A DESIRE TO ENSURE WOMEN'S SPORT IS GIVEN THE BEST CONDITIONS IN WHICH TO THRIVE advice, but he made it very clear that it needed to be my pitch and he was totally supportive in that."

After weeks of preparation, all that remained was for that first ball to be bowled - a nerve-racking experience for those involved in preparing the pitch.

However, thanks to countless hours of hard work, it went without a hitch, and the group could sit back and enjoy the match alongside a 19,572 crowd at Edgbaston (a record for a standalone women's international in the UK).

They watched Australia claim a four-wicket win in an entertaining game, and later got to hear that their pitch had been marked well by the

International Cricket Council, which is the true standard by which any ground staff involved in international cricket are measured.

LASTING LEGACY Invitations to continue their learning at the Western Australia Cricket Association in Perth and share their experiences at countless conferences have followed, but nobody involved in this unique project is ready to pat themselves on the back just yet.

There remains a strong desire to ensure that this event was no one-off and that a legacy is created not only for those who took part, but also in terms of promoting turf management as a career for women.

As Claire explains: ''We need to show that these roles are available, but we're working on making a pathway for ways to get into turf. The challenge is that it's a role that doesn't naturally excite people until you know what it is. What we're trying to show is that we'll remove all the barriers, that it is possible and that there are opportunities and careers within all these fields.

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SPECIAL REPORT WOMEN IN GROUNDS "It's like with the Lionesses: if you can see it, you can be it. That was the whole point of this game and we're going to follow it all and do more."

DIVERSITY DRIVE Dr Iain James, the England and Wales Cricket Board's head of facilities services, is just as keen to ensure this momentum is maintained. This is not just down to a desire for improved equality - it's also driven by the need to cast the net wider in an industry that can struggle with recruiting staff. ''We have a challenge in recruiting grounds staff into cricket full stop. GMA research data shows us that 98 per cent of grounds staff are white and male," he says. "If you already have a shortage of people, then you need to cast your net

Dream team Emily Geach The Deer Park,

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Queen Ethelburga's Jess Jackson Wellington College Zoe Jones Ageas Bowl, Hampshire CCC Carlie Lambert New Road, Worcestershire CCC '· ,;;: : "t ; .",;.,,

Meg Lay Seat Unique Stadium, Gloucester CCC Jasmine Nicholls Headingley, Yorkshire CCC Zibby Parker Dellwood Avenue, Felixstowe & Corinthians CC Tara Sandford Arsenal FC

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far and wide to get people of different backgrounds and genders into cricket grounds management, and it's the right time to be saying that having a workforce of 98 per cent white males isn't good enough."

Iain adds: "We need to take a long, hard look at why that is - given it doesn't reflect playing statistics, which have more women and people of different backgrounds."

That need to recruit for the grounds industry resonates with Meg, although she is also motivated by a desire to ensure women's sport is given the best conditions in which to thrive.

She adds: "The biggest thing for us is that we shine a light on the grounds industry. Yes, it was definitely about women's involvement, but it was also a way to get people talking about what we do as sportsturf professionals.

"Hopefully, that conversation keeps going and people are aware of it as a career - whether they are boys, girls or people who want a career change.

It's there for everyone, and hopefully we can keep up some good initiatives like this and continue to promote the industry.

"One of my key drivers for promoting the sportsturf industry is to ensure that elite women's sport is playe d and trained for on the top facilities alongside the men and to do that we need more staff. ''Without more investment in our industry, it will be women's sport that falls behind and we cannot allow this to happen. That's why it was so great that we had the opportunity to produce a pitch for a women's game to show that women in turf support our female athletes."

THE PERFECT JOB As is the case with Meg and the rest of the team, it is Zibby's love for the job that most shines through when reflecting on this experience. And she, too, hopes this initiative can help show others just how rewarding involvement in turf management can be.

She says: "I hope women and girls realise that this is a career path that they can get into and find more out about, as I think people don't realise how many opportunities there are and what a great career it is. If you like being outdoors, working hard and being part of a team, it's the perfect job."

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SPONSORED CONTENT

SUSTAINABLE PITCH MANAGEMENT AT HAMPDEN PARK How the team in Glasgow are employing SGL's latest LED lighting technology to grow top-quality grass even in Scotland's harsh climate

F

rom international football matches to pop concerts, throughout the year, the multipurpose Hampden Park hosts a multitude of different events.

The challenging task of maintaining a high-quality, consistent playing surface at the Glasgow-based stadium falls to the Hampden Park grounds team.

Fortunately, they use latest LED grow lighting technology available in pitch management. With the complete SGL LED grow lighting range at their disposal, they manage to restore the pitch to its original high-quality standard after each event.

THE ABC OF LED The Scottish autumn and winter months are characterised by cold, wet, dark days. Not the ideal conditions for grass to recover after an intense

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football match. It's the task of the grounds team to anticipate these everchanging conditions. As of August 2023, the Hampden Park grounds staff have been using the latest innovation in grass grow lighting: LED technology. One of the benefits of LED technology compared with traditional HPS grow lighting solutions is the independent control the grounds manager has over the light and heat radiation emitted by the LED grow lighting unit.

Through this independent control, the grounds manager can precisely adjust light and heat radiation to meet the needs of the grass.

When extra heat is not necessary, but additional light is, the infrared st ays switched off, enabling the grounds manager to save energy. This feature enables the grounds team to create the optimal grass growth conditions in the

most energy-efficient way possible, resulting in a high-quality playing surface and maximum energy savings, even in Northern Hemisphere climates such as Scotland's.

THE FULL RANGE OF LED GROW LIGHTS Hampden Park has decided to fully invest in LED technology. With four LED44os, two LED12os and three LED5os, the grounds team has the complete range of SGL LED grow lighting units of various sizes at its disposal. This enables them to treat the high-wear areas all at once, stimulating the recovery process as quickly as possible and minimising the turnaround time between events.

For the Hampden Park grounds team, this means that despite the challenging Scottish weather conditions and busy event schedule, they can maintain a playing

surface that meets the high standard they strive for in the most sustainable w ay possible.

FACILITATING RESPONSIBLE PITCH MANAGEMENT With increasingly busy playing schedules, more and more is expected of grounds teams. Not only are they supposed to maintain a perfect playing surface throughout the year, but they are also required to take deliberate steps towards responsible pitch management.

Data monitoring and data-driven decision-making play an important role in deploying resources as efficiently and effectively as possible. LED technology, supported by data-driven decisions, helps grounds teams from around the world achieve their desired grass quality and sustainability goals.

91GMAOCT23139.pgs 02.10.2023 15:54

NGO UPDATE FOOTBALL FOUNDATION

A YEAR OF MULTI-SPORT FUNDING

It's been a year since football, rugby league, rugby union and cricket joined together to announce the Football Foundation's £92m funding commitment to multi-sport grassroots facilities. We look at its impact in transforming communities across the country

BY CHRIS SMITH, HEAD OF PROGRAMMES (QUALITY PITCHES), FOOTBALL FOUNDATION

A

t the Football Foundation, we know from our experience of unlocking more than £2bn investment up and down the country over the past 23 years that football can act as a catalyst by boosting participation and investment in other community sports.

That's why we pledged to commit 40 per cent of our investment into multi­ sport projects that support both football and an additional sport, such as rugby, cricket, netball or basketball, by 2025.

Thanks to the investment of our partners at the Premier League, the FA and government, we're well on the way to meeting this ambition. Last season alone, the Football Foundation awarded over £37m in grants to support multi­ sport projects, including 34 3G football turf pitches, 28 changing pavilions and n grass pitches that will support football and at least one other sport.

PITCHPOWER EXPANSION Improving the quality of England's grass pitches will be essential to making

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NGB UPDATE FOOTBALL FOUNDATION

a truly transformative impact on the landscape of sport across England.

Since 2020, PitchPower- the Foundation's free-to-use web app for inspecting and improving grass pitches - has been a game-changer for football clubs, enabling the improvement of thousands of grass football pitches across the country.

Now, we're able to deliver the same great benefits for other sports, as we've made PitchPower available for rugby league, rugby union and cricket clubs.

We've already received more than 200 reports from rugby league and rugby union alone, which means not only will these sports be able to carry out grass pitch inspections, they'll also have the opportunity to apply for funding from a £15m pot of Sport England National Lottery Funding over the next three years to support making the improvements identified through PitchPower.

MORE SPORT FOR MORE PEOPLE

For major pitch capital and renovation works, the Foundation is delivering £3m of National Lottery Funding from Sport England directly to rugby union, rugby league and cricket clubs via our Multi­ sport Pitch Improvement Fund.

These grass pitch improvements are creating more opportunities for people to play not only football, but a range of other sports as well.

A good example of how sports clubs have benefited from this investment is Imperial Sports Ground- a Bristol-based registered charity that provides sports, leisure and recreational facilities for the communities in and around Bristol.

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Success stories

ALLSCOTT SPORTS CLUB (SHROPSHIRE)

Sport heavyweights get behind the multi­ sport initiative (from left to right): Craig Richards (former England women's rugby league head coach); Heather Knight (captain of the England women's cricket team); Gareth Southgate (England men's football manager); Eddie Jones (former England men's rugby union head coach); and Shaun Wane (England men's rugby league head coach)

The PitchPower and Grass Pitch Maintenance Fund has enabled the charity to maintain grass pitches to a higher standard for all the home clubs that use the facility. The grass has been growing faster and, because of drainage improvements, there is less standing water so match cancellations due to bad weather have dropped by around 30 per cent.

And we won't be stopping there- we have a pipeline of projects up and down the country that we're working hard to deliver, including 16 projects supporting basketball, 13 rugby union and 17 cricket.

While the Football Foundation will always be rooted in football, our ultimate goal is to transform lives and strengthen communities by providing great places to play sport across the country. That's why our multi-sport commitment is, and will continue to be, central to the work we do.

■ To find out more about the Foundation, visit: footballfoundation.org.uk

After netting a £475,000 grant from the Football Foundation, the club is currently in the process of constructing five new grass football pitches, two bowling greens and a changing pavilion, which will host darts and pool.

Club chairman Pete Starling says: "Once fully established, this will result in the facility being one of the best independent sporting and social facilities in the county, and will continue the growth of the local area."

CLEE FIELDS (GRIMSBY) Thanks to the Football Foundation's £1.5m investment, North East Lincolnshire Council is well underway in the construction of a new community hub for football and rugby in Grimsby, which will feature two 3G pitches and a changing pavilion.

Commenting on the funding, council cabinet member for leisure Tom Furneaux says: "These plans will create excellent facilities at Clee Fields to help make sure we provide places where residents of all ages can enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits offered by high-quality sport, leisure and recreation services."

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SPECIAL REPORT UEFA PITCH STRATEGY

RAISING THE GAME IN EUROPE We talk to UEFA pitch and technology specialist Lee Guerriero about how pitch quality support programmes are delivering the best possible playing conditions across men's and women's competitions

BY KAREN MAXWELL, EDITOR

T

he Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is funding and operating dedicated pitch improvement programmes at each of its top­ tier men's and women's competitions by working with industry experts to provide support, advice and hands-on training to European groundskeepers.

These programmes involve monitoring pitch and weather conditions around the match calendar, and sharing information, pitch data and photographs between all stakeholders so any risks to pitch quality are quickly identified and mitigated.

UEFA pitch and technology specialist Lee Guerriero coordinates these programmes and provides support across the organisation, from advice on HatTrick pitch funding to creating guidelines and resources related to governance issues, such as microplastics and pesticides legislation that requires input from European stakeholders.

"Working across the globe in different climate zones, from the Middle East to Asia and North America, has helped me to understand very specific challenges in preparing top-quality playing surfaces, often in difficult stadium environments," Lee explains.

"As well as performance testing, my involvement in the inspection process for newly constructed pitches has really helped me to understand the construction side of the industry and has exposed me to working with a variety of different clients."

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TURKISH DELIGHT There have certainly been some challenging UEFA projects along the w ay for Lee. In fact, one particular challenge, from a grounds management perspective, came during the preparations for the UEFA Champions League final 2023 at the Atatiirk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul, Turkey, where he says a new carpet hybrid pitch was installed.

"The project was complicated as during the interim period between the project's initial kick-off and the eventual staging of the final this year, there was a significant period of time when the stadium was not used at all due to the COVID-19 pandemic," Lee explains.

"Eventually club football and national team matches returned to the stadium so regular pitch maintenance was possible. However, by the time the final match was played in 2023, the carpet hybrid system was already four years old, which is a unique situation for this type of installation," he says.

"Nevertheless, thanks to the excellent work of the Turkish Federation and the grounds team led by Tugrul Hocaoglu, with support from Ian Craig at ProPitch, the pitch conditions on the day of the final were superb."

MANAGING MULTI-USE Regarding the improvement in pitch quality at European stadia in recent years, Lee says the advance of technologies such as pitch reinforcement systems is perhaps one of the main drivers.

"From the data we gather each season from our participating clubs and

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their pitches as a result of this business model, as the timing of these events has evolved from being mostly post-football season to increasingly during the season itself," he says. ''When taken into context with other developments such as the evolution of LED lighting systems, new stadium design now also considers pitch quality from the initial design phase by conducting the appropriate shade analysis," he explains.

Regarding the increase in sustainable practices, Lee says the growing skill sets of many grounds managers within the European industry is proving to be a key benefit. Best practice is being shared and integrated pest management has resulted in the industry increasingly moving away from the use of harmful chemical-based products.

associations, the number of European venues that are installing hybrid pitches has steadily increased season upon season," he explains.

"This has coincided with a visible improvement in performance and aesthetics, and has helped to mitigate the risks associated with an increase in the number of matches and hosting non':1 sporting events such as concerts." � According to Lee, this increasing trend ;,: for 'multi-use' that can generate income � 365 days a year was having an impact on ffi pitch quality at elite level. � "European venues have had to change � the way they maintain and replace

Above: Manchester City and Inter Milan collide in the UEFA Champions League final 2023 at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium (above right) in Istanbul, Turkey

UEFA'S PITCH STRATEGY FOR ITS TOP-TIER COMPETITIONS IS BASED ON THREE KEY PARAMETERS: PLAYER SAFETY, PLAYABILITY AND AESTHETICS. THIS STRATEGY TAKES A DATA-DRIVEN APPROACH

STRATEGY FOR SUCCESS UEFA's current pitch strategy for its top-tier competitions is based on three key parameters: player safety, playability and aesthetics. This strategy takes a data-driven approach using pitch­ performance testing to make informed decisions on pitch maintenance.

"Programmes for the club competition finals and the final tournaments begin one year and two years in advance respectively. These involve regular visits and assessments, as well as building relationships with the venue groundskeepers who are the key stakeholders in terms of delivering quality pitches for the events," Lee explains.

This pitch strategy has also developed to include dedicated support initiatives for the top-tier women's competitions such as the UEFA Women's Champions League and the UEFA Women's EURO. These programmes cover all of the pitches involved in the tournaments'

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INDUSTRY AWARDS 2023

Wednesday 29 November 2023 • Headingley Stadium, Leeds

Get ready to celebrate the best in the business at the grounds industry's most prestigious awards ceremony.

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Left: UEFA Women's Champions League final between FC Barcelona and VfL Wolfsburg at the Philips Stadium (above) in Eindhoven, Netherlands

TO DELIVER THE APPROPRIATE LEVEL OF PITCH QUALITY, STADIUM MANAGEMENT AND GROUNDSKEEPERS MUST EVOLVE THEIR PRACTICES ACCORDINGLY delivery, including team base camps and transfer training pitches alongside the competition venues themselves.

However, staging matches across 55 member associations is a challenging process and Lee says the strategy must take into account the specificities of each territory, including climate,

the budgets available to the clubs and national associations, and the groundskeepers' experience.

"The strategy must be flexible and targeted to focus on the highest-risk venues that face increasing challenges, such as staging non-sporting events during the traditional football season or the increasing impact of climate change," he says.

"To deliver the appropriate level of pitch quality within this business model, stadium management and groundskeepers must evolve their practices accordingly, which requires significant planning and investment, and ties into the evolving use of technology.

Modern stadium structures with roofs and tribunes built closer to the pitches themselves create additional challenges in terms of shade and air flow, and require the grounds managers to mitigate these risks in their maintenance activities," Lee explains.

CHANGING LANDSCAPE Moving into the 2024-2027 cycle, this strategy will evolve to reflect the changing face of the industry as well as new formats for the top club competitions, including the UEFA Champions League, which will see more European matches as part of the international calendar.

"It's important that UEFA maintains awareness of the changing landscape in the industry as a whole. This includes the need to work in a more sustainable way due to impending changes to European law through legislation, such as the proposed sustainable use restriction for plant protection products and how we support the venues staging UEFA matches in this context," says Lee. "Furthermore, there is a desire to provide more materials and opportunities for the education of groundskeeping professionals across the 55 member associations to raise standards even further in the future."

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here are two traits that define Oliver Grice-Hewitt's character: his thirst for knowledge and his quest to overcome challenges. These stood him in good stead for what could reasonably be called his biggest ever challenge- the transformation of the Udinese Arena stadium pitch for Italy's Serie A club, Udinese Calcio FC. GAINING EXPERIENCE Oliver's desire for continual improvement started when he gained horticulture accreditations at both Levels 2 and 3 simultaneously, before progressing onto Level 3 Sports Turf then a BSc in Sports Turf Science and

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Management at Myerscough College.

His practical challenges began with work experience in football before seasonal jobs at St Andrews Links and at the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club. These were followed by spells with contractors on golf courses in Holland, then in the UK on the construction of football pitches before a series offull-time roles in the professional football sector.

He has therefore accrued a substantial level of knowledge and expertise in the maintenance of tennis courts and golf courses, and, importantly, the construction and management of every aspect of football pitches- from the installation of undersoil heating to

the laying, grow-in and care of hybrid stitched surfaces. It is this level of expertise that has been instrumental in his role in creating a next-level playing surface for Udinese Calcio FC. In his first season (2021/22) after joining the club aged 30 as head groundsman, Oliver's studious work resulted in the pitch being acclaimed the 'Serie A Most Valuable Pitch of the Season'. He was then promoted to grounds manager with the added responsibility of the club's training ground pitches- where he was immediately tasked with reconstructing two of the six playing surfaces.

Oliver's groundscare skills have not only impressed in Italy- they have

BEST PRACTICE PROFESSIONAL

Clockwise from left: Udinese Calcio stadium pitch; Oliver Grice-Hewitt with his Serie A pitch award; working on the training pitches

also been acknowledged in the UK, where he was awarded the 2022 GMA International Impact Award.

UPPING THE ANTE Oliver says: ''When I joined Udinese Calcio, renovation ofthe stadium pitch had already begun, with the surface having been overseeded by Watford FC head groundsman Scott Tingley (see 'Oliver's career', page 35)."

"The club wanted a pitch ofa similar quality to those in the UK, so I needed to produce a high-standard playing surface - and it was a real challenge to achieve a satisfactory grow-in that summer in daytime temperatures that could reach 40°C.

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THE CLUB WANTED A PITCH OF A SIMILAR QUALITY TO THOSE IN THE UK, SO I NEEDED TO PRODUCE A HIGH-STANDARD PLAYING SURFACE - IT WAS A REAL CHALLENGE

"Serie A stadia pitches in Italy are traditionally regarded very differently to those in the UK," Oliver says. "Most are owned and managed by local councils [using contractors at high cost and achieving relatively lower standards of pitch qualityJ and any manner ofevents are hosted on the surfaces. In addition, many clubs allow two teams to use the pitch for training - even on the day before games.

"Factors that are common in the UK such as rotated pitch usage and warm­ ups, as well as not allowing buggies on the surface, seem alien to Italian contractors. However, the owners and directors ofUdinese Calcio are now ofa different mindset in terms ofboth pitch care and the role ofprofessional grounds management, with me and two others now employed full time to manage the stadium and training ground pitches."

The owners' investment at the stadium meant the pressure was on for Oliver to show what could be achieved.

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Suffice to say, the pitch award proved the point to the extent that the club then provided additional investment in equipment and staffing, and allowed 0 liver to update two ofthe training ground pitches.

MATCH DAY STRESS BUSTER The new stadium pitch came under real scrutiny in May 2023 when Napoli played Udinese Calcio and a draw would mean Napoli would secure the Serie A league title - in which case the club expected thousands ofcelebratory fans on the pitch, which was due to host another game three days later. As such, Oliver developed a comprehensive five-day pre-match plan to reduce the expected stress on the grass.

He explains: 'We increased the use ofbiostimulants, gave a spray ofsilica and kept the sward a little higher than usual, while also eliminating routine aeration in the week leading up to the game." He adds: "In the event, with a

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ELITE SPORT Changing the game for renovation and construction of stadium and other high-quality pitches

#GameChangers

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www.barenbrug.eo.uk/elite

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1-1 draw, as expected we had fans on the pitch, burns from flares, a lot of litter and a large area of grass removed. But the pitch held up well and after a lot of work over many hours we ensured it was playable for the following fixture."

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WATCHFUL EYE

According to Oliver, having access to around 60 per cent of the equipment and turfcare products that are in use in the UK, the climate is probably the biggest hurdle he faces in terms of pitch care.

The amount of rainfall and the extreme temperatures that average 37° C in summer and can dip to -10 ° C in winter can combine to create diseases such as Grey Leaf Spot and Pithium Blight.

"Our stadium sits in the shadow of the Dolomites, so we can get a lot of rain and humidity," he says. ''With excessive moisture being one of the main causes of Pithium, I need to walk the pitches every day. On occasions, when I have inspected the pitches at 6pm, I have found seedlings suffering from Pithium the next morning."

Oliver says it took 12 months before the club realised the benefits of having a full-time grounds team. During that first year, Scott Tingley acted in an advisory role and 'loaned' Oliver a groundsperson from his Watford team.

However, the award and the increased

OLIVER SAYS IT TOOK 12 MONTHS BEFORE THE CLUB REALISED THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A FULL-TIME GROUNDS TEAM investment, as well as the praise for the pitches by players and coaches, is evidence that the owners respect what is being achieved by Oliver and his deputy, Darren Hayes, plus senior groundsperson Nicola Bragagnolo, who focuses on the training centre with the help of four part-time staff.

As for the future, Oliver says he'd like to take the club's reputation for pitches and groundscare to even higher levels by helping to educate and train the grounds staff, and to rebuild the remaining sand-based pitches at the training ground as part of his pitch improvement plan.

Oliver's career With a family background in horticulture, Oliver says it was the enjoyment of a summer gardening job that led him into horticulture studies. "I'm a Manchester United fan and, having seen the match-day grounds staff in action, I thought 'that's what I could do'," he says.

Having gained his Level 3 Sports Turf accreditation, he says he found it difficult to get a job in football and, as part of the conditions of his jobseeker's allowance, he wrote to numerous football and golf clubs offering to work for free. He subsequently secured work experience at Ipswich Town FC and Nottingham Forest FC, followed by seasonal jobs at St Andrews Links and Wimbledon, as well as work on golf courses in Holland before returning to the UK for football pitch contract work (with Mallinson).

"My work at Stoke City FC and at Everton FC with Mallinson led to joining Stoke as a groundsman at the bet365 Stadium and training ground. I then moved to St George's Park and within 18 months I was appointed as a team leader.

"Scott Tingley then offered me the role of deputy head groundsman at Watford FC, which I originally turned down as I wanted a job near to family in Cumbria. Six months later, Scott got back in touch and I accepted the 'Italian job' as Watford FC and Udinese Calcio FC are both owned by members of the Pozzo family."

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PAS UPDATE HESSLE SPORTING CLUB

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Hessle's volunteering heroes

Thanks to passionate volunteers who sought GMA advice and Football Foundation funding, the pitches at Hessle Sporting Club are attracting many more players

BY CHRIS HUNTER, GMA REGIONAL PITCH ADVISOR - NORTH-EAST (FOOTBALL)

B

efore Yorkshire-based Hessle Sporting Club reached out to the GMA and acquired the Football Foundation's Grass Pitch Maintenance and Machinery Fund in 2020, its eight pitches were in a 'Poor' state.

This was due to inadequate pitch maintenance, which resulted in several weeks of consistent match cancellations every year.

Football has been played on this local authority site for decades. In 2017, East Riding of Yorkshire Council extended the grounds' lease and as part of the agreement performed pitch maintenance, which only included grass cutting 14 to 17 times a year.

Furthermore, the lack of fertiliser applications and the infestation of broad-leafed weeds caused the East Riding FA-affiliated grassroots football club's pitches to look unsightly. Limited aeration caused compaction, while thatch build-up contributed to waterlogging issues each winter. This was a persistent problem, particularly in the sunken goal mouths. The pitch line markings were also burnt in resulting in an uneven playing surface.

FUNDING AND TRAINING However, this all changed with the help of Charlie Walker, Sue Walker, Stuart McIntyre and Dave Green.

These volunteers - together with assistance from East Riding FA's Rachel Sullivan, the GMA's former regional pitch advisor Ian Powell and myself - secured the much­ needed Football Foundation

Above: Volunteers Dave, Charlie and Stuart Above right: The new line marker in action Right: Waterlogging is now a thing of the past

funding. They also benefitted from basic grounds maintenance training via the GMA's online Level One module.

REAPING REWARDS Since 2020, the volunteers have addressed the pitch maintenance recommendations linked to the funding programme.

These included regular deep-tine aeration and slitting, applications of selective weedkiller, regular scarification to reduce the thatch layer, overseeding to repair bare patches and two fertiliser applications a year - not to mention applying 40 tonnes of sand to the first­ team pitch.

With increased awareness, education and support, the club has worked with key partners and used the Football Foundation's Grass Pitch Maintenance and Machinery Fund, worth

THE HESSLE VOLUNTEERS HAVE BENEFITTED FROM THE GMA'S ONLINE LEVEL ONE TRAINING MODULE £84,716, to purchase a line marker, tractor, roller-mower, combination tool, slitter and a soil sampler. It also budgeted to use the services of local contractor Sports Turf Services when needed.

GAME ON! The club still has a very good working relationship with the local authority, which cuts the grass every now and then, as it can take a day and a

half for the volunteers to do this job.

Volunteer Dave won the East Riding FA Grounds Person of the Year in 2022.

Thanks to him and the rest of the hard-working volunteers, pitch standards have risen significantly - two are of 'High' standard, one is 'Advanced' and six are 'Good' - and the club has introduced 10 new teams and there are fewer game cancellations.

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TECHNICAL INSIGHT RACECOURSE RESEARCH AND PHOSPHITE

Quantifying •the going'

A cross-university academic team of experts is measuring data to set new standards in horse sport surfaces to benefit horses and riders at major international events

BY ANDY CARMICHAEL, FREELANCE WRITER AND SPORTSTURF ACADEMIC

R

esearch and Consultancy in Equine Surfaces (RACES) is an academicled group that ensures new standards in technology, performance and safety for horse sport surfaces.

Established by researchers from the University of Central Lancashire, Nottingham Trent University and Myerscough College, RACES' first experience with sports surface manufacturers and developers was to support the installation of the equestrian arena at the London 2012 Olympic Games. These were temporary constructions built in Greenwich Park with a brief that they should be safe for the horse and rider, ensure fair competition and protect the park's ecological habitat. The solution was a raised platform to lift the arena above the native surface, with the RACES team undertaking the task of confirming that the forces experienced by horses were comparable to those on solid ground.

In 2017, the RACES team was approached by Mark Lucey, a former GBR Young Rider eventing team vet, who wanted to quantify 'the going' (the conditions underfoot for the horse) for the cross-country section of the three-discipline sport

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of eventing. Although familiar in horse racing, it was not usual practice to measure and declare the going for a cross-country course, yet this knowledge is of enormous benefit to those who prepare the ground.

PERFORMANCE TESTING IN PRACTICE "I wanted to get the sport to embrace measuring the going just prior to the cross-country phase of competition, as I had attended many international championship events where we often asked horses to perform at their absolute best on a second-rate going that hadn't been measured," Mark explains.

In order to take this measurement, Dr Sarah Hobbs, professor of equine and human locomotion at the University of Central Lancashire and one of the leading members of RACES, says the team designed a study that would test numerous tools against the Orono Biomechanical Surface Tester (OBST).

The OBST, created by Professor Mick Peterson while at the University of Maine and developed by Professor Lars Roepstorff from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, is the gold-standard testing device for equine surfaces,

as it mimics the impact and loading phases of a horse landing on the surface, and provides assessment of firmness, cushioning, responsiveness and grip.

Sarah explains that the team compared the measurements from each tool against the OBST at different eventing crosscountry courses. 'We have measured another 81 courses with the tools to give us the best comparisons over the eventing seasons. For some

OUR MEASURING PROTOCOL IS ALSO BEING USED FOR THE PREPARATIONS FOR PARIS 2024 of these courses, we also compared the measurements to subjective opinions from riders," she says.

These tools included a ground moisture meter and a Vienna Surface Tester.

Designed by engineers from the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, this is effectively an instrumented bowling ball that is dropped from various heights between 0.05m and 0.85m, and produces measurements related to surface functional properties.

Above: Dr Sarah Hobbs, member of the RACES team

Such measurements can help establish quality standards, familiar to other sports surfaces where baselines of performance are essential.

These measurements are important for racecourse managers and grounds staff, as they help them identify areas where they may need to water or to decompact.

Another member of the RACES team, senior lecturer at Nottingham Trent University Alison Northrop, says that throughout the study the test devices have also been used to confirm decisions made by grounds staff. For example, during the drought in the summer of 2022, when the hard ground may have been unfavourable for galloping horses across country, the test equipment was able to help support the course manager's assessment to ensure that maintenance targeted the right locations around the course.

DATA COLLECTION The study was designed to run for a number of years, and to date has collected and analysed data from more than 150 courses. The results of the work between 2018 and 2022 have been accepted for publication in a peer-

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reviewed journal indicating the quality and integrity of the study and the extent to which its methods have been scrutinised.

Mark says: ''Within six years we have an enormous amount of [mainly unfunded] research and the sport is now requesting our data."

For example, earlier this year, Le Pin au Haras hosted the European Eventing Championships and Mark travelled there to take measurements. ''When I arrived early on the first morning, the first three riders and team officials immediately asked for some

Above: The Vienna Surface Tester measures ground surface properties Above right and right: The RACES team set up the Orono Biomechanical Surface Tester, which mimics the loading impact of a horse

'going' data and all the competing nations were able to access my data at the Chef d'Equipes meeting later that afternoon.

"Our measuring protocol and standards are also being used in the preparations for Paris 2024 as well as events in

the US and the UK," he says.

Last year, RACES was awarded a grant from the Horse Welfare Board Ground and Going Steering Group to explore alternative ways of assessing race-day going conditions. This work began in 2023 and the researchers

are currently collecting data from flat and jump race meetings from racecourses in the UK throughout the year to reflect different weather and going conditions. Given their track record, it's odds on that we will hear a lot more about this work soon.

GROUNDS IJfl WINTER 2023 MANAGEMENT u1

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TECHNICAL INSIGHT PHOSPHITE

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Phosphite in turfgrass

Phosphite has become an important nutrient in turfgrass over the past decade. Here, we explain its benefits and how and when to use it

BY DR JOHN DEMPSEY, TURFGRASS RESEARCHER

P

hosphite is a form of phosphorus (P), which is a major plant nutrient vital for optimal growth and development required in amounts second only to nitrogen. As a nutrient source, phosphorus is only available as phosphate.

Phosphite is chemically similar to phosphate, as both ions have a central phosphorus atom. With phosphate, the atom is combined with four oxygen atoms (PO43-).

With phosphite, however, only three oxygen atoms are combined with the phosphorus atom (PO33-).

While one fewer atom of oxygen may seem

inconsequential, the result is significant as phosphite cannot participate in the same plant biochemical reactions as phosphate.

Phosphite is derived from phosphorous acid (pH2.2) and if applied to plants is phytotoxic. It is modified prior to use with an alkali salt, originally with aluminium ions, which produced fosetyl-Al, a plant protectant first marketed in the 1980s that was successful in controlling turfgrass diseases such as Pythium.

Since the early 2000s, potassium hydroxide has been used to neutralise phosphorous acid. This produces potassium

phosphite, which is the basis of numerous turfgrass products sold to help control disease as biostimulants, nutrient sources and defence activators.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS PHOSPHITE? Phosphite's ability to suppress certain diseases is well documented as it has been shown to suppress Dollar Spot, Anthracnose and Fusarium Patch (Microdochium nivale).

Numerous field trials in Europe and the US have determined that there were significant M. nivale disease reductions on phosphite-treated trial

plots when compared with untreated controls, and that the addition of phosphite significantly enhanced fungicide efficacy.

The means by which phosphite suppresses disease is two-fold.

• Directly: Phosphite inhibits fungal growth and reproduction. This slows the infection process allowing the turfgrass time to respond with defences.

• Indirectly: Infected turfgrasses produce numerous antimicrobial compounds leading to induction of systemic acquired resistance.

Phosphite treatment primes and stimulates these defence

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TECHNICAL INSIGHT PHOSPHITE

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PHOSPHITE TREATMENT PRIMES DEFENCE COMPOUNDS AND SUBSEQUENTLY REDUCES DISEASE

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compounds and subsequently reduces disease incidence.

To achieve optimum disease control, phosphite treatments need to be applied prior to the onset of infection and must be absorbed into the plant.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN PHOSPHITE IS APPLIED TO TURFGRASS? Published research shows that foliar-applied phosphite is rapidly taken up with maximum accumulations in the leaf within 48 hours.

Phosphite also translocates throughout the plant via the xylem and phloem, giving it symplastic ambimobility.

Over six weeks post treatment, phosphite levels in the plant will progressively decline. This is of significance to grounds managers who apply phosphite as part of a disease-control programme, as sequential applications need to be made at regular intervals to maintain phosphite levels in the plant for effective disease control.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS PHOSPHITE AS A NUTRIENT SOURCE OR A BIOSTIMULANT? Research conducted at the University of the West of England in Bristol studied the effects of foliar-applied phosphite on the growth and quality of turfgrass and the fate of phosphite in the plant and soil.

The results showed that in a phosphorus-sufficient rootzone (P > 35ppm), phosphite increased growth.

Conversely, in phosphorus­ deficient rootzones (P < 6ppm), phosphite treatment significantly reduced growth compared with phosphate-treated and untreated control plants.

The enhanced growth in the P-sufficient rootzones was attributed to phosphite inhibiting pathogenic soil

microorganisms, which have a debilitating effect on turfgrass development, and to a growth-regulatory or phytohormonal factor affecting sugar metabolism leading to internal hormonal and chemical changes.

The reduction in growth in the P-deficient rootzones was because phosphite suppresses

Phosphite fast facts

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Phosphite is a form of phosphorus similar to phosphate, but has significantly different effects on turfgrass.

Phosphite has developed from a successful control of Pythium diseases in the 1980s to its use as a biostimulant and plant protectant for other pathogens of turfgrasses.

Phosphite applications can suppress disease throughout the year and promote plant health during periods of stress.

Phosphite is rapidly taken up and translocated by turfgrass, and sequential applications can maintain beneficial levels within the plant.

Foliar-applied phosphite does not supply any phosphorus fertilisation since there is no conversion to phosphate in turfgrass plants.

Long-term, sequential phosphite treatments can lead to cumulative increases in soil phosphorus levels.

Use caution when applying phosphite if phosphorus is deficient in the rootzone as foliar­ applied phosphite can decrease the growth and quality of turfgrass in this situation.

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turfgrass responses to P limitation, such as enhanced root architecture used to mine for phosphorus.

Phosphite also competes with phosphate for uptake via the same plant transport system, leading to further phosphate depletion.

Other results from this research concluded that phosphite does not convert into phosphate within turfgrass plants, and that long-term sequential applications of phosphite significantly increased soil phosphorus levels.

MAINTENANCE OF P This means it is important to maintain phosphorus amounts in the rootzone at sufficient levels because phosphite alone will not provide usable forms of phosphorus to the plant, so applications of phosphate may still be required.

The increase of soil phosphorus levels may be problematic as movement of phosphorus out of a turfgrass system is not desirable due to its impact on water bodies, and higher levels of soil phosphorus are often correlated with increased populations of Poa annua.

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MAINTENANCE TIPS WINTER

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WINTER OPERATIONS The GMA's seasonal maintenance guide to help you keep your sports surfaces in top condition all year round

■ If the ground

Bowling greens

conditions allow, mow the sward by topping off lightly with a rotary mower.

■ Earthworm casts

may be present, so regular drag brushing and aeration to keep the surface open to improve surface drainage and drying may help reduce the effects of earthworm activity.

Drag brush or switch to remove morning dew and to disperse casts during dry, windy conditions.

Watch out for disease pressures during mild, damp spells and consider applying a low-nitrogen­ balanced fertiliser to promote resilience to disease attack if growth is continuing.

Remove leaves and other debris to prevent the turf being smothered.

Keep the grass topped at a suitable height, should growth dictate.

This will also help to reduce the chance of disease attack in longer grass due to the increased humidity and damper atmosphere among its leaves.

Ensure machinery is booked in for service

Cricket outfields

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Check for damage routinely, especially if used for winter sports, and make repairs when conditions allow, paying attention to bowlers' run-up areas.

Remove leaves and other debris to prevent the turf being smothered.

Subject to growth, if climatic and ground conditions allow, mow by topping off, employing a rotary cut if possible.

Brushing or turf grooming will aid grass health. Brush to clear dew where possible.

Brushing when dry and on a windy day will assist in dispersing worm casts.

If conditions allow, aeration can improve the condition and quality of the outfield.

■

and prepare your maintenance schedule for next year, along with a budget requirement.

Finish off any turf repairs that might be outstanding.

Ensure the surrounds to the green are clean and tidy, and that any outstanding work is being completed.

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Cricket squares

■ Most likely the square

will be too wet to carry out much work once we enter deep winter, but identify opportunities to carry out operations in suitable conditions.

Carry out or book in services for equipment and machinery.

If any earthworm activity is noticed, try

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not to smear the casts hand-pick or brush in dry conditions to disperse them instead.

Remove leaves and other debris to prevent the turf in the square being smothered.

An autumn/winter, fertiliser application would help sustain grass plant health throughout the off-season.

If possible, erect fencing to protect the cricket square from animal damage.

Check for disease activity and, if identified, treat accordingly.

Continue to brush as regularly as possible to allow the sward to remain upright and to remove excess moisture/dew.

If possible, aerate using solid tines when conditions allow.

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Football pitches

■ Divoting is a key task

at this time of year.

Repairs need to be made to maintain a reasonable surface for as long as possible.

A light topping off might still be required if conditions allow and growth continues.

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MAINTENANCE TIPS WINTER

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■ An autumn/winter feed

should be applied to aid resilience to disease.

Brush and/or harrow to clear morning dew and disperse earthworm casts in the dry - these cultural practices will increase air flow around the plant and reduce disease pressures.

Slit tine aerate the pitch if smearing of the soil is not going to take place. Be prepared to stop if conditions are found to be unsuitable, as more harm than good will be done by continuing.

Remove leaves and other debris to prevent the turf being smothered.

A decompaction operation would be beneficial if it is performed in suitable conditions ahead of the cold/wet weather.

Overseed and dress worn areas as required through the season little and often. Cover to retain heat and moisture if possible.

Hand fork goalmouths and centre circles to maintain drainage potential. Do not undertake operations with heavy machinery over the pitch if the profile is holding water.

■ A topping off of the

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■ Understanding when

to leave the pitch alone can be just as important as the work you carry out during this time of year.

Horse racecourses

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Avoid the use of heavy machinery over the winter months when ground conditions are generally unsuitable.

Aeration can be carried out during dry periods assuming the soil moisture content is not high.

Continue to divot and carry out hand repair after each meeting.

Remove leaves and other debris to prevent the turf being smothered.

A light topping off of the sward might be required by the end of the winter period.

Look ahead to planning/ordering materials ready for the April renovation work.

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Rugby league pitches

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grass may be required, subject to growth and ground conditions, but a little extra length at this time of year will help counter some of the wear.

Machinery should be prepared for its winter servicing schedule.

Ensure line markings have good consistency.

Drag brush the pitch to produce a striping effect and remove dew.

Replacing divots and making hand repairs is critical to sustaining surface quality throughout these winter months.

Remove leaves and other debris to prevent the turf being smothered.

A light topping off might still be required if conditions allow and growth continues.

If the above is the case, an autumn/winter feed

■

should be applied to aid resilience to disease.

All machinery should be looked at for end­ of-season repair or servicing.

Find time to perform isolated pitch repairs, replacing and repairing any divots or areas of thin cover.

Remove leaves and other debris to prevent the turf being smothered.

Some form of aeration would be useful. Slitting or even hand forking would be good for airflow and drainage.

Drag brush to disperse dew and to stand the grass up.

A light top-dressing of worn areas with sand may be required.

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Rugby union pitches

■ Soil conditions may

become unsuitable for routine aeration.

Selective hand forking in isolated areas is to be encouraged.

Decompaction would be beneficial if performed in suitable conditions ahead of the cold/wet weather setting in.

Sanding of wet or bare areas may also be required.

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Tennis courts

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Little work will typically be required during the winter period, except for the essential removal of dew and earthworm casts, and watching for signs of disease attack.

Aerate using small diameter solid tines if conditions permit, although ground conditions may now be unsuitable for most of the time.

Remove leaves and other debris to prevent the turf being smothered.

Occasional topping off of the grass may be required, subject to growth and ground conditions.

If the grass continues growing, pay attention to turf nutrient levels.

Machinery should be given an annual service during the next few months.

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■ For more seasonal

maintenance tips, visit: resources.thegma.org.uk

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BOOST YOUR GAME AT SALTEX Bigger and better than ever, SALTEX 2023 is the place to learn about the latest products and innovations, as well as network with your industry colleagues.

Here, we've picked out some of the exciting new products that will be on show

E

urope's largest free-to-attend turf management exhibition, and the UK's longest-running trade show for the sector, returns to the NEC Birmingham on 1 and 2 November. With registration and exhibitor figures indicating a bigger show than last year, SALTEX 2023 offers all those working in the groundscare sector a wealth of opportunities to boost their game.

Off the back of a strong 2022 show, which attracted nearly 15 per cent more visitors than the previous year, SALTEX is returning in 2023 with an expanded show floor to accommodate demand for more space from exhibitors. This

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20 per cent expansion means that there will be even more to see in 2023, with SALTEX being the place to learn about the newest innovations and to see the latest products.

Covering everything from machinery and vehicles to seeds and turf treatments, SALTEX offers grounds staff across sports and at all levels an unmissable mix of the latest technologies and product developments in today's groundscare industry.

And this year, SALTEX is boosting its game when it comes to socialising with friends and meeting like-minded people. With our brand-new area, the Clubhouse, there will be even more

opportunities to expand your network of industry contacts and unwind with friends, both old and new.

With over 400 brands showcasing products in three halls, and more than 50 Learning LIVE speakers presenting across three themed stages, all over two days and in one location, SALTEX 2023 is not to be missed.

Over the following pages we highlight some exciting products and technologies you can see at the show, from Cramer's fastest ever battery­ powered mower and Draintalent's pitch moisture management system to sustainable solutions from the likes of Westermann, SGL and Kubota.

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CRAMER LAUNCHES ZERO-TURN BATTERY­ POWERED MOWER WITH FASTEST EVER MOWING SPEED AVAILABLE Cramer will unveil the Optimus Z 25.6km/hour ride-on mower at NEC Birmingham this November Cramer will be using SALTEX to launch two new Optimus Z zero-turn battery­ powered mowers specifically designed for professionals who demand the ultimate in performance and durability. The ride-on model boasts a mowing speed of 25.6km/hour - the fastest in the market - and a battery that allows for a full day's operation, whereas the stand-on model has been specially created for use in narrow, awkward spaces.

Both Optimus Z zero-turn mowers have been designed for durability and longevity, and come with a host of invaluable features.

The ride-on model has individual rear-wheel hub motors that integrate

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transmission for a fast drive, as well as a park brake. It benefits from a large 18kWh or 24kWh battery with a run time of up to 8.5 hours per charge.

Features include a water-resistant storage unit to cope with the UK's changeable weather, together with a cup holder and mobile phone charger.

A new high-level LED bar in white and amber has a flash function, and makes for high visibility and therefore improved safety.

The Optimus Z stand-on zero-turn mower measures just 92cm in width, enabling the operator to drive it through smaller gates and around tighter obstacles. It comes with a premium leg pad for driver comfort.

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In addition to the two new mowers, Cramer will be exhibiting a selection of its existing cordless professional outdoor power equipment tools, all of which are powered by an 82V battery system, and benefit from innovative features such as magnesium components, fleet connectivity and ultra-high-torque motors to rival petrol performance. cramertools.com sales@handys.co.uk 01793 333220

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EASY PETROL POST DRIVER - STAND J100

WESTERMANN SHOWCASES CHEMICAL-FREE WEED AND MOSS CLEARING PRODUCT LINE-UP

EASY PETROL POST DRIVER MAKES LIGHT WORK OF FENCING

The company's fleet of pedestrian and ride-on machines for eco-friendly hard-surface cleaning will take centre stage

Lightweight yet powerful, the EPPD averages 200 posts a day

The Westermann range of machines will clear moss, weeds and debris from hard surfaces. They are manufactured in Germany and powered by easy-to-start, four-stroke Honda GX engines.

The collection comprises both pedestrian and ride-on machines, with interchangeable heads and brushes. The demand for the chemical-free weed and moss removal has increased over the past few years, and Westermann offers a water-free and chemical-free solution to hard surface cleaning. These are robust machines, designed and built for daily commercial use.

They are suitable for all types of hard landscaped areas including block paving, tarmac and concrete in car parks, driveways and pavements. They even offer brushes for delicate surfaces such as astro pitches, children's play areas and artificial golf tees. Find them on SPA Power Machinery's stand. westermannuk.com

The Easy Petrol Post Driver (EPPD) is returning to SALTEX and is a must-have tool for landscapers.

The EPPD has replaced the need for hand-held rammers and sledgehammers. It works on every type of post up to four inches, square or round. And with increasing varieties of steel fencing, it also has adapters to suit Clipex and metal estate fencing.

One of its key features is just how lightweight and compact it is. Solo contractors will find it easy to work with, as well as fast and safe. It weighs just 15.3kg and is suitable for days of post driving with an average of 200 posts a day.

With a very powerful performance from the Honda GX35 four-stroke engine, the EPPD delivers 1,720 strikes per minute. Every machine comes with a three-year commercial warranty and site box for safe storage. Find them on SPA Power Machinery's stand. petrolpostdriver.com PETROL

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SPONSORED CONTENT

KRESS LEADS THE WAY WITH GAME-CHANGING CYBERSYTEM™ Revolutionary new battery platform offers full charge in just eight minutes

LANTRA SHARES TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS EXPERTISE The Lantra team will be sharing the latest developments in training to make sure your grounds staff have all the skills they need With over 40 years' experience helping the land-based and environment sector meet its skills needs, the Lantra team will be out and about over the coming months at several high-profile trade expos for sportsturf professionals, including SALTEX. We'll be sharing our latest developments in training and qualifications, inspiring visitors with our landscaping careers information, and gathering views and feedback from the industry to inform our future product and service development. We hope the industry professionals visiting the show will help provide insights to future-proof Lantra's offer, addressing the requirements of the environment while keeping sight of commercial challenges and opportunities afforded by technology.

We want to ensure the workforce is suitably skilled to meet the needs of employers now and in the years ahead.

Therefore, we are constantly looking at ways to translate the demands of the sector into our own training courses.

As a not-for-profit organisation, we are uniquely placed to take a truly objective stance on the varied needs of the land-based and environment sector.

Whether it be conducting research in partnership with leading organisations, working with devolved governments to deliver specific skills programmes or partnering with education providers to ensure our training keeps pace with the latest technological innovation, Lantra can always be relied on to put the needs of the sector first. lantra.co.uk

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Kress is delighted to be returning to SALTEX and will proudly showcase its extensive line-up of cutting-edge products designed for professional turf and grounds management, including its exciting extended range for 2024.

Kress is leading the transition from petrol-powered commercial lawn equipment for professional operations with the introduction of the industry's first true game-changing innovation in battery-powered equipment.

The commercial Kress eight-minute CyberSystem battery platform, designed for commercial landscapers, offers 4Ah and 11Ah batteries that recharge to 100 per cent in eight minutes or 80 per cent in five minutes, the fastest in the industry. The CyberSystem battery platform powers a full line of Kress professional outdoor power equipment.

Also on exhibit are the boundary-free RTKn robot mowers, extending unmanned mowing to larger areas, operating in parallel lines, and moving autonomously without wires or on-site aerials. kress.com/en-gb

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TRIMAX MOWING SYSTEMS - STAND C051

TRIMAX UNVEILS MULTIPLE NEW INNOVATIONS Range of cutting-edge mowers on display

SALTEX heralds the arrival of multiple new innovations from leading manufacturer Trimax Mowing Systems. On display will be a brand-new, heavy-duty flail mower that has been designed to tackle the toughest commercial applications; the first ever built ProCut Series 5, a rotary mower that has earned its reputation for high performance; and, finally, an exciting new prototype mower that is set to open up new markets for wide-area mowing.

For those wanting to see the recently launched Pegasus Series 5, this will also be on display for the first time since its release, along with some innovative new rotary blades.

With so much to see, be sure to drop by the Trimax stand C051. trimaxmowers.co.uk

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l Toro Tines give you more.

More choice, more performance and now even more value.

• Over 150 tines provides multiple options for all aeration needs

• Higher productivity as designed with long lasting tungsten carbide blend tip

• conversion sleeves allow a perfect fit on most machine brands with ease

• An optimised core removes more thatch for maximum top-dressing

• A superior hole improves recovery time to maintain playabi I ity

reesinkturfcare.co.uk Get MORE from your turfcare partner this year: More products. More advice. More training. More finance �

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·we operate on a 24 hour basis where possible. Reesink UK LTD is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Images shown for illustration only

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KUBOTA - STAND C070 KUBOTA UK UNVEILS NEW ELECTRIC LINE-UP

Visitors to SALTEX 2023 will be the first to see the latest in the electric offerings from Kubota UK, as its stand is the European launch platform for the new addition to its eco-friendly line-up details of the new product are being kept under wraps until the event.

The stand will showcase the very best in both technology and innovation, with two out-front, centre-collect mowers - the FC3 and FC4 - from its FC Series taking centre stage.

The additional floor space will also enable Kubota to display larger products from its range, including the 110hp M5112 tractor and its first electric compact tractor, the LXe-261, launched in 2022, which is equipped with a large-capacity battery that can provide one-hour charging and three to four hours of continuous run time.

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OAS SHOWCASES TURF MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

The technical team at Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) will be offering turf management solutions. Visitors can browse the OAS product portfolio on stand G060, including its range of seeds, fertilisers and biologicals, plus water management products.

Several of the latest OAS technology-led solutions will be showcased, including a new generation of tetraploid grass seed mixtures that have been developed to support carbon mitigation in amenity and landscaped areas. Attendees can also see live demonstrations of the digital TurfKeeper platform's control over staff management, task planning, inventory control and more.

Stand G057 will display OAS' line-marking products, from pedestrian spray markers to GPS-guided robot line markers.

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WEEDINGTECH - STAND E057 FOAMSTREAM HERALDS THE FUTURE OF WEED CONTROL

Weedingtech team will present its commercial herbicide-free weed control solution, Foamstream. Proven in trials to deliver comparable efficacy to traditional chemical controls, it has been adopted by facilities across the sector.

Delivered by a range of patented machinery, Foamstream offers an organically certified and herbicide-free alternative to weed and moss control. As well as eradicating the plant, Foamstream sterilises surrounding seeds and spores, helping to reduce treatment cycles and overhead costs.

The all-natural ingredients mean it is safe for applications around people, animals and sensitive environments, making it a viable solution for schools, local authority parks and housing associations.

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GKB - STAND H051 Turf Tank will be displaying its autonomous robotic line-marking robot at the show. Following the success of its predecessor, Turf Tank Two's design is based on robust research and development, customer feedback and enhancing the user experience.

Performance and accuracy are the hallmarks of Turf Tank, and a combination of refinements have led to faster marking times. The sprayer modules have been upgraded, a new front panel provides quick pause/resume options and a tilted pump cover allows up to 20 litres of paint to be loaded. Further, to make transporting easier, Turf Tank Two's handles are on the front and back.

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ATT DEMONSTRATES LATEST INFINICUT® TECH

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AT T will be showcasing the latest advancements ... . . .......... .............. across its INFINICUT and TMSystem™ at SALTEX. I The company has refined its line-ups and incorporated new features into the hardware and software of its industryleading pedestrian mowers. For example, the BLDC motor technology used in the INFINICUT has been enhanced for greater efficiency, torque and smoothness. And upgrades made within the lnfiniApp include a new fleet-management function that enables an operator to save any preferred parameter setting and send it simultaneously to every mower in the fleet, with huge time savings. Further, the auto-slow-down update means users can select a percentage of their chosen walk speed from the lnfiniApp to slow the mower for end-of-line turning.

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GKB PROMOTES MACHINES FOR ALL SPORTS SURFACES

No trip to SALTEX would be complete without a stop at GKB Machines' stand, which has been redesigned this year to make space for a wide range of maintenance solutions that are renowned for their robust build quality, functionality and efficiency.

For natural surfaces, stand highlights include the Deep Tine Aerator and GKB Sandspreader. The Sandspreader range features four models, offering hopper capacities between one and four cubic metres.

For synthetic surfaces, it is important to minimise the migration of infill into the environment. The 4m-wide Brush is ideal for quick surface coverage, while the GKB Quick Brush has a range of optional extras.

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VANMAC - STAND K070 VANMAC'S MACHINE WORLD The Vanmac stand will be packed with equipment. Particular highlights will be the multifunctional TRILO M4 collector and the Progressive TDR-15 mower.

A range of shaft options are available for the TRILO M4, making it great for tasks around the maintenance calendar. When not collecting leaves, clippings and other debris, the modular unit can be equipped with a scarifier or flail shaft.

The Progressive TDR-15 is the ideal roller finishing mower for local authorities, estates and sports facilities. It has a cutting width of just over 4. 5m across the three decks and combines efficiency with superior cut quality and presentation.

Leaf-blowing solutions will also be on the stand, including the towable SU60 vacuum collector and, the largest blower in the TRILO range, the BL960, which requires a 50hp tractor and is a popular choice for large areas. vanmac.nl

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DRAINTALENT DELIVERS OPTIMAL PITCH MOISTURE The award-winning sustainable solution to optimal pitch moisture management by Draintalent returns to SALTEX. Facilities across Europe are discovering the benefits that the unique circular soil monitoring system can bring to pitch quality and plant health.

The Draintalent monitors the moisture content within the profile to optimally balance soil conditions in real time with the help of a bi­ directional, under-pitch drainage system. The fully automatic system identifies when it starts raining and actively begins extracting superfluous water from the top layer. Alternatively, in periods of dry weather water can be re-infiltrated through the same system to support healthy growth and recovery.

The Draintalent can also force air into the subsoil and up into the soil profile, creating conditions for stronger root growth and a more stable pitch. draintalent.com

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WIEDENMANN ALL-ROUNDERS ON DISPLAY Wiedenmann UK will be showcasing its multitasking machines at SALTEX. Versatility and value are Wiedenmann's focus as grounds teams and contractors need machines that work smoothly with high performance and can double up on tasks.

Whether you're decompacting an over-used pitch or hollow-coring a surface, Wiedenmann offers 11 separate deep aerators, from the super-light TERRA SPIKE SL (210mm) to the extra-deep TERRA SPIKE XP (400mm). Meanwhile, the year-round Super 500 and Super 600 sweeper collectors have multiple uses and a 2.1m-high dump. Debris is vacuum packed into tanks of 2,500 and 4,500 litres respectively. wiedenmann.co.uk

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ISEKI - STAND D050 SALTEX visitors can expect to see EGO Power Plus' new-look PRO X range featuring trailblazing battery and charging technology.

Vince Brauns, group product manager at EGO, says: "It is always great to return to SALTEX, as it is the perfect opportunity to share exciting new developments in our range with visitors. We are really excited to showcase our new PRO X products.

"We have been able to evolve our battery and charging innovations to the point where users can work all day, every day, making our new PRO X range the reliable and performance-driven fleet of tools that professional users need." egopowerplus.co.uk

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�� · SGL EXPANDS SUSTAINABLE GROW LIGHTING RANGE WITH NEW ENERGY-EFFICIENT LED120 SGt:s new energy-efficient LED lighting unit, the LED120, will be available on stand G130 at SALTEX. The LED120 covers a 120sq m surface and can be used on high-wear areas of the pitch. It is equipped with built-in sensors that measure grass temperature to determine if, and to what extent, infrared is needed to create the optimal conditions for grass growth. The integrated Smart Control System ensures that the precise amount of infrared is added, reducing energy waste and so optimising the unit's energy efficiency. This enables the grounds manager to quickly recover the grass and maintain a high-quality playing surface all year round, despite short turnaround times. sglsystem.com

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ISEKI SHOWS OFF MULTI-TASK VEHICLES ISEKI will preview its new 25hp tractor, with either ROPS or air-conditioned cab, which will be launched next year.

Also on the stand will be the SXG324/SXG327, a best-in-class mid­ mount mower that cuts and collects in dry and wet conditions, and is available as a cut-and-drop version; the SF5, an out-front collecting mower with a choice of rotary or collecting flail decks; and the Addax electric road-legal vehicles that offer one-tonne capacity with a variety of body configurations.

The Raymo, ISEKl's electric or hybrid powered remote-control mower, will also be on display. This offers excellent maintenance of difficult-to­ access areas including severe slopes.

Visitors will also be able to see the TG6507 49hp compact tractor, with its IQ dual clutch transmission. lseki.co.uk

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60 SECONDS WITH...

MIKE BREAR

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'TD BE ABLE TD WATCH PEOPLE PROGRESS THEIR CAREERS IS WORTH MORE THAN REACHING ANY SALES TARGET TOME' Mike has been a well-known character within the industry and as he retires from Origin (Rigby Taylor), we ask about the changes, the challenges and the friendships made throughout his career

BY KAREN MAXWELL

When did you embark on a career in turf management?

I joined Abbeydale Golf Club in Sheffield as an assistant greenkeeper straight from school in 1976. It was an attractive role for me as I caddied at nearby Dore and Totley Golf Club and I played a lot of golf. I worked there for 14 years and became deputy head greenkeeper before relocating to Shipley in West Yorkshire, where I took two years out to look after my son.

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I had planned to get back into greenkeeping and had plenty of support from Pat Murphy - the course manager at Shipley Beckfoot Golf Club. However, after seeing an advert for a golf course equipment salesman for Trident, which was then owned by Rigby Taylor, I embarked on a career in sales in the North East and met many customers who I still count as friends today.

Overseeing a team of five, I was North East sales director for Rigby Taylor [now owned

by Origin Amenity SolutionsJ for many years. However, due to health concerns, I recently moved to a role where I only looked after my South Yorkshire customers.

I can honestly say that throughout my 32 years with the company they have been extremely supportive of me.

In your opinion, how have turfcare products evolved over the years?

Products have moved on a lot during my time in the industry, with companies

now investing more heavily in research, development and advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure excellent results.

Social media has also played a massive role in information sharing, while the increasing practice of measuring turf conditions, rather than just visual interpretation, is improving product outcomes. For example, moisture meters are now common pieces of kit that are used within water management to ensure sustainable practices.

What did you most enjoy about your job?

I've always taken an interest in new recruits and apprentices by giving advice and support with their college work or queries, and it was that mentoring role that gave me the most satisfaction.

To be able to watch people progress their careers is worth more than reaching any sales target to me. It's the friendships that I've

made within our wonderful industry that I'm going to miss the most.

What are you looking forward to in your retirement?

Throughout my 47 years in the industry, I've visited many iconic sports stadia and wonderful golf courses, as well as community bowls and cricket clubs - where I've thoroughly enjoyed working with turf professionals and volunteers.

I guess now I'll have the time to produce the best lawn in our street and enjoy it over a glass of wine with my ever-supportive wife, Elaine.

IT'S THE FRIENDSHIPS THAT l'VE MADE WITHIN OUR WONDERFUL INDUSTRY THAT l'M GOING TO MISS THE MOST

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