John Kmitta Associate Publisher / Editorial Brand Director jkmitta @ epgacceleration . com 763-383-4405

I ’ ve had the pleasure this year of attending sporting events at all levels of play — from youth to high school to college to professional . To me , there is nothing like sitting in the stands with friends , eating concessions food I know I will regret , and enjoying live sports .

The older I get , the more I appreciate the people who work to make those events happen . I can ’ t sit through a basketball game without noticing the people at the scorer ’ s table . In the past , I spent plenty of afternoons and evenings volunteering at youth sporting events to keep score book or run the clock / scoreboard . I have helped coach youth sports , I ’ ve run concessions , and I ’ ve helped organize tournaments . But I ’ m just an editor , so I can only observe and report on the hard work and effort you put into your fields and facilities as sports field managers .

When I tell people about the magazine and the sports field management industry , people often say they didn ’ t know this was a career . I know you hear the same thing , and you also deal with fans and parents who show up to games and tournaments thinking that everything is just magically in place and a beautiful , safe playing surface just happens to be there .

So , as we wrap up the year and look back on 2023 , I am thankful for the people in this industry and the work that you all do to make our sports-obsessed lives so enjoyable .

My year has included trips to see many of you at work — or to see the results of your efforts . This year has allowed me to meet some amazing professionals ( both in person and via video conference ).

On a personal note , this year has also seen my daughter head to Iowa State University , where she has since taken a job at the Iowa State University Sport Turf Research Field . Hearing her speak with pride about her job and her fields has further strengthened my connection to this industry .

So , as we head toward the New Year , I want to thank you for supporting the magazine and our efforts . Happy holidays , and I look forward to seeing you in Daytona Beach . SFM

Iowa State University Sports Turf Research Field

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SportsField Management | December 2023 sportsfieldmanagementonline . com