INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

By Jakob Scales

The next generation of sports field managers is vital to the continuous growth of our industry , which is why it is important to understand their perspective of the industry . In conjunction with SportsField Management magazine , I recently conducted a survey of people new to the sports field management industry ( or still in school for a turfgrass-related degree ). This survey provided valuable information that I hope will be utilized to better understand and serve the next generation of sports field managers everywhere . funds and fundraise tirelessly to ensure you can go to the national conference each year , but more than two-thirds of respondents have attended an SFMA conference . College professors and the organization ’ s young field managers work to understand the importance of attending this conference , even if it means missing the first or second week of class in a new semester . Industry grants and scholarships to attend the conference are also proving their worth here , too .

MEMBERSHIP When asked about membership status with SFMA and its affiliated chapters , 40.6 % said they are members of both national SFMA and their local chapter , 21.9 % are members of national SFMA only , 12.5 % are members of just their local chapter , and 25 % of respondents are not members at either the national or chapter level .

Overall , this is an encouraging sign , as more than 40 percent are both local and national chapter members . The national chapter holds valuable resources such as the Sports Field 101 program and the national member directory , while the local chapters allow you to establish relationships with field managers specifically in your area who may be dealing with the same issues as you .

In addition , 68.85 of respondents have attended an SFMA Conference , which is encouraging as well . As a college student / young adult , it can be hard to commit enough Photos provided by Jakob Scales .

18 SportsField Management | August 2024 sportsfieldmanagementonline . com