STMA names winner of “Stars and Stripes” field art contest

Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) has named Ryder Haulk, assistant sports field manager for Purdue University Athletics, in West Lafayette, Ind., winner of the annual “Stars and Stripes” field art contest.

Haulk’s “Red, White and Purdue” design at Bittinger Stadium shattered previous voting records, garnering 2,019 online “likes” nationwide and earning him a complimentary pass to the 2019 STMA Annual Conference & Exhibition in Phoenix, Ariz., taking place Jan. 22-25. Brian Bornino, CSFM, also assisted with the project which included 50 stars and 13 stripes within the Purdue “P.” Finishing in second place – with more than 1,300 votes – was Danny Losito, head groundskeeper of the Columbia Fireflies (Columbia, S.C.).

“We always enjoy seeing the distinctive designs our members create to celebrate the Fourth of July, and this contest is a fun way to showcase their impressive skills,” says Kim Heck, CEO of STMA. “It was great seeing the Purdue community come together and support Ryder and his team.”

Haulk attended Purdue for two years before transferring to Penn State University, where he received an associate’s degree in turfgrass science. He is currently enrolled in the bachelor’s of turf science program at Penn State University. Previous experience includes stints with the Indianapolis Indians, Washington Nationals and Florida State University Athletics.

“We’re honored to have won the Stars and Stripes contest; there were so many great entries this year!” says Haulk. “Creating themed field art without sacrificing safety or playability is always a fun challenge and it was truly a team effort as our student employees – Lane Zink, Brett Shoults, Matt Homco and Anthony Marquet – were a big help in creating the design.”

“Two Flags and a Star,” “The Original American Flag” and “Happy Birthday America” were among the 2018 designs submitted by turf professionals from major sports leagues, NCAA and parks and recreation sectors.

Last year’s winner was Andrew Marking, head groundskeeper for the Quad Cities River Bandits (Davenport, Iowa), the Class-A affiliate of the Houston Astros.