SFMA IN ACTION
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.
Michigan 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:
“ Setting Your Fields Up for Success”— presented by Brian Hall
“ Poa Suppression & the Benefits of PGRs”— presented by Britt Barry
“ 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: One-on-one guidance from veteran sports field managers. Support in key areas such as turf maintenance, irrigation, field design, pest management and more. Real-world insights, best practices, and professional advice. 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 pairings, 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. sportsfieldmanagementonline. com August 2025 | SportsField Management
9