Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Sports Field Management Association (SFMA) Conference in Palm Springs, representing Raw Stadia. This four-day event was an invaluable opportunity to engage with industry professionals, explore emerging grounds management trends, and learn about the opportunities shaping the future of the industry.
Here are the top insights and observations from this year’s event.
1. Sustainability Drives Grounds Management Trends
Sustainability has become a primary focus as professionals seek more efficient and eco-friendly ways to maintain sports fields. Reducing water consumption, minimising chemical inputs, and optimising resource use were recurring themes throughout the conference.
This shift aligns with broader environmental goals and presents opportunities for companies like Raw Stadia to provide innovative solutions. By leveraging advanced software and hardware, professionals can achieve exceptional results while reducing their environmental footprint.
2. FIFA World Cup 2026: A Key Opportunity
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is driving significant activity across the industry. As host cities in North America build or upgrade stadiums, the demand for expertise in construction, surface selection, and management continues to grow.
This is where Raw Stadia stands out. Our ability to provide data-backed recommendations and surface assessments positions us as a key partner for stakeholders involved in these projects. By collaborating with industry leaders, we help ensure that stadiums not only meet FIFA’s stringent standards but also exceed expectations for performance and sustainability.
3. Data-Driven Grounds Management Trends
Data-driven insights are transforming how professionals manage sports surfaces. Technology now enables the collection and analysis of data from various sources, including field sensors, environmental monitoring systems, and performance metrics.
However, interpreting this wealth of information remains a challenge for many. Education and training are crucial to unlocking the full potential of these tools. Raw Stadia’s suite of solutions is designed to bridge this gap, empowering professionals to make smarter decisions and optimise field performance.
4. Market Analysis: Insights from Industry Stakeholders
Conversations with industry stakeholders during the conference revealed exciting new techniques and technologies shaping the market. From advancements in soil monitoring systems to innovative turf management practices, these developments highlight the industry’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Staying connected to these grounds management trends ensures that Raw Stadia remains at the forefront of innovation, delivering solutions that meet the evolving needs of professionals across the industry.
5. Insights from the Baseball Symposium
The baseball symposium was a standout session, offering updates on the latest requirements and standards for baseball field management. Topics included strategies for managing infield ball speed and maintaining consistent playing conditions during high-profile events like the Little League World Series.
Participating in this symposium strengthens Raw Stadia’s ability to provide tailored advice and solutions for baseball and other sports, ensuring we remain aligned with the evolving needs of the industry.
6. Networking and Collaboration
The conference provided numerous opportunities for networking and collaboration. From informal breakfasts and lunches to a banquet awards ceremony, the event fostered meaningful connections among professionals. A dedicated women’s reception further highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Hands-on sessions showcasing Raw Stadia’s software and hardware solutions allowed attendees to experience their benefits firsthand. These demonstrations reinforced our position as a trusted partner in the industry.
Conclusion
The SFMA Conference 2025 showcased the exciting opportunities and challenges shaping the future of grounds management trends. Sustainability, global events like the FIFA World Cup 2026, and the rise of data-driven practices are at the forefront of this transformation.
Raw Stadia remains committed to helping the industry navigate these changes. Whether by supporting sustainable practices, delivering expert advice for world-class stadiums, or providing cutting-edge tools for data analysis, we are proud to partner with industry professionals to shape the future of grounds management.