Pitchcare Issue 112 January/February 2024

Issue 112

PITCHCARE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

THE PESTICIDE VOTE THE IMPACT OF THE EU VOTE ON PESTICIDES FOR UK TURF MANAGERS

PLUS...

Seizing opportunity at Leicester City FC

IS IT TIME TO embraCE robotic mowing?

HE ALT TOP H & S TIP AFET S Y

orchestrating the symphony of turf management AT THE GROVE

Cold Start

Gets greens going

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THE TEAM

Editor Kerry Haywood

Happy new year! I hope some of you managed to enjoy a little quality family time over the festive period.

As we enter 2024, and Storm Henk battering the country with torrential wind and heavy rain, we can only pray that the rainfall slows down to give grassroots surfaces a chance of becoming playable. I have seen so much devastation on social media and more needs to be done to help funding and the maintenance regimes of lower level clubs. In a bid to do just that, Chris Smith, Head of Programmes (Quality Pitches) at the Football Foundation, told us about the launch of the biggest-ever drive to transform the quality of grass pitches across the country (page 48).

FOREWORD FORWORD

NEW YEAR NEW WEBSITE

Contributors

John Richards

James Kimmings

Sub-editor

Journalist

Jane Carley

Blair Ferguson

Phil Helmn MG

Greg Rhodes

Neville Johnson

Kellie Wake

Industry expert Mark Hunt also discusses how to future proof your facility against wet weather in his regular column on page 46.

Throughout 2023, huge developments took place for Pitchcare when we set objectives to modernise our brand and improve content engagement.

We’ve loved hearing all your positive feedback about the magazine over the past twelve months and the investment is continuing with key changes to pitchcare.com for 2024. The new website offers a contemporary site for today’s turf community and will be launched within the next week!

In this issue, we report on the impact of the EU vote on pesticides for UK turf managers. Last November, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) voted to reject a proposed regulation on pesticides that could have had a profound impact on the amenity sector both in Europe and the UK. Read the full account from page 8.

We also have great articles from our regular contributors including health and safety top tips from James Matthewman, plus Dr Marie Athorn from the RSPB and The R&A partnership advises how you can make an impact in 2024 in nature conservation.

As well as BTME, there are a number of regional shows on the horizon including The 64th Annual Doe Show; 6-8th February in Maldon, Essex and also the Scots Turf Show on 6th March at Hamilton Park Racecourse.

I look forward to catching up with some of you on my travels!

Kerry

t: 07973 394037 e: kerry.haywood@pitchcare.com

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Views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Editorial contributions are published entirely at the editor’s discretion and may be shortened if space is limited. Pitchcare make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the contents but accepts no liability for its consequences. Images are presumed copyright of the author or Pitchcare, unless otherwise stated.

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January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

01

ALSO THIS ISSUE

01

Foreword

04 Latest News

GOLF 22 Sand management at Conwy Golf Club

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26 Lymm Golf Club not in limbo

ES

TOP TIPS

HOT TOPIC

24 Let’s get physical and protect ourselves

08

CONSERVATION & ECOLOGY

32 Wildlife projects on a budget 60 Nature conservation with Marie Athorn 72 Fauna flying high at Pyecombe Golf Club PLUS ...

48 The Football Foundation is driving to make pitches match fit

Pitchcare.com

52 INDUSTRY One seed at a time Simon Hutton’s journey 56 WELLBEING 64 TALKING TURF Dealing with the elements at Upton-by-Chester Golf Club 68 Houghton Hall Walled Garden 84 TRAINING Are you being defensive?

86 Classifieds

02

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

The Pesticide Vote GOLF

14

The Grove Sam Reid is more than a steward of the meticulously manicured greens; he is the maestro orchestrating the symphony of turf management.

TECHNICAL

36

Robotic mowing Technological advancements now offer a compelling alternative.

78

Health & safety Reesink explore the issues faced by sports people and how e-Vehicles can better support them.

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) voted to reject a proposed regulation on pesticides that could have had a profound impact on the amenity sector.

SPOTLIGHT ON SCIENCE

46

Weather corner Respected industry expert Mark Hunt discusses future proofing against wet weather.

WINTER SPORTS

40

Leicester City FC Leicester City moved into their breathtaking new £100m academy training ground in 2019, after taking two years of construction on the 185-acre site in Seagrave. We chat to Deputy Head of Grounds, Callum Allsop.

SEE YOU AT

#BTME2024 REGISTER NOW

HARROGATE CONVENTION CENTRE 23-25 JANUARY 2024

NEWS

Sports turf higher education

SAPCA POSITION STATEMENT ON

3G PITCHES SAPCA, alongside other key sports industry stakeholders, have released an updated position statement relating to the use of rubber crumb in 3G pitches.

Joint statement from Sport England, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), sportscotland, Sport Wales, the Grounds Management Association, Football Foundation, The Football Association, Cymru Football Foundation, Rugby Football League, Sports and Play Construction Association and England Rugby: Artificial grass pitches (AGPs) provide a high-quality surface that are an integral part of modern community sport. Recognised as durable, safe, year-round playing surfaces, they’re able to withstand intensive use and all kinds of weather.

A properly maintained AGP can sustain up to 80 hours of use a week, providing an average of around 1,400 playing opportunities.

This compares favourably to a good quality grass pitch, which can sustain just six hours a week, accommodating an average of around 100 playing opportunities.

However, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of these pitches. These have mostly related to the fibre-loss of microplastics and, in the case of third generation (3G) pitches, the presence of rubber infill, which is also a microplastic.

We understand these concerns and are taking them very seriously.

In September 2023, the European Commission completed the adoption of the EU REACH restriction on the sale of intentionally added microplastics onto the European market, which includes rubber infill for 3G AGPs. The Commission has confirmed an eight-year transition period before the new restriction becomes effective and, from October 2031, you will no longer be able to purchase rubber crumb within the EU. The ruling does not prevent the continued use of this material for AGPs, nor does it prevent the construction of new pitches with rubber crumb infill before 2031 – but it may make the maintenance of these pitches after this time difficult.

For further information and FAQs visit sapca.org.uk

04 PITCHCARE January/February 2024

FOUNDATION DEGREE

In October 2023, a new Level 3 Advanced Sports Turf Technician Apprenticeship was made available.

This new progression route builds on the Level 2 Sports Turf Operatives or Level 2 Greenkeeping and/or supports those seeking to develop their supervisory skills, knowledge and behaviours in sports turf.

Based on the role and duties of a sports turf manager, the Institute for Apprenticeship and Technical Education have now recognised that a continued progression route to a higher level 5 apprenticeship qualification in sports turf may be needed.

Further to this, a recent survey sought opinion for utilising an existing level 5 university sports turf qualification as an educational programme towards achieving a level 5 Sports Turf Technical Manager apprenticeship.

Specifically, utilising a ‘Foundation Degree in Sports Turf Management’.

Watch this space for further news on the result of the survey and qualifications.

NEWS

BIGGA finalists OF ITS ANNUAL AWARDS.STATEMENT The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) recently revealed the finalists of the annual BIGGA Awards, with greenkeeping teams represented from across the golfing spectrum.

Each year, BIGGA invites nominations from the golfing industry to recognise the achievements of its greenkeeping members, who play a vital role in the ongoing success of the sport.

The BIGGA Awards are divided into three categories, with the winners revealed at the BIGGA Celebration with Jacobsen. The event takes place on the opening evening of the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME) in January 2024.

The Awards recognise that high standards of quality and dedication are vital to the success of any golf course or championship. They reward the innovation of BIGGA members

who are at the cutting edge of the profession, and any BIGGA member within the UK, regardless of their golf facility’s size, age or reputation, can enter. The awards provide golf clubs with an opportunity to showcase their greenkeeping team’s talents and celebrate their achievements.

More information about each of the finalists can be found on the BTME website: btme.org.uk

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January/February 2024

PITCHCARE

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NEWS

BASIS CPD points 23/2024 Now that our membership year has crossed into 2023/2024, we understand you will be keen to achieve your required CPD points as smoothly as possible before 31 May.

SCOTS TURF

GETS BIGGER AND BETTER FOR 2024.

The requirement is 20 points for those who are only a member of the Environmental Advisers Register. Those who are also on the BASIS Professional Register, or FACTS qualified, need only 10 points per year. The amount required decreases on a rolling scale the later you join the register in the membership year.

CPD points can be collected by taking part in a wide range of activities, for example:

Following the resounding success of its inaugural year, the Scots Turf Show is returning to Hamilton Park Racecourse, promising an expanded exhibitor list and more education opportunities.

The second edition of Scots Turf will take place on 6th March 2024 at Hamilton Park Racecourse, featuring exhibitors such as Campey Turf Care, AllGrass, Dennis, SIS Pitches and John Deere.

One of the most notable enhancements for 2024 is the substantial increase in exhibitors from an initial 16 to an impressive 50. This growth speaks volumes about the event’s popularity and ability to attract key players in the turf industry. The expanded exhibitor line-up ensures a diverse array of products, services and expertise on display, making Scots Turf a comprehensive hub for all things turf related.

Alongside fellow Scots Turf Founding Committee member Alan Thomson Sales Manager SIS Pitches, Campey

06 PITCHCARE January/February 2024

Product Specialist Richard Heywood has worked hard to bring this event to Scotland and is excited to see its early success and where it can go in the future.

“The Scots Turf Show was designed to bring the trade to the Scottish Turf community, and it has quickly done that with a lot of success,” Richard said.

“Whilst it is primarily for Scotland, it’s an event that is open to everyone and I think the developments we’re making demonstrates the show’s progress.

“As we enter our second year, the increased number of exhibitors reflects the growing importance of this event in the industry, and we’re already excited for our advancements in 2025, where we will increase the area for indoor exhibitors.”

Registration is free, with the first 500 guests receiving a bacon sandwich and tea/coffee on arrival: eventbrite.co.uk

• Attending technical events and

conferences. These are published on the BASIS website: basis-reg.co.uk/events Taking part in training courses Listening to podcasts and webinars Completing online training Subscribing to newsletters, journals or industry magazines Professional memberships

• • • • •

BASIS also supports you through our podcast on Spotify, our winter webinar series, as well as CPD modules on the BASIS Classroom. See our podcast and webinar articles for more information.

In order to collect your CPD points, you can complete the BASIS form at an event you attend with your details.

Alternatively, members can also apply for CPD points by emailing: e-mail cpd@basis-reg.co.uk and provide details on the CPD activity completed as well as your membership number.

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INDUSTRY

Our ability to bring PPPs onto the UK market is so heavily dependent on the dynamics in the EU

Pesticide vote The impact of the EU vote on pesticides for UK turf managers

In November 2023, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) voted to reject a proposed regulation on pesticides that could have had a profound impact on the amenity sector both in Europe and the UK.

T

he proposal was for a Sustainable Use of Plant Protection Products Regulation which would replace the current Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive.

Directive vs Regulation A Directive is a legal act that tells EU member states what goals they must achieve but does not specify how this should be done. Each member state must then put into place national laws which enable them to meet the goals specified in the directive.

A Regulation is also a legal act but as well as telling member states what goals they must achieve it also specifies how this should be done. Unlike a directive it is directly applicable in every member state of the EU and does not require secondary national laws.

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January/February 2024

PITCHCARE

The current EU Directive on the Sustainable Use of Pesticides was introduced in 2009. Its purpose was to achieve the sustainable use of pesticides by reducing the risks and impacts of their use on human health and the environment, and promoting the use of integrated pest management (IPM) and alternative approaches to pesticides. The UK’s Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012 were the UK’s method of achieving the goals set out within the EU’s 2009 Directive. Even though the UK has now left the EU, the Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012 remain one of the key laws for pesticide use in the UK. Within the EU, each member state has its own equivalent of our PPP (Sustainable Use) Regulations so that the goals set in the Directive can be achieved throughout the union. In 2022, as part of the European Green Deal objectives,

HOT TOPIC

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the European commission proposed changing the Directive into a Regulation that would be applicable in all member states. The aim was for it to reduce the variation in national implementation and enforcement of the Directive and to further reduce risks to human health and the environment.

industry as the proposed Regulation would have stopped the use of all plant protection products in sensitive areas. Sensitive areas refer to almost all land that would fall under the remit of the amenity sector. It includes: • Areas used by the general public

The European Green Deal The European Green Deal was introduced in 2020 and is a set of initiatives that aim to support the EU economy and help it to reach climate neutrality by 2050. Amongst others, it has objectives relating to farming, climate change, the circular economy and biodiversity.

The agricultural community in Europe voiced concerns about the proposed Regulation as they felt it could impact their ability to produce food competitively. But there would also have been a significant impact on the amenity

• • • •

e.g. public parks and gardens, recreation or sports grounds and public paths Areas used by vulnerable groups Human settlements Urban areas covered by a watercourse or water feature Non-productive areas

This is not without precedent and a number of European member states have already implemented national legislation to either reduce or to ban the use of pesticides in amenity and other public areas. For example, France has gradually introduced legislation to ban pesticide January/February 2024

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INDUSTRY use in public areas, leading to a 92% fall in non-agricultural pesticide use between 2009 and 2020 (Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovreignty, 2022). Other countries that have similar legislation include Belgium, Denmark, Luxembourg, Netherlands and Sweden. Some countries may only legislate at a local level and others have no legislation of this type. It is this type of variation in legislation that both prompted the proposal for a new Regulation and contributed to concerns regarding its content.

Whilst some countries have actively worked to reduce or remove pesticides from amenity and other public areas, other countries view them as an integral component of an integrated approach to pest management.

In the end, the wording in the proposal was altered considerably so that neither stakeholders with environmental concerns, nor those with agronomic or economic concerns, felt able to support it. The proposal was rejected by 299 MEPs (48%), 207 (33%) supported the proposal and 121 (19%) abstained.

It is easy to see the significant impact the proposal could have had on Europe’s amenity sector, but the impact would likely have reached the UK’s amenity sector too. Not because the regulation would have been applicable in the UK, but because our ability to bring PPPs onto the UK market is so heavily dependent on the market dynamics in the EU. Quite simply, if there is no market for PPPs in our largest and closest trading partner, the value to manufacturers of supplying these products to the UK is severely reduced. With prohibitive costs and

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PITCHCARE January/February 2024

lengthy timescales, applying for and achieving authorisation of a PPP is not a project that is undertaken lightly.

As an example, the impact of the divergence in EU and UK regulatory decisions, alongside differences between UK countries, was a key reason for the recent decision to remove the herbicide Asulox® from the market in the UK. With no interest in this herbicide coming from the bigger market potential of the EU, the manufacturer simply could not justify the expense of the authorisation process for a relatively small industry (amenity and forestry) in a relatively small country (the UK).

For now, it looks like there will be no imminent resurrection of the proposal for a Sustainable Use Regulation in the EU, as a request to send the proposal back to the Environment Committee was also rejected. However, the EU’s biodiversity and pesticide reduction targets still remain, so it is yet to be seen whether there will be subsequent EU wide proposals for legislation to enforce a unified approach to meeting these.

In the UK, there is no move, as yet, to ban amenity pesticides. They are still viewed as a key component of an integrated approach to pest management, with an expectation that they are used responsibly as set out in the UK’s Plant Protection Products (Sustainable Use) Regulations 2012.

HOT TOPIC

Amenity Forum viewpoint The Amenity Forum have always encouraged regulation of the amenity market, both in terms of the supply and, equally importantly, the use and application of PPPs. The recent vote amongst MEPs that led to a convincing decision to reject a move from a directive to a regulation has significant potential to alter the availability of PPPs in the UK. As such, it becomes more important still that the National Action Plan delivers on the needs to regulate the use of these important tools to ensure that they are sold and applied professionally.

Integrated approaches should remain front and centre of our collective thinking when considering best practice with a keen eye on projects - from concept through build and maintenance phases. It ought always to be the case however, that the importance of PPPs is not lost when considering future

legislation. Science should always inform best practice and, in a world where growing environmental and political pressures are felt across our sector, we have to be very careful to balance the needs of our environment and those that live within it.

The Forum will have a keen interest in the developments that follow this important decision, but on the face of it, we see this as positive news - so long as member states and, ultimately, the UK government take the right steps to restrict and control the use of professional products to qualified and competent application specialists.

Ian Graham Chairman, Amenity Forum

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September/October 2023 PITCHCARE January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

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INDUSTRY

Sustainable direction for support and solutions The EU position, to currently retain the existing Sustainable Use Directive but reject its conversion to a Regulation in the proposed form, does give some welcome space to develop effective Integrated Turf Management (ITM) strategies across the amenity sector.

Sarah Hughes Syngenta Turf & Landscape Business Manager, UK & Ireland

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That includes increased efforts to be more targeted and effective with responsible and sustainable pesticide use - which will be essential to mitigate further legislative imposition in the future.

However, the political desire to further reduce pesticide use has not gone away, particularly in sports turf and amenity areas with public access. While any EU decision does not directly apply in the UK, it will inevitably have an implication in the plant protection products that are available to turf and amenity managers.

There is a clear desire to reduce use of inputs and environmental impacts of managing turf across the amenity sector at all levels. To enable that, turf managers must utilise all the tools that can help them to make the best agronomic decisions to fit their situation at the time, whether that is a cultural or chemical solution.

Most UK greenkeepers and turf managers are, in many ways, already ahead of the curve in terms of responsible and sustainable use of inputs and products to produce consistently better turf surfaces demanded by today’s players.

Increasingly, ITM strategies are looking to use the latest innovative chemistry in conjunction with novel biological plant protection products, as well as traditional greenkeeping practices.

The emphasis is now to only use inputs, applied responsibly and appropriately, within an overall plan – Right product; Right time; Right place.

Syngenta research to meet responsible and sustainable turf management is now focused on enhancing the reliability of ITM strategies and how best to incorporate the potential of new biological products. Extensive trials for leatherjacket control, for example, have shown the hitherto hit or miss results with beneficial

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

nematodes can be made far more consistent when used in combination with insecticide.

Along with the research and development of innovative new biological and chemical plant protection products comes the need for investment in tools to support decision making for when and how they should be used, and the technology to ensure their accurate application onto the intended target.

New digital decision support technology means that every Syngenta product will come with a dashboard of data-driven risk factors to help turf managers optimise choice and timing of when to use – or not to use – the product. Coupled to that is the Art of Application technology to assure accurate and targeted application, whatever the product.

Together, these measures will ensure turf can be managed responsibly and sustainably in the future and within a legislative framework.

Allied to that, golf courses and many turf facilities offer the potential to positively manage out of play areas for ecological gain. The Operation Pollinator initiative has proven that active turf management for player satisfaction is entirely compatible with protecting and enhancing areas, to benefit overall biodiversity and the environment.

Syngenta welcomes positive decisions on the direction for responsible and sustainable product use within the turf industry. As an R&D led company, it will help to give a clear direction for future investment, and ensure we can continue to supply sports turf managers with solutions and support that will meet legislative and societal objectives for managing playing surfaces.

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kress.com January/February 2024

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GOLF

Sam Reid: A turf maestro

Shaping The Grove’s legacy Sam Reid, the Head Greenkeeper at The Grove is more than a steward of the meticulously manicured greens; he is the maestro orchestrating the symphony of turf management.

H

is journey, born from a brief stint as a summer casual in 2012, has evolved into an 11-year career. As The Grove celebrated their 20th anniversary in 2023, Sam Reid stands at the forefront, shaping not just the present, but also the future, of this championship-quality facility.

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PITCHCARE PITCHCARE August/September January/February 2022 2024

What does a typical day in the life of the Head Greenkeeper at The Grove look like?

We have a skilled and dedicated team of seventeen full-time greenkeepers who we can rely on to complete the daily maintenance of the course. This is fronted by our three Senior Greenkeepers who I lead and mentor to maximise team efficiency and quality. My

GOLF

The biggest learning experiences will always come from trial and error

role primarily focuses on leading the team and planning for weekly, monthly and annual agronomy/cultural plans to maximise both short and long-term quality. Delegation and empowering my senior team to make day-today decisions is the biggest tool available to me. This frees me up to effectively develop our apprentices, analyse plant health and presentation quality, and ensure the admin tasks are completed.

Whilst deep down I always want to be a hands-on operator, it’s important not to tie myself up on a job that means I’m not available to my team or to assess the course. It’s more valuable to be able to stand back and observe the operation and jump in for a short time, or simply explain an operation while in motion.

How has the industry changed over the years?

Data collection and preventative action over curative approaches have become higher on the agenda now, as we move to a more organic and biological approach to turf management.

We are proud advocates of GPS spraying systems to reduce wasted products alongside our water-saving Rainbird systems.

I firmly believe that the next phase will be more in line with agriculture in using real-time kinematic stations to selectively weed kill or evenly apply nutrients to surfaces and avoid over-application.

Can you share insights into the specific strategies implemented during these challenging winter periods to uphold the high standards of the course?

There isn’t a miracle tonic for growing turf in winter, so we need to rely on the quality of the product going into these colder months. The density and plant health we have in autumn must see us through until spring. The quality of our surfaces comes from knowing when to back off the plant growth regulators, aggressive

Above Head Greenkeeper Sam Reid.

Main Home to the British Masters in 2016.

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GOLF Above © Paul Severn.

Below right © Ben Lamaison, Senior Greenkeeper.

cultural practices and, most crucially, when to push growth and when to preserve plant health. Whilst the milder autumns provide the chance to push growth later into the season, we are mindful that this soft growth can bring with it disease pressure. Being careful with our nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium inputs and using plant-strengthening nutrients prevent turf weakness.

A measured and balanced approach of aeration, mowing, rolling, and precise nutritional input during winter helps to maintain conditions but it’s the operations we do in the growing season to reduce organic matter and increase infiltration rates that make the biggest difference.

ADVICE TO PEOPLE JOINING THE INDUSTRY Working early in the mornings, longer summer hours, and in all weathers takes a different kind of dedication to other career paths.

That said, the flexible working hours, overtime, or international working opportunities alongside the satisfaction you get from the role provide a rewarding career path. This is the kind of job that, if you’re passionate about, you often can’t believe you’re being paid to

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do something you get so much enjoyment from!

It’s important to make newcomers to turf management aware that it isn’t just a one path fits all; the diverse skills that make up the industry can lead in so many directions from specialist technician roles to advisory or educational paths.

How important is it to host events like the Rose Ladies Series that look to propel the women’s game?

It was great that we could host an event such as the Rose Ladies Series. Three of our female professionals played in the event, which was a really important factor for us in hosting.

Following on from this, we have employed our first female greenkeeper. This diversity in the team has been a positive influence and has brought a different perspective to how some tasks can be completed. I would certainly be an advocate for more women in the turf industry

GOLF

because of this.

Whilst the yardages for the ladies’ event are different from the men’s tournaments, our approach to mowing lines, specific pin locations and green speeds didn’t change how we would have set up for previous events. The quality of the women’s game is very high, and we needed to match their skill with a challenging course setup; this resulted in a three-way tie at four under for the final score.

Above The mansion in Spring/Summer.

We need to rely on the quality of the product going into these colder months

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January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

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GOLF Above The 17th approach.

Middle © Ben Lamaison, Senior Greenkeeper.

Far right Sam (left) with the team on Thank A Greenkeeper Day.

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As a Head Greenkeeper, what are some key lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?

The biggest learning experiences will always come from trial and error. When I moved into a management role, it was difficult to find the right work/home life balance. It was very easy to feel like the pressure was on you to perform for both your team and for your stakeholders, and falling below a target was a failure. Maturing into the role, you learn to utilise tactical delegation and know where to focus your efforts and what tasks aren’t worth the time input. Whilst I love doing the skilled jobs on the course, I learned to give my key staff more freedom and, in turn,

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

they have developed greatly over the past eighteen months.

From an agronomic perspective, it is about not being rigid in your plans and thinking more strategically. It can be very easy to buy complex products that promise everything but don’t deliver. Thinking back to basics and what your plant needs versus what you want from it often means that there’s a simpler and maybe cheaper alternative.

The Grove celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2023. What makes this milestone special for you and the team?

It’s great for us to be a part of building The Grove’s history. Each year, we are adding to

GOLF

SAM’S GROVE JOURNEY I started as a summer casual in 2012 and 11 years later I’m still here! The role got me hooked on golf course management and after completing my level 3 in it, a Higher National Certificate and most recently a Higher National Diploma with Elmwood College, I’ve proudly progressed to be Head Greenkeeper here.

the story so it’s very rewarding when you have been a part of it for the past eleven years. What stands out for me is the success of our model towards a nonmembership championship quality facility and flexibility to different golf demographics.

Little things that really bucked the trend twenty years ago, like

having no dress code, are more widely accepted now. Our latest statement on the industry is we are the first UK venue to fit Bluetooth speakers on our buggy fleet. It’s these things that really make the venue special to me and celebrating twenty years that much more important.

Working under Phill Chiverton for ten years who, like me had a family farming background, gave me a chance to learn a great deal. He allowed me to have many unique internal project opportunities to use my plant and agricultural machinery skills and learn from expert operators, such as Peter Scott and Ian Stevens who worked with MJ Abbotts at the time.

Through my junior management journey, Phill would always share knowledge, and allow autonomy and participation in discussions with representatives and our Troon agronomists.

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GOLF

Each year, we are adding to the story so it’s very rewarding

Above © Ben Lamaison, Senior Greenkeeper.

Below © Paul Severn.

How has the golf course evolved since its inception?

We aim to be amongst the industry leaders in turf management. With how quickly it evolves, we have to move with the times, and we are very fortunate to have owners who understand and support this.

We underwent a complete bunker turfing project in 2020 along with flashing the bunker faces to be more visible from tee shots.

Alongside this, we also extended our putting

green by 300m2 and constructed the first hydroponic-powered tees in Europe on our fifth hole. Further to this, being early advocates for innovative renovation processes, such as DryJect, has kept our quality high.

One of our most successful management approaches was the biological control of chafer grubs. In winter 2016, we lost most of our tee surfaces to animal damage because of chafer grubs. By working closely with Bionema since 2017, we were able to substantially reduce the Welsh, Cock, and summer chafers through a biological nematode programme. Whilst we still see occasional damage, our primary high-profile areas such as greens, tees, and fairways are protected.

How do you see the future of The Grove’s golf course evolving in the next twenty years?

Our main priority will be to ensure we deliver elite playing surfaces to guests all year round.

This approach will mean we need to review how the game has evolved since construction and whether our layout suits the new style of play.

In the back of our minds, we want to always be ready for a tournament as well as doing our best to appeal to the next generation of golfers.

Looking at our turf management approach, our biggest focus will be on how sustainably we can manage ageing USGA Poa annua greens.

Whilst we have great success with our current approach, the susceptibility of the plant to drought, disease stress and spring seed heads is a constant battle. Alongside that, we will need to look at water collection, storage and usage; this will tie into a course-wide irrigation update in the next few years.

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PITCHCARE January/February 2024

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May/June 2023 PITCHCARE

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GOLF

SAND MANAGEMENT A helping hand with native sand We spoke to Marc Wilcock, Course Manager at Conwy Golf Club, about the quest to be sustainable with his sand management... from screening to large clearing projects.

M

arc explained his reasoning for using their own sand for recent projects: “We have undergone vast development projects to create wildlife habitats, plus we use on average 150 tonne of sand on the greens throughout the year and then another 250 tonne around tees and fairways. We had been buying the sand externally, but had a thought to recycle some of the native sand that we have here.”

“So far, we have saved £13,500 on 300 tonne of sand. We have had it ready for about a year, but we wanted to find someone local to help with the screening work.”

Marc looked to Arwyn Jones, who was a greenkeeper at Conwy over twenty years ago:

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PITCHCARE January/February 2024

“We wanted to use someone who understands the sand and the course; Arwyn was the perfect fit given his history within the club. He worked all the sand through a screener and we were left with two separate piles; one which included big roots and stones and the other with smooth sand. It only took about a day for him to complete the work.”

The club has also been clearing areas of the course where there had been large gorse bushes, Marc explains why: “Gorse has a longlife span and some of it had never been touched reaching seven feet tall in certain areas; it either keeps going upwards or outwards. We removed it to try and get down to sand and open up the area a little, as we are attempting to recreate what the land would have looked like hundreds

GOLF

of years ago. It also allows areas of grass and wildflower to be able to grow in these areas, then you start to see more wildlife come to the course.”

The sandy areas have provided the opportunity to mine sand that the club can use for multiple jobs around the course; 300 tonne of sand and at least 300 tonne of soil material will be put back into other projects.

Marc expanded: “The sand will mostly be utilised for topdressing, then if we have any

left, we will use it to promote Marram Grass growth. The rest of the material will have some better nutrients in it, so that will be used for weak areas around bunkers. Having this material allows us to be able to undertake development work more freely. In addition, the soil has saved a further £15,000 for 300 tonne, plus further savings for future projects. We will now be able to use other parts of the budget towards wetting agents and machinery.”

Finally, he explained how the native sand can be more sustainable for golf courses: “Not all golf courses are lucky enough to have lots of sand. However, a few inches over large areas can give you lots of material to recycle back into the course. I have attended a few R&A seminars which have mentioned there may be a shortage of sand in the future, and you will have no other option but to recycle from within the course.”

Article by James Kimmings.

Marc Wilcock Course Manager at Conwy Golf Club

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January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

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TOP TIPS

Let’s get physical and protect ourselves

James Matthewman highlights some key health and safety aspects and advice on how you can avoid injury while still putting in the work.

Be visible in inclement weather Working early hours when there is minimal light, or working in torrential rain (especially during the winter months) can mean you are not very visible.

Wearing hi-vis clothing will make you more visible to everyone.

Don’t be Hercules!

The legal limit for safety lifting for a male in the workplace is 25kg and 16kg for females.

Always be careful of injury.

Carrying anything of a very heavy weight can cause serious damage to both the neck and back.

Sometimes it doesn’t hurt to ask for a helping hand from one of your work colleagues. A job shared is a weight halved.

If you have to carry it yourself, then even distribution across your back should be a focus.

Also, try to avoid bending from the waist - as this increases stress on your lower back.

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PITCHCARE January/February 2024

Stay hydrated Hot weather and standing for prolonged periods of time can cause dehydration. This can then lead to fatigue and injuries to occur. If you know you’re going to be exposed to the sun for most of the day, bring a big water bottle.

It helps to keep joints lubricated, keeps organs functioning correctly and allows you to stay alert.

TOP TIPS

Wear appropriate headwear Working outside can be the most enjoyable environment and, often, it is easy to forget some essential safety equipment. Something not to be forgotten about is the correct headwear. Wearing a hard hat would be a recommendation when working on a golf course due to the stray balls.

Another thing to consider is that stray branches can often fall when working in woodland areas.

In summer, it is also important to consider a cap or hat to protect from the sun. Granted, we aren’t often blessed with huge temperatures in the UK, however, it is best to be prepared.

Dress to impress As we are all very aware, turfcare is something that has to happen in all weather conditions.

Wearing the right uniform is essential; you don’t want to be too hot, or too cold.

Being cold can cause muscle and joint pain as well as stiffness, especially on a busy or long day.

Bring a jumper; even if it is a christmas one or wear thermal layers! Likewise, being too hot can lead to dehydration.

Keep the toes safe Steel toe caps are extremely important when working with heavy machinery. Ensuring you have correct footwear on at all times is hugely important in protecting yourself and your colleagues. An injury can mean time off work, or long term problems if not treated.

IT’S NOT ALL PHYSICAL We are often subject to people making negative comments about our work; quite often due to course closures, or a game being called off.

Mental health is like a snowball - it starts small and builds up and up.

Talking can be really important to empty the emotional pot which may have built up. The advice here would be to talk as much as possible to colleagues, family and friends.

Protect your eyes One of the most important safety measures when working with any type of machinery or any chemical usage, always protect your eyes using safety glasses or goggles. Failure to do so can lead to serious injuries.

To glove or not to glove?

Gloves can be used for several jobs when working in turfcare. In winter, using thermal gloves to keep warm is essential when working with machinery and working outside. Nitrile gloves are useful when working with grease to be able to hold onto the object safely. Finally, safety gloves should be worn when near blades and cutting equipment.

James Matthewman is Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Maesteg Golf Club and welcomes topics for future Top Tips.

January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

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GOLF

Lymm limbo not in

Billed as one of Cheshire’s finest courses, Lymm offers a 6341yd, Par 71 mixed heathland and parkland course with contrasting and challenging holes in a peaceful haven surrounded by farmland and the Manchester Ship Canal.

E

stablished in 1907, Lymm’s 18 holes present a ‘demanding but fair’ test for all abilities. Helping fashion that golfing experience is a continuing programme of course improvements, coupled with a rigorous maintenance schedule led by Course Manager James Dennett, to deliver year-round condition and playability for this award-

26 PITCHCARE PITCHCARE August/September January/February 2024 2022

winning site.

Bunker renovation is the latest innovation with James’s masterplan – and he takes up the story of how determination amid setbacks has won through, aided by a healthy team dynamic.

“We have a relatively small number of bunkers, totalling 47, with the majority (30) lying within the first 9 holes,” he explains.

“Holes 3 to 10 are built on the spoil from the

GOLF

I found the task of finding staff particularly hard

construction of the Manchester Ship Canal, which runs alongside parts of the course, and is on the site of the original 9-hole site.”

“The nature of material left by the workings is disturbed sandy topsoil, mixed with bricks, and all manner of other objects,” he adds. “Holes 1 and 11 to 18 are built on the old River Mersey flood plain, which is heavy clay soil.”

“Bunkers on holes 3 to 10 are notoriously contaminated with stones. When work has been carried out on renovations, bunkers have been lined with turf as is traditional. However, over time, the turf decomposes and stones emerge to impact playability.”

So, James inherited historical maintenance issues when he took over as Course Manager in September 2020, but he was clear on his priorities from day one. “A key objective was to improve the playability of the bunkers,” he recalls, “but in truth, progressing past the planning stage has been a tough challenge.”

“Club approval, materials selection and budgeting have combined to hamper progress,” he reports, “however, last winter we renovated the Par 3 5th bunker to the new standard as a trial, so the club could gain member feedback and, if that was positive, we could use it as a blueprint for the remaining bunkers.”

In a departure from traditional practice, James decided to line the test bunker with EcoTec from EcoBunker, rather than with turf.

“I have had experience with other forms of liner - from concrete, rubber crumb and

fibre liner for example.”

“All have their pros and cons. However, I felt EcoTec was a good overall product that ticked most boxes for the site at Lymm. To protect the liner from future renovations, I installed two rings of Advanced Edge, finishing the bunker walls with natural revetting turf.”

“By doing this, when the time comes to rebuild the bunker, the greenkeepers only have to remove material down to the synthetic edge, to keep the original shape without disturbing the liner. This solution also ensures the bunker looks 100% natural as the synthetic edge is below the sand line.”

But his biggest challenge has been, “time, money and weather. With the difficult economic climate, prices for materials have risen to an alltime high. But the club was determined to avoid cutting corners.”

With a budget of £5,000 for the project in material costs - bunker liner, fescue and revetting turf, heather, drainage material and sand - James started the bunker renovation in mid-January 2023. “The rain bucketed down, but February proved to be the driest month of the year luckily, so mud soon turned back to

Above Recent bunker renovations.

January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

27

GOLF workable soil.”

“The work offered a personal challenge for me as I had never project managed anything from start to finish, and a lot of my team were new to the industry and had no practical knowledge of how to build a bunker.”

And as James notes: “You can design a bunker on paper, but it is not until the spade hits the ground that you learn to work with the contours to make the new bunker fit in with its surroundings.”

He needn’t have worried about the reception the work would receive from members. “The 5th bunker was a big success and the vast majority of feedback was positive.” With that big win in his pocket, and member support behind him, James can progress with his mission.

“The plan this year is to concentrate on renovating the Par 3 9th bunkers and continuing

with greenside traps before moving on to the fairway bunkers in the years to come.”

While course renovation and playability has proved a major hurdle that James has overcome, he has had to keep firmly focused on another key facet of a course manager’s role – staff.

“When I joined Lymm, a good number of the team had been working there for a long time – two of them for more than 45 years,” he recalls. “The team then were either retiring or had ambitions to progress their careers at other clubs. This meant I had to build a new one from the ground up, when many experienced greenkeepers were leaving the industry.”

“I found the task of finding qualified staff particularly hard, as I know clubs across the country are experiencing similar issues.”

However, that didn’t discourage James, or the club, he notes.

“After a few bumps in the road, we now

Prices for materials have risen to an all-time high 28

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

GOLF

have a diverse team from different working backgrounds, who gel together and have a passion for the game of golf.” Meanwhile, James has managed to swell the team size from five to seven full-timers.

“I like to have an open door policy with my staff,” he says. “They should feel comfortable about coming to me with any questions or issues. I find that adopting this approach leads to a happy and positive environment, which makes the staff feel valued. The club always does

what it can to look after the staff in times of need, and in return the staff are more willing to go the extra mile for the club.”

James is a keen believer in continuing professional development (CPD). “Two of my staff - Abi and Olly - have started their NVQ2 in greenkeeping this year, and when the weather’s bad, I conduct team training in health and safety, machine maintenance or online courses like Agrovista’s Amenity Academy to gain CPD points.”

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GOLF

Left A course resident oversees greens work.

Below The Lymm team; Course Manager James Dennett (centre).

THE LYMM TEAM James Dennett - Course Manager Paul Davy - Deputy Course Manager Matt Hayes - First Assistant Ian Brooks - Mechanic Greenkeeper Andy Brown - Assistant Greenkeeper Abi Birchall - Assistant Greenkeeper Olly Glindon - Apprentice Greenkeeper Alan Gerard - Semi-retired Greenkeeper (2 days) “James is a fantastic team manager!

His knowledge and skills are second to none. He creates a good atmosphere within his team.

He takes great care and is very thorough in every job he does, which then filters down the team and in turn gets the best out of every team member.”

First Assistant Matt Hayes “James has high ambitions towards the course and leads the team with a positive and creative attitude. It is one thing to be a boss and a mentor but a completely different thing to be a leader, which James balances very fairly.”

Andy Brown, Greenkeeper

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PITCHCARE January/February 2024

“Every one of the staff is a BIGGA member, paid by the club, and I encourage the team to attend seminars or webinars to gain more knowledge, as that is the lifeblood of progressing the sector.”

To that end, January marked a milestone for Lymm - the first time most of the team had visited BTME. “It’s important to attend the event,” James says, “and we always try and go because this helps professional development and team bonding.”

What’s his strategy for the day to day tasks? “I try my best to spread the jobs around to enable everyone to become a well-rounded greenkeeper. I have worked at some clubs that don’t do job rotation. In my experience, that method

doesn’t produce a happy workforce and also limits the ability of the team.”

Getting together certainly ranks high for James. On pay day, the team has started to go to the pub to further encourage bonding, and twice a year he arranges a staff night out. “The club has invested heavily in staff wellbeing, providing a high-quality welfare building, with Wi-fi, TV, changing room and dedicated drying room. Also, staff uniform has been fully replaced with higher quality clothing.”

Clearly, James runs a happy crew at Lymm, with strong support from the clubhouse – a unified approach that more golf clubs are adopting, as James stresses, “Looking after staff and creating an environment they want to work in will produce a better performance out on the course and better experience to visitors and members.” And that can only mean a win:win for everyone in golf’s drive for wider sustainability.

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September/October 2023 PITCHCARE

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CONSERVATION

WILDLIFE PROJECTS ON A BUDGET Stephen Thompson (The Conservation Buddha), gives us some of the best sustainability and wildlife projects that golf clubs can do on a budget.

G

olf courses have had a bad reputation in the past for not doing enough, but now more than ever courses all over the UK are getting involved in wildlife projects and are trying to become more sustainable for the future to help keep costs down.

One of the simplest things a golf course can do to be more sustainable is cut less grass; less cutting, frees up man hours for other jobs. It also means less wear and tear on machines and, by leaving long grass, you are automatically creating a wildlife habitat without spending any money.

Golf courses are not just grass!

Throughout my career, I have been involved in numerous wildlife projects on the course, in particular, nestboxes and creating wildflower areas. Both of these are a great way of improving your course and making it a more enjoyable

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PITCHCARE January/February 2024

CONSERVATION

Left Long Winged Conehead.

Far left bottom Common Brimstone butterfly.

Far left top Stephen Thompson.

experience, but they can come at a cost. The wood to make the boxes is not cheap - especially if you want to make a lot of them, and wildflower seed is expensive. I am going to talk about cheaper, more sustainable ways of creating wildlife projects on your course, as well as alternative ways to control some turf pests - limiting the need for expensive chemicals.

Nestboxes and bug hotels The easiest way to get the wood needed for nestboxes would be to go straight to a timber merchant and order sheets of ply cut into strips, but this could be expensive.

There are alternatives that could save you money and you would be doing your bit for recycling and sustainability.

• Contact your local timber merchant and ask about

offcuts they might have. Often, this wood would be thrown out as unusable, but you could use it and it would most likely be free.

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January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

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CONSERVATION

Ro tem facepedis ra quae occum res similit et at debis nobitium voluptatur?

• Courses are always taking deliveries such as turf or fertiliser, which is usually on wooden pallets. Don’t throw away the pallets - they can be recycled to make bird or bat boxes and also can be used to make bug hotels. wildlifewatch.org.uk/make-bug-hotel

• If any tree work is being done on the course, save some of the small logs and, if you have the tools, the logs can be hollowed out to mimic a natural cavity - then, all you need would be a lid.

Wildflower areas A wildflower area will give you a much needed important habitat for pollinating insects such as bees and butterflies to the course, whilst also providing an area of colour and a focal point for members. More insects means more birds and bats that might eat them. The first thing to do is to pick a suitable area, perhaps somewhere out

of play where golfers are less likely to hit a ball, and prepare the ground.

Wildflower seed on its own can be quite expensive, but here are a few ways you could achieve the end result at minimal cost.

• Find a local wildflower meadow locally and ask permission if you can collect some of their seed.

• Check out this link on how to collect seed: youtube.com/watch?v=YkYp9ru68JM.

• Conservation organisations sometimes give seed away.

• If you have to buy seed, buy a wildflower/ grass mix as it will be cheaper.

• Buy native British wildflower where you can.

• If you cut and collect a wildflower area, don’t

just dump the cuttings - you can use them to spread on another area.

• Make sure you add Yellow Rattle to your seed

mixes. Yellow Rattle is a parasitic plant that will attack the roots of the thicker grasses and weeds you do not want, limiting their height and allowing the flowers to grow and be more visible. This will also limit the need to use chemicals.

• You do not need to fertilise wildflower

areas. The less fertile the better, so that other weeds/grasses you don’t want are discouraged. theconservationbuddha.co.uk

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PITCHCARE January/February 2024

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TECHNICAL 36

First 18-hole golf course in the UK to be fully managed by

Robotic mowers

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

TECHNICAL

Traditionally, golf course maintenance has relied on manual methods for mowing, but technological advancements now offer a compelling alternative: robotic mowing.

M

aintaining pristine fairways is an essential aspect of golf course management, contributing significantly to the overall player experience. There are several reasons why golf courses should consider embracing robotic mowing for managing their golf course, supported by the pristine running at Cranham Golf Club, the UK’s first full 18-hole golf course to utilise robots to manage the fairways and first cut rough.

Readily available technological advancements has allowed these mowers to adapt to the needs of golf course mowing.

With the ability to adjust cutting height, navigate terrain and learn its pathways, the software has made it possible to manage entire golf courses with anywhere from 4-7 robots depending on complexity and size of the course.

A significant benefit of using robotic mowing is the increased efficiency and labour optimisation it offers. Robotic mowers

are designed to operate continuously, offering the opportunity to increase the number of times the course is cut per week, without the need for extra resources.

Cranham has been able to increase from one-two cuts per week to the robots managing the fairways four times per week.

By optimising the mowing process, golf courses can potentially reallocate human labor to other essential tasks, enhancing overall course management.

Weather constraints can cause disruption to golf course maintenance. Robotic mowers are designed to navigate various terrains and adapt to changing weather conditions. For example, on a wet day, the decision not to cut may be made, as the course may not hold up to the weight of a traditional fairway mower – however, this is not the case for robotic mowing. At just 71kg, the risk of compaction and mud is heavily reduced. This adaptability ensures consistent results, regardless of external factors.

Environmental impacts are a huge worry

January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

37

TECHNICAL for many businesses and facilities, but robotic mowers are electric and could save a facility five tonnes of carbon emissions per year. By adopting robotic technology, golf courses can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to environmental sustainability. Additionally, the precision of robotic mowers minimises unnecessary damage to the turf, promoting healthier grass growth and water conservation. On top of this, noise pollution to nearby homes, or players on the course can also be seen as a disruptive factor

38

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

that is completely eliminated with the use of robotic mowers.

Holding the ability to navigate, instruct and design the course as you please from your smartphone is a groundbreaking advancement.

Allowing you to avoid, or spend more time in certain areas, setting automatic cutting heights to adjust accordingly and choosing when they rest are all well in reach at a click of a button.

Last, but certainly not least, the yearly longterm cost savings that can be made by utilising

TECHNICAL

Software has made it possible to manage entire golf courses

ROBOTIC BENEFITS • Covers large areas in a few hours

• Replaces several small robot mowers

• Much cheaper than a garden tractor

robotic mowers to mow golf courses are substantial. Robotic mowers require less maintenance, have no fuel costs, and eliminate the need for a large manual labour force for mowing.

These factors will lead to substantial financial benefits for golf course owners and operators.

In the ever-evolving landscape of golf course management, embracing technological advancements is crucial for staying ahead. Robotic mowing presents a compelling case

• 10 times lower CO₂

for its efficiency, precision, cost savings and environmental benefits.

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January/February 2024

PITCHCARE

39

FOOTBALL

Seizing

opportunity at Leicester City Football Club

Leicester City moved into their breathtaking new £100m academy training ground on Christmas eve in 2019, after taking two years of construction on the 185-acre site in Seagrave.

T

he site also boasts The Sports Turf Academy, designed to educate the next generation of ground staff, ensuring Seagrave will be a pivotal part of the club’s operation for not only players but grounds staff for generations to come.

Role and responsibility

Callum Allsop Deputy Head of Grounds

40

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

Deputy Head of Grounds, Callum (Cal) Allsop, began our chat by telling me about his start in the world of sports turf, which began sixteen years prior as a greenkeeper at Lutterworth golf club. “My new role brings me full circle,” explained Cal. “I now have responsibilities over the three sites we operate on, which are the King Power Stadium, Belvoir Drive and the new training facility in Seagrave. In my time at Leicester, I have always felt that all the work we put in across the whole operation culminates in that match day at the end of the week.”

The passion is clear as Cal explained, “I have always loved being involved in match days and that buzz you get seeing athletes perform on what our team produces. However, I primarily worked and then managed the operation at Belvoir Drive with

FOOTBALL

Skills can be taught, but passion must be the cornerstone of who we are

NEW FACILITIES Built on the former Park Hill Golf Club, the new facilities include: 21 playing surfaces equivalent area of 14 full-size pitches

a small team for five years before moving and playing a part in the build of the new training facility at Seagrave.”

Perhaps not quite so obvious is the fact the Seagrave training facility offers a nine-hole private golf course.

Cal explained, “Seagrave has allowed me to re-visit my love for golf and greenkeeping, especially through the build phase. Being involved in irrigation install, reinstating creeping bent grass greens, constructing rivetted bunkers and constructing tees and a green from scratch was an opportunity I never thought I would get.” No mean feat when his ‘day job’ was primarily to deliver first class sports pitch surfaces across the site.

“It’s been an amazing experience being involved in the construction of the Seagrave site,” he reminisced.

“Witnessing the first steel go into the ground, play a part in the design of our storage facility and having input into our operational requirements has been fantastic.”

Cal has also played an integral part of building a machinery tender process and working with key stake holders within the club to deliver on operational demands. “I never would have dreamt that one day I would have helped build a 52 strong team looking after a multitude of sports turf pitches, a golf course, gardens, communal landscape areas and a workshop. I feel

499-seater floodlit main pitch The Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha building - the site’s primary training, medical, and administrative hub for the first team and academy The King Power Centre - the site’s central point, housing an indoor pitch and media centre Elite sports science and medical facilities including cryotherapy chambers Bespoke gymnasium and hydrotherapy facilities Private nine-hole golf course

January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

41

FOOTBALL

7th green project - before, during (below) and after (left).

The operation culminates in that match day at the end of the week blessed to have worked with John Ledwidge (previous Head of Grounds), Simon Gibson (new Head of Grounds) and Jonathan Knowles (Head of Sports Turf Academy).”

Aspirational Leaders in Turf (A.L.I.T.) For anyone who has had the pleasure of visiting The Academy, there is an overwhelming sense of passion for not only for the club but for

42

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

the desire to learn and progress. The club’s values are Integrity, Ambition, Purpose and Success, and it flows through every level of the organisation. Cal explained, “I manage a team with a wide range of skillsets, from entry level to highly experienced. It’s been a huge learning curve for me, and we have all learnt valuable lessons. Not only with our operational programmes, but also with our people management.” He continued, “Skills can be taught, but passion must be the cornerstone of who we are. All our people have that drive to learn and it’s something we endeavour to continually improve.”

To that end, the management team have developed an internal educational scheme to build on skills and knowledge of their people, enabling them to learn within the safety of their own environment. “We harness the knowledge of our suppliers, skilled team members and other sources of the industry to support our learning outcomes,” explained Cal. “Ultimately, our people benefit and feel more empowered and valued as a result. The ‘A.L.I.T.’ group, built up of apprentices, skilled operators and managers, gains insight and access into machinery suppliers, business owners and industry experts to help expand their knowledge and understanding of our industry.”

FOOTBALL

AN ATMOSPHERE OF LEARNING “My role within the Sports Turf Academy is more of a bit part,” Cal explained. “I don’t get too involved in academic presentations, instead I’ll have input in presentations about the site in general, I host site tours and give insights into how we built our facility and how we manage our operations.”

Cal and the team have a very open and inclusive working environment. Their office is open plan, and everyone is encouraged to get involved in joint ventures. “I enjoy our group discussions,” he explained, “if someone has an idea, we all try to brainstorm a solution; for example, the ‘A.L.I.T.’ group came from a forum discussion about harnessing our people’s desire to progress. Sometimes it may be more operationally based and sometimes more education orientated. Whatever the subject matter, we are all prepared to support and offer ideas; it’s hugely productive and rewarding! The beauty of the Sports Turf Academy is that it is here to support the industry’s needs, and we can offer first hand input through our grounds team and our operation.”

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FOOTBALL

We are all prepared to support and offer ideas; it’s hugely productive and rewarding

44

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

Conclusion I’m convinced that if more organisations could emulate just some of this style of working environment, then it would be hugely beneficial to our industry, not just for staff retention but recruitment from other trades. Perhaps in their next brainstorming session, the Leicester team could think of a way to ‘bottle’ this engaging atmosphere and share with the rest of us!

Thanks Cal and thanks to the whole grounds team at Leicester City!

Article by Phil Helmn.

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January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

45

WEATHER CORNER

Future-proofing our facility The recent run of wet weather this autumn has dramatically highlighted the requirement to ‘future proof’ a facility from the impact of incessant wet weather. Last time, I highlighted the issue we sometimes face with slow-moving, low pressure systems dumping high amounts of rainfall accompanied by high rain rates.

Of course, wet weather in the autumn/winter is nothing new, nor is it a recent development only associated with climate change. We typically have this type of unsettled weather in the autumn/winter as a succession of Atlantic storm systems push in across the U.K & Ireland.

So what should we consider when we look at future-proofing our facility?

Obviously, playability has to be right up there, and not just when we consider greens on a golf course for example. Bunkers, approaches, fairways and cut rough all come into the equation.

The problem here is money and resources, of course, because if you aren’t on the right type of soil, remedial action will involve significant expenditure on machinery, aeration, resource and drainage. There is plenty that can be done and achieved by aeration, and this is one of reasons we do it. A joining of the dots between moving water through surface organic matter, down through a rootzone and into a (hopefully) efficient drainage system.

Aeration and drainage is, after all, designed to improve playability.

When you look at the statistics for this autumn, you can see why we need to focus on this aspect.

I looked at the rainfall, E.T (Evapotranspiration) and number of

46

consecutive wet days from a Bristol location and charted them i8n the table below.

Remember that E.T measures the loss of water from the grass plant and soil, so is effectively a measure of drying down vs. rainfall. (December data up to 11-12-23).

Aside from playability, maintenance comes pretty high up the list of future-proofing, because if you can’t get out on the course to maintain it due to inclement ground conditions, you are pushing a very heavy rock up a very steep hill.

The statistics above give a flavour of how tipped the balance is against drying down a facility during periods of prolonged and repeated rainfall, but don’t take into account the number of actual dry days a groundsman or greenkeeper has to achieve it.

SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC

Rainfall (mm)

75

142

176

77

ET (mm)

33

15

7

1

Diff (mm)

42

128

170

76

No. of wet days

50%

67%

73%

63%

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

SCIENCE green to make then more ‘weatherproof’ are all key to improving the resilience of your facility.

Left is a great example of this on the Greenkeeping (Official) Facebook Page, courtesy of Matt Haynes @Belton Woods Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort…..

Above, I charted out the consecutive days of rainfall this autumn/winter from the same location up until the 11th of December, highlighting the dry days as a ‘0’. It clearly shows how few opportunities there have been to ‘maintain between the rain’ and how some of the consecutive wet periods have stretched to 12 days at a time.

Just getting out to spray surfaces from a disease prevention perspective on the run up to Christmas, or applying a dew control to save time and minimise plant leaf wetness, is a challenge when you experience a run of weather like this. The creation of all-weather pathways, aerating and sanding access areas to and from a

Mark Hunt - Weather Analytics, Prodata Weather Systems

visit: www.weatherstations.co.uk Send your questions for Mark to: editor@pitchcare.com

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January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

47

FOOTBALL The Football Foundation is driving to make pitches

MATCH FIT

The Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation has launched the biggest-ever drive to transform the quality of grass pitches across the country.

48 PITCHCARE PITCHCARE August/September January/February 2024 2022

FOOTBALL

The Football Foundation is the Premier League, The FA and Government’s charity that delivers outstanding grassroots facilities, more and better places to play, transforming lives and communities where it is needed most

The changing pavilion upgrades transformed the club £21 MILLION INVESTMENT Robert Sullivan, CEO of the Football Foundation:

C

hris Smith, Head of Programmes (Quality Pitches) at the Football Foundation, told Pitchcare about a recent case study.

Whether it’s through guidance on maintaining a grass pitch, training for groundskeepers, or funding for pitch improvement works, the Football Foundation is supporting grassroots clubs across the country to get their grass pitches match fit.

Chris highlighted AFC Monton’s grass pitch transformation: He said: “Manchester-based grassroots club, AFC Monton, are a great example of the transformative impact the Foundation’s support is having on grass pitches across the country.”

“Just a few years ago, the grassroots club frequently had to call off their games because of the poor condition of their grass pitches.

Located near a canal, the club’s home ground, New Alder Park, would often flood – leaving

“Quality grass pitches are vital for the grassroots game and yet, every season, thousands of games are called off due to poor playing surfaces.”

“Thanks to the support of our partners at the Premier League, The FA and Government, the Football Foundation will be investing £21 million a year to get grass pitches across the country looking and playing their best - just like at AFC Monton.”

fixtures uncompleted and players disappointed.”

AFC Monton’s volunteer groundskeeper, Ron Hodkin, was able to transform these pitches using PitchPower – the Football Foundation’s free web app for inspecting and improving grass pitches. Through PitchPower, Ron was able to inspect the club’s pitches in just a few simple steps.

These inspections were the key to unlocking bespoke advice from experts at the Grounds Management Association (GMA) on how to improve the pitches as well as a £44k grant through the Foundation’s Grass Pitch Maintenance Fund to put these recommendations into practice.

The club also received a £15k machinery January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

49

FOOTBALL

AFC Monton BEFORE

AVAILABLE FUNDING Grass Pitch Maintenance Fund Grass Pitch Maintenance Machinery & Equipment Grass Pitch Drainage Storage Containers

50

grant from the Foundation to purchase their own tractor. This, combined with the GMA’s Groundskeeping course, enabled the club to take over maintenance of the pitches from the Council.

Here’s what Ron had to say: “Our ground used to be known in the area for regularly having games called off during winter. Now, we’ve got some of the best pitches around, which has not only supported our players, but also enabled the club to create an additional two teams, all thanks to the Football Foundation.

“I’d recommend PitchPower to anybody looking to improve their grass pitches – not just for the funding available, but also for the knowledge you gain.”

In addition to the funding to improve their grass pitches, AFC Monton also received a grant for £170k from the Foundation in 2015 to upgrade their changing pavilion, which now includes four accessible changing rooms as well as a large community room and kitchen.

Ron added: “The changing pavilion upgrades

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3G PITCHES INSTALLED

1400 12000 CHANGING ROOMS BUILT

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

GOALPOSTS PROVIDED

AFTER

transformed the club. Before we received the grant to improve it, the old changing rooms were tiny with shared showers and now they’re almost at the level of a professional club. That means we can provide the players and officials that come to our ground, male or female, with accessible and good quality facilities.”

WHAT’S NEXT? AFC Monton is just one of thousands of grassroots clubs up and down the country using PitchPower to get their pitches match fit. Through PitchPower, the Foundation is on a mission to revolutionise the quality of grass football pitches across England and have set the goal of achieving 20,000 ‘good’ quality grass pitches by 2030.

To start your grass pitch transformation journey, head to the Foundation’s website and sign up to PitchPower. footballfoundation.org. uk/get-your-pitch-match-fit

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January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

51

INDUSTRY

One seed at a time Simon Hutton's route into the golf world was written in the stars. He tells us why and how to develop and succeed in the turfcare industry.

S

imon discussed the origin of his story, the birth of Fineturf and the development of Tillers Turf. James Kimmings reports.

Simon rolled back the clock for us to discuss where his passion for the industry came from: “My dad had always wanted to run his own golf course. I remember being about eight years old when he purchased his first bit of land to develop into a course. I grew my first field turf when I was fifteen; an acre, 4000 square metres on a little plot of land that we had next door to the golf course. From that moment on, I was involved within the industry.”

“When I left school, I went to work on the

52

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

golf course which was now known as Sudbrook Moor Golf Club. I did greenkeeping for about a year with my dad and learnt a lot about what is needed to manage a course. I had been asked to do a few contracting jobs while working for dad, and Grimsby Town Football Club was one of the first that I tried. In those days, I was earning £55 a week with Dad. I went and did that job at Grimsby for £350 and I thought, hold on a minute, there's probably a business to be had here.”

When asked about his first big break, Simon said: “There weren't contractors like there are now, so the opportunities were there, and we grabbed hold of them. At twenty years old, Lord's

INDUSTRY

When you rest on your laurels, that's when something comes to bite you of new products at Tillers. We're listening to what customers are asking for and evolving the old products, whilst also looking to tailor to the end user's needs. I'm from a greenkeeping background and a lot of staff also have similiar or groundcare backgrounds. That is important because we have people who understand the products as an end user. We produce the turf as if it were in a stadium or on a golf course, which then makes the process easy for the customer.”

Building big projects while climbing high mountains

outfield was the first major job that I undertook.

Then, a year later, we went and returfed Old Trafford. I think building those relationships early on in my career was hugely important.”

“The evolution of those small contract jobs in those days grew very slowly; I was doing the odd day of contracting and then the rest of the time I was greenkeeping close to home. Over the course of a couple of years, it turned into full-time contracting and I employed a couple of people - then, it really just expanded very gradually. I was very impatient at the time, thinking there's all these big jobs going on and we're just doing small projects. But, with hindsight, the small and gradual growth was definitely the healthy growth.”

An opportunity to expand meant it was time for Tillers Turf: he said: “Fourteen years ago, the opportunity to buy Tillers became available. It was 400 acres and had a very good reputation for all grades of golf turf."

On the challenges of running a business, Simon said: “We are challenged every day and the weather is a huge factor which affects everyone in the turfcare industry - we are not exempt from that. Look at the recent storms which battered most the country; trying to grow a good product in those conditions is difficult. You need

Far Left MD Simon Hutton during Lords renovations.

Top Harvesting HTPro Turf for Tottenham FC stadium.

Bottom Simon way back when he started.

Below Renovations at Old Trafford.

The development of Tillers “I believe that my path was set out for me - it's evolved and is still evolving by the introduction January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

53

INDUSTRY

I grew my first field turf when I was fifteen; an acre, 4000 square metres

irrigating. Like everyone, the weather is the key challenge for us”.

Pandemic problems He told us about how the pandemic caused a new challenge for his business: “During COVID we experienced a lot of material shortages. Trying to deliver products with a lack of material, whilst trying to adapt to the environment and also meet the time scales proved difficult. When you're battling with suppliers for products, it brings its challenges.

Communication with the customer was the most important thing during this time... after all, we all want the same end goal."

Some A* advice about building a business in turfcare.

conditions to be favourable to produce a good surface and complete construction projects; especially with the number of years that it's played. If you construct in the wrong conditions, you end up with long-term problems.”

“In the last seven years, we have experienced two of the hottest and driest summers we've ever known, and we are currently experiencing some of the wettest and coldest winters. In fact, we've had over a third of our annual rainfall in the last couple of weeks. To try and create a high-spec turf product to meet the customer's expectations and our own standards is tricky.

The fields are flooded and we're trying to remove water, however, just six weeks ago, we were

54

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

Simon has over forty years of experience within the industry and he said this about starting a business: “I think the individual has to have a real passion for the industry - without that, you will stumble at the first challenge. You need a fresh idea, which offers a different dynamic to products already on the market. Also, let the small ideas grow gradually - big growth isn't always healthy growth.”

“I like to see people expand and thrive and I love a success story, but it's about the graft and dedication that you need to be able to develop and grow a business. Good customer service, keeping an open ear, letting customers talk and tell you what they want is key - don't interrupt

INDUSTRY

within the market.”

“It is never about putting your feet up; it's about looking to the next Sunday's harvest and the quality of product that we want to produce. There is never a dull day. We have to keep pushing and we're only as good as the last palette that has been sent, the last construction, or the last renovation job we completed.” what could turn out to be a great idea or advice."

Success is an achievement for tomorrow

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Despite the growth and development of both Fineturf and Tillers Turf, Simon believes that there is still work to be done before he can sit and reflect on success, he said; “In all honesty, I think when you rest on your laurels, that's when something comes to bite you. We are continually battling against different factors; the weather, budgets and meeting standards that have been set over the years - not to mention competition

What does the future hold?

Simon sums it up simply, he wants to keep improving; “We don’t want to stand still; the continued betterment of turf products at Tillers is at the top of our list. Fungicide depletions and chemical depletions make turf growing more and more challenging. The end user wants that high standard of turf when they choose Tillers.

So, ensuring top quality across the board is a priority. As I said earlier, we're keeping our ears open to what customers want and we will keep moving forward!”

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January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

55

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

A step too far:

Vandalism With vandalism at what seems to be an all-time high within the industry, James Kimmings spoke to Head Greenkeeper, Gareth Tibbetts, from Holywell Golf Club about how this can affect greenkeepers both physically and mentally.

G

areth told us exactly what happened: “The club secretary had messaged me the night before to say damage had been caused, so I had been

pre-warned.”

“From what I pieced together, a car came onto the course, did three doughnuts around the flag on the 3rd green and then it shot off; there was obvious intent. At that point, I had only been at the course for around niine months, but we have had two of these situations in the last year alone.

On this occasion, I actually left the damage for a day, so that the members could see what had happened. I thought that might raise awareness and teach them that these things happen.”

“It’s frustrating. Here at Holywell, we are common ground. So, if someone wants to pitch a

56 PITCHCARE PITCHCARE August/September January/February 2024 2022

tent on the 1st, we can’t really tell them to leave.

The lack of boundary means we also have issues with sheep; we can complain, but there is not a lot that can done about it.”

As well as the physical work, Gareth explained how these situations can take a toll on the mental health of greenkeepers: “I always try and keep a positive attitude in life. When something like that happens, you have to look at the grand scheme of things; no one has been injured and the grass will come back. However, you still come in and think ‘where do I start with this?’ and start to make a plan to attack the issue.”

“We spent about fifteen minutes just looking at the damage in silence, trying to figure out how to manage it; should we shut the hole completely, or should we cut the turf out and restart? We decided that overseeding would

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

When something happens, you have to look at the grand scheme of things

Gareth Tibbetts Head Greenkeeper, Holywell Golf Club

allow members to be able to play.”

“We are only a two-man team here, so we don’t have the manpower to rectify things quickly. We have tried our best, but it hasn’t been a quick process. Initially, we overseeded the green twice in an attempt to get some growth back. We then looked at plugging the green, but that took up a lot of man-hours. Due to the cold conditions, it has been hard to get the seed to grow. In this case, it is a waiting game until summer when the seed will fully recover the surface.”

“I often take the viewpoint that it is what it is, and it’s not worth losing sleep about. We aren’t a corporate course, so when situations happen that are out of my control, you have to just keep going. It does increase work and stress, but you can’t stand still when something goes wrong.”

He expressed the importance of the club giving him support, as well as the importance of other clubs following suit when vandalism occurs: “The club have been through these situations quite a few times in the past, when we have had flags stolen and damage to greens.

They are very understanding. The club sent out the information to members so that they wouldn’t come in and point fingers, and they have also been very supportive.”

With the job already being pressurised and stressful, Gareth felt like this situation just added to the pressure: “Obviously, no one wants this type of thing to happen, but we want to be seen to be trying to do everything we can to rectify the damage and the club’s support certainly lessened the stress slightly.”

“Obviously, we don’t have a magic wand, so it does take time and this is where you need members to have an understanding.

Communication is the only way to get through these situations smoothly; if members didn’t know what was going on, that would be when the stress starts to build, because we would then receive backlash about the damage.”

January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

57

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

2024: GET INTO A ROUTINE Make a goal for yourself. No matter how big or small, establishing a goal for yourself can be very beneficial when attempting to establish a healthy routine. Consider your motivations for achieving your goals in addition to what you want to accomplish. This will help you stay on course. Declare your goal, put it in writing, and resolve to achieve it!.

or time. You could even accomplish two goals at once, by walking or riding your bike to an appointment rather than using your car.

Think of the little victories every day. The ultimate goal can occasionally seem so far away and overwhelming. Recall that all significant adventures begin with baby steps. Strive to concentrate on the little victories you can have every day, one day at a time. The little victories add up.

Little victories examples include: • Increase your daily water intake • Take a stroll during your lunch break • Make a nutritious dinner at home • Try working out at home • Go to bed twenty minutes earlier Create a strategy. Did you know that your chances of sticking to a plan increase significantly when you create one for the upcoming week? Consider your lifestyle and what suits you the most. If you’re not the morning kind of person, schedule your workout for later in the day when you’ll have more energy

Prevent a bad day from becoming a bad week.

Every day is different, and that’s okay. Be gentle to yourself and just do what you can. Not able to complete a 30-minute workout? Instead, take ten minutes to move about. Have you not prepared your lunch yet? When out and about, choose a healthy option instead. Prevent a bad day from becoming a bad week or month. Reset, get back up, and keep in mind that perseverance pays off!

Get ready like a pro. The secret to positioning oneself for success is preparation. Organise your kitchen and prepare your meals in bulk for the upcoming week. You’ll save time during the week and be less likely to stray from your diet plan.

Give your sleep a high priority. You must prioritise getting enough sleep if you want the stamina and determination to follow a schedule and accomplish your objectives.

Sleep is a superpower that will give you more energy and motivation to move your body and make better decisions.

5 WAYS TO WELLBEING

58

Connect. We can feel close to others and appreciated for who we are when we connect with them. Being social can mean different things to different people.

Take notice! Being mindful of your feelings can be achieved by reminding yourself to pay attention. It can assist you in figuring out what causes your tension or anxiety.

Get active! A lot of people discover that exercise keeps their mental health in good shape.This does not have to entail daily training sessions at the gym or marathon running. You can take many different actions to increase your activity level.

Learn. We constantly pick up new skills, frequently without even realising it. Having a sense of growth and learning can improve your self-esteem.

Additionally, establishing goals can occasionally give you a sense of increased productivity and control over your life.

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

Give. Numerous studies have examined the benefits of participating in social and communal life. Research has indicated that individuals who assist others tend to perceive themselves as happier.

Is there anything you can do for someone else today to show kindness or assistance?

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January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

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CONSERVATION & ECOLOGY

Make your 2024 impact in

NATURE CONSERVATION Dr Marie Athorn from the RSPB and The R&A partnership reflects on 2023 and how you can make an impact in 2024.

Above Green woodpecker © Ben Andrew, RSPB Images.

Below Nature tours at Walton Heath GC as part of the Women’s Open © Marie Athorn.

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M

y greatest highlight from 2023 was during the AIG Women’s Open; a young girl, around 8, came along to one of the nature walks we were running around Walton Heath and declared this was the only reason she wanted

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

to come to the event, despite being a rising golf star already!

And lucky enough, whilst we were on the nature tour at Walton Heath, we were able to spot Green Woodpeckers delicately feeding on the tee, Meadow Pipits singing over the long rough and Common Blue butterflies fluttering over the heather, although the adders remained elusive.

It was heart-warming to witness the next generation so enthusiastic to see nature on golf courses. I am genuinely passionate about inspiring the next generation, whether that is to just generally care about our natural world or specifically around championing nature on golf courses. I know many of you are too. So, what can you plan next year to engage the local community, children and adults alike?

My other highlight of the year also fits within the realm of inspiring the next generation. It was being part of a First Green event run by BIGGA at Royal Liverpool. School children from a

CONSERVATION & ECOLOGY

It was heart-warming to witness the next generation enthusiastic to see nature on golf courses local school came along to the practice area to see all different aspects of the jobs available on a golf course. From rebuilding a revetted bunker to cutting new holes, using a stimpmeter, the PGA professional giving putting lessons and hearing about the nature on the golf course from me.

The children were so animated and enthralled by every aspect of the morning, and what an incredible opportunity it was to raise awareness of the golf sector as a potential job when they grow up! The BIGGA website has all the details about support in hosting a First Green event; let’s fill 2024 with inspiring the next generation of greenkeepers and conservationists.

Thinking big for 2024 I often talk to golf courses about thinking outside their boundary; can you work with your neighbours or other local golf courses for nature? In 2023, I was involved with an event that was thinking even bigger than that… a 100-mile nature corridor across Sussex called Weald to Waves. An inspiring initiative to connect ALL landowners and managers, from wildlife charities to farmers, to schools, gardeners and community groups and, after the event, golf courses!

A great event was held at Lewes Golf Club to demonstrate to golf courses how they could get involved in this landscape scale project, with inspiring stories shared from golf courses within the network on the incredible work they are doing for wildlife. The event brought together a lot of golf clubs from the corridor, conservation organisations and other authorities and potential funders to share knowledge and facilitate some incredible work to support nature. Initiatives like this are beginning to take hold across large areas of the UK. Why not do some research about whether there is one in your area that you could get involved with in 2024?

now to save our natural world. And we saw in the Wild Isles documentary in 2023 what we have to lose! Wild Isles was a BBC David Attenborough documentary, co-produced by the RSPB, WWF and The Open University about UK wildlife, still on iPlayer if you missed it.

It can often feel difficult to know where to start to make your impact, but we know what an impact existing golf courses can make with the right approach and management.

The end of January sees the celebration of the work many golf courses have done to support nature, in the Golf Environment Awards held during BTME! An evening full of inspiration and recognition, definitely a place to start to get some ideas for your own golf course during 2024.

Above Marie Athorn talking to children about nature at a First Green event at Royal Liverpool GC © BIGGA. Below Attendees of the Weald to Waves golf event © Lewes Golf Club.

You CAN make a difference in 2024 We now hear regularly about the nature and climate emergencies, and how we need to act January/February 2024

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WILDLIFE

RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch Something to keep an eye out for in the coming weeks is the Big Garden Birdwatch which will be back on 26-28 January. RSPB are hoping it’ll be the biggest Birdwatch yet.

No mow areas on golf courses No mow areas could create perfect wildlife habitats, as well as freeing up some man hours for other jobs.

We dive deeper…

With many in the industry struggling with recruitment, the “natural” method could be a way to free up time as well as promoting natural growth and habitats.

Where does wildlife come into it?

Well, with no puns intended, the wildlife will happen naturally. With increased long grass areas, this will see an increase in small animals such as voles who then attract the likes of birds of prey; the circle of life happening on your course.

It is a recommendation to clear any scrub as well as any rich top soil layers.

Free draining subsoil can be perfect with a 2 inch soil layer. A well designed rough fescue seed mix would be ideal in promoting strong natural grass growth.

Big Garden Birdwatch provides a vital snapshot of how the UK’s garden birds are faring. Taken over one weekend, this gives a good general impression of the birds that are doing well, and the ones that are struggling.

As the first Birdwatch took place more than forty years ago, we now have a wealth of data to look back on.

Big Garden Birdwatch 2023 attracted 540,000 nature lovers. You simply watch the birds in your garden or local park for one hour, and record what you see.

1. Count the birds you see

in your garden, on your course or from your balcony or local park

for one hour over the Big Garden Birdwatch weekend. It doesn’t matter what time of day you do your Birdwatch, but you’ll see more birds if you do it first thing in the morning.

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

One user said: “Some of the areas are now five to six years in and they look great, but it takes time. When you start, cut and collect twice a year, then less as they become more mature.”

2. Only include birds that

land, not those flying over.

Count the highest number of each species you see at any one time. For example, if you saw four Starlings together, then two Starlings later, your final count will be four (not six).

3. Go online and tell the RSPB

what you’ve seen! Even if you didn’t see anything at all in your hour, you should still let them know as it’s useful information.

rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/big-garden-birdwatch

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It takes alot of work to get right. Some social media accounts have suggested it is best to start where the soil is very poor - to avoid losing any quality soil.

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TALKING TURF

A wet summer means a

worrying winter

In this regular column, we talk all things turf along with the projects and challenges you face on a regular basis.

Pitchcare spoke to Head Greenkeeper, Myles Davies from Upton-by-Chester Golf Club. In this quick-fire Q and A, he reflects how the wet summer and consistent extreme weather has affected the management of his course.

G

olf courses and their managers are under constant pressure to achieve ideal moisture levels to promote good healthy turf growth. Myles tells more…

Below 1 of 11 raised winter tees built.

The ground is a lot softer than it should be for this time of year and is resulting in earlier course closures. Many in the industry are struggling to get out and do proper work due to the consistently poor weather conditions.

When we have a wet summer, what are the effects of this come wintertime? How have you managed it?

What have you done in order to maintain the greens and keep them to a good standard?

It has been really tough this year trying to manage through the extremely wet summer.

We have been clearing the dew off daily to keep the leaf as dry as possible. Aerating to allow water to percolate and provide more air into the soil. We have also raised the height of cut to 5.5mm to reduce stress and iron the greens whenever possible to maintain a firm surface. We have definitely had to put the work in.

What are the challenges when rain is as torrential as it’s been for the last few weeks?

Being on a course that is built on heavy clay, it can get really wet and hard to navigate around without making a mess. This has affected the productivity of our project work and is really difficult to keep on top of falling leaves. The wetness certainly makes you have to adapt to the more challenging environment for sure.

What effect does this have on you psychologically?

It can get stressful at times, but it’s important to remind yourself of how the problem is

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TALKING TURF

Be proactive and not reactive; keep surfaces as dry as possible! only temporary and think of the positives. We have to have a keep calm and adopt a carry-on regardless approach. Everyone in this business knows that the weather is a massive factor - you have to just keep moving forward.

What kind of long-term damage does the turf take from extreme weather?

Unfortunately, the turf can suffer quite a lot from too much water; you can lose grass coverage, which will potentially be replaced with Poa

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TALKING TURF

Below Wildflower areas installed last year in some out of bounds areas. The turf was reused in areas around the course.

Bottom Bunker built on the 16th in-house.

come springtime. This can promote disease scarring, which causes slight undulations and is unsightly. Too much water will also increase the thatch levels. It’s a challenge for sure.

How long would it take to put the damage right?

The recovery of grass going into winter is a lot slower with colder soil temperatures - it could be months before you start to see patches recover fully. Trying to decrease the thatch layer involves lots of cultural practices and good management and can take years to bring down to an acceptable level.

How have you overcome the subsequent damages?

Up to now, I have managed to keep a healthy coverage on the greens and only have a small amount of disease scars to overseed. The moss has been trying to creep its way in since

early August, but applications of chelated iron are enough to knock it back and allow the grasses to dominate the sward.

In terms of budget, can you tell me about some of the challenges which come with this?

There are lots of challenges trying to manage these problems on a budget. My biggest one is the lack of machinery for jobs and maintenance. Having to use contractors for scarification and hiring aeration equipment frequently is quite expensive, but the plan is to become self-sufficient using our own machinery in future.

What are your tips for dealing with fusuarium and moss at this time of year?

Firstly, to establish your thresholds. Be proactive and not reactive; keep surfaces as dry as possible. If budget allows, use penetrants and dew dispersants to assist with this. Also, a good aeration programme and keeping on top of the moss using an ironbased product to dry it out and discourage it from spreading. I would always try to manage diseases culturally first, before using a fungicide as a last resort.

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PUBLIC PLACES 68 PITCHCARE PITCHCARE August/September January/February 2024 2022

PUBLIC PLACES

History and Harmony

at Houghton Hall Walled Garden

Winner of the Christie’s Historic Houses Association’s ‘Garden of the Year Award’ back in 2007, the five-acre Walled Garden is one of Houghton’s most popular attractions.

O

ver ten years later, Richard (Head Gardener) and Rosie Ernst (Deputy Head Gardener) joined the team at Houghton and soon realised that a lot was needed to return the walled garden to its glory days.

When Richard and Rosie joined the team just

HISTORY OF HOUGHTON Houghton Hall was originally built for Sir Robert Walpole in the 1720s and is now home to the 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley, a descendant of Sir Robert Walpole, and his family. The Hall is surrounded by extensive parkland and is located about 13 miles away from Kings Lynn, in the heart of the Norfolk countryside.

Richard expanded on the history of Houghton: “The hall itself was designed by the leading architects Colen Campbell and James Gibbs, with interiors by William Kent.

The wider landscape is a Charles Bridgeman design. The walled

garden has always been here.

By the time the 5th Marquess of Cholmondeley inherited the hall and moved here with his wife Lady Sybil in 1919, things were quite worn down.”

“She had to focus her attention on both the hall itself and the gardens around it. This is where Lord Cholmondeley, who inherited Houghton in 1989, got his inspiration from. His vision was to dedicate a proper garden to his grandmother Sybil, and he decided that the garden would be based around reflection and solitude.”

before the Covid-19 pandemic, they both had the same reaction: “There is a lot of work needed.” Three years later, the garden is nothing short of a spectacle. We found out how they have enhanced the aesthetics of Houghton’s Walled Garden.

Rosie talked about the challenges that the pair faced during the first year of working at the walled garden: “Within the first five weeks, all our team got furloughed. We lived in New Houghton village very close by and had our own bubble, but it meant that there was only three of us working on the five-acre garden for quite some time. Richard worked on one side of the garden whilst my son, Michael, and I worked on the other side.”

“We got to April and everything was growing like crazy. We knew we couldn’t manage the garden with just the three of us, so we brought Jaroslav Karpac back to assist – he is an expert at cutting the hedges. The other four team members were furloughed for the full twelve weeks.”

Rosie and Richard both gave gratitude to influential figures who had helped them throughout their careers. Richard said: “I think you learn everything from a variety of head gardeners along the way. Working within the National Trust you pick up things from everyone.

You never stop learning in horticulture.” Rosie January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

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PUBLIC PLACES All images © Rosie Ernst.

rolled back the clock to her time at Wisley: “One of the people who has influenced me the most is one of my old teachers called Mr Waite - the glass house specialist. He worked everyone hard, but we learnt so much from him.”

Throughout the summer, Houghton Hall hosted its first ‘The Walled Garden at Dusk’ event, as they welcomed members of the public to view the garden in a completely different light. Rosie told us more: “We often have people coming here to view the different art and sculptures around the garden. On an evening watering duty at the peak of the season, we took a moment and thought, wow. This is just so special. It gave a completely different perspective compared to the daytime. Lord and Lady Cholmondeley were in agreement, so The Walled Garden at Dusk event was born. We hosted two over the summer, each welcoming

TEAM EFFORT IS KEY Richard commented: “The team effort comes straight from the top to the bottom. We have Kevin and Jaroslav who help mainly with the mowing and the hedge cutting. We also have a Professional Gardeners Guild student, Oliver, who joined us in August last year. We all swap and change tasks. We receive plenty of praise from visitors who come here, but it is truly a team effort.”

Whilst Richard and his team take care of the Walled Garden, groundsmen Richard Churchman and John Gooch are employed full time to look after some 100 acres of lawns and other mown

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areas. They keep everything looking immaculate with the help of fellow experts Norfolk Lawn Care for technical and specialist advice. They are kept busy all year round, with responsibilities such as planting hedges and trees, pruning, clearing timber, rotavating and looking after the deer park.

As well as the full-time staff who work on the walled garden on a daily basis, Houghton also relies on the work of volunteers.

Richard concluded: “They very much enjoy coming here and are highly valued.”

over sixty people. The light is completely different as well as the smells, the fragrance, the birds, the moths and the bats. It’s a totally difference experience to through the day. The colours of the flowers pop in the evening light.”

“We will certainly look to do two or three of these events this summer,” Richard added.

When discussing education within horticulture, the message is clear from Richard: “It is massively important, and we both went through the formal route at Writtle College.

However, the Professional Gardeners Guild is hands-on learning for three years at different properties. By the time you finish, you could have the knowledge to step into a supervisor role. Building that CV up can really help to move onto some of the best gardens and grounds in the UK and other countries.”

When asked what we can expect from Houghton in the future, Richard gave an overview: “Plans are already underway for the development of our vegetable garden. We have our cherry walk; the beds are currently empty, so we have plans to do something else with that. We also plan to mulch certain beds, due to having very sandy soil here.”

PUBLIC PLACES

You never stop learning in horticulture Rosie is looking further afield in terms of plans for the garden: “The Japanese Embassy introduced the Sakura Project; to give cherry trees to places that are open to the public, in order to allow more people to experience the joy of cherry blossom in the spring and, at the end of last year, we finally received our allotted number of trees. This has been in the planning for about two years and it will be great when visitors can start to enjoy the trees.”

Article by James Kimmings.

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CONSERVATION

FAUNA FLYING HIGH AT PYECOMBE Careful wildlife management by a Sussex golf club has boosted numbers of butterflies.

C

ourse Manager Simon Wells launched Pyecombe Golf Club’s wildlife management strategy soon after he came into post at the Sussex downland site in 1991.

Twenty five years later, Pyecombe lifted the STRI’s Environmental Golf Club of the Year award 2016 – a fitting accolade to reflect greenkeeping and management practices

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PITCHCARE January/February 2024

that have created sustained improvements in habitat quality and wildlife diversity – also improving the course playing quality.

“The achievement recognised our overall approach to sustainability,” Simon explains.

“It looked at amenity grassland, ecology, water and waste management, noting our move to becoming more organic wherever possible whilst maintaining our high standards.”

CONSERVATION

Flowers I haven’t seen before suddenly appear The 18-hole course was further recognised last autumn when a survey conducted by the South Downs National Park authority revealed how well some of Britain’s rarest butterflies were faring in what is a carefully nurtured environment for them to thrive. Some 34 species were identified, with large numbers populating the site.

“Ecologist Neil Hulme walked the course with me in spring and early and late summer, recording numbers of species such as the adonis blue, small blue and brown hairstreak, which is probably the rarest. It likes small blackthorn, so we need to maintain a certain height to attract it.”

Pyecombe is a downland course but features bands of clay, with semi-mature woodland on the estate, as well as chalk, the presiding substrate of the South Downs, which stretch from Winchester as far east as Beachy Head, the tallest of the now ‘eight sisters’ cliffs.

The course also harbours important wildflower meadows, the kind that have virtually disappeared from our countryside. “Something like 1.7 million acres, the size of a county, have gone since WW11 – that’s a 97% loss of habitat. Landowners, such as golf clubs, have an important role to play in preserving habitats

surrounding them,” Simon states.

The seeds of success were sown early after Simon arrived. Previously a greenkeeper at other courses, he questioned Pyecombe’s maintenance policy. “Why were we cutting so much grass? It was taking us five days a week to just tackle the semi-rough. I met the greens committee to propose introducing rough areas and prepared a plan for encouraging wildlife.”

Simon had the acumen to realise that, whilst he knew he could not be expert in all areas under his remit, there were organisations that would be only too willing to help him realise his vision. “We work closely with the South Downs National Park [SDNP], which gave us a suggested five-year environmental management plan for the course.”

Leaving areas of rough can soon bring benefits, he adds. “It immediately provides cover for small animals such as mice, and insects, also allowing wildflowers to emerge, bloom and seed.” That’s far from the full story though. “We began with small trial plots to understand how managing them would work and have increased these areas now to about fifty acres.”

“We got better at trying to maintain an environment to encourage flora and fauna.

SAFE HAVEN “Meadows create a safe haven for wildlife to help buffer those changes. We cannot keep destroying these vital habitats.

Golf courses can play their part by managing the land surrounding the ‘in play’ areas in a more environmentally sympathetic way. They have that choice and should grab it so wildlife can survive and, hopefully, thrive.”

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CONSERVATION

Ro tem facepedis ra quae occum res similit et at debis nobitium voluptatur?

Above Wildflowers proliferate in the rough.

Below Managing the semi rough.

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Where once we cut the rough in August, we now leave it until late September, when flowers have seeded, giving us a full flowering season from spring to late summer.”

That’s best ecologically, Simon adds, as he and his team of five wish to give members the aesthetic bonus of flowering rough fringing the fairways for as long as possible.

The stance is unique when compared to animal-grazed meadows, Simon says, which will be missing at least one season of potential flowers, due to grazing impact, and the benefit is heightened because flowers are given the best chance to complete their natural cycle.

The other big takeaway from Pyecombe’s strategy is to free up labour for more productive work, he adds. “The team can focus on the more intensively managed areas such as greens, tees and fairways, enabling important tasks like aeration to be carried out more often, and more attention to detail given to bunker edging and strimming, to deliver a win:win for everyone.”

Reaching today’s level of environmental management proved tricky at times, Simon concedes.

“It was a hard sell for a couple of years as

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

the rough grows thickly because of residual high nutrient content in the soil. Golfers’ disappointment with potential lost balls is sometimes expressed, putting us under pressure to revert back to how things were.

What we’ve achieved would never have happened without a really strong supportive management team.”

“After three or four years, there was a tipping point. The rough transformed and flowers started to appear. Yellow Rattle is a great indicator that things are changing; it’s a hemiparasitic plant that steals nutrients from the grass, and in turn helps thin the sward.”

All flowers on the course are naturally occurring – no overseeding has taken place.

Input from the team is limited to cutting and collecting twice a year. “In February or March, we scarify and remove clippings and expose the soil to light, encouraging seeds to germinate,” says Simon. “We’re aiming to give flowers the space to get going, while thinning the sward mechanically and nutrient-wise. Soil disturbance helps this process.”

Although greenkeepers continue to gain knowledge about the environment under their

CONSERVATION

Many members have bought into what we are doing care, Simon acknowledges the importance of seeking guidance from other organisations.

“The SDNP has been so supportive, visiting us to help develop a plan for the course. They want to create and sustain more meadows, ‘the rain forests of Europe’ as they are called, so are keen to do what they can, and I’m keen to apply their knowledge and experience here.”

“Entering the STRI Environment Awards was a

great way of gaining feedback on our nature and course development plans too,” he adds.

A complex ecological niche like Pyecombe is ever-evolving, Simon notes – it never stays static. “Climate change plays a part. Wetter/ drier weather can encourage species spread and proliferation and vice versa.”

Over time, soil chemistry/biology can change too. “Flowers I haven’t seen before suddenly appear, perhaps due to soil ‘ecology’ shifting.

Another hemiparasitic plant, Red Bartisa, is starting to flourish here,” Simon reveals.

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CONSERVATION

Ro tem facepedis ra quae occum res similit et at debis nobitium voluptatur?

A key aspect of maintaining a sustainable environment will always be communication, Simon says. “Getting the message out there about what we’re doing here is so important so that others can try such a policy. Golf can suffer from bad PR – people can perceive that we are applying lots of chemicals, use too much water, and that wildlife is non-existent.”

“Meadow walks for the public offer an insight into Pyecombe and what we are trying to achieve and maintain. Feedback has been really positive.”

“Organised groups from schools, associations like the Brownies, Guides, camera clubs and natural history bodies have all come along.

National Meadows Day is held in July, when wildlife is at its height – perfect for showing people what we are really about.”

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PITCHCARE January/February 2024

Pyecombe’s achievements are hitting home in the clubhouse as well. “Many members now have a sense of ownership and have bought into what we are doing, but we still need to communicate our aims to new members as they join up.”

“The club is doing exceptionally well in competitions now, with increasing numbers of low handicap golfers, which gives Pyecombe a good name, in turn helping us attract more members. From June through September, the course is more challenging while the rough is uncut, a factor in developing better play. Then in winter, when grass is shorter, the course is quicker to complete, which golfers prefer.”

Back with the proliferating fauna, Simon reports a return of the Rampion, the flower of Sussex to Pyecombe, symbolic of the success of a wildlife management programme that continues to flourish and advance, as Simon explains.

“We’re about to complete a five-year project to assess how well a group of five test plots in various locations around the course perform – part of a wider plan to encourage more greenkeepers to trial mini-meadows. The works are co-ordinated by the SDNP which part funded a machine to maintain the plots and ‘meadow’ areas,” Simon explains “But every course is different, so such research is important to determine what will work best where and when - all part of the process to keep carrying on spreading the word and encouraging more management teams to buy into environmental strategies.”

He concludes: “We have to manage our out of play areas and we have the choice of how we do it. Environmentally sympathetic processes can, and do, enhance golfers’ playing experiences while benefitting wildlife as well. Nice.” .Article by Greg Rhodes.

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TECHNICAL 78

PITCHCARE August/September January/February 2024 PITCHCARE 2022

TECHNICAL

The importance of

health&safety provision

at UK sports venues

Whether amateur or professional in nature, competitive sports can incur accidents and injuries, particularly in contact sports like football and rugby or fast-paced bat and ball sports like cricket.

T

herefore, appropriate health and safety measures must be put in place to safeguard players’ physical health and the investments made in them. By speaking to industry experts and doing the desk research so you don’t have to, we have begun to explore the issues faced by sports people and how our e-Vehicles can better support them and their clubs’ health and safety provision.

When it comes to injuries, every second counts. Being well-prepared with an actionable plan could mean the difference between missing next week’s match or the rest of the season.

But, as we saw when former Bolton Wanderers star, Fabrice Muamba, collapsed during an FA Cup quarter-final in 2012, it could mean the difference between life and death. To that end, all FA-affiliated clubs are now expected to prepare for every medical eventuality: Having been treated on-pitch by the club doctor with a defibrillator following his collapse, Muamba has called for a national defibrillator and CPR training scheme for all grassroots football clubs.

Royal Dornoch Golf Club has fitted defibrillators to five STAR EV Capella golf buggies.

But cardiac arrest isn’t a football or player-specific emergency. Fans, too, have been saved by having defibrillators nearby. Earlier this year, Royal Dornoch Golf Club became the first golf club in the world to fit defibrillators to all its STAR EV Capella buggies, provided by Reesink Scotland.

January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

79

TECHNICAL Above Reesink e-Vehicles supports sports clubs’ health and safety provision with vehicles that get life-saving equipment to players fast.

Below A first aider is essential, especially for contact sports.

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The Scottish golf club already had defibrillators in the clubhouse and halfway house, but the new measures reflect growing concerns surrounding the provision of emergency treatment for players.

Royal Dornoch needed a mode of transport to get the defibrillators to the players as quickly as possible. Now, five speedy all-electric buggies are permanently kitted out with the defibs, ready to power into action if required.

While professional matches, like the Euro 2020 game between Denmark and Finland, which was temporarily suspended after Danish midfielder, Christian Eriksen, collapsed on the field and received treatment, have multiple

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

medics on standby, lower league, amateur and youth divisions often don’t.

Experts agree that all teams, regardless of their size, should have a dedicated first aider who can address any injuries or sustain any major problems until an ambulance arrives.

First aiders act as powerful intermediaries between the injured player and professional healthcare; without them, lacerations, muscle tears, broken bones and worse are left to worsen while the player’s mind painstakingly counts down the seconds before help arrives.

Professionals we talked to suggested that grassroots football clubs should consider a range of criteria when it comes to first aid and cases of accident and emergency. This is because safety measures and emergency response plans ensure every player receives the best possible care, minimising the impact of accidental harm and potential complications that can occur.

In grassroots sports, for instance, it’s suggested one parent – preferably a coach or official, since they’ll be widely known to players – should have basic first aid training. But knowing one’s limits is essential. If a serious injury should occur, then first aiders should defer to professional medical help. Otherwise, the injury could be made worse.

Concussion, in particular, remains a controversial injury, having received significant media attention over the last few years. Contact sports like rugby are now taking drastic measures to improve health and safety regulation for players who take a knock to the head.

TECHNICAL

When it comes to injuries, every second counts Several high-profile professional controversies and lawsuits have circled around concussion, with many now realising that this kind of head trauma can have life-changing consequences – not to mention the devastating phenomenon of second impact syndrome (SIS), which causes the brain to rapidly swell after a secondary impact that occurs before symptoms from the first concussion have subsided.

Concussion in sport, a 2021 report published by the UK Government examining the effects

and perceptions of concussion in sport, states: ‘There is a tendency for the press to laud athletes who sustain injuries and drag themselves back onto the field of play [...]. The reality is that, for most people playing sport, there is no one to stop them except themselves, their friends, teammates, and family.’

‘That is how far down the knowledge and awareness of concussion, and how to respond to it, must reach to ensure people seek the necessary help and treatment, rather than returning to the field to the detriment of their long-term health.’

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TECHNICAL Above Tottenham Hotspur Football Club places its trust in three all-electric ambulance vehicles from STAR EV and Reesink e-Vehicles at its Training Centre in North London.

Though not always welcomed by those players who have taken a knock to the head, medics recommend an immediate diagnostic test take place, removing sportspeople from the field.

The international Concussion in Sport Group (CISG) defines sports-related concussion, or SRC for short, as ‘a traumatic brain injury induced by biomechanical forces’, underscoring the serious nature of what might on the surface seem like a mere knock to the head.

All our professional contacts emphasised that, when serious injuries strike, all involved, especially those in authoritative roles (head coach, referee, match officials) should know what to do: call the emergency services on 999, a direct line that connects the club to local medical facilities.

Though it might sound straightforward, easy-to-follow guidelines and protocols can dramatically reduce response times, getting those in critical situations the help they need sooner.

Just like STAR EV provides the transport solution for getting defibs to golfers, the brand also offers an ambulance vehicle for getting all the equipment needed pitch-side quickly; whether that’s EMT-approved hand-carry gurneys or storage boxes for first-aid and medical supplies.

Tottenham Hotspur currently uses two STAR EV ambulances to safeguard the welfare of its men’s and women’s teams in training. Covering approximately 18 acres of turf, these electric ambulances are fully equipped to support the club’s medical personnel.

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PITCHCARE January/February 2024

Concussion, remains a controversial injury As the Premier League’s most sustainable club, it’s little surprise Tottenham opted to work with Reesink e-Vehicles. STAR EV ambulances are not only sustainable, they’re also quick and reliable – which is crucial for emergency equipment.

By pairing better safety provision with allelectric transport, the future of sport looks really promising – not only can we better safeguard the health of players, but also the planet.

Contact Reesink e-Vehicles for further information on 01480 226800.

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Call the sales team for more information or to place an order www.pitchcare.com/shop - Order now on 01902 440250 or email us at sales@pitchcare.com Please note, prices displayed may exclude VAT and delivery, if applicable. Prices correct at time of printing but may change due to manufacturers increases, please check when ordering. Errors and omissions excepted.

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83

TRAINING & EDUCATION

ARE YOU

BEING DEFENSIVE?

PROBLEM SOLVING If you have any questions about communication, management or problem solving please get in touch with Frank at: franknewberry.com

84

Trainer and Conference Speaker Frank Newberry looks briefly at people who are ‘defensive’ at work. He explains the negative aspects of being defensive at work, and how people could easily spot when he was being defensive - even when he had no idea.

F

rank concludes by suggesting ways we can reduce our defensiveness at work. ”

These defensive routines might include: 1.

Being cynical, sarcastic, negative etc.

These behaviours when subtly applied imply that there is nothing to worry about ‘we have heard it all before’ and ‘nothing ever changes’.

2.

Making light of things, making a joke.

These defensive behaviours when applied are designed to get you to worry when people are saying ‘don’t make me laugh everything is fine’, and that we should carry on as we are doing. Even when there is danger, or a real threat is present.

3.

Blaming, negative stereotyping, and intellectualising to suppress true feelings.

These behaviours are directly defensive and are designed to suggest that anyone who entertains ideas of a threat to success

What are defensive routines?

A defensive routine is anything a person says or does that helps them cope better with their fears. The fears and threats we seek to calm include fear of embarrassment e.g. I will look foolish in front of others at work, fear of failure e.g. I will not succeed at my work even when success is expected of me, and fear of rejection by others e.g. people at work will stop liking me and/or respecting me anymore.

To protect ourselves from these negative outcomes, we adopt a number of defensive behaviours or routines at work to neutralise the threats. For example, the threat of changes at work that might lead to reduced hours, transfers, redundancies etc.

PITCHCARE January/February 2024

TRAINING & EDUCATION

at work may in some way be hostile to others at work; even when there is a genuine threat that employers and employees should take seriously in order to protect their livelihoods.

What can you do about defensiveness at work?

6.

5.

For myself, I had no idea I was adopting a whole repertoire of defensive routines at work.

Particularly when, as a middle manager, I should have been helping others to be more open, more self-critical, maybe even become ‘whistleblowers’ at work so that they, and people around them, could expose the complacency, the indifference to customer service and quality standards that had become entrenched.

My three main defensive routines were that, under pressure; I would make jokes, be sarcastic about senior managers and not confront people about their complacency. For example, I would not encourage self-criticism in others and showed very little of it myself. True, no one else did much in the way of self-criticism or even held meetings to discuss their own defensive routines. This made not challenging people even easier for me.

Well you could check if people are in denial about the problems at work.

6.2 You could calibrate the level of complacency (as in ‘all is well’ – when it is not well),

A whole repertoire of defensive routines 4.

6.1

6.3 You could identify the threat presented by the economic situation, e.g. ‘Cost of Living Crisis.’

Your mission in life 7.

It may not be a comfortable ride at first. For myself – people avoided me, accused me, lied to me, blamed others - especially for their own mistakes and missed opportunities – like promotions, better kit etc.

8.

They also made light of things, rationalised, dramatized, blamed fate, blamed karma, got angry, got ‘depressed about things’, got negative and changed the subject as soon as they saw me coming!

9.

But if you have a yearning to improve yourself, and maybe even others around you, then you are in for a treat. Your job could become your mission in life.

So, good luck with reducing any defensiveness you and others around you may have at work. And may transforming your situation at work becomes the job that you always wanted!

January/February 2024 PITCHCARE

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For further product information including warning phrases and symbols refer to www.syngentaturf.co.uk Background photo credit: Mark Hollingsworth at Whitley Bay Golf Club.

Distributed in the UK and Ireland by ICL Ltd. Tel: 01473 237123 Email: prof.sales@icl-group.com Web: www.icl-growingsolutions.uk