Learn best management practices from academics and industry experts through case studies, hands-on learning, traditional presentations and in-depth classes. Choose from eight educational tracks: turfgrass management, facility management, synthetic, pest control, water, industry developments, baseball, and professional development.
ASBA Certification Testing
Sat., Jan. 26, 8 am – 1 pm
The American Sports Builders Association (ASBA) offers certification for field builders and will be conducting exams at the conference. Prequalification and registration is required by Dec. 15. Go to sportsbuilders.org or call 866-501-2722. Those testing for CFB, CFB-N or CFB-S must register for the STMA conference, purchasing a one-day package at a minimum.
Attire
Business casual (slacks and a collared shirt for men and comparable apparel for women) is the preferred conference attire. Coat and tie is requested for the Awards Banquet on Friday. Cutoffs, jeans, t-shirts and ball caps are discouraged.
CSFM Testing – New Format this Year!
Traditionally, the CSFM exam has been offered two times during the week of the Conference, in a written format. This year we will have a NEW online version of the CSFM Exam. Those who have prequalified to take the exam can sign up for a time slot nearly any time during the Conference that works with their schedule. This new electronic CSFM exam will allow for more streamlined grading and quicker results. Exam takers who do not pass all four sections of the exam may be able to retest on those sections later in the week depending on availability. To find out if you qualify, call STMA at 800-323-3875. Pre-qualification and pre-registration is required by Dec. 1.
CEUs/Pesticide Recertification
CEUs have been approved by NRPA and PGMS. CEUs are pending with ASBA, GCSAA and NALP. Five Pesticide Recertification credits are approved for Arizona. If you are attending from another state and need pesticide recertification credits, you are responsible for contacting your state’s Department of Agriculture for approval.
Conference Recordings – Free
All full conference registrants receive free access to the education session recordings. Look for an email post-conference with the link and password.
First-Time Attendees
STMA welcomes our first-timers and invites you to a special reception in your honor on Wed., Jan. 23, 6 – 7 pm. Be sure to wear your First-Time attendee ribbon for admittance.
Sponsored by Atlas Turf, Platinum TE, Pure Seed, Sod Solutions
International Attendees
STMA welcomes International attendees and invites you to a special reception in your honor on Wed., Jan. 23, 6 – 7 pm. Be sure to wear your International ribbon for admittance.
Sponsored by Atlas Turf, Platinum TE, Pure Seed, Sod Solutions
New Members – Free Registration
Nonmembers or former members who have not been a member since the year 2000 are eligible for a FREE Conference Registration. Go to STMA.org to join as a new, first-time member. STMA will accept only on-line membership and conference registrations for this offer.
Social Media
Follow us at @FieldExperts on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Use #STMA2019 in all of your tweets or posts about the conference.
Student Activities
- Student Networking , Jan. 23, 5:15 – 6 pm
Gather with students from other universities to discuss trends, issues, and career aspirations.
- Student Challenge , Jan. 24, 2 – 4:30 pm
- Student Luncheon , Jan. 25, 12 – 1 pm
Join your fellow student members and network with sports field managers. Winners of the Student Challenge will be announced immediately following lunch at the Hunter Industries booth.
Weather
The average high and low temperatures in Phoenix are 68 and 46 degrees, respectively.
Event Highlights
Wed., Jan. 23
8 – 9:30 am
Opening General Session – Sports Turf Talk Show
Hosted by Thomas Nikolai, Ph.D. – Michigan State University, Brandon Horvath, Ph.D. – University of Tennessee and John Sorochan, Ph.D. – University of Tennessee
Guests Include: Gregory Elliott, Jessie Pritchard, CSFM, Abby McNeal, CSFM, CPRP
Kick off the STMA Conference with an interactive discussion where our hosts will interview sports turf managers from across the nation. Structured like a late-night talk show, turfgrass experts will sit down and share how they achieve customer satisfaction while still providing safe, high performance athletic surfaces.
2 – 3:15 pm
Chapter Leadership Training
All chapter board members are invited to hear five chapters present on chapter programs that worked and those that didn’t work. The training will conclude with an interactive Q and A session.
Chapter Network Sponsored by Hunter Industries, John Deere, Turface Athletics
Event Sponsored by the Southeast Regional Sports Turf Conference
5:15 – 6 pm
Networking Sessions
Join your peers for interactive discussion about the challenges and rewards you find in your job. Promotion of, or discussion about, commercial products, services or equipment is prohibited.
6 – 7 pm
First Timers/International Attendees/CSFM Reception (ribbon required)
Wear your specific ribbon for attendance at this networking reception as STMA welcomes its first time and international attendees. Expanded this year, it also includes CSFMs.
Sponsored by Atlas Turf, Platinum TE, Pure Seed, Sod Solutions
7 – 7:30 pm
SAFE Live Auction – NEW TIME
Support the SAFE foundation by bidding on exclusive sports field management equipment and products, and highly desired technology and sports memorabilia. For a list of items, check back frequently at STMA.org.
7:30 – 10 pm
Welcome Reception
Reconnect with old friends and meet new ones at this heavy hors d’oeuvres event. Drink ticket included.
Sponsored by The Toro Company and Covermaster
Thurs., Jan. 24
11 am – 1:15 pm
Keynote Address/Annual Meeting and Lunch
Speaker: Jeff McManus – Author and Director of Landscape Services at the University of Mississippi
Jeff will be presenting his philosophy on “How to Grow Weeders into Leaders.” Highlighting how strategy and organization can ultimately help GROW the talent you have to get the leaders you need. Meet your new Board of Directors and enjoy lunch.
Sponsored by World Class Athletic Surfaces
1:30 – 6:30 pm
Exhibition and Silent Auction (Dessert and Late afternoon reception)
Meet with distributors, company representatives and product developers to see the latest industry equipment, products and services. Take advantage of informal education on the show floor at Meet the Experts where you can speak with academics in a QandA roundtable format. SAFE will also be holding its annual fundraiser, the Silent Auction.
Silent Auction Sponsored by Pioneer Athletics
Fri., Jan. 25
10 am – 1 pm
Exhibition and Silent Auction (Lunch)
See details in Thursday’s listing.
6:30 – 10 pm
STMA Awards Reception and Banquet
Enjoy a reception and then an elegant dinner immediately followed by the awards program, which honors notable contributions to the industry. RSVP is required. Coat and tie and comparable attire for women is preferred.
Awards Program sponsored by Carolina Green, Hunter, Precision Laboratories and World Class Athletic Surfaces
Conference Tracks 2019
Turfgrass Management
Wed., Jan. 23
9:45 – 10:45 am
Carbon Fertilization: Snake Oil or the Next Big Thing?
Bryan Hopkins, Ph.D.
11 am – 12 pm
Agronomic Assessment for Sports Fields: Future Implications for Risk Assessment
Kristie Walker, Ph.D.
11 am – 12 pm
Healthy Soil, Healthy Turf
Gregg Munshaw, Ph.D.
3:30 – 5 pm
Plant and Soil Interactions for Athletic Fields
Nick Christians, Ph.D. and Adam Thoms, Ph.D.
3:30 – 5 pm
The Impact of Fraze Mowing on Overseeding
Kyley Dickson, Ph.D. and Gregg Munshaw, Ph.D.
Thurs., Jan. 24
8 – 9:15 am
Stadium Turfgrass Shade Management
Dan Bergstrom, CSFM
8 – 9:15 am
Back to Basics: Improving the Soil Physical Properties of Highly Trafficked Turfgrass
Andrew McNitt, Ph.D.
8 – 9:15 am
Competition Kills
Michael Goatley, Ph.D.
9:30 – 10:45 am
Development of a Topdressing Program for Athletic Field Managers
Nick Christians, Ph.D. and Adam Thoms, Ph.D.
9:30 – 10:45 am
Back to Basics: Understanding Soil Fertility and Soil Testing Results
Bill Kreuser, Ph.D.
Fri., Jan. 25
1:30 – 3 pm
Healthy Soil, Healthy Turf
Gregg Munshaw, Ph.D.
Facility Management
Tues., Jan. 22
1:15 – 5 pm
Educational Demonstrations at Tempe Diablo Stadium Complex
Dr. David Kopec and Kai Umeda
Wed., Jan. 23
9:45 – 10:45 am
Tackling Traffic: Reducing Traffic on Multi-Use Fields
Marc Moran, CSFM
9:45 – 10:45 am
Budgeting for Your Facility
Rebecca Auchter, CSFM
3:30 – 5 pm
One Field, One Season: Maintaining Kenan Stadium
Casey Carrick, CSFM and Chad Price, CSFM, CFB
Thurs., Jan. 24
8 – 9:15 am
Event Management: Developing a Landscape Protection Program
Michael Stachowicz
Fri., Jan. 25
1:30 – 3 pm
Tackling Traffic: Reducing Traffic on Multi-Use Fields
Marc Moran, CSFM
Synthetic
Wed., Jan. 23
9:45 – 10:45 am
Synthetic Turf = “Zero Maintenance??”
Jeremy Tredway
11 am – 12 pm
Synthetic Athletic Fields Through the Seasons
Jason DeMink, CSFM
Thurs., Jan. 24
9:30 – 10:45 am
Alternative Infills and Maintenance of Synthetic Turf
Dan Strunk, Ph.D.
Pest Control
Wed., Jan. 23
9:45 – 10:45 am
Measure Twice, Apply Once: Practical Reductions in Pesticides and Fertilizers
Ryan DeMay
2 – 3:15 pm
Advanced Weed Control for Athletic Field Turf
Jim Brosnan, Ph.D. and Gerald Henry, Ph.D.
3:30 – 5 pm
Turf and Weedy Grass Identification for the Sports Turf Manager
Tony Koski, Ph.D. and Alison O’Connor, Ph.D.
Thurs., Jan. 24
9:30 – 10:45 am
Know Your Audience: Strategies for Discussing Pest Management
Jim Brosnan, Ph.D.
Professional Development
Sponsored by John Deere
Wed., Jan. 23
9:45 – 10:45 am
Getting a Seat at the Table
Jim Speelman, CSFM
11 am – 12 pm
Don’t Say the “M” Word: Math
Samuel Doak
2 – 3:15 pm
Positive Coaching for Sports Turf Managers, Part 2 (Self-Care)
Josh McPherson, CSFM
2 – 3:15 pm
COTS
3:30 – 5 pm
Experiential Storytelling
Joel White
Thurs., Jan. 24
8 – 9:15 am
Mentoring/Training the Next Generation of Sports Turf Managers
Tim VanLoo, CSFM
9:30 – 10:45 am
Elevate Your Value Through PR and Social Media!
Tomas Silvani and Glenn Gray
11 am – 12 pm
Keynote Presentation – How to Grow Weeders Into Leaders
Jeff McManus
Fri., Jan. 25
8 – 10 am
Career Development Panel
Allen Johnson, CSFM, Sun Roesslein, CSFM and Tim VanLoo, CSFM
1:30 – 3 pm
Positive Coaching for Sports Turf Managers, Part 2 (Self-Care)
Josh McPherson, CSFM
Water
Wed., Jan. 23
11 am – 12 pm
Irrigation Renovation and Troubleshooting Strategies
Ashley Wilkinson
2 – 3:15 pm
Smart Irrigation – Navigating the Market for your Facility
Ben Polimer
3:30 – 5 pm
Irrigation Water Testing and Interpretation: Case Studies from the Field
Charles Fontanier, Ph.D. and Justin Quetone Moss, Ph.D.
Industry Developments
Wed., Jan. 23
8 – 9:30 am
Opening General Session – Sports Turf Talk Show
Thomas Nikolai, Ph.D., Brandon Horvath, Ph.D. and John Sorochan, Ph.D.
11 am – 12 pm
New Trends and Technology in Sports Turf
Representatives from STMA Commercial Companies
2 – 3:15 pm
Using Drones in Your Sports Field Management Program
Tanner Delvalle and Caleb Clements
2 – 3:15 pm
New Technologies in Sports Field Sod Production, Installation and Maintenance
Ross Kurcab, CSFM
Thurs., Jan. 24
8 – 9:15 am
Performance of Hybrid Grass Systems
Kyley Dickson, Ph.D. and John Sorochan, Ph.D.
9:30 – 10:45 am
Performance Testing and Player Safety
Gerald Henry, Ph.D.
Fri., Jan. 25
8 – 10 am
University Research Update
Academics from various Universities
8 – 10 am
Dotmocracy
Jeremy Tredway
Baseball
Wed., Jan. 23
2 – 3:15 pm
Practitioners Guide to Managing Infield Skin Surfaces
Joseph Potrikus, CSFM
Fri., Jan. 25
8 – 10 am
Baseball Panel Discussion
Andy Gossel, Matt Neri and John Turnour
2019 STMA Conference Education Session Information
Tues., Jan. 22
1:15 – 5 pm
Educational Demonstrations at Tempe Diablo Stadium Complex
Speakers: Dr. David Kopec and Kai Umeda – The University of Arizona
Get offsite and outside with educational demonstrations at the Tempe Diablo Stadium Complex. New for 2019, pre-conference education will offer attendees the opportunity to experience various sports turf management practices in action. Attendees will rotate through five stations where they can interact with their peers and learn how to improve field operations. Stations will include sprayer calibration, sprayer nozzle selection, using instruments to measure soil conditions, field painting, and infield maintenance.
Wed., Jan. 23
8 – 9:30 am
Opening General Session – Sports Turf Talk Show
Hosted by Thomas Nikolai, Ph.D. – Michigan State University, Brandon Horvath, Ph.D. – University of Tennessee and John Sorochan, Ph.D. – University of Tennessee
Kick off the STMA Conference with an interactive discussion where our hosts will interview sports turf managers from across the nation. Structured like a late-night talk show, turfgrass experts will sit down and share how they achieve customer satisfaction while still providing safe, high performance athletic surfaces.
9:45 – 10:45 am
Carbon Fertilization: Snake Oil or the Next Big Thing?
Speaker: Bryan Hopkins, Ph.D. – Brigham Young University
Carbon fertilizer has recently taken a prominent place in the fertilizer world. The focus of this presentation will be to be to teach fundamentals of carbon as a nutrient and discuss research and experience with these types of fertilizers.
Tackling Traffic: Reducing Traffic on Multi-Use Fields
Speaker: Marc Moran, CSFM – Atlee High School
This presentation focuses on techniques used at Atlee High School to reduce traffic while working within a tight budget. Education, communication channels, traffic rotation plans and innovative field layouts have allowed for reduced traffic and wear in high traffic areas. These techniques have allowed us to work within a tight financial structure and still provide STMA FOY caliber fields.
Synthetic Turf = “Zero Maintenance??”
Speaker: Jeremy Tredway – Indiana University (Bloomington)
This presentation will focus on the basic maintenance practices performed on 12 acres of synthetic surfaces. Discussing synthetic turf surface monitoring, logging maintenance and ways to prolong synthetic life will provide a first-hand account of how synthetic turf maintenance is not “zero maintenance”.
Measure Twice, Apply Once: Practical Reductions in Pesticides and Fertilizers
Speaker: Ryan DeMay – Columbus Recreation and Parks Department
Integrated Turf Health Management (ITHM) focuses on the whole turfgrass system to reduce inputs and environmental impacts. The presentation will discuss current environmental regulations related to pesticide and fertilizer limitations, bans, or exclusions and how to respond appropriately. Attendees will be able to apply effective strategies to develop low input performance and maintenance standards.
Getting a Seat at the Table
Speaker: Jim Speelman, CSFM – Hope College
This session will encourage turf managers to claim their ‘seat at the table’. The ‘table’ is any meeting about athletic field construction or renovation. This talk will increase the confidence and competence you bring to the table and help avoid complacency at the table.
Budgeting for Your Facility
Speaker: Rebecca Auchter, CSFM – Franklin Park Boro
Ultimately, a sports turf or grounds management program must be funded to succeed. This presentation focuses on the 3 primary categories of budgeting: The Turf Program, Equipment and Personnel. Detailed examples will show sports turf managers how to justify both operational and capital budgets.
11 am – 12 pm
Agronomic Assessment for Sports Fields: Future Implications for Risk Assessment
Speaker: Kristie Walker, Ph.D. – University of Minnesota Crookston
The most difficult turfgrass areas to manage are sports fields due to traffic they receive by players. Sports played on turfgrass can result in injury to players due to diminished field conditions. We will explore the agronomic properties that should be included in field maintenance assessments to reduce player injuries.
Don’t Say the “M” Word: Math
Speaker: Samuel Doak – Virginia Tech
This presentation will provide a hands-on approach to basic fertilizer, topdressing and control agent calculations. Short cuts and money saving methods will also be discussed. Bring a phone calculator for practice and practical problems.
Irrigation Renovation and Troubleshooting Strategies
Speaker: Ashley Wilkinson – Horry-Georgetown Technical College
This seminar will offer current trends for irrigation system renovations as well as specialty topics to assist the turf manager with cost effective irrigation repair and maintenance.
Healthy Soil, Healthy Turf
Speaker: Gregg Munshaw, Ph.D. – University of Kentucky
This seminar will define soil health and explore what it means for turfgrass soils. We will discuss poor soils and how to improve them, as well as determine what we should be managing for in healthy soils. Great turf managers have their fingers on the pulse of what is going on in their soil – learn why healthy soil often equates to healthy turf.
New Trends and Technology in Sports Turf
Speakers: Representatives from STMA Commercial Companies
After a two-year hiatus, this popular session is back! Ten of STMA’s commercial companies have been selected to give a five-minute presentation to introduce and explain the benefits of a new or improved product or service currently available to sports turf managers.
Synthetic Athletic Fields Through the Seasons
Speaker: Jason DeMink, CSFM – University of Michigan Athletics
This presentation will focus on the year-round maintenance of synthetic athletic fields. The challenges of preparing for and surviving high game volume will be emphasized. Special considerations for the northern climate will also be discussed.
2 – 3:15 pm
Advanced Weed Control for Athletic Field Turf
Speakers: Jim Brosnan, Ph.D. – University of Tennessee and Gerald Henry, Ph.D. – University of Georgia
This presentation will teach attendees the importance of indicator weeds within a field, as well as emphasize the integration of cultural and chemical practices for weed management in athletic fields. Attendees will learn why implementing these weed management programs is a critical step towards maximizing athletic field safety and playability while reducing potential for herbicide resistance.
Practitioners Guide to Managing Infield Skin Surfaces
Speaker: Joseph Potrikus, CSFM – Greener World Athletic Turf Services
This session will identify numerous issues with skinned infield surfaces that usually start with poor maintenance practices. Proper field layout, minimizing the formation of lips and routine grooming and maintenance tips for infield surfaces will all be addressed.
Smart Irrigation- Navigating the Market for your Facility
Speaker: Ben Polimer – Town of Weston
Smart Irrigation systems are becoming more popular to increase irrigation efficiency. This presentation will discuss developing a smart controller retrofit plan that works for you. Discussion points will be: identifying features you want/need, site assessments, feasibility and system integrity. We will also discuss a case study at a sports turf facility.
Positive Coaching for Sports Turf Managers, Part 2 (Self-Care)
Speaker: Josh McPherson, CSFM – University of Missouri
After presenting “Positive Coaching for Sports Turf Managers” the last two years, many people wanted to talk about how to take care of themselves. Many sports turf managers are very stressed from the work, the hours and the dwindling budgets. This lifestyle is taking a toll on their health, relationships and daily lives. This presentation will help teach techniques to become your best self every day.
Using Drones in Your Sports Field Management Program
Speakers: Tanner Delvalle – Penn State University and Caleb Clements – Blue Valley School District USD 229
This presentation will outline the basics of obtaining a remote pilot license, guidelines for flying legally, equipment available and the types of cameras used. The presentation will also outline a strategy for “selling” the idea to administration or owners on the value and potential cost-saving information that can be gathered from small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS).
New Technologies in Sports Field Sod Production, Installation and Maintenance
Speaker: Ross Kurcab, CSFM – Championship Sports Turf Systems
This presentation will examine the current state of the art commercial sod production for sports fields from both the field manager’s point of view and the end user and explore ways to ensure that your fields can make it to the finish line with a quality surface for the entire season.
COTS
Chapter leaders will hear real-world presentations from five chapters about programs that worked and didn’t work and then have a full audience QandA on burning questions.
3:30 – 5 pm
Plant and Soil Interactions for Athletic Fields
Speakers: Nick Christians, Ph.D. and Adam Thoms, Ph.D. – Iowa State University
This presentation will explain what your soil tests mean and how much of each nutrient is needed for healthy turfgrass. It will cover both macro- and micro-nutrients and what those nutrients do in the plant. Soil and tissue tests will be reviewed.
Turf and Weedy Grass Identification for the Sports Turf Manager
Speakers: Tony Koski, Ph.D. and Alison O’Connor, Ph.D. – Colorado State University
Accurate identification of turf and weedy grass species can be difficult but is essential both for making wise management decisions for desirable turfgrass and to use pesticides safely and legally. For weedy grasses, correct identification allows you to choose herbicides that will provide the best control.
The Impact of Fraze Mowing on Overseeding
Speakers: Kyley Dickson, Ph.D. – University of Tennessee and Gregg Munshaw, Ph.D. – University of Kentucky
The presentation will discuss the impacts of fraze mowing on establishment and removal of ryegrass overseeded in bermudagrass. Focus will be on a comparison of fraze mowing to other cultural practices for ryegrass overseeding establishment as well as spring removal of overseeded ryegrass using a fraze mower compared to chemical transitions.
One Field, One Season: Maintaining Kenan Stadium
Speakers: Casey Carrick, CSFM – University of North Carolina and Chad Price, CSFM, CFB – Carolina Green Corp.
This presentation will cover the decision to keep natural grass in Kenan Stadium during the renovation of the current practice facility. It will cover the different options for the playing surface, how the decision was made and the financial impact on the Athletic Department.
Irrigation Water Testing and Interpretation: Case Studies from the Field
Speakers: Charles Fontanier, Ph.D. and Justin Quetone Moss, Ph.D. – Oklahoma State University
This presentation will cover the basics of turfgrass irrigation water quality testing and interpretation. In addition, we will discuss real-world examples and case studies using irrigation water testing reports from six sports complexes across the United States using reports from several different irrigation water testing labs.
Experiential Storytelling
Moderated by Joel White
This new education format is all about the triumphs, challenges, innovations and failures you as sports turf managers face every day. Nothing is off the table in this moderated session where attendees can share best practices, overcoming adversity when something went horribly wrong, and success stories. Come prepared to learn, laugh and connect on common issues with your peers.
5:15 – 6 pm
STMA Networking Sessions
Meet with your peers during this formalized networking session. Each category of membership meets separately to share issues and practical solutions.
Thurs., Jan. 24
8 – 9:15 am
Stadium Turfgrass Shade Management
Speaker: Dan Bergstrom, CSFM – BBVA Compass Stadium
Managing turfgrass in the heavily shaded areas of your stadium can be quite a challenge. This topic will cover ideas ranging from basic to complex relating to the different ways sports turf managers can strategize around a shade issue. Tips including turfgrass selection, mowing, irrigating, fertilizing, supplemental light and day-to-day decision-making will be discussed.
Event Management: Developing a Landscape Protection Program
Speaker: Michael Stachowicz – National Park Service
Turf Managers are more than ever playing host to a wide variety of events on turfgrass. The ability of a facility to host a concert one night and a sports event the next day is becoming a key to the economic success of a facility. This presentation helps provide the framework for turf managers to develop their own landscape protection program.
Performance of Hybrid Grass Systems
Speakers: Kyley Dickson, Ph.D. and John Sorochan, Ph.D. – University of Tennessee
This presentation will focus on the performance of hybrid grass systems and their management. An overview of the installation and construction of each type of hybrid system, an in-depth analysis of hybrid system performance in both bermudagrass and Kentucky bluegrass, as well as the management techniques for optimal performance will all be addressed.
Mentoring/Training the Next Generation of Sports Turf Managers
Speaker: Tim VanLoo, CSFM – Iowa State University
The future of our profession hinges on the next generation of sports turf managers. Many of us hold the key to proper perspective, work ethic and professionalism. By embracing change, taking the time to relate to young people and understanding that their upbringing had different influences, we can be instrumental in the development of the next generation of Sports Turf Managers.
Back to Basics: Improving the Soil Physical Properties of Highly Trafficked Turfgrass
Speaker: Andrew McNitt, Ph.D. – Penn State University
This presentation will review the basics of soil physics as it relates to both sand and native soil sports fields. The desirable soil physical properties required for turfgrass vitality in a sand rootzone requires cultural practices that continually improve soil texture to maximize physical properties, while in native soil rootzones, you want to constantly build soil structure. These issues and strategies will be discussed ‘from the ground up’ in this back to basics session.
Competition Kills
Speaker: Michael Goatley, Ph.D. – Virginia Tech
A sports turf manager is constantly striving for the thickest, most dense playing surface possible. While that remains of utmost importance for playability and safety, it is also important to understand that at some point your turfgrass will literally be competing against itself. This presentation considers how we achieve an appropriate balance between a dense canopy and a healthy stand of turfgrass.
9:30 – 10:45 am
Know Your Audience: Strategies for Discussing Pest Management
Speaker: Jim Brosnan, Ph.D. – University of Tennessee
Public pressure regarding pesticide use has increased in certain areas to the extent that many athletic field managers are prohibited from using pesticides altogether. Many feel comfortable discussing the merits of pesticide use to others within the industry but fail to confidently discuss this topic with the public. This presentation will provide athletic field managers training on how to discuss pesticide use with those outside the green industry.
Performance Testing and Player Safety
Speaker: Gerald Henry, Ph.D. – University of Georgia
Performance testing of sports fields is necessary to quantify surface properties such as hardness and traction. Sensor/sampling technology can create spatial maps that depict variability of soil and plant parameters. Information generated from sensors/samplers can be used to adjust irrigation systems, implement site-specific management, rotate fields, determine optimal playing conditions, justify equipment use/purchase and better understand the influence of field conditions on player safety.
Development of a Topdressing Program for Athletic Field Managers
Speakers: Nick Christians, Ph.D. and Adam Thoms, Ph.D. – Iowa State University
Proper topdressing and cultivation of athletic fields can greatly impact athletic field performance of both native-soil and sand-based athletic fields. This presentation will cover many of the basics of what type of cultivation methods to use and when, as well as how much sand topdressing is necessary to keep athletic fields performing at their highest level.
Elevate Your Value Through PR and Social Media!
Speakers: Tomas Silvani and Glenn Gray – Buffalo.Agency
Effective communication tactics coupled with sound policy measures serve as the prescription to increase your recognition within your company and turn your employers into your biggest advocates. This presentation will discuss how public relations and social media are used to communicate your story and promote your athletic surfaces.
Back to Basics: Understanding Soil Fertility and Soil Testing Results
Speaker: Bill Kreuser, Ph.D. – University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Soil test reports and fertilization programs are often needlessly confusing. This seminar will focus on the nutrients that are really important and explain which nutrients are rarely important agronomically. Attendees will also learn how to develop an effective and affordable fertilization program.
Alternative Infills and Maintenance of Synthetic Turf
Speaker: Dan Strunk, Ph.D. – University of Tennessee
This presentation will discuss infill materials that can be used in place of traditional crumb rubber. It will also describe performance characteristics of these alternative infills and the effects on maintenance and maintenance intervals.
11 am – 12 pm
Keynote Presentation – How to Grow Weeders Into Leaders
Speaker: Jeff McManus – University of Mississippi
Most organizations can’t pay for the talent they want, but with the right strategy most organizations can GROW the talent they have to get the leaders they need. Leadership is the art of motivating a group of people to act towards achieving a common goal. Leadership is a mindset. It begins with aligning the work to a vision of greatness, resiliency, opportunity and wisdom, and then developing an environment based on trust, communication, respect and creditability. Jeff takes the audience on a tour of Leadership Basics, developing a culture of accountability, and encouraging and recognizing the talent within our organizations and ourselves.
Fri., Jan. 25
8 – 10 am
Career Development Panel
Speakers: Allen Johnson, CSFM – Green Bay Packers, Sun Roesslein, CSFM – North Area Athletic Complex/Jeffco Schools Athletics and Tim VanLoo, CSFM – Iowa State University
Overcome the unknowns of taking the CSFM exam, submitting a Field of the Year (FOY) application, and applying for Environmental Facility Certification by attending this session. Bring your questions and learn more about how to elevate your career with the certification and awards programs that STMA has to offer. Panelists have first-hand experience preparing for and taking the CSFM exam, as well as evaluating and submitting applications for the FOY award and Environmental Facility Certification.
Baseball Panel Discussion
Speakers: Andy Gossel – Covenant Christian High School, Matt Neri – State College Spikes Baseball and John Turnour – Washington Nationals
Sports turf managers from across the country will share the various management strategies they utilize to maintain baseball fields. After a brief introduction from each panelist, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss challenges and solutions related to baseball fields and facilities.
University Research Update
Speakers: Academics from various Universities
Turfgrass faculty from across the United States will present the current sports field research occurring at their university. Come with questions and learn about current research projects and the latest research results that could improve your field.
Dotmocracy
Moderated by Jeremy Tredway
This session will brainstorm a variety of topics from industry problems to hot topics. Each topic will be taped to the wall and attendees will vote on the topics they wish to discuss during the session by putting a colored dot sticker on that topic. The highest rated topics will be addressed.
1:30 – 3 pm – Repeat Sessions
Tackling Traffic: Reducing Traffic on Multi-Use Fields
Speaker: Marc Moran, CSFM – Atlee High School
This presentation focuses on techniques used at Atlee High School to reduce traffic while working within a tight budget. Education, communication channels, traffic rotation plans and innovative field layouts have allowed for reduced traffic and wear in high traffic areas. These techniques have allowed us to work within a tight financial structure and still provide STMA FOY caliber fields.
Healthy Soil, Healthy Turf
Speaker: Gregg Munshaw, Ph.D. – University of Kentucky
This seminar will define soil health and explore what it means for turfgrass soils. We will discuss poor soils and how to improve them, as well as determine what we should be managing for in healthy soils. Great turf managers have their fingers on the pulse of what is going on in their soil – learn why healthy soils often equates to healthy turf.
Positive Coaching for Sports Turf Managers, Part 2 (Self-Care)
Speaker: Josh McPherson, CSFM – University of Missouri
After presenting “Positive Coaching for Sports Turf Managers” the last two years, many people wanted to talk about how to take care of themselves. Many sports turf managers are very stressed from the work, the hours and the dwindling budgets. This lifestyle is taking a toll on their health, relationships, and daily lives. This presentation will help to teach techniques to become your best self every day.
Optional Offsite Events
Mon., Jan. 21
1 – 6 pm
Volunteer Field Rebuild – NEW
Come to Phoenix early! STMA has partnered with Project Evergreen to renovate a baseball field in Phoenix Parks Department. All members are invited to participate, but registration is required. Transportation, products and materials will be provided.
Tues., Jan. 22
7 am – 4 pm
Full Day Seminar On-Wheels
Sponsored by Bush Turf
University of Phoenix Stadium – home of 2 Super Bowls, 2 National Championships and the annual Fiesta Bowl
At this first stop, you will tour the stadium field outside where it typically “lives” and hear about the challenges and advantages of a moveable field including how the grass has evolved and pushed over 13 seasons. Inside the stadium you’ll see where the field “lives” on game day, learn about the differences in a stationary field. Lastly, you’ll see the “shop” with its tools and equipment.
Dodgers/White Sox Training facility at Camelback Ranch
The next stop is a state-of-the-art baseball facility like no other: Camelback Ranch, the Spring Training home of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox. Located on 141 acres, this Sonoran Desert-inspired, two-team facility offers baseball fans more than top-quality playing fields and facilities; the site also features walking trails, landscaped grounds and an orange grove. Participants will also see water features and the fully stocked lake between the Dodgers and White Sox facilities.
Arizona State University
The tour will end at ASU’s $300 million newly renovated Sun Devil Stadium and football training facility. Tour participants will get an up-close-and-personal look of the overseeded Tifway 419 bermudagrass playing surface, weight room, locker room, and other football amenities.
7 am – 4 pm
SAFE Fundraiser: Golf Tournament
Sign up as a team or as an individual and join us for a game of golf at Grand Canyon University Golf Course, home to expansive stretches of green turf and picturesque terrain in its 7,200 yards. The course features new tee boxes, challenging greens, extended fairways, enhanced bunkers, updated practice facilities and a 10,000-square-foot clubhouse including a restaurant and bar. First, Second and third place winners will receive prizes. Pricing will be $135 per person, with clubs, food and drink ticket included. Proceeds benefit SAFE’s scholarship, grant and research programs.
Co-Title Sponsor: Diamond Pro and Tri-Tex Grass, Drink Sponsor: Carolina Green
6 – 9 pm
SAFE Fundraiser: Bowling
Celebrating five years, SAFE will be holding its bowling event at Brunswick Zone Desert Sky Lanes. Join your chapter members or other friends and bowl as teams or as an individual. Win prizes and join in on crazy-fun bowling games! Cost is $75 and includes transportation, dinner and drinks. Proceeds benefit SAFE’s scholarship, grant and research programs.
Drink Sponsor: Beacon Athletics
Fri., Jan. 25
1 – 5 pm
Seminar on Wheels
Sponsored by Bush Turf
Sloan Park and Riverview Park
Sloan Park, the Spring Training home of the Chicago Cubs, and Riverview Park were opened in the Spring of 2014 in a cooperative effort between the City of Mesa, Arizona and the Chicago Cubs. With a capacity of approximately 15,000, Sloan Park and the Cubs have regularly set Spring Training attendance records for all Major League Baseball. The professional baseball complex is comprised of the stadium complex, a 70,000 sq. ft clubhouse, a 1-acre agility field, and 6 and a half practice fields. Riverview Park is located on the eastern half of the property and is operated by the City of Mesa. Riverview Park is a multi-use city park comprised of a 10-acre Seashore Paspalum soccer complex, a playground, a splash pad, and a 5.5-acre urban fishing pond which doubles as the site’s irrigation water supply for both complexes.
The next stop will be Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, MLB spring training home to the Colorado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks. Opened in 2011, it is the first MLB spring training facility in the nation to be built on Indian land. Participants will tour the complex, which includes an 11,000-seat capacity ballpark and a total of 12 practice fields.
On-Site Optional Events : Run/Walk, Women’s Forum and Certification Testing
Women’s Forum and Lunch
Wed., Jan. 23, 12 – 2 pm
Now in its 12th year, all women at the conference are invited to hear a preview of Keynoter Jeff McManus and enjoy lunch.
Sponsored by Hunter Industries
Fun Run/Walk
Wed., Jan. 23, 12:15 – 1:15 pm
Fri., Jan. 25, 1:30 – 2:30 pm
Get outside and take an exercise break. Join the fun run/walk co-led by running enthusiast and STMA Board member Tom Nielsen and friends.
CSFM Testing – New Format!
Traditionally, the CSFM exam has been offered two times during the week of the Conference, in a written format. This year we will have a NEW online version of the CSFM Exams. Those who have prequalified to take the exam can sign up for a time slot nearly any time during the Conference that works with their schedule. Exam takers who do not pass all four sections of the exam may be able to retest on those sections later in the week depending on availability. Pre-qualification and pre-registration is required by Dec. 1.
On-Site Optional Events: Student Specific Activities
Student Networking
Wed., Jan. 23, 5:15 – 6 pm
Gather with students from other universities to discuss trends, issues and career aspirations.
Student Challenge
Thurs., Jan. 24, 2 – 4:30 pm
Undergraduates in two- and four-year institutions are eligible to compete in teams up to four people (graduate students are not eligible). Win $5,000 for your school! Challenge participants receive FREE conference registration by competing. Pre-registration is required and can only be completed online at STMA.org.
Sponsored by Hunter Industries and Ewing
Student Luncheon
Fri., Jan. 25, 12 – 1 pm
Join your fellow student members and network with sports field managers. Winners of the Student Challenge will be announced immediately following lunch at the Hunter Industries booth.
Conference Registration Fees
FULL Conference registration includes admission to all Education Sessions (except Optional Activates), the Welcome Reception, Awards Banquet, Trade Show and online access to the educational session recordings. Attendees will receive breakfast each day, two lunches, two receptions and dinner during the conference.
Fees – Register on line for the lowest fees at STMA.org
Full Conference Registration Online by 1/4/19
1st Member from Facility $375
2nd or more Member from same facility $325
NEW STMA Member FREE
Non-Member or Chapter Only Member $505
Student National Member $100*
Student Non-national Member $250
*Student members who participate in the Student Challenge receive FREE conference registration.
One-Day Packages, either Wed., Thurs. or Fri. $150 ea. day
Trade Show Only Pass: 2 days – Thurs. or Fri. $50
Non-Industry Spouse/Companion Registration $150
Volunteer Field Rebuild: Monday 1 – 6 pm FREE (Registration required)
Seminar on Wheels – full day $65
Seminar on Wheels – half day $35
SAFE Top Golf Tournament $135
SAFE Bowling Tournament $75
Additional Awards Banquet Tickets: Friday 6:30 pm $85
