STMA names Mowing Patterns Contest winner

The Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) named Kelly Rensel, head groundskeeper at the Great Lakes Loons (Midland, Mich.), its fifth annual “Mowing Patterns Contest” winner.

Rensel was selected via a Facebook voting contest from Oct. 23 to Nov. 20 for his intricate design at Dow Diamond, home to the Great Lakes Loons (Single-A, Los Angeles Dodgers).

“Kelly continues to elevate awareness of the sports turf industry through his impeccable field art,” says Kim Heck, CAE, CEO of STMA. “Finding the perfect balance of safety and visual appeal can be challenging, yet he has managed to accomplish this impressive feat.”

Formerly head groundskeeper for the Greeneville Astros (Rookie, Houston Astros), Rensel also held the same position at the Huntsville Stars (Double-A, Milwaukee Brewers) previously. In 2014, he received the Appalachian League Sports Turf Manager of the Year award. Rensel graduated from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in Sport Administration.

Last year’s winner was Britt Barry, Sports Turf Manager at the Dayton Dragons. Formerly head groundskeeper at the Lexington Legends (Single-A, Royals), Barry won with the elaborate design he produced at Fifth Third Field.