GMA NextGen To Inspire Future Talent At Wimbledon
This initiative aims to inspire the next generation of grounds professionals and showcase the exciting opportunities within the sector.
The GMA NextGen group, sponsored by Reesink UK, is comprised of talented young grounds professionals who represent the grounds management industry.
Acting as ambassadors for the GMA, their mission is to encourage more young people to consider a career in grounds management.
With workforce development becoming a pressing priority, this event highlights the importance of engaging with younger generations to secure the sector's future. The proportion of under‑35s involved in the industry has risen significantly in recent years, from 19% in 2022 to 31% in 2024. Events like Schools Into Stadia play a crucial role in sustaining this positive trend by informing young people about careers in grounds care.
Jack Langley & Meg Lay, GMA NextGen Co‑Chairs, said: “We're delighted to be able to host another Schools Into Stadia event as part of #GroundsWeek 2025. The success of the previous two events has been incredible, and we’re incredibly grateful to Wimbledon for hosting us this year. This initiative is a great opportunity to showcase the rewarding careers young people can have in the grounds management industry. We're excited to inspire the next generation of grounds professionals and highlight the role they play in maintaining some of the UK's most iconic spaces.”
During the event, a group of local secondary school students will experience the day‑to‑day responsibilities of a grounds person at the world‑renowned All England Club. They will also learn about the career paths available in the grounds care sector and the impact these careers have on sports, recreation and community spaces.
Neil Stubley, Head of Courts and Horticulture at The All England Lawn Tennis Club, and GMA Board Member, said: “We are very excited to be welcoming local students to Wimbledon as part of this year’s School Into Stadia event. Initiatives such as Schools Into Stadia ensure that as an industry, we are continuing to promote pathways and careers in grounds management, which is crucial to establishing the next generation of Grounds Managers for years to come. As a year‑round team of 18 Groundstaff, we are looking forward to hosting students at SW19 and teaching them how we look after our 18 Championship and 20 practice courts both in and outside of The Championships.”
#GroundsWeek, taking place from Monday 17th to Sunday 23rd March 2025, celebrates the vital work of grounds staff across the UK and highlights opportunities to get involved in this rewarding profession. The week is a chance to raise awareness, share stories, and inspire the workforce of the future.
For more information about #GroundsWeek 2025 and how you can support the initiative, visit thegma.org.uk/groundsweek/.
Image: AELTC/Chloe Knott.
