GMA ANNOUNCE THEIR AWARD WINNERS

'Grounds management heroes' named

The very best in the grounds management industry were celebrated at an evening ceremony at AMT Headingley Stadium on Wednesday last week (November 29th 2023), hosted by 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 stadium for an evening of celebration.

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 GMA said, “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 recognised and celebrated for their achievements."

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