Equity Bank Park
Wichita Wind Surge
There’s no question that what we do is at a high level. We take great pride in being advocates for the turf industry and in delivering a first-class playing surface every single day. Player safety is always our top priority, and we consistently maintain the field to the highest possible standard. Our results speak for themselves. Our consistency, quality and dedication are reflected in this year’s ratings, where we placed first in all 15 categories. Each year, our challenge continues to grow as more outside events are added to our schedule. 2025 was our longest season to date, stretching from March 1 through November 1, yet we continued to uphold the same elite standard throughout. We had games played in the 40s in April and above 100 degrees August, which makes managing both turf and dirt a constant challenge. The infield skin is especially demanding, but through daily nail dragging, rolling, floating and proper moisture management, we keep it firm and consistent. Keeping grass alive year around while balancing a full event schedule is another challenge. We pull cores twice a year, verticut at least once a month, and aerate monthly. Our fertilizer program is built around consistency as well. A foliar package is sprayed on Mondays before homestands, and a granular fertilizer is applied the Monday after. I preach consistency, not perfection. And I believe that shows.
— Ben Hartman, director of field operations
Level and category of submission: Professional Baseball
Field manager: Ben Hartman
Title: Director of field operations
Education: A.A.S, Turfgrass Management
Original facility construction: 2019
Turfgrass: Latitude 36 bermuda
Overseed: 365SS bluegrass at 4 lbs./1,000
Rootzone: Sand
Drainage: Subsurface perforated piping
SportsField Management (SFM): Congratulations on the Field of the Year win. What are you most proud of with this win?
Ben Hartman: I’m most proud of the consistency and commitment it represents. This award reflects the daily attention to detail, long hours, and pride our crew takes in the field — not just on game days, but year round. It’s gratifying to see that dedication recognized, especially knowing the standard of fields across the industry.
SFM: What were the biggest challenges you faced with the winning field, and how have you approached those challenges?
Hartman: The biggest challenges have been balancing heavy use with maintaining field quality, along with managing weather extremes throughout the season. We’ve approached these challenges through proactive planning, open communication, and being willing to adjust as conditions change. Staying flexible and making data-driven decisions has been key. Another tidbit I like to add is the climate report for Wichita in 2025 that shows just how challenging it was of a year. Wichita experienced a very wet year in 2025, ending with a total rainfall of 40.45 inches (6.14 inches above average), significantly above the 30-year average. That made it one of the wettest years on record, particularly noted for its wet summer (June-August) and heavy rains in June — including a single-day total of 4.19 inches — which led to 49 tarp pulls, and one ripped tarp.
SFM: Can you share a little about your overall management approach to the winning field and what you feel have been the most important aspects to getting this field to an award-winning level?
Hartman: Our management approach is built around preparation, consistency and accountability. We focus heavily on preventative maintenance, proper cultural practices, and setting clear expectations for field performance. Attention to detail, along with willingness to evaluate and improve processes, has been essential in elevating the field to an award-winning level.
SFM: Please tell us about your crew, and anything else you would like us to know about your organization and the fields/facilities that you manage?
Hartman: This award truly belongs to our crew. They take tremendous pride in their work and consistently go above and beyond to ensure the field is safe, playable and visually outstanding. Our organization is supportive of best practices and continued education, which allows us to manage multiple fields and facilities to a high standard while continually striving to improve.
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?
Hartman: The application process was a great opportunity to reflect on our program and document the work that goes into maintaining the field. My advice to others would be to keep detailed records, take consistent photos throughout the season, and don’t hesitate to apply. The process itself is valuable, and it’s a great way to showcase the hard work of your crew and organization.
The Field of the Year Awards program is made possible by the support of sponsors Carolina Green, World Class Athletic Surfaces and EPS.