President's Report

Good day to all TVSTMA members.  As I prepare this message, I'm reminded that the long-standing chapter acronym for our chapter will soon change.  Members unanimously voted in February to execute a name change/rebrand to align with the SFMA.  We are now in the process of working with SFMA and logo/media designers for finalization of this step.  Please be on the lookout for an official announcement in the coming months.   

Spring sports and outside activities at your facility are well in progress and summer plans are being made.  Most organizations have finished or shortly wrapping up the future fiscal year budgets for 22-23.  I hope you are able to meet some of your needs on products, equipment, and future staff.  Please continue to send photos and information of what’s going on at your facility.  If you have new equipment to show, let’s see it!  This can all be shared though our media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and the website (www.tvstma.org).  If in need, please reach out to a local board member for assistance.   

I want to take this time to formally announce some upcoming activities for 2022.   I am excited to share our first site meeting will be Wednesday, May 18 in Memphis at AutoZone Park.  Mr. Eric Taylor and staff will be hosting a soccer match between Memphis 901 FC and the LA Galaxy II.  Postgame, Eric and staff will immediately work to begin the transition process back to baseball.  Eric has invited us to stay and observe the process.  The cost will be $10.00 for all members which will include price for admission.  Pregame activities will be finalized and schedule soon announced. 

We'll have our second meeting on Monday, July 11th at First Horzion Park in Nashville.  This meeting will be more like our traditional meetings with education sessions and pesticide recertification points available.

I would like to announce on Saturday, July 23rd the association will be hosting a social for members and their families in Huntsville, Alabama.  Toyota Field will be the site for a game between Huntsville Trash Pandas and Birmingham Barons.  The cost will be $10.00 for members, as well as each additional family member.  We have two suites reserved which gives opportunity for members to meet, mingle, and relax.  Most important, this atmosphere will allow for quality time with your family.  Event specifics are being finalized and will be made available soon.   

Our first Excellence In Sports Turf recognition goes to Mr. Dustin Wilson, Head Football Coach and Athletic Director at Springfield High School.  For more information please refer to the spotlight article. 

Last but not least, we are in the initial planning phases for the east Tennessee meeting scheduled for September.  It will be hosted by Pigeon Forge Parks and Recreation lead by Mr. Thomas Garner, CSFM.   In conclusion, the December meeting will take place as a field, equipment, and demonstration day hosted by SFMA president James Bergdoll, CSFM in Chattanooga, Tennessee. 

In closing remarks, if you or your team has any questions, concerns, or needs from the TVSTMA leadership team,  do not hesitate to reach out.  Many years ago this organization was created for you, the sports field and facility manager to promote the art of sportsfield management, as well to encourage professional dialogue and development within the industry.  This organization will continue to provide support in discovering and sharing new idea, techniques, products, and also allow the networking process to reach across all category levels of membership.  Thank you again for your time today and we all look forward to seeing you soon. 

Byran Farris

TVSTMA President

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In The News

This year we have established an “Excellence in Sports Turf” award to recognize the efforts of sports turf managers in the region who maintain high quality athletic field surfaces.  Click here to see the current selection.

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