Two previous members of the GMA Young Board, now known as GMA NextGen, have been awarded their Pioneer Marks as part of the Pioneer Legacy initiative, recognising the contributions of past and present members of GMA NextGen.
The Pioneer Mark is a distinctive legacy number that symbolises the impact each member has made on the grounds management profession.
Will Graves (#002) joined the industry in 2010 as an apprentice at Merchant Taylors’ School and became part of the first Young Board in 2011, later serving as Chair in 2014. He went on to join the ground staff team at Watford Football Club while also gaining experience at Wembley Stadium.
He said: "My time working with the Young Board of Directors was a real highlight of my career to date. We all worked hard to make a positive difference and increase opportunities for those both inside and outside of the profession. I am very grateful to both the GMA and Reesink UK for everything they did and continue to do to support the group."
Harry Boxell (#022) served four years on the Young Board from 2016. He began his grounds management career at 16 and progressed through roles at Tottenham Hotspur and Godolphin, before taking on the role of Head of Grounds and Gardens at Embley Park in 2017. He is now Estates Manager, overseeing the 130-acre Grade II listed parkland.
Harry says: "I vividly remember driving down from Newmarket for the interview and being struck by the beauty of the buildings and grounds, while also recognising the potential for further enhancement."
"Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to meet and learn from many inspiring individuals," He added. "Some of my most memorable experiences were through my involvement with the Young Board of Directors. We met regularly and were fortunate to visit venues such as the Stade de France, Parc des Princes (home of Paris Saint-Germain), and several other prestigious sites."
Jennifer Carter, GMA Director of Communications and Marketing, said: "The GMA would like to thank Will and Harry for their contributions during their time with the NextGen, formerly known as the Young Board.
"It's really important that we recognise the contributions they have all made to the grounds management industry by awarding them with their pioneer marks. We’re excited to continue the legacy and are now looking to recruit the next generation of passionate individuals to carry the group forward."
The duo join the ranks of respected NextGen alumni who have received their Pioneer Marks, which can be viewed here.
