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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 Sports Field Management Association Announces 2026 Board of Directors, Welcomes New Leadership

Lawrence, KS — [February 16, 2026] — The 2026 Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) Board of Directors took office during the association’s Annual Meeting held during the SFMA Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. New leadership was introduced alongside continuing board members who will guide the association’s strategic direction and professional initiatives in the year ahead.

The 2026 board reflects SFMA’s ongoing commitment to advancing the sports field management profession through education, advocacy, research, and industry collaboration. The 2026 SFMA Board of Directors is as follows:

Officers

• President: Alpha Jones, CSFM
• Immediate Past President: Adam Thoms Ph.D.
• President-Elect: Casey Carrick, CSFM
• Secretary/Treasurer: Jason DeMink, CSFM
• Commercial Vice President: Matthew Duncan, CSFM

Returning Directors

• Director – Academic: Weston Floyd, CSFM
• Director – Professional Facilities: Mitch Hooten
• Director – Schools K-12: Jake Mays, CSFM

Newly Elected Directors

SFMA proudly welcomes the following professionals to its 2026 board of directors:

• Director – Commercial: Adam Russell, LEED AP
  Russell brings extensive field operations experience and a strong commitment to professional development and industry standards.
• Director – Higher Education: Joe Hill
  Hill is recognized for his leadership in sports facility management and dedication to advancing best practices in field performance and safety.
• Director – At-Large (appointed): Eric Harshman, CSFM, CGM
  Harshman contributes a background in turf systems management and collaborative industry engagement.
• Director – At-Large (elected): Ben Baumer, CSFM
  Baumer offers strategic insight and a data-informed approach to advancing sports field management outcomes.
• Director – Parks and Recreation: Tara Jordan
  Jordan brings a strong focus on member engagement and workforce development within the profession.

“These individuals bring exceptional expertise, innovation, and dedication to the sports field management community,” said Alpha Jones, CSFM, president of SFMA. “Their leadership will help drive our mission forward and strengthen the resources and support we provide to our members worldwide.”

Together, the 2026 SFMA Board of Directors will focus on expanding professional development opportunities, enhancing industry standards, and supporting the growth and success of sports field managers worldwide.

For more information about each of these board members, including their vision for SFMA, please visit https://www.sportsfieldmanagement.org/board-of-directors/

Media Contact

Paula Sliefert, CEO
Sports Field Management Association
800-323-3875
psliefert@sportsfieldmanagment.org
www.sportsfieldmanagement.org

About SFMA

The Sports Field Management Association is a nonprofit professional organization dedicated to promoting the personal and professional growth of sports field managers and advancing the sports field management profession. SFMA provides education, certification, networking, and advocacy for members responsible for managing sports field facilities worldwide.

Since its founding in 1981, SFMA has been dedicated to advancing the art and science of sports field management through education, research, and professional development. Today, SFMA represents more than 2,500 members across 29 local chapters who manage fields at schools, universities, parks and recreation facilities, and professional sports venues worldwide.

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More information: 800-323-3875

https://www.sportsfieldmanagement.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2026-BOD-Press-Release.pdf