Selected attendees of the 2025 GroundsFest Academy events were recently given a unique opportunity: a behind-the-scenes experience day at the Emirates Stadium, home of Arsenal F.C. The day offered a CPD-accredited, practical insight into the operations, challenges, and expertise involved in managing a world-class playing surface and stadium environment.
Led by Paul Ashcroft, Head of Horticulture & Playing Surface Operations for Arsenal F.C, the morning kicked off with an immersive programme designed to give attendees a full picture of what it takes to maintain a top-tier football pitch. Participants explored turf management in a stadium setting, internal facilities and groundstaff operations, as well as the tools, machinery, and materials critical to daily work. Matchday preparation and pitch inspections were part of the agenda, alongside deep dives into pitch construction, drainage, irrigation, grass species, microclimates, lighting rigs, and renovations. The session also addressed integrated weed management and strategies for balancing wear during matches, training, and other events.
Attendees continued to be guided through the day by Paul, with tours of the facilities and a pitch walk giving practical insight into the precision, planning, and teamwork required to maintain a stadium to professional standards.
For attendee Finlay Wiggins, the day offered a rare insight into elite-level pitch preparation:
“It was fascinating to see the specialist equipment up close and understand how each machine plays a vital role in maintaining top-level playing conditions. We also discussed the importance of communication with coaches, balancing their training demands with the need to protect the surface. It really was a fantastic experience.”
Esteve Sanchez was another participant who found the experience beneficial:
“Opportunities like this are not only inspiring but essential for professionals passionate about the craft behind elite-level playing surfaces. Seeing firsthand what it takes to prepare and protect a surface at the highest level truly reinforces the importance of continuous learning and professional development within the grounds industry. Experiences like this allow us to connect theory with practice, exchange ideas, and elevate our technical knowledge. Hopefully, this is just the beginning of many more opportunities like this in the future.”
And for greenkeeper Steven Connolly, stepping outside his own environment offered fresh perspective:
“It’s always valuable to step outside your own environment and see how another top-tier operation approaches their work. You’re never too experienced to keep learning, and spending time with some of the very best in the turf industry was both insightful and motivating. I came away with ideas and perspectives that I can take back to my own team, which is exactly what these days are all about.”
Bradley Tennant, Director of Education for GroundsFest Academy, reflected on the experience:
“It was a day that won’t be forgotten - spending time behind the scenes with selected attendees of our 2025 events was incredible. Huge thanks to Arsenal F.C and Paul Ashcroft for making this opportunity possible. Keep an eye out for future experience days.”
The GroundsFest Academy Emirates experience offered an unforgettable day of learning, inspiration, and networking, a reminder of the depth, skill, and dedication required to keep stadium pitches at the very highest standard.
For more information visit www.groundsfestacademy.com
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