Toro, NFL will pick turfgrass student to help with Super Bowl

Updated Oct 6, 2016
Toro has worked with the NFL on Super Bowl field preparation since the championship began in 1967. Photo: ToroToro has worked with the NFL on Super Bowl field preparation since the championship began in 1967.
Photo: Toro

Come January, one lucky student of turfgrass science will travel to Houston as part of the Toro Super Bowl Turf Training Program. The student will help the National Football League grounds crew prepare the field for the biggest game in football.

As noted below, along with other details for eligibility, the deadline to enter is Oct. 21.

Toro equipment and representatives have been involved in helping prepare the stadium and practice fields for the Super Bowl for almost 50 years, according to a news release from the company. Starting with the inaugural championship in 1967, the NFL grounds crew has “relied on Toro for its expertise and equipment in preparing the game field and multiple practice facilities,” the statement said.

In 2002, Toro and the NFL established the Toro Super Bowl Sports Turf Training Program, which is aimed at enhancing the skills of emerging sports turf professionals. This program provides hands-on experience in establishing and maintaining some of the best playing surfaces in the world.

This year’s recipient will work alongside the NFL’s field director, Ed Mangan, as well as George Toma and the Super Bowl grounds crew at NRG Stadium on turf maintenance, logo painting, field preparation for media day, halftime preparation and field clean-up. Beginning on January 28, the winner will be on hand at NRG Stadium preparing the field leading up to the game on Feb. 5.

To be considered for the program, applicants must complete and submit an application form, as well as a 500-word typed essay describing the applicant’s professional goals. A reference and resume are also required.

Entries must be received by Oct. 21. Applicants must be enrolled in at least the second year of a two-year turf program, or in at least the junior year of a four-year turf program. The application must include the contact information of a school adviser or representative.

The winner will be notified no later than Nov. 4. Applications can be completed online here. If you have questions, send them to [email protected].

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