Jonathan Sukosky Wins 2025 Stars and Stripes Field Design Contest
The Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) recognized Jonathan Sukosky, Harbison & Central Field Groundskeeper for Globe Unified School District, as the winner of this year’s Stars and Stripes Contest. His creative field design, featuring the iconic Liberty Bell, stood out for its patriotic symbolism.
Sukosky shared that the Liberty Bell had long been an idea he hoped to represent on the field. “The Liberty Bell defines our great nation,” he said. “It’s a symbol I’ve always wanted to incorporate, but our high school baseball season usually ends well before the Fourth of July.” This summer, the absence of a Babe Ruth season in his area presented a unique opportunity. Sukosky used the moment to create something special while also mentoring his summer intern, Josiah Cutter, who is in his first year of sports field management.
Sukosky’s path into the profession began more than a decade ago as a volunteer Little League baseball groundskeeper. He has now spent three years managing sports fields and continues to stay deeply involved in the game as the junior varsity baseball coach at his local high school.
“I played baseball growing up, and now I coach the next generation,” he said. “We have regular workdays with the players where I teach them how to care for their own field. It builds pride and responsibility.”
Sukosky also credits SFMA with shaping his approach to the profession. “SFMA has exposed me to a lot of new ways to do my day-to-day job and has provided a great network of professionals to talk with about challenges and solutions.”
As the 2025 Stars and Stripes winner, Sukosky will receive complimentary registration for the 2026 SFMA Conference and Exhibition in Fort Worth, Texas.
Minne
sota Parks & Sports Field Management Association Summer Field Day at Target Field
More than 50 members of the Minnesota Parks & Sports Field Management Association (MPSFMA) gathered at Target Field for a hands-on summer field day filled with learning and connection. The event featured four interactive stations, each focused on a different element of field maintenance and turf care. Participants rotated in small groups through each 30-minute station, gaining practical insights from some of the top professionals in the industry. Following the sessions, attendees enjoyed lunch together while reflecting on the day’s learning and the rare opportunity to be on the field at one of Major League Baseball’s premier stadiums.
Michiga
n Sports Field Managers Association Summer Field Day
On June 18, the Michigan Sports Field Managers Association (MiSFMA) hosted its annual Summer Field Day at West Ottawa High School, bringing together professionals from throughout the region for a day of education, networking and hands-on learning.
The event featured three expert-led sessions focused on critical aspects of sports field care:
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“Setting Your Fields Up for Success” — presented by Brian Hall
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“Poa Suppression & the Benefits of PGRs” — presented by Britt Barry
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“Hybrid Surfaces and Proper Hygiene” — presented by Ryan Bearss
Attendees rotated through each session, gaining practical knowledge and fresh strategies to apply to their own facilities. In addition to the educational programming, participants enjoyed field tours, raffle prizes and networking opportunities.
Join the SFMA Mentorship Program
Launched in early 2024, the SFMA Mentorship Program is paving the way for the next generation of sports field professionals. This initiative is designed to connect experienced leaders in the industry with individuals eager to build their skills, expand their knowledge, and grow their careers in sports field management.
Whether you are a newcomer to the industry or looking to advance your expertise, the mentorship program offers a unique opportunity to learn from some of the best in the field. Participants will be paired based on shared interests, career goals and availability, ensuring a productive and personalized experience for both mentors and mentees.
What you can expect:
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One-on-one guidance from veteran sports field managers.
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Support in key areas such as turf maintenance, irrigation, field design, pest management and more.
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Real-world insights, best practices, and professional advice.
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A chance to expand your professional network and confidence in your role.
The program is delivered through Canvas, an intuitive digital learning platform. Participants can download the Canvas Student app to access mentorship modules, which guide them through monthly check-ins and activities that promote ongoing learning and development.
The program is open to SFMA members only. It features fully matched mentor/mentee pairing
s, monthly modules and checkpoints, and ongoing support from the SFMA national office. Contact Jennifer McLendon at jmclendon@sportsfieldmanagement.org with any questions.
Ready to join? Scan the QR code to apply and learn more.