SFMA CEO Paula Sliefert received the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) Gold Medal Award for her dedication and leadership in the sports field management community.
The PGMS Gold Medal Award is presented to an individual or entity to recognize them for outstanding and long-term achievements and/or contributions to the green industry.
For more information about the PGMS Professional Awards, visit https://pgms.org/page/professionalawards.
Achieving the Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) designation positions you as a leader in the industry. This prestigious credential not only fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment but can also enhance your current and future employment prospects.
If you are interested in taking the CSFM Exam at the 2026 Conference, applications must be received by SFMA no later than Monday, December 8.
Pre-qualification and pre-registration are required for those who wish to take the certification exam in Fort Worth. Access the application forms at https://www.sportsfieldmanagement.org/csfm-program/.
If you have any questions about whether you qualify to be approved for the CSFM program and take the certification exam, email lcraig@sportsfieldmanagement.org or call 800-323-3875.
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has formally recognized the Sports Field Management Association’s (SFMA) Turfgrass Science Certification as an approved Industry-Based Certification (IBC) for public school accountability in the 2025–2030 cycle. The credential appears on TEA’s new IBC List with IBC ID 1284 and is classified as a Tier 3 certification, with SFMA listed as the certifying entity.
This action means Texas high school students who earn the SFMA Turfgrass Science Certification can now help their campuses meet College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) indicators, since TEA uses approved IBCs as one of the measures in the student achievement domain of the state accountability system.
SFMA announced that the Western Canada Turfgrass Association (WCTA) has been recognized as its newest International Affiliate Organization, further expanding SFMA’s global network of professionals dedicated to safe, high-quality and sustainable sports fields.
WCTA serves sports turf and green industry professionals across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. By joining SFMA as an International Affiliate, WCTA and its members now have enhanced access to SFMA’s education, certification and networking opportunities, while strengthening cross-border collaboration on sports field management.
WCTA Executive Director Jerry Rousseau described the connection between the groups as having “looked at one another over the fence” for years. The new International Affiliate status makes that long-standing relationship official and creates a stronger structure for continued cooperation.
Partnering with WCTA on joint education initiatives and information sharing.
Welcoming WCTA members to SFMA conferences and programs.
Highlighting Canadian perspectives and expertise within SFMA publications, committees and learning opportunities.
Investing in your SFMA membership is an investment in your future. SFMA offers a membership that connects you with a network of peers eager to share best practices, provides valuable educational opportunities to enhance your skills, and grants quick access to essential information and resources to help you save time.
Be sure to renew your membership before the December 31 deadline to continue enjoying member benefits. As a 2026 member, you’ll also qualify for a discounted rate of $525 to attend the annual conference in Fort Worth, Texas.
Visit SFMA’s new portal at https://members.sportsfieldmanagement.org/welcome. Since this is a new system, follow the instructions on the welcome page to create a new account, linking your login to your membership record.
After creating and verifying your new login information, you’ll be directed to the member portal. Select the “Join/Renew” link under the membership tab, choose “Renew your Membership,” and follow the steps to renew for 2026.
If you have any questions about membership or the renewal process, contact SFMA HQ at 800-323-3876 or sfmainfo@sportsfieldmanagement.org.
Registration is open for the 2026 SFMA Conference & Exhibition in Fort Worth, Texas January 19-22, 2026.
Top-notch education: Learn from leading experts in the field during informative seminars.
Networking opportunities: Connect with fellow professionals, share best practices, and build valuable relationships.
Cutting-edge technology: Explore the latest advancements in sports field management from top exhibitors.
Facility tours: Get inspired by tours of FC Dallas/Toyota Stadium, Frisco RoughRiders, Southern Methodist University, AT&T Stadium, and Globe Life Field.
Don’t miss out! Secure your spot today and take advantage of early bird rates.
For more information, visit https://www.sportsfieldmanagement.org/conference/.