Pioneer Athletics

10/15/2026

“If we’re going to do it, we might as well have fun.”

That mindset says a lot about Jon Larson. Whether he’s trying a new mowing pattern at ASU, encouraging his crew to bring their ideas to the table, or making time for someone who needs a hand, Jon brings a little more joy to the work.

We’re proud to recognize Jon as a member of the 2026 Pioneers in the Field class. Listen to his story now:
Spotify: https://bit.ly/3VKUx5P
Apple: https://bit.ly/47VwbJj

10/07/2026

From the fields to the facilities and everywhere in between, Colin Boak has made a career out of taking ownership, supporting his team and quietly making things better.

That’s the kind of leadership that lasts.

Listen to Colin's Pioneers in the Field episode now:
Apple: https://bit.ly/4rSbwil
Spotify: https://bit.ly/4i7VRrZ

10/01/2026

“We, not me.”

That simple idea says a lot about Rick Perruzzi and the way he’s approached his career in sports field management. From mentorship to community, Rick has always believed in lifting up the people around him.

Discover our latest Pioneers in the Field profile. 👇

Rick PerruzziDirector of Athletic Fields // South Portland, Maine2026 Class of Pioneers in the FieldLike any great field, Rick Perruzzi’s legacy didn’t happen...

09/30/2026

For nearly 30 years, Rick has been a constant presence in South Portland, Maine. Seasons have changed. Facilities have evolved. Generations of athletes have come and gone. But one thing has remained the same: Perruzzi’s commitment to people. Discover Rick's story in our latest 2026 Pioneers in the Field Groundskeeper Chat episode, available now!

Apple: https://bit.ly/3VnGPpg
Spotify: https://bit.ly/3VmGaEx

09/24/2026

Sarah Martin’s career has been built on curiosity, mentorship, education and, most importantly, people. Now we get to celebrate the impact she’s had on an industry she’s spent her career helping shape. Read Sarah's full Pioneers in the Field story here:

Sarah MartinPark Supervisor // City of Phoenix2026 Class of Pioneers in the FieldIt started with a simple question: Who takes care of the field? Sarah Martin...

09/23/2026

We’re honored to recognize Sarah Martin as a 2026 Pioneer in the Field and celebrate the people and experiences that have shaped her journey.

Some people leave a mark on an industry. Others leave a mark on the people in it.

Sarah Martin has done both.
Discover her full story now:
Spotify: https://bit.ly/4xKV7hg
Apple: https://bit.ly/4y7q4gr

09/17/2026

For so many of us, Mike Goatley is a pillar in our industry — someone who represents so many of the very best parts of who we are.

A trusted mentor, a patient teacher and, above all, a friend to all.

Mike has spent his career sharing his knowledge, lifting others up and giving back to the profession he cares so deeply about. And if you’ve had the chance to know Mike, you know just how special that is.

Read Mike’s full Pioneers in the Field profile now 🏆

Mike GoatleyExtension Turfgrass Specialist // Virginia Tech2026 Class of Pioneers in the FieldIf you can't find Mike Goatley, his wife Lisa already knows where...

09/16/2026

Mike Goatley's influence can be found far beyond the classroom, on sports fields across the country and in the careers of the people he helped shape.

In this special edition 2026 Pioneers in the Field episode of Groundskeeper Chats, Mike reflects on his career, the people who influenced him, the professionals he has mentored and the lessons he hopes to leave with the next generation of sports field managers.

With retirement approaching this winter, Mike reflects on a career built around education, service and the people who make the turfgrass industry what it is.

Listen here:
Spotify: https://bit.ly/4yKHNug
Apple: https://bit.ly/4y3WoAU

09/09/2026

🌱 The wait is over. Meet our 2026 Pioneers in the Field.

Every field has a story. And behind every great field are the people who pour their time, passion and expertise into bringing it to life.

We’re proud to introduce the 2026 class of Pioneers in the Field. Five sports turf professionals who are making an impact on their fields, in their communities and throughout our industry.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing their stories one Pioneer at a time through in-depth profiles and new episodes of Groundskeeper Chats. 🎙️

Make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss a minute of the action!
Apple: https://bit.ly/4ijWQWP
Spotify: https://bit.ly/4xR8flU