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Myerscough learner shortlisted in Grounds Management Association’s Industry Awards

Published
Monday 3 February

A Myerscough College sportsturf apprentice has been named a finalist in the Grounds Management Association’s (GMA) Industry Awards for 2025.

GENERIC SPORTSTURF

Mark Dawson has been shortlisted in the category of Newcomer of the Year, with Anfield Stadium, the iconic home of Liverpool FC, the new backdrop for this prestigious awards event, where the winners will be announced on Thursday 13 March 2025.

Mark has been undertaking a Level 2 Sports Turf Operative Apprenticeship Standard programme with Myerscough, while working for Premier League giants Arsenal, looking after the playing surfaces at their Hale End Youth Academy facility.

Since 2009, the GMA Industry Awards have celebrated outstanding achievements in grounds care across professional, amateur, and voluntary sectors, spanning a variety of sports, honouring the unsung heroes - the grounds care professionals and volunteers who keep the nation's playing surfaces pristine.

Sarah Hunter, Head of Events at the GMA said: “The GMA Industry Awards are a fantastic opportunity for individuals and teams to gain the recognition they deserve for their vital work across the grounds care industry.

‘’It’s going to be a great event at Anfield Stadium, and we look forward to celebrating the outstanding achievements.”

We wish Mark all the very best in the ceremony and for his future career.

This recognition is not only a testament to the individual's hard work and talent but also highlights the exceptional training and support provided by Myerscough College.

The journey to becoming a finalist in the prestigious GMA Industry Awards is no small feat. It requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, both of which are nurtured at Myerscough College. Renowned for its apprenticeship programmes, the college has long been a breeding ground for future leaders in the industry.

Myerscough College's sportsturf apprenticeship programme is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to excel in the field. The curriculum encompasses a wide range of subjects, from turf maintenance to the latest advancements in grounds management technology. Apprentices are given hands-on experience, working directly with key sector employers.

The GMA Industry Awards are a hallmark of excellence in the field of grounds management. Celebrating outstanding achievements and innovations, these awards showcase the best and brightest in the industry. Being named a finalist is a significant accomplishment, reflecting the apprentice’s dedication, skill, and potential to make a

Being a finalist in the GMA Industry Awards opens up a myriad of opportunities for the apprentice. It not only enhances their professional credibility but also provides a platform to network with industry leaders and peers. This recognition serves as a stepping stone towards a promising career in sports turf management, where the apprentice can continue to innovate and contribute to the field.

Find out more about Myerscough College’s sportsturf apprenticeship opportunities here