SFMA IN ACTION
Member Spotlight
SFMA has begun recognizing a member of the association who exemplifies the role of a sports field manager . SFMA was honored to highlight Zach Van Voorhees , CSFM , in July and Maritza Martinez in August .
ZACH VAN VOORHEES , CSFM From June 3 to 10 , 2023 , Zach Van Voorhees , CSFM , embraced a new leadership role , a pivotal week coinciding with the town ’ s highlight of the year , the NCAA Division II World Series . Steering a team of 20 , Van Voorhees oversaw operations at the National Training Complex ( USA Baseball ) and Thomas Brooks Park . His meticulous planning ensured the Coleman Field playing surface met MLB standards , while his handling of challenges enabled the seamless execution of 14 games in seven days . His commitment , professionalism and expertise exemplified the qualities of a dedicated CSFM and SFMA member .
MARITZA MARTINEZ Maritza Martinez ’ s path from Dodge County , Georgia , to a pivotal role at St . Louis CITY SC exemplifies the dynamic nature of sports field management . With a background rooted in nature and a love for plants , Martinez ’ s unexpected pivot toward sports field management during her time at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College set the stage for her remarkable journey . An internship with the Gwinnett Stripers solidified her dedication , igniting a passion that would shape her future .
Beyond the traditional perception of grass upkeep , Maritza sheds light on the multidisciplinary collaboration that fuels successful field management . Her pursuit of a master ’ s degree at the University of Tennessee mirrors her unwavering commitment to growth . Martinez ’ s mission to inspire the next generation of sports field managers by highlighting the STEM aspects of the field showcases her dedication to its future . To follow her ongoing journey , connect with her on X ( formerly Twitter ) @ maritzamows .
SFMA wants to highlight its members ! Email Whitney Webber at wwebber @ sportsfieldmanagement . org with your nominations , including accompanying stories highlighting the accomplishments of SFMA members .
Innovative Awards Program
SFMA acknowledges that continuous advancements in technology , science , products and services are contributing to the enhancement of the sports field management profession . In recognition of the companies leading this evolutionary progress , SFMA established the Innovative Awards Program .
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Open to all SFMA Commercial members participating in the upcoming SFMA Annual Conference and Exhibition . Participating companies must showcase their products , services or technologies at the SFMA Exhibition . Each company is allowed one submission per year .
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS The submitted product , equipment , service or technology must meet the following criteria :
It should have been introduced for sale between the end of the current year ’ s SFMA show and the conclusion of the subsequent year ’ s SFMA show .
It should significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of sports field managers , prioritizing the creation of safer and more playable playing surfaces for athletes .
Applications must be submitted by October 15 .
SELECTION PROCEDURE A panel of SFMA non-commercial members representing all membership categories will evaluate the entries . Each year , there may be one or more recipients of the award . The panel of judges will grant awards to companies whose services , products , technologies or equipment align closely with the provided definition of innovation .
NOTIFICATION AND RECOGNITION The identity of the winner ( s ) will remain confidential until their announcement on the first day of the trade show . SFMA will honor the winner ( s ) by : Making a special announcement during the trade show . Providing a dedicated logo for the company ’ s use in promoting their award-winning product , service , technology or equipment .
Including coverage in SFMA communications and conference press releases .
Displaying special signage at the winner ( s ) booth ( s ) within the SFMA Exhibition .
Extending verbal and visual acknowledgment during the Annual SFMA Awards Banquet .
Visit https :// www . sportsfieldmanagement . org / innovative-awards / to complete the brief online application .
Stars and Stripes Contest winner
Congratulations , for the second year in a row , to Marc Moran , CSFM , and his turfgrass students at Atlee High School for winning the SFMA Stars and Stripes Contest . Their outstanding work garnered almost 700 votes , earning them this well-deserved recognition .
8 SportsField Management | September 2023 sportsfieldmanagementonline . com