FIELD OF THE YEAR SCHOOLS & PARKS FOOTBALL
Farrell: This field serves as the center for our sporting events— football, soccer, lacrosse and track— and it is used to its fullest potential every year. Our approach focuses on providing a safe and consistent surface for every athlete who steps onto it. By diligently following our agronomic program and paying attention to the little things throughout the year, we achieve this consistency. Lowering the height of cut on the ryegrass in spring and removing as much as possible through cultural practices before resorting to chemical treatments has improved recovery in our bermudagrass year after year. During the summer, aeration and verticutting as needed help ensure the field enters the season as healthy as possible, ready to host 15 or more football games plus additional practices.
SFM: Can you share a bit of insight into what the Field of the Year application process was like for you, as well as any tips you might have for other sports field managers? Thatcher: The Field of the Year application truly highlights the work that goes into maintaining a top-quality playing surface throughout the year— not just in photographs. One piece of advice: track your performance and maintenance practices throughout the year— it will make the application process much smoother. This program is a fantastic way to spotlight the efforts of field managers, and I hope SFMA continues to recognize their dedication for many years to come. sportsfieldmanagementonline. com December 2025 | SportsField Management
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