December is always a time for us to reflect on the year that was, but also to look forward to the year to come and plan accordingly. From a magazine perspective, that means continuing to evolve and tailor content to meet changing needs.
As part of that effort, I rely on those in the industry for feedback. We recently asked SFMA Editorial Committee members and SFMA Board members for their insight on topics to help grow and shape the content of the magazine.
When asked where they get their industry news and information (other than SportsField Management magazine), responses included publications from colleges/universities, social media, manufacturers and vendors, industry enewsletters, seminars, chapter events, podcasts, and conversations with other sports field management industry professionals.
When asked what information is most beneficial to their jobs, respondents mentioned new equipment/products, research data, industry trends, best management practices, and insight into the operations of other industry pros.
Perhaps the most important feedback was to the question of what information is lacking. Responses were varied, but included things like robotics, emergency management, dealing with storm damage, perspectives on real-world problems and solutions, and information regarding the impact of current events — such as tariffs and labor shortages.
My sincerest thanks to all those who provided feedback, and, as a result, are helping to shape our future editorial content.
I would ask that all of you reading this ponder those same questions:
What sources do you turn to for industry information?
What types of information are most beneficial to your job/role?
What information do you wish you had that you feel is lacking?
Feel free to email your responses to me at jkmtta@epgacceleration.com. Your feedback helps us to provide the information you seek.
I would also appeal to all of you to share your photos. Many people in this industry already post regularly to social media. We can help you share your images and your stories with our larger audience. It can be as simple as a high-resolution image and a caption.
This is also a good time to remind those of you who are Certified Sports Field Managers (CSFM) that writing an article that gets published in SportsField Management magazine earns you Industry Service Points needed to qualify for recertification. So please reach out to me to discuss article ideas for 2026.
Thanks for reading, and Happy Holidays!
– John Kmitta