Tag Archive for: Stadium

Why Sheffield Wednesday’s Pitch is One of the EFL’s Toughest Groundskeeping Challenges

Why Sheffield Wednesday’s Pitch is One of the EFL’s Toughest Groundskeeping Challenges

/in , /by

Why Sheffield Wednesday’s Pitch is One of the EFL’s Toughest Groundskeeping Challenges: Sheffield Wednesday’s stadium presents a challenging environment for turf, with significant shade and limited use of supplementary lighting. Alongside this, the pitch sees consistent use from first team and under-21 fixtures, as well as training sessions.

“Our biggest challenge is a very old, heavily shaded stadium with limited use of lighting rigs,” says Head Groundsman Lee Jackson. “Maintaining grass cover through the season is never straightforward.”

Maintaining Grass Cover in a Shaded Stadium

Maintaining Grass Cover in a Shaded Stadium

As part of a partial rebuild ahead of the 2025 season, ProSelect 1 Premium Pitch, a perennial ryegrass mixture designed for high-wear sports pitches, was used for renovation and overseeding.

“I’ve used ProSelect 1 for close to 10 years and have always trusted how it performs, so I had no hesitation using it again, even in a completely different environment,” Lee explains.

Establishment proved difficult initially due to high temperatures during summer 2025 and the nature of the rebuild.

“The early grow-in was tough because of the heat, but once it got going the coverage developed faster than I’ve seen for a number of years.”

Following establishment, the pitch was subjected to sustained use, particularly between December and February.

“We had eight first team games and ten training sessions on the pitch during that period, and we’re around 10% up on usage compared to last season,” says Lee.

Despite this, grass cover has been maintained through the winter months.

“We’ve kept more grass cover than many expected through that period, and recovery after use has been strong, especially considering the environment.”

Presentation and surface consistency have also improved across the season, supported by relatively low disease pressure.

“There’s been a noticeable improvement overall, and that’s been recognised by players and staff who have been here a number of years,” Lee adds.

For Lee, performance in this type of environment is the real measure.

“If you can get grass growing and maintain it in this kind of stadium, with limited lighting, it shows its value as part of the overall pitch management programme.”

Please contact ICL on 01473 237100 or visit www.icl-growingsolutions.com

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

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

Bernhard and Company strengthens elite stadium pitches across Morocco

/in , /by

Bernhard and Company strengthens elite stadium pitches across Morocco: Bernhard and Company has reinforced its position at the forefront of elite sports turf technology with the installation of SubAir Systems at three of Morocco’s most iconic football stadiums, supporting pitch performance during one of the most high-profile international tournaments on the football calendar.

SubAir Systems have now been installed at:

  • Grand Stade de Tangier – Tangier
  • Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium – Rabat
  • Stade Mohammed V – Casablanca
Bernhard and Company strengthens elite stadium pitches across Morocco

Bernhard and Company strengthens elite stadium pitches across Morocco

The installations form part of a wider strategy by stadium operators to ensure consistent, resilient, and controllable playing surfaces, capable of performing under intense scheduling, climatic pressure and global scrutiny.

With Morocco set to host a major international football tournament, pitch performance has become a critical focus. Heavy rainfall, tight turnaround times, and high expectations from players, broadcasters, and governing bodies place significant demands on natural turf systems.

For the turf teams, drainage and moisture control have been central priorities. “Drainage is absolutely critical for us,” explained Taha Hassoune, Pitch Manager at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca. “In the past, we’ve experienced periods where rainfall overwhelmed traditional drainage systems, and that directly impacts firmness, playability, and preparation time.”

Hassoune added: “Installing SubAir Systems has made a huge difference. By having the ability to pull moisture down and out through the rootzone, we’re encouraging deeper, more fibrous roots.”

Steve Wilson, Bernhard and Company’s Global Business Development Manager for Turf Technologies, commented: “It has been fantastic to work alongside Taha and the other pitch maintenance teams to install the SubAir Systems and see them make improvements using the technology. If the pitches in Morocco become too soft, the SubAir allows them to dry the turf and regain firmness, which is a crucial element for football tournaments.”

He added: “The world’s best stadiums are investing in SubAir because it gives them control over moisture, firmness, recovery, and consistency, exactly when it matters most. In preparation for major international tournaments, there’s no margin for error, so having the safety net of SubAir is a huge advantage.”

Alongside SubAir, the stadiums are using Soil Scout sensors (distributed by Bernhard and Company in the UK, Ireland and more recently North America) to monitor moisture and temperature levels, helping the teams understand changes within the profile to allow for proactive response.

The projects were delivered in collaboration with Sports Turf Maroc, one of Morocco’s leading pitch builders, recognised for their willingness to innovate and experiment with new technologies.

To learn more about SubAir Systems, subsurface control, head online to: https://bernhard.co.uk/products/subair/

To find out more about Bernhard and Company and its full range of product offerings, head to: https://bernhard.co.uk/

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

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

STIGA Showcases Cutting-Edge Technology at Allianz Stadium

/in , /by

STIGA Showcases Cutting-Edge Technology at Allianz Stadium: The STIGA team brought their full range of robotic and professional mowing solutions to the home of England Rugby this week, giving the grounds team at Allianz Stadium the opportunity to put the latest machines through their paces. 

As the newly appointed Official Groundskeeping Partner of the Rugby Football Union (RFU), STIGA was eager to give the Allianz grounds team hands-on experience with the brand’s innovative product range, including its latest autonomous robot mowers, award-winning APX PRO, battery-powered equipment and new electric tractors.

STIGA Showcases Cutting-Edge Technology at Allianz Stadium

STIGA Showcases Cutting-Edge Technology at Allianz Stadium

The STIGA team were amazed at how pristine the pitch looked, even though there had been a tough England v Argentina match the day before. It really highlighted just how tip-top and excellent the grounds staff are when it comes to maintaining their pitches and training grounds.

The roles of groundspeople within the RFU are far-reaching and span both professional and volunteer levels. These experts play a vital role across the RFU, from professional staff at Allianz Stadium, such as the Head Groundsman, to Regional Pitch Advisors who support clubs through the Pitch Advisory Service. At the community level, volunteers help to maintain pitches.

The multi-year partnership with the RFU reflects STIGA’s commitment to easing the load on volunteers and professional grounds teams in pitch maintenance, while ensuring world-class playing surfaces for players at every level. As part of the agreement, STIGA will support the maintenance of pitches and green spaces across the country, from elite England Rugby training facilities to grassroots clubs, by providing access to its cutting-edge autonomous mower technology and professional battery-powered tools.

Designed to deliver outstanding results with minimal effort, STIGA’s intelligent, wireless mowing systems help optimise turf care, reduce workload, and ensure consistently high-quality playing surfaces across the game.

James Gordon, Managing Director of STIGA UK, said:

“As Official Groundskeeping Partner of the RFU, it was very important for STIGA to bring our professional mowers and specialist rugby ground equipment to Allianz Stadium for the grounds team to try first-hand. 2026 will be a superb year for showcasing the quality and innovation of STIGA products, while also supporting clubs as we continue to help elevate standards across the sport.”

Jim Buttar, Head of Grounds and Technical Operations for the RFU, added:

“This has been a superb opportunity to see which STIGA lawn care products will be of greatest value, not only to us at Allianz Stadium but to grassroots clubs across the RFU. We are really looking forward to this partnership, which will allow clubs to excel both on the pitch and in the care of their grounds.”

STIGA will support both the England senior men’s and women’s teams, alongside grassroots rugby clubs across the country. With more than 90 years of garden care expertise, STIGA combines advanced technology with sustainable innovation to deliver professional-level performance on every surface.

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

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Volunteers hosted at MKM Stadium

/in , /by

Volunteers hosted at MKM Stadium: In a first-of-its-kind event, the Grounds Management Association (GMA), Hull City FC and East Riding FA have come together to welcome over 60 local grassroots volunteers to the MKM Stadium.

This behind-the-scenes experience offered participants a unique insight into professional grounds management and enabled grassroots volunteers the opportunity to learn more about the skill and techniques utilised to maintain an elite playing surface.

Volunteers hosted at MKM Stadium

Volunteers hosted at MKM Stadium

Attendees, who are all part of East Riding’s ‘Pitch Partners’ programme, were given a guided tour of the stadium, oversaw different aspects of pitch testing and were provided insight into the science behind pitch care. There was also the opportunity to learn about the GMA’s Pitch Advisory Service and how it supports grassroots organisations such as clubs, local authorities and educational institutions to ensure that playing surfaces meet the highest standards possible.

Chris Hunter, GMA Regional Pitch Advisor said: “This event really shows how important it is for everyone involved in sport, from volunteers to professionals, to come together and share ideas. To see so many grassroots volunteers here today has been fantastic. An event of this scale would not have been possible without the work of all the stakeholders involved.

“It’s not often that these individuals, who work so hard behind the scenes to make sport possible, get to experience the professional side of grounds management. We’re grateful to Hull City and all the partners for providing such an enriching experience and showcasing the importance of community.”

The ‘Day in the Life of Hull City’s Head Grounds Manager’ not only highlighted the practicalities of maintaining grass surfaces but also enabled the community-focused attendees to network with like-minded volunteers as well as professional grounds people and grounds care experts.

Representatives from the Football Foundation were on hand to provide information about potential funding grants and further avenues of support that could be taken away to help community clubs across the region.

Adam Lowthorpe, East Riding County Football Association Chief Executive Officer said: “It is with great delight that we have been able to welcome so many volunteers from across the breadth of our county to this fantastic workshop today. Our collaboration with the Grounds Management Association and Hull City AFC is another significant step in our attempts to provide more high-quality grass football pitches for people to play on and enjoy grassroots football in East Riding.”

Aaron Tong, Head Groundsman at Hull City, said: “Grassroots football is close to my heart, and it was a pleasure to host the event at our stadium and give something back to grassroots in the community. We showed them our equipment and a few of the jobs we do on the pitch, shared our matchday operations and post-match procedures, as well as giving them a stadium tour. They asked questions on what to do in different scenarios and asked for our advice on their pitches. We hope they found our outside perspective useful and that everyone left having learned something new.”

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

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.

Dennis Mowers Partners with Edgbaston Stadium

/in , /by

Dennis Mowers Partners with Edgbaston Stadium: Dennis Mowers is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Edgbaston Stadium and Warwickshire County Cricket Club. This collaboration is aimed at achieving two significant objectives: becoming the most sustainable cricket ground in the country by having a fully electric range of mowers and enhancing education and support for local grassroots cricket clubs.

A Sustainable Future for Edgbaston

Warwickshire County Cricket Club and Edgbaston Stadium, are committed to becoming fully sustainable by 2030. This ambitious goal includes transitioning to a completely electric fleet of mowers. The partnership with Dennis Mowers, part of the Howardson Group, is a crucial step toward this objective.

Dennis Mowers Partners with Edgbaston Stadium

Dennis Mowers Partners with Edgbaston Stadium

Gary Barwell, Head of Sports Turf at Edgbaston, explained the vision: “We have made a commitment that by 2030 we would like to have a fully electric fleet of mowers. We didn’t want to do it as a half-baked project; we wanted it to be across the main ground and the training ground, making us the first club to be fully electric. It was a case of finding a manufacturer that could supply everything we needed.

“Choosing to work with Dennis Mowers was an easy decision due to their high standards and their extensive experience supplying mowers to top-tier sporting teams. Bringing them in was a secure and confident move for both the club, the venue and myself. The quality and reliability of the mowers also ensure we maintain the high standards we have adhered to over the years.”

The Dennis E-Series range, including the ES-22 Ultra, ES-36, ES-760, and ES-34R, has been chosen for this transition. These battery-powered mowers offer exceptional performance, with features like adjustable speeds, interchangeable cassettes, and superior cutting quality, all while being environmentally friendly.

Gary highlighted the advantages of the mowers: “The performance levels have been so good, the grass is healthy, the cut is so strong and there has been no drop-off from switching from petrol to battery. In fact, I would argue that there has been an upturn. The balance and overall performance are being praised by all of the team members.”

Cascading Knowledge to Grassroots Clubs

In addition to sustainability, the partnership focuses on educating and supporting local grassroots cricket clubs. The aim is to help improve the skills of groundstaff, enhance pitch quality, and ultimately increase participation in the game.

Gary is enthusiastic about this educational aspect: “The partnership is incredibly exciting and is going to be very promising for the industry. I want to help people by demonstrating the work we are doing here at Edgbaston and extend this knowledge to other clubs. I am extremely passionate about turf and cricket, and the idea is to work together with Dennis to improve cricket pitches.”

Dennis plans to involve Gary in educational seminars and training sessions for cricket clubs, sharing best practices and demonstrating the capabilities of their equipment. This hands-on approach aims to create a lasting legacy by empowering local clubs with the knowledge and tools to maintain top-quality pitches.

A Partnership for the Future

Roger Moore, Head of Marketing at The Howardson Group, expressed his excitement about the partnership: “We are thrilled to partner with Warwickshire County Cricket Club and Gary Barwell. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to sustainability and community support. We look forward to a fruitful partnership that will benefit cricket clubs at all levels.”

Ben Seifas, Head of Sales and Partnerships at Edgbaston, added: “We’re delighted to welcome the Howardson Group into our partnership family. Dennis is a brand renowned around the world within elite sport venues for innovation and excellence, aligning with our values and our sustainability ambitions. This is the first partnership of its kind for the Howardson Group, and we are delighted to be the venue of choice to showcase their high-quality products.”

As Warwickshire County Cricket Club moves forward with its sustainability initiatives and educational outreach, the partnership with Dennis Mowers stands as a testament to their shared vision for a greener, more knowledgeable future in cricket.

To view a video interview with Gary Barwell, Head of Sports Turf at Edgbaston, click here.

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Dennis 01332 824 777 or visit www.dennisuk.com

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Dennis on Twitter and Instagram @DennisMowers and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/DennisMowersUK. You can also view the latest Dennis videos by visiting www.youtube.com/DennisMowers

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

Get all of the big headlines, pictures, opinions and videos on stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram for fun, fresh and engaging content.

You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters.