Articles

In The News - July 1, 2016

Having recognized the importance of fostering and improving professionalism within the sports turf industry, STMA has developed a certification program for sports turf managers.

Attaining the Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM) status means you will be looked upon as a leader in the industry. It will give you a sense of pride and accomplishment and it can even improve your current or future employment prospects.

Becoming a CSFM is meant to challenge your knowledge of managing sports fields and to draw upon all aspects of your background in education and experience to prove that you are one of the best in the industry. Meeting the challenge can contribute to your professional advancement in sports field management.

STMA has moved the complete CSFM Application and information packet online. Click here to go to that page and download the CSFM Application Packet.

Benefits For You

• A valuable learning experience

• Recognition of achievement

• Increased earnings potential

• Commitment to excellence

• Increased educational opportunities

Benefits For Your Employer

• Increased professionalism

• Commitment to excellence

• Acknowledged accountability

• Dedication to cost effective facility management

• Commitment to field safety

CSFM Qualifications

The STMA firmly believes that a combination of education and experience are necessary to be the best possible athletic field manager. However, it also recognizes that in a profession as diverse as the sports turf industry, experience should play a major role. In order to successfully gain certification, you must meet certain education and/or experience requirements. These requirements were set to establish minimum criterion for becoming certified. You will notice, however, that there is a strong leaning toward experience as a sports field manager. For example, it is possible to be certified without having any formal education beyond high school if you have enough years of experience. You cannot, however, become certified by virtue of education alone.

CSFM Requirements

A total of 40 combined education and experience points are required to take the certification examination.

CSFM's involved in TVSTMA

James Bergdoll, CSFM - Chattaonooga Parks & Recreation

Larry Berry, CSFM - Lee University

Bob Campbell, CSFM - Carolina Green

Stephen Crockett, CSFM - Union City Turf

Anthony Defeo, CSFM - Brickman/Tennessee Smokies

Byran Farris, CSFM - Farris Enterprises/Columbia Parks & Recreation

Martin Kaufmann, CSFM - GCA Services

Chad Price, CSFM - Carolina Green

Connor Schutzman, CSFM - Ensworth School

Waldo Terrell, CSFM - Harrell's

T.J. Brewer, CSFM - University of Memphis