ON-FIELD ARTISTRY
All photos on page 32 courtesy of Mike Hebrard
black tips for fill; and factor in outside conditions— wind, weather and sunlight— and how they will affect spray.”
SAGE ADVICE According to Andy, when leading a crew, it is always important to receive feedback. Other tips he shares include“ Tight strings but not guitar tight.”“ There are two ends to the string; be at the other one.” And“ Don’ t step in wet paint; and if you have to, then take off your shoes on exit.”
Mike added that logos should not be too close to the stands or too far away.
“ Plan, plan, plan,” he said.“ There is always something coming up, so have a good water source or bring water; and check colors, product and content before going to the job site.”
CLEANUP, STORAGE AND EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE“ Storing and maintaining equipment is a challenge for our team,” said Andy.“ We are constantly mobile so as hard as
we try to properly store and mobilize equipment, we always end up with pieces that need servicing.”
Mike recommends removing nozzles and storing them in cleaner; and replacing worn-out nozzles.
“ Don’ t let buckets get too low, as a lot of the clumpy material will plug up the valves,” he added.“ If using a solvent-based paint, make sure you flush out really well so you don’ t kill the grass on the next job. Mark buckets after you use them to ensure you know what’ s in them— paint a sample on the lid.”
Added Andy,“ Turn the gas switch off during transport, and use premium gas with 2-cycle engines. If the pump won’ t prime, tap the bottom of the pump to loosen the marble; mix the paint really well; and if you have chunks in paint, strain them. Clean your filters after use, and try to keep units protected out of direct sun because that’ s tough on the seals and gaskets.”
THE JOY OF PAINTING According to Andy, the best part of painting is doing so with his team and accomplishing big projects at unfamiliar sites in a short amount of time. He also enjoys seeing what other sports field managers throughout the country are doing, thus growing those relationships and challenging each other with new ideas.
Mike enjoys creating or free-handing artwork, knowing that there are not many people who would even attempt it.
John Kmitta is associate publisher and editorial brand director of SportsField Management magazine.
32 SportsField Management | July 2025 sportsfieldmanagementonline. com