The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has revealed the shortlist for the 2026 GMA Industry Awards, taking place at the iconic Edgbaston Stadium on 12 March 2026.
Each year, the awards shine a spotlight on the individuals, teams and organisations who are raising standards across the industry. And this year, there’s an exciting new addition: the GMA Conference, taking place earlier in the day and setting the stage for an evening of celebration.
From grassroots volunteers to elite-level grounds teams, this year’s shortlist highlights the depth of talent and expertise that continues to elevate the grounds management industry across the UK and beyond.
The finalists were selected following a thorough judging process, undertaken by a panel of sector experts who reviewed entries across sixteen categories.
Jason Booth, GMA Chief Operating Officer said: "It has been inspiring to once again see the dedication shown by so many teams and individuals submitting entries for the GMA Industry Awards.
"This year we received a record number of submissions, and the calibre of work on display has been outstanding.
“It’s been particularly encouraging to welcome fresh faces into the mix. I would also like to thank our independent judging panel for their expertise and considered evaluation of each submission."
The 2026 Industry Awards shortlist:
Young Grounds Person of the Year (Sponsored by Origin Amenity Solutions)
- Adam Hooper – Tottenham Hotspur F.C
- Daniel Birrell – National Cricket Centre Jersey
- Flynn Good – Leicester City F.C
- Ged Newman – Manchester City F.C
Newcomer of the Year (Sponsored by ICL)
- Jack Churchman – Cutcrew Ltd
- George Legg – Stanley Park Sports Ground
- Samuel Knowles – Nottingham Forest F.C
Volunteer Groundsperson/Team of the Year
- Trubshaw Cross
- Eddie Mills – Northfield Town F.C
- Tom Banks – Kirkoswald F.C
- Craig Dinsdale – Settle United AFC
Community Groundsperson/Team of the Year (Sponsored by the National Governing Bodies of Sport)
- Yeovil Recreation Centre
- AELTC Wimbledon Qualifying & Community Sports Centre
- Stanley Park Sports Ground
- Stoneham Lane Football Complex
Bowls & Croquet Groundsperson/Team of the Year
- Dean Gibbons – Wantage Bowling Club
- Port Sunlight Village Trust
Best Managed Artificial Surface of the Year
- Stanley Park Sports Ground
- Stoneham Lane Football Complex
- University of Warwick
Environmental and Sustainability Impact Award
- Liverpool F.C
- University of Warwick
Professional Horse Racing Grounds Team of the Year
- Newbury Racecourse
- Warwick Racecourse
Professional Tennis Courts Grounds Team of the Year
- Edgbaston Priory Club
- Lexus Nottingham Tennis Centre
- The Queens Club
- The All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club
Professional Cricket Grounds Team of the Year
- Marylebone Cricket Club
- Warwickshire County Cricket Club
Professional Rugby Union Grounds Team of the Year (Sponsored by MJ Abbott / Premier Pitches)
- Bristol Bears
- Northampton Saints
- Twickenham Stoop
- Twickenham Stadium
Professional Rugby League Grounds Team of the Year (Sponsored by Agronomic Services Ltd)
- Wigan Warriors
- Castleford Tigers
- Leeds Rhinos
Professional Football Grounds Team of the Year (Sponsored by Reesink UK)
- Lincoln City F.C
- Tranmere Rovers F.C
- Stockport County F.C
- MK Dons F.C
Professional Football Grounds Team (Elite) of the Year (Sponsored by SGL)
- Liverpool F.C
- Leicester City F.C
- London Stadium
- Manchester City F.C
University/College Grounds Team of the Year
- University of Warwick
- University of Nottingham
- University of Leeds
Independent School Grounds Team of the Year (Sponsored by ISEKI UK & Ireland)
- Culford School
- Eton College
- Whitgift School
Designed for grounds professionals, the GMA Conference offers curated opportunities for advanced learning and development. Shape your own agenda and explore solutions to workplace-specific challenges, empowering you to make a tangible impact.
It provides a focused environment to tackle complex industry issues while earning recognised CPD points.
Registration of interest is now open for those who want to secure early access. To learn more about the GMA Conference & Industry Awards or to register your interest for the conference, visit gmaindustryawards.uk/conference.
