In
conjunction with DLF Seeds, over 40 Grounds Professionals from schools,
colleges and sports clubs across the country were recently invited to a
behind-the-scenes tour of Arsenal FC’s Emirates Stadium.
Visitors
gained an insight into the grounds programme that keeps the surfaces performing
at elite levels, and how new technologies are playing an ever-increasing role
in monitoring and maintaining these professional standards.
Head
Groundsman Alan Russell, assisted by Deputy Lee Blythe and Assistant Jack
Bayford, led the day which included a pitch walk, a tour of the machinery
workshop, as well as a look around some of the off-pitch highlights including
the Home Dressing Room and Managers Office.
The
Arsenal Grounds Team took questions throughout the day, with DLF Technical
Manager David Rhodes and Regional Support Manager Craig Spooner on hand to
provide advice on the topics of turf and seed.
Daniel
Negus, Head Groundsman at Devonshire Park Tennis Club, was one of those in
attendance. He said, “The day was a fantastic opportunity to see how one of the
leading Premier League stadiums operates both on, and off, the pitch. It was
hugely beneficial to hear the first-hand experiences of Alan and his team,
meaning we all came away with an understanding of the knowledge and practices
that they employ.”
Craig
added, “The dedication, professionalism and knowledge of the Emirates grounds
team is a real credit to the Club. A big thank you must go to Paul Ashcroft,
Grounds Manager at the Emirates Stadium and Hale End Academy for hosting us and
making it such a successful and informative day for all of those that
attended.”
