SFMA IN ACTION
An Early Look at the 2024 SFMA Conference
SFMA staff and committees have been working hard to prepare for the highly anticipated January conference in Daytona Beach ! SFMA shared the following sneak peek at components that are falling into place .
CONFERENCE EDUCATION Education is a key focus of the SFMA Conference ; staff and the Education Committee have pieced together a diverse range of tracks to cater to the needs and interests of attendees .
The finalized conference education tracks are as follows :
Turfgrass Management : Explore the latest advancements , best practices , and strategies in maintaining and managing turfgrass for various applications .
Research / Technology : Delve into cutting-edge research and technological innovations that are revolutionizing the industry , and shaping its future .
Synthetic : Gain insights into synthetic materials , surfaces , and their applications in sports and recreation facilities .
Professional Development : Enhance your skills and expand your professional horizons through workshops and sessions dedicated to personal and career growth .
Diversity , Equity and Inclusion : Engage in important discussions and learn about initiatives promoting diversity , equity and inclusion in the sports field management industry .
Baseball : Immerse yourself in the intricacies of baseball facility management , including field maintenance , safety protocols , and more .
Water : Discover sustainable water management practices , conservation techniques , and the latest trends in water usage and efficiency .
Although attending the conference in person is the ideal experience , SFMA understands that logistical constraints may prevent some individuals from being physically present . To ensure that no one misses out on the valuable education being offered , SFMA announced that virtual webinars will be available on Tuesdays following the conference , starting from January 30 , and continuing until February 20 . This way , even if you cannot attend the conference in person , you can still participate and benefit from the educational content .
CONFERENCE EVENTS
SAFE Golf Tournament : Picture yourself swinging away on the green , enjoying friendly competition and basking in the beautiful Daytona Beach weather . Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Diamond Pro and Tri-Tex Grass , the SAFE Golf Tournament is back and better than ever !
Field Rebuild with Project Evergreen : SFMA believes in giving back to the community in which the conference is held . That is why SFMA is once again partnering with Project Evergreen to revitalize a local sports field , and create a safe and welcoming space for athletes and the community to enjoy .
SAFE Bowling Tournament : Put on your bowling shoes and prepare for a strikingly fun time ! The SAFE Bowling Tournament is your chance to show off your skills , meet fellow attendees , and make lasting connections , all while benefiting the SAFE Foundation .
Welcome Reception : Kick off the conference in style at the Welcome Reception , sponsored by Covermaster and The Toro Company . It is the perfect opportunity to network , relax , and get into the conference spirit .
First Timers , International , and CSFM receptions : Whether it ’ s your first time attending , you ’ ve traveled from afar , or you ’ re a Certified Sports Field Manager ( CSFM ), there is a special reception just for you . Sponsored by AgStone LLC ., the receptions allow you to connect with fellow professionals and celebrate the diverse SFMA community .
Annual Awards Reception : It ’ s time to honor the best in the sports field management industry ! At the Annual Awards Reception , generously sponsored by Carolina Green , John Deere , Precision Laboratories , and World Class Paint , SFMA will recognize outstanding achievements and contributions that have pushed forward the field of sports field management .
NEW EVENT : F . I . E . L . D . Luncheon : Fostering Inclusion , Equity , Leadership , and Diversity in the Sports Field Industry ( F . I . E . L . D .) SFMA is introducing a new event focused on promoting inclusion and diversity . Sponsored by Hunter Industries , the F . I . E . L . D . Luncheon will feature an inspiring keynote address by Brandon Bell , M . Ed ., lead for equity , diversity , and inclusion — North America at Syngenta . This event marks an opportunity to discuss and cultivate a more inclusive sports field management community .
( Note : Sponsorships listed are as of 6 / 9 / 23 )
8 SportsField Management | July 2023 sportsfieldmanagementonline . com