MORE THAN GRASS WITH ALPHA JONES

In the world of sports field management , we devote time , attention and resources to preparing our fields for games . And we invest time , attention and resources into the tools and equipment that help get the job done . However , there is another important component of sports field management that demands our time , attention and resources — the human component .

Unfortunately , recent trends seem to encourage treating employees as disposable tools . Replacing longtime veteran employees before retirement eligibility , hiring new staff at lower wages and substituting skilled tasks with technology have all become the norm . These trends are detrimental to developing quality employees and to the overall success and sustainability of the department . Just because someone did not study turfgrass management in college or lacks specific experience does not mean they can ’ t be valuable or capable of learning . It ’ s important to value your team members and do things that support their growth .

When we treat people like they are the most valuable tool in the shop , we create a work environment that fosters loyalty , motivation and a desire to do more than is required . Employees who feel valued are more likely to show up early , work hard and go above and beyond in their duties . They are also more inclined to invest time into their own growth through continuing education , self-study or certifications .

In the past , we pre-determined a candidate ’ s potential based on their educational progress . If the applicant lacked specific education or work experience , their papers were placed in the “ MAYBE ” or “ NO ” pile . This approach , while appropriate , may have sifted out an individual who — despite not fitting the traditional mold — could have become a great asset to the team . It is time to break the mold !

Imagine a scenario in which someone who lacked the preferred education or work experience was hired despite these perceived shortcomings . Given the opportunity , this individual proved to be a great employee . They reported early to work , worked hard , earned the respect of their peers and gained invaluable

It ’ s important to value your team members and do things that support their growth .

knowledge about sports field management through other educational avenues . This person may have come into the team as a diverse or different candidate — perhaps not fitting the existing or previous staff profile — but they became an invaluable member of the team . As a result , you or your team added value to someone and created a more inviting and inclusive culture .

It is becoming increasingly difficult to find graduates of turfgrass management programs to hire . There are fewer students applying to these programs , and those who do graduate often stay in their first job long enough to move on to better-paying opportunities . This reality leaves organizations with a constant need to find new candidates ; with the end result being the team is short-staffed and under pressure to meet the growing demands of events and activities .

As a result , we need to rethink our approach to hiring and employee development . We need to look for candidates who demonstrate potential , relatable skills , a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn . By investing in these individuals , we can create a more stable , committed and inviting work environment , reducing turnover and improving the overall quality of our operations .

We cannot treat people as disposable tools . Just as we would invest time and attention into maintaining our most valuable equipment , we must invest time and attention into helping employees develop their skills . Even with the risk of them leaving , your department will be known as a place that is a learning environment people want to be a part of .

In the end , the real value of an employee is their growth and contributions to the team ’ s success . Consider each employee as the most valuable tool in the shop , add value to them , and reap the rewards of a more committed , productive and satisfied team . SFM

Alpha Jones , CSFM , is director of field operations for the Fayetteville Woodpeckers , MiLB affiliate of the Houston Astros . He also serves on the SFMA Board of Directors as Secretary-Treasurer . sportsfieldmanagementonline . com September 2024 | SportsField Management

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