the SFMA President’s Award
from 2025 SFMA President,
Adam Thoms, Ph.D.
The Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) proudly recognized two distinguished members, Greg Petry, CPRE, and Michael Goatley, Ph.D., as recipients of the 2025 President’s Award during the SFMA Annual Conference held in Fort Worth, Texas, in January 2026.
Petry is owner of Greg Petry Consulting, LLC., and former executive director/CEO of the Waukegan (Illinois) Park District. Petry also served as president of the Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) from 1994-95.
Goatley is professor and Extension turfgrass specialist, School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, at Virginia Tech University. He served as president of STMA from 2012-13.
Presented at the conference by 2025 SFMA President Adam Thoms, Ph.D., the President’s Award is a special honor acknowledging individuals who have made significant contributions to the association and the profession. Petry and Goatley were recognized for their instrumental roles and dedicated service in supporting SFMA through the extensive search process for the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer, Paula Sliefert.
Both individuals devoted considerable time, expertise, and leadership to ensure a thorough and thoughtful process — helping position SFMA for continued success and strategic growth.
“Greg and Mike exemplify the very best of SFMA,” said Thoms. “Their commitment, professionalism, and willingness to step up during a critical time for our association made a lasting impact. On behalf of SFMA, I am incredibly grateful for their leadership and the integrity they brought to the CEO search process.”
The recognition took place in front of peers and industry leaders during the conference, highlighting the importance of volunteer leadership and member engagement in advancing the sports field management profession.
SFMA extends its sincere appreciation to Petry and Goatley for their exceptional service and ongoing contributions to the association.