As we enter October, I’ m energized by the continued work of the SFMA Board of Directors and the momentum building across our association. Throughout the summer and early fall, the board has remained deeply engaged behind the scenes, refining long-term priorities and strengthening the pathways that connect our members to SFMA. With the strategic plan formally approved at our September meeting, we now have a clear, forward-looking framework that positions us to support today’ s professionals while preparing for the needs of tomorrow.

The guiding question that continues to shape our work is“ How can SFMA best serve the industry now while anticipating what’ s ahead?” It’ s inspiring to see the pieces coming together as we look toward 2027. Alongside the strategic plan, the board also approved the 2027 budget, which includes targeted investments designed to reinforce the long-term stability of the association. This commitment to financial stewardship ensures SFMA can continue expanding member value, professional development, and industry leadership well into the future.

October also brings one of the most important participation windows of the year. Several of our hallmark recognition programs share a unified deadline: October 15. Applications are open for Field of the Year Awards; Innovative Awards; and the four Founders Awards, named in honor of SFMA’ s foundational leaders – Dick Ericsson, Dr. William Daniel, George Toma, and Harry Gill. These programs celebrate excellence, innovation, service and the enduring spirit of our profession. Full details and application links are available at sportsfieldmanagement. org.

The October 15 deadline is an opportunity for members to highlight their work, elevate their peers, and contribute to the legacy of sports field management. I encourage every member to consider applying or nominating a colleague whose contributions deserve recognition.

That same day also marks the opening of conference registration for our 2027 SFMA Conference, February 1-4, 2027, in Tampa, Florida. While the conference is a major highlight of our year, it is part of a broader, ongoing commitment to professional development, leadership growth and member engagement. Yet it remains a powerful gathering point where our shared commitment to excellence comes into focus, and where members gain tools that strengthen their craft and expand their impact.

As we move through the final months of the year, I’ m grateful for the dedication you bring to your fields, your teams and this association. Together, we are building something remarkable for 2027 and beyond.

— Alpha Jones, CSFM

OFFICERS President: Alpha Jones, CSFM Immediate Past President: Adam Thoms, Ph. D. President Elect: Casey Carrick, CSFM Secretary / Treasurer: Jason DeMink, CSFM Vice President Commercial: Matthew Duncan, CSFM

DIRECTORS Academic: Weston Floyd, CSFM At-Large( elected): Ben Baumer, CSFM At-Large( appointed): Eric Harshman, CSFM, CGM, SSC Commercial: Adam Russell, LEED AP Higher Education: Joe Hill Parks & Recreation: Tara Jordan Professional Facilities: Mitch Hooten Schools K-12: Jake Mays, CSFM

SFMA OFFICE P. O. Box 1673 Lawrence, KS 66044 Phone: 800-323-3875 Email: SFMAInfo @ SportsFieldManagement. org www. sportsfieldmanagement. org