MORE THAN GRASS WITH ALPHA JONES

Happy New Year ! Although it is a new one , this spring I will attend my high school class reunion to remember and celebrate a year from long ago . I have connected with many of my classmates in anticipation of the event . In the process of reconnecting , I was reminded of a time early in my school years when a group of kids and I were playing tag or kickball on the playground .

There was one student who was noticeably taller and carried more weight than everyone else on the playground . I remember being told by another kid not to play with her . I asked why , and the response had to do with the ways in which she was different . It was early insight into how others view and handle differences . Those of us who are perceived as “ different ” — whether by race , gender , ethnicity or other ways — often feel like the only one in the room . Being different in the sports field management industry brings an additional layer of complexity . On one hand , it is a source of pride to have reached a place where you can represent those who look , think or live differently from the majority . On the other , it can be intimidating to consistently feel like an outsider — especially in an industry that has historically been dominated by a narrow demographic .

Isolation is one of the most immediate challenges . Whether attending an industry conference or working alongside crews on a high-profile field , it ’ s easy to feel like your voice is drowned out in a sea of sameness . This isolation can sometimes manifest as self-doubt . Do I belong here ? Am I taken seriously ? It doesn ’ t help when assumptions are made about your skills or experience , or when comments and interactions reveal biases — whether overt or subtle .

There ’ s also the unspoken pressure to represent an entire group . As the only person in the room who looks or thinks differently , your actions are often scrutinized as representative of your identity . A mistake feels magnified , while successes may be attributed to luck rather than merit . This additional layer of pressure can be exhausting , but it ’ s also a powerful motivator to excel . I have often retold the story of attending my very first STMA ( now SFMA ) conference . Rather than being a wallflower , I was motivated by my nervousness of being different to shake hands and introduce myself thinking it would draw attention away from my distinction .

Being the “ different ” person in the room offers a unique platform for creating change . Simply being present disrupts the norm and forces others to consider perspectives they might not have otherwise encountered . It also encourages you to seek out allies and build meaningful connections . In my experience , I ’ ve learned to identify those who share my vision , regardless of their background . These allies have been instrumental in creating opportunities for collaboration , mentorship and mutual support .

Mentorship has been a transformative experience for me , and I am thankful to have played a part in establishing a mentorship program within SFMA . Early in my career , I had mentors who gave guidance on navigating this industry . Now , I strive to pay it forward by connecting with others who may feel out of place in this industry . Sharing insights and experiences helps foster a sense of community and belonging , even when the numbers are small .

Early in my career , I felt a need to conform — to downplay my differences so that I did not stand out , if that were possible . Over time , I realized that my uniqueness is not a liability but an asset . Embracing who I am and what I bring to the table has not only helped me succeed but also inspired others to embrace their differences .

The isolation , scrutiny and pressure to prove oneself can be daunting . Yet it also provides an incredible opportunity to challenge norms , contribute unique insights , and inspire others to follow in your footsteps .

The journey is not always easy , but it is undeniably worthwhile . Insight into what someone else may be going through can help to create a more inclusive industry where everyone — regardless of background — has the chance to thrive . By embracing diversity , the sports field management industry can better serve the athletes , communities and users of athletic fields at every level of sports . SFM

Alpha Jones , CSFM , is athletic field specialist at Duke University . He also serves on the SFMA Board of Directors as Secretary-Treasurer .

16 SportsField Management | January 2025 sportsfieldmanagementonline . com