#Groundsweek – the vital role Groundspeople play in sport and science
It’s Grounds Week, an annual initiative from the Grounds Management Association to celebrate the people behind the scenes who make playing surfaces and green spaces look and perform their best. At STRI Group, we’re shining the spotlight on our incredible grounds team based at our Bingley HQ in Yorkshire. The trials ground consists of eight hectares of land which needs to be strategically and expertly managed by our team, with some trials lasting years for our clients, continuous care and attention to the plots is required throughout the seasons.
To find out more about the profession, we caught up with our Head Groundsperson, Ross Normington. Joining in 2018, Ross started as an apprentice groundsman for a golf course and through shadowing his seniors and putting in the hours, he moved up the ranks to where he is today. Ross talks through his journey, and describes why he claims, ‘being outside is the best office in the world.’
Our team is unrivalled in their scientific knowledge of the biology, construction, care and maintenance of sports surfaces. The scientists and grounds team have years of practical research and experience, combined with access to the most advanced technology in the industry. Preparing the trials ground for clients requires an expert touch.
Ross shares further insights into this meticulous process ahead of setting up an area ready for trials, taking us through each step and its importance.
Grounds teams across the UK deserve recognition. From recreational areas and grounds to elite level sports pitches, their roles are vital to communities and clubs. Grounds people reinforce the science behind turf management, and at STRI Group, continue to work alongside clients to develop products, as well as provide research for the industry.
