Sports Turf Managers Association now Sports Field Management Association

The Sports Turf Managers Association has rebranded as Sports Field Management Association (SFMA).

The organization said this move gives the group a modern identity that aligns with its membership makeup and further positions the association as a champion for all workers in the sports field industry. The effort includes an updated logo, tagline, website and vision for the future.

Since 1981, SFMA has provided members education, information and practical knowledge in the art and science of sports field management. Today, more than 2,700 members across 32 local chapters oversee the fields at professional sports stadiums, universities, colleges, schools and parks and recreation facilities.

The organization said the decision to rebrand stemmed from a desire to be more inclusive, ensuring everyone in the sports field management industry is welcome to take advantage of the benefits SFMA provides. SFMA said it aspires to lead its membership into a bright future that promotes best practices at all levels through education, peer-to-peer learning and leveraging technology. Further, the association said it wants to shine a light on the professionalism and knowledge of its hardworking members.

SFMA said its new logo depicts a combination of athletic fields, a nod to the fact that members work on a variety of field types, including football, baseball, soccer, lacrosse, softball, rugby and more. Accompanying the logo is a new tagline, “Where the Game Begins,” highlighting the importance of the role the field plays in athletic competitions.

“Our association has a wonderful 40-year history, so while the decision to change was not made lightly, we felt it was essential in order to grow as an organization and continue to best serve our members,” said Nick McKenna, CSFM, president of SFMA. “Moving forward as SFMA, we will further strengthen the industry by enhancing our members’ skill sets, knowledge and professional connections, while promoting the importance of sports field workers in the eyes of employers and the general public.”