MORE THAN GRASS WITH ALPHA JONES

Thanks to dedicated networks and social media platforms , sports are in the public eye 24 / 7 . This visibility increases the need for meticulous maintenance to ensure field integrity for playability and safety . As a result , the demands on sports field managers ( SFMs ) are growing significantly , making it vital to preserve and improve the reputation of SFMs . Invoking professionalism is a step in the right direction .

The phrase “ Don ’ t judge a book by its cover ,” attributed to author George Eliot in “ The Mill on the Floss ,” suggests that one should pass judgment only after learning more about the subject . This is particularly relevant in the context of sports field management , where the work is often misunderstood . Although it might seem like it involves merely mowing grass and painting lines , sports field maintenance requires a range of intricate tasks performed on a large scale to achieve beneficial impacts .

One key example is aerification . An aerification hole , on average , is ½ inch in diameter and three or more inches deep . By itself , that hole seems small and insignificant , but it performs several vital functions : relieving compaction , facilitating gas exchange in the rootzone , improving water movement , and enhancing the application of dry products for plant health and new growth . When aerifying an athletic field , hundreds of thousands of these holes are created , benefiting the immediate one to two inches of field surface surrounding each hole . The overall appearance , health and playability of the field are greatly improved through this detailed and labor-intensive process .

Despite the technical skill and effort involved in maintaining sports fields , the perception of sports field managers can sometimes hinge on their professionalism . I recall a conversation with someone in an executive management role whose comments about a sports field manager I know struck me as revealing . Although they acknowledged that the sports field manager was a good employee who performed their job well , much of their feedback revolved around the negative impression they had of the person ’ s professional demeanor .

The executive noted the SFM ’ s tone and language when speaking to others , the display of emotion when things did not go their way , and even their choice of clothing . These remarks could be dismissed as the SFM having a bad day or the executive not fully appreciating the challenges SFMs face . However , it was the comments expressing frustration and occasional slips of inappropriate language that left a lasting impact .

For SFMs , the increasing demands of the job mean more time spent outside . This makes the limited interactions in meetings or in hallways crucial moments to be seen by colleagues who work inside . Exercising professionalism during these moments can be critical to how others perceive you .

Professionalism in this context extends beyond just technical competence . It encompasses effective communication , emotional regulation and appropriate attire . Each of these factors influences how others view a sports field manager , regardless of their understanding of the field ’ s demands .

By maintaining a professional demeanor , SFMs can foster a positive working environment , build strong relationships with colleagues , and enhance their standing in the industry . This can lead to greater job satisfaction , career advancement , and the ability to attract and retain new members .

My conversation with the executive highlights the importance of consistent professionalism . While everyone has occasional lapses , these moments can be magnified in the eyes of others . Therefore , it is essential for SFMs to be always mindful of their behavior , recognizing that each interaction is an opportunity to demonstrate their professionalism and commitment to excellence .

The maintenance of sports fields and the professionalism of those who manage them are deeply intertwined . Just as the small task of aerification contributes to the health and playability of a sports field , small acts of professionalism contribute to the reputation and effectiveness of the SFM . By consistently demonstrating professionalism , SFMs can enhance their standing within the industry , meet the increasing demands of their role , and ensure the long-term success of their careers . SFM

Alpha Jones , CSFM , is director of field operations for the Fayetteville Woodpeckers , MiLB affiliate of the Houston Astros . He serves on the SFMA Board of Directors as Secretary-Treasurer . sportsfieldmanagementonline . com August 2024 | SportsField Management

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