Lakers play on award-winning field

Grand Valley State University has taken 'home field advantage' to a whole new level. The Professional Grounds Management Society has just recognized Grand Valley's Lubbers Stadium with the 'Honor' award in the Park, Recreation Area or Athletic Field Category.

The grounds crew faced a challenge last football season when the Grand Valley Lakers hosted three post-season playoff games, in addition to the six regular season games, on their way to winning the national football championship in Division II. Couple the tough play with Michigan's famous weather in November, and it takes a massive effort to keep the field playable.

'We had to rise to the occasion,' said Ken Stanton, grounds supervisor for Grand Valley. 'There was a commitment to excellence on our part.'

Some think the training is hard for players. During the November playoff games, Stanton's crew of nine partnered with seasonal workers and up to 50 students to pull on and off the field tarp several times a week. They also had to remove snow from the tarp and the field when necessary.

Stanton said the hard work paid off with the national award he'll accept on behalf of the university's entire ground crew on November 8 in St. Louis.

His travels and trophy pick-ups won't stop there. Grand Valley's grounds crew also will receive the Excellence in Maintenance Award sponsored by the National Institute on Parks and Grounds Management. This is the only award this organization gives. Grand Valley will be recognized in the schools/college/university category. Stanton will share Grand Valley's maintenance practices at the national conference in Indianapolis November 11 when he picks up the award.

Tim Thimmesch, director of Facilities Services at Grand Valley, sees the beautiful 500 acres on the various campuses as an extension of the university's mission.

'We feel the university grounds are very much a part of the learning environment,' he said. 'It is a great compliment for both the staff and university when these efforts and good work are recognized on a national level.'