Toro announces 2017 Super Bowl Turf Training Program

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. — Toro is holding the 15th annual Toro Super Bowl Sports Turf Training Program. In January 2017, one turfgrass science student will travel to Houston, Texas, to help the grounds crew prepare the field for the biggest game in football.

Toro equipment and representatives have been involved in helping prepare the stadium and practice fields for the Super Bowl for almost 50 years. Starting with the inaugural World 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. In 2002, the organizations partnered to establish the Toro Super Bowl Sports Turf Training Program.

Through the Sports Turf Training Program, Toro and the NFL’s Super Bowl grounds team collaborate to offer a program 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 NFL field director, Ed Mangan, 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 Jan. 28, 2017, the winner will be on hand at NRG Stadium preparing the field leading up to the game on Feb. 5, 2017.

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 résumé are also required.

Entries must be received by Oct. 21, 2016. 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 advisor or representative, as well.

The winner will be notified no later than Nov. 4, 2016. Applications can be completed online here. For questions or comments, please contact dale.getz@toro.com.