Thanks to dedicated networks and social media platforms, sports are in the public eye 24/7. This visibility increases the need for meticulous maintenance to ensure field integrity for playability and safety. As a result, the demands on sports field managers (SFMs) are growing significantly, making it vital to preserve and improve the reputation of SFMs. Invoking professionalism is a step in the right direction.
The phrase “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” attributed to author George Eliot in “The Mill on the Floss,” suggests that one should pass judgment only after learning more about the subject. This is particularly relevant in the context of sports field management, where the work is often misunderstood. Although it might seem like it involves merely mowing grass and painting lines, sports field maintenance requires a range of intricate tasks performed on a large scale to achieve beneficial impacts.
One key example is aerification. An aerification hole, on average, is ½ inch in diameter and three or more inches deep. By itself, that hole seems small and insignificant, but it performs several vital functions: relieving compaction, facilitating gas exchange in the rootzone, improving water movement, and enhancing the application of dry products for plant health and new growth. When aerifying an athletic field, hundreds of thousands of these holes are created, benefiting the immediate one to two inches of field surface surrounding each hole. The overall appearance, health and playability of the field are greatly improved through this detailed and labor-intensive process.
Despite the technical skill and effort involved in maintaining sports fields, the perception of sports field managers can sometimes hinge on their professionalism. I recall a conversation with someone in an executive management role whose comments about a sports field manager I know struck me as revealing. Although they acknowledged that the sports field manager was a good employee who performed their job well, much of their feedback revolved around the negative impression they had of the person’s professional demeanor.
The executive noted the SFM’s tone and language when speaking to others, the display of emotion when things did not go their way, and even their choice of clothing. These remarks could be dismissed as the SFM having a bad day or the executive not fully appreciating the challenges SFMs face. However, it was the comments expressing frustration and occasional slips of inappropriate language that left a lasting impact.
For SFMs, the increasing demands of the job mean more time spent outside. This makes the limited interactions in meetings or in hallways crucial moments to be seen by colleagues who work inside. Exercising professionalism during these moments can be critical to how others perceive you.
Professionalism in this context extends beyond just technical competence. It encompasses effective communication, emotional regulation and appropriate attire. Each of these factors influences how others view a sports field manager, regardless of their understanding of the field’s demands.
By maintaining a professional demeanor, SFMs can foster a positive working environment, build strong relationships with colleagues, and enhance their standing in the industry. This can lead to greater job satisfaction, career advancement, and the ability to attract and retain new members.
My conversation with the executive highlights the importance of consistent professionalism. While everyone has occasional lapses, these moments can be magnified in the eyes of others. Therefore, it is essential for SFMs to be always mindful of their behavior, recognizing that each interaction is an opportunity to demonstrate their professionalism and commitment to excellence.
The maintenance of sports fields and the professionalism of those who manage them are deeply intertwined. Just as the small task of aerification contributes to the health and playability of a sports field, small acts of professionalism contribute to the reputation and effectiveness of the SFM. By consistently demonstrating professionalism, SFMs can enhance their standing within the industry, meet the increasing demands of their role, and ensure the long-term success of their careers.
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.
