On December 7, the Virginia Sports Turf Managers Association (VSTMA) presented their Parks and Recreation “Field of the Year” award to Roanoke’s River’s Edge Park North. The VSTMA is a leader in the sports field industry, providing educational opportunities for members, streamlining industry standards, and recognizing member accomplishments.
“It is a great achievement to be recognized by an industry leader like VSTMA,” says Samantha Dickenson, Athletics Coordinator at Roanoke Parks and Recreation. “This crew pours their heart and soul into the fields and have worked tirelessly to make River’s Edge the place to play in the Roanoke Valley. I couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishment.” This distinction not only recognizes Roanoke Parks and Recreation’s efforts to provide quality athletic facilities to the community, but will also make an economic impact through hosting regional and national level sporting events.
River’s Edge Park North began renovations in 2019, and in 2021, Roanoke Parks and Recreation formed a three-person field maintenance crew dedicated to the park. The team has completed educational courses through the VSTMA, and has shown great dedication to the management of this facility. The crew includes Adam McKinney and George Bradney, and is led by Crew Supervisor Will Cole. Both Will and Adam have completed the Virginia Turfgrass Management Class and received their Certified Turfgrass Professional certifications, and George is set to complete this certification in 2023.
*The Virginia Sports Turf Managers Association recently updated their name to the Virginia Sports Field Management Association.
