Tag Archive for: Awards

Grounds Management Heroes Celebrated at GMA Awards

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Grounds Management Heroes Celebrated at GMA Awards: The very best in the grounds management industry were celebrated at a dazzling evening at AMT Headingley Stadium, hosted by award-wining sports broadcaster, Hayley McQueen.

Over 300 attendees from across the sports turf industry, from grounds staff to grounds care businesses and representatives from sport’s National Governing Bodies, all gathered at the iconic AMT Headingley Stadium for an evening of celebration.

Grounds Management Heroes Celebrated at GMA Awards

Grounds Management Heroes Celebrated at GMA Awards

The awards recognised leadership, innovation and outstanding achievement across every aspect of grounds care, from grassroots pitches to professional stadia, over 17 categories.

Attendees celebrated new talent emerging on the scene, with two female winners of the Young Groundsperson of the Year and Newcomer of the Year award categories, whilst long-time industry stalwarts were honoured with Hall of Fame inductions and GMA Grounds Manager of the Year awards.

The awards ceremony recognised outstanding achievements in public and private sports venues and highlighted the progress of young grounds professionals as well as outstanding performance in environmental practices. Also new to 2023 was a Special Recognition Award which shone a light on a unique and inspiring individual who represents everything that is positive about the industry.

Geoff Webb, CEO of the Grounds Management Association, commented on the success of the evening:

“The GMA Industry Awards are always an important evening in the industry’s calendar. With the industry playing such a vital role in the country’s enjoyment of sport, it’s hugely important that we come together to celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals and grounds teams across all levels of sport

“The talent celebrated throughout the event is testament to the hard work and innovation of grounds staff across the sector, and we’re always delighted to see exceptional examples recongised and celebrated for their achievements. The iconic AMT Headingly Stadium provided the perfect backdrop for the awards.

“There were many highlights on the night, including two women taking home the Young Groundsperson of the Year and Newcomer of the Year awards – opening the sector to a wider demographic has long been an objective of the GMA’s work, so to see two young women receiving recognition on the night was a real sign of progress.

“The surprise on Rod Heyhoe and Lee Marshallsay’s faces represented the full spectrum of exceptional grounds managers, from volunteers to professionals, as they received recognition for their outstanding contribution to sports turf. The story of Zeynu Bedru, who received a Special Recognition Award, and his journey as a refugee from Eritea to Harrogate RUFC, summed up the wonderful community our industry creates.”

The winners of the GMA Industry Awards 2023 are:

Young Groundsperson of the Year – Sponsored by Origin Amenity Solutions
Bethany Gibbs Wellington School

Newcomer of the Year
Meg Lay Gloucestershire CCC

Volunteer Groundsperson or Team of the Year
Clapton Community F.C

Community Groundsperson or Team of the Year – Sponsored by National Governing Bodies
Yeovil Recreation Centre

Environmental and Sustainability Impact – Sponsored by Syngenta
Leicester City F.C

Bowls/Croquet Groundsperson or Team of the Year
Wantage Bowling Club

Best Managed Artificial Surface of the Year
Yeovil Recreation Centre

Professional Horse Racing Grounds Team of the Year – Sponsored by Avant Tecno UK LTD
Lingfield Park

Professional Cricket Grounds Team of the Year
Marylebone CC

Professional Tennis Courts Grounds Team of the Year – Sponsored by Infinicut
Devonshire Park

Professional Rugby Union Grounds Team of the Year
Bath Rugby

Professional Rugby League Grounds Team of the Year – Sponsored by Agronomic Services Ltd
Leeds Rhinos

Professional Football Grounds Team of the Year
Stockport County F.C

Professional Football Grounds Team (Elite) – Sponsored by SGL
Leicester City F.C

University/College Grounds Team of the Year
Loughborough University

Independent School Grounds Team of the Year – Sponsored by ISEKI UK & Ireland
Eton College

Special Recognition Award
Zeynu Bedru Harrogate RUFC

GMA Grounds Manager of the Year – Sponsored by DLF Seeds Ltd
Lee Marshallsay Eton College

The GMA is hugely grateful for the GMA Industry Awards sponsors for their support of the industry:

Platinum sponsor and Independent School Grounds Team of the Year Category sponsor

ISEKI

Award Category sponsors

Amenity Solutions

National Governing Bodies (RFL, RFU, ECB, Premier League)

Syngenta

Avant Tecno UK

Infinicut

Agronomic

SGL

DLF Seeds

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Talent recognised at inaugural LBEL awards

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Talent recognised at inaugural LBEL awards: Aspiring turf specialist, Martin Foster, an apprentice at Askham Bryan College, was rewarded for his learning excellence at this week’s glittering Land-based & Environment Learner Awards Ceremony.

The Land-based & Environment Learner (LBEL) Awards were launched this June by leading land-based training & qualification awarding body Lantra, and the representative body for land-based colleges and universities, Landex.

Talent recognised at inaugural LBEL awards

Talent recognised at inaugural LBEL awards

The Awards were open to apprentices, further education and higher education learners working and studying in land-based and environmental sectors between September 2021 and September 2022.

The aim is to reward top candidates in industries including agriculture and horticulture, forestry, environmental conservation, turf management, landscaping, and equine, amongst others.

These sectors face skills shortages and low levels of diversity, and both Lantra and Landex working hard to attract new blood and equip recruits with the key skills they need to succeed.

With the celebration of new talent at the LBEL Awards, it is hoped more potential entrants will recognise the various land-based industries as rewarding career choices with exciting long-term prospects.

In its inaugural year, organisers received over 120 nominations across 10 categories and a panel of industry professionals picked, where appropriate, an outstanding apprentice and an outstanding learner in each category.

This year, the judges picked just an outstanding apprentice in the Sports Turf & Greenkeeping category, Martin Foster. The oldest candidate to be nominated, the judges praised Martin for his motivation to change careers later in life and his complete passion and enthusiasm for his role.

The Awards ceremony, held at Reaseheath College on 22 November 2023, was attended by Minster of State for Food, Farming and Fisheries, Mark Spencer MP, celebrity farmer Adam Henson, and more than 200 guests.

On receiving the Award, sponsored by GroundsFest, from Adam Henson, Martin commented:

“I’m confident that undertaking my apprenticeship, albeit somewhat later life, has truly set me on my career path for the future. Winning this Award has reinforced that I’m actually really good at what I do, and being celebrated by so many industry professionals has certainly given my confidence a boost”.

Chair of the judging panel, and land-based business consultant, John Moverley of JMM Solutions, said he was honoured to help identify the very best of learners, like Martin, who are now making their mark on the industry.

“To keep pace with the technological and environmental challenges we face in the land-based sector, it is crucial that the skills and knowledge of the current workforce are completed with a generation of forward thinking and enthusiastic new recruits, whatever their age.

“And what better way to establish this new generation than through hands-on apprenticeships,” he added.

Commenting on the Awards and paying tribute to all the winners, host Adam Henson said:

“I am absolutely delighted to have been invited to host the very first Land-based and Environment Learner Awards. In my various roles, I’m lucky enough to encounter some amazing people who are passionate about their jobs and are a complete inspiration. Tonight was no exception. The level of enthusiasm, professionalism and passion, blew me away – a big well done to everyone”.

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Ormskirk and Farleigh greenkeepers earn prestigious awards

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Ormskirk and Farleigh greenkeepers earn prestigious awards: One has an obsession with board games while the other is a rock climber who scales cliffs around the UK, but the winners of the 34th Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards are united in a passion for the greenkeeping profession.

The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), Toro and Reesink UK have revealed the winners of their prestigious student greenkeeping awards following a day of judging in the historic surroundings of Cheshire’s Carden Park.

Ormskirk and Farleigh greenkeepers earn prestigious awards

Ormskirk and Farleigh greenkeepers earn prestigious awards

With finalists representing eight education providers from across the UK, the awards also provide the students with the opportunity to develop their knowledge and expand their professional network.

The winner of the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award was revealed to be Michael Russell, assistant greenkeeper at Ormskirk Golf Club in West Lancashire. Michael’s nomination was endorsed by Phil Lomas, tutor at Oldham College.

Michael, 31, switched career four years ago from a role in the Civil Service and hasn’t looked back. A keen board game collector, he was a finalist in the 2021 hosting of the awards and has optimised his BIGGA membership, becoming an ICL Continue to Learn Scholar and graduating from the Future Turf Managers Initiative. He is married to Megan and has a one-year-old daughter, Millie. Michael was also the first finalist to ever score full marks in the multiple choice stage of the examination.

Michael said: “It was a little bit of a shock, but I know how much preparation I’d done coming into the finals. I think you can always underestimate yourself, seeing those around you and how much experience they have and their passion for the industry, but I was absolutely delighted to win and I know in terms of the rewards that are available as part of the event and just networking has been a brilliant opportunity.”

Runner-up in that category was Ryan Fiander, deputy course manager at Lees Hall Golf Club in Sheffield. Ryan’s nomination was endorsed by Andy Kenworthy, his tutor at Myerscough College.

The winner of the Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award was revealed to be Daniel Martin, first assistant greenkeeper at Farleigh Golf Club in Surrey. A keen mountain biker and climber, Daniel is a thrill seeker who has found a professional passion in the greenkeeping industry. Daniel’s nomination was endorsed by Wayne Syres, tutor at Hadlow College. In another awards first, Daniel’s grandparents were in the area and stopped by the awards ceremony, making it extra special that he came out on top in his category.

Daniel said: “It’s a really good recognition of all the work that you have put into your career and studying to gain the extra knowledge to differentiate yourself from everyone else, so I felt satisfaction in the recognition of that work. For me, if I’ve achieved something well then it’s satisfaction of a job well done and on to the next one.”

Runner-up in the Young category was Jake Rose, apprentice greenkeeper at Moortown Golf Club in Leeds. Daniel’s nomination was endorsed by his course manager, Steven Robinson.

You can watch extended interviews from Michael and Daniel on the BIGGA YouTube channel.

The nomination period for the 2024 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards will begin at the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition in January 2024.

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Hayley McQueen to Host GMA Awards

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Hayley McQueen to Host GMA Awards: Highly respected and award-wining sports broadcaster, Hayley McQueen, has been announced as host for this year’s GMA Industry Awards, held at the iconic Headingley Stadium on Wednesday 29 November 2023.

With a career spanning over 20 years, Hayley is best known for her work as lead anchor of Sky Sports News. As a well-established and highly respected TV sports presenter, reporter, award-winning producer, and event host, the GMA is delighted to have Hayley on board to host its prestigious annual awards ceremony.

Hayley McQueen to Host GMA Awards

Hayley McQueen to Host GMA Awards

Hayley has experienced life both in front of and behind the camera, having excelled in presenting and producing the news, daily talk and match day live build up as main match day anchor at Manchester United TV between 2006-2010.

Hayley’s work has taken her across the globe, reporting on some of the most high-profile sporting events in the world such as Champions League, World Cup, European Championships, and the Olympic Games. Having interviewed sporting royalty such as David Beckham, Usain Bolt, Jose Mourinho and Lord Sebastian Coe, Hayley has gained a reputation as a fun, warm and respectable broadcaster.

Other notable credits include Premier League TV, Fox Sports and Al Jazeera Sports as well as various hosting duties for Radio X, BBC 5 Live and flagship Football First Premier League highlights show, Match Choice and Sportswomen programmes. She is also one third of the award-winning podcast The Offside Rule, an all-female football podcast which has been running successfully for 10 years.

On presenting the awards Hayley said:

“I’m delighted to be hosting this year’s GMA Industry Awards. With a true love of sport, I know only too well the invaluable work grounds staff put in to making sport possible.

“To be able to celebrate the achievements of those who work tirelessly to produce such exceptional results is something I’m very much looking forward to. It’s going to be a great evening!’

Geoff Webb, CEO of the Grounds Management Association said:

“To have such a well-respected industry talent in Hayley hosting the Industry Awards is so exciting for the GMA. She is a trailblazer in her field and is therefore the perfect complement to a prestigious evening of celebration.”

Tickets to attend the awards ceremony at Headingley Stadium on Wednesday 29 November are now on sale at gmaindustryawards.uk/ticket-packages/

To discuss sponsorship and other brand partnership opportunities, email Sales Manager Jill Rodham at jrodham@thegma.org.uk. 

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GMA Awards judging panel announced

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GMA Awards judging panel announced: The GMA’s annual awards will take place later this year when we will celebrate industry excellence across sports turf and artificial surfaces.  

With the closing date to submit applications for the GMA Industry Awards fast approaching, the Grounds Management Association is delighted to announce the judging panel for this year’s ceremony.

GMA Awards judging panel announced

GMA Awards judging panel announced

GMA Awards judging panel announced GMA Awards judging panel announced The ten judges have been tasked with selecting seventeen worthy winners from an industry-wide talent pool who, among them, represent every corner of the sector. Comprising of leading industry professionals, the stellar line up includes seasoned professionals, some with long and distinguished careers; many have judged the annual awards several times before and keep coming back!

The 2023 judges include:

  1. Neil Stubley, Head of Courts and Horticulture at the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club
  2. Adrian Kay, Head Groundsman at York Racecourse
  3. Meg Lay, Groundsperson at Gloucestershire County Cricket Club
  4. Lee Metcalfe, Senior Grounds Manager at Manchester City FC
  5. David Roberts, Director at Training Unlimited
  6. Anthony Facey, Area Sales Manager at Tuckwells
  7. Stuart Kerrison, Head Groundsman at Essex County Cricket Club
  8. Derek Walder, Operations Director at SALTEX
  9. Nasa Hussain, Head Groundsman & Facilities Manager at Yorkshire County Cricket Club
  10. James Wright, Senior Maintenance Manager at Leeds University

Derek Walder said:

“To be invited to judge the Industry Awards applications this year is a real privilege. Having worked in the industry for over 56 years, it’s fantastic to be able to play a part in supporting the sector by recognising the hard work and dedication of those who contribute so much to maintaining the grounds they manage.  

I’m very much looking forward to the judging process, as well as attending the ceremony in November to celebrate the profound and often unnoticed achievements of the industry.”

Geoff Webb, CEO of Grounds Management Association said:

“It’s wonderful to have received the support of such established industry professionals in helping us to shine a spotlight on the groundscare industry.  

Each judge comes with years of insight and invaluable experience from across all areas of the industry that will be put to good use when carefully considering applications and selecting our 2023 Industry Award winners.  

We look forward to welcoming the industry to Headingley Stadium this November to give a platform to those worthy of recognition.”

You can found out more about this year’s judging panel at gmaindustryawards.uk/judges/

The deadline to submit applications is 14th August at gmaindustryawards.uk/awards-categories/

Tickets to attend the awards ceremony at Headingley Stadium on Wednesday 29 November are now on sale at gmaindustryawards.uk/tickets

To discuss sponsorship and other brand partnership opportunities, email Sales Manager Jill Rodham at jrodham@thegma.org.uk.

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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