CONFERENCE RECAP
“ These individuals bring exceptional expertise, innovation, and dedication to the sports field management community,” said Alpha Jones, CSFM, president of SFMA.“ Their leadership will help drive our mission forward and strengthen the resources and support we provide to our members worldwide.”
Together, the 2026 SFMA Board of Directors will focus on expanding professional development opportunities, enhancing industry standards, and supporting the growth and success of sports field managers worldwide.
2025 FOUNDERS AWARDS SFMA recognized four distinguished leaders during its awards banquet, celebrating exceptional service, leadership and impact across the sports field management profession. The following individuals were named recipients of SFMA’ s highest honors, the Founders Awards:
2025 Dick Ericson Award: Jimmy Simpson, CSFM. Honored for steadfast leadership, strategic stewardship, and long-standing service advancing SFMA at the local, regional and national levels. Simpson’ s contributions to governance, financial oversight and professional development have strengthened the association and supported members through periods of significant change.
2025 Dr. William H. Daniel Award: Geoff Rinehart. Recognized for outstanding dedication to education, mentorship, and professional service. Rinehart’ s work connecting research, instruction, and field application has helped cultivate the next generation of sports field managers while elevating standards across the profession.
2025 George Toma Golden Rake Award:
Jason W. Bowers, CSFM. Celebrated for excellence in field management and for advancing best practices through innovation, environmental stewardship, and professional advocacy. Bowers’ leadership has strengthened operational standards and expanded knowledge-sharing across the industry.
2025 Harry C. Gill Award: Matt Anderson, CSFM. Honored for exceptional mentorship and commitment to developing professionals within the industry. Anderson’ s influence is reflected in the many careers he has guided through education, service, and leadership.
“ These honorees exemplify the professionalism, service, and vision that define sports field management,” said SFMA President Alpha Jones, CSFM.“ Their contributions continue to shape the profession, strengthen our community, and inspire future leaders.”
The annual SFMA awards program recognizes individuals whose achievements advance the quality, safety, and professionalism of sports field management through leadership, education, innovation, and service.
SFMA STUDENT CHALLENGE The 2026 SFMA Student Challenge recognized outstanding student achievement in sports field management, turf science, and facility operations. The SFMA Student Challenge is presented in partnership with the SAFE Foundation, founding partner Hunter Industries, and supporting sponsor Site- One Landscape Supply. The annual competition highlights emerging professionals who demonstrate excellence in research, problem-solving, and applied field management strategies. Participants presented comprehensive solutions addressing real-world field management scenarios. The 2026 SFMA Student Challenge winners are as follows:
22 SportsField Management | March 2026 sportsfieldmanagementonline. com