Toro now accepting Super Bowl Sports Turf Training Program applications

The Toro Company‘s 13th annual Toro Super Bowl Sports Turf Training Program will bring one lucky student to Glendale, Ariz., in February 2015 to help the grounds crew prepare the field for the biggest game in football.

Toro equipment and representatives have been involved in preparing the stadium and practice fields for the Super Bowl for almost 50 years, according to the company, starting with the inaugural World Championship in 1967. In 2002, the organizations partnered to establish The Toro Super Bowl Sports Turf Training Program. Through the program, Toro and the NFL’s Super Bowl grounds team collaborate to enhance the skills of emerging sports turf professionals.

This year’s recipient will work alongside Ed Mangan, the NFL field director and George Toma, the head groundskeeper for the Super Bowl at The University of Phoenix Stadium on turf maintenance, logo painting, field preparation for media day and halftime preparation and field clean-up. Beginning on Jan. 24, 2015, the winner will be on-hand at the University of Phoenix Stadium preparing the field leading up to the game on Feb. 1, 2015.

To be considered for the program, applicants must complete and submit an application form, as well as a 500-word typed essay, describing the applicant’s professional goals. A reference and résumé are also required.

Entries must be postmarked by Oct. 24, 2014. Applicants must be enrolled in at least the second year of a two-year turf program, or in at least the junior year of a four-year turf program. The application must include the signature of a school advisor or representative.

The winner will be announced on Nov. 21, 2014. Applications can be completed here.