Sports Spotlight

Interview with Alpha Jones of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers

Alpha Jones is the Director of Field Operations for the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, the A-Affiliate of the Houston Astros. Alpha shares insights from his career and offers advice to others interested in sports field management.

How long have you worked with the Woodpeckers?

I will complete five years in March of 2024. I was hired 33 days before the Inaugural Opening Day in 2019.

You were named Carolina League and Single-A Groundskeeper of the Year. How did you feel earning that honor?

I like the way you phrased that question, using the word “earned.” I feel it gives a better description than “winning” the award. I certainly appreciate the recognition for the work that was done during the 2023 season, it was a team effort. Admittedly, I am immensely proud of the success that we had last year.

It was a hardworking crew where we fed off of each other’s energy at different times of the year, and this helped us be successful throughout the whole season.

Each time that I’ve been congratulated on the award, I tend to reflect on the season and the many challenges we overcame with the weather, the late nights, adjusting to the new requirements and so forth.

My feelings are best summed up as humbly proud. I’m humbled by the honor and very proud of the hard work that we put in as a team. It is exciting to be recognized for it.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

I would tell them to explore the many different sports and levels of sports field management, there are many more than just what is broadcast or streamed.

Take advantage of at least one internship. Learn something at each place you work, ask questions, apply what you learn and build on it. Pursue industry related education and certifications. These enable you to demonstrate your knowledge, which can open doors to more opportunity.

Build a network of colleagues and mentors, some of which will grow into relationships. Call on these people, talk with them about work and life, share your stories. Ask questions!

Be of service to others, have a willingness to help no matter your role in the situation. If you put these things into practice every day possible, you will be successful in this industry and in life.

What is one tip you have for managing a crew?

Learn the difference between managing and leading a crew. Managing a crew is primarily about the productivity of the work output. Leading a crew is about growing the people that make up the crew. Their growth improves decision making, creates a collaborative environment and increases the capabilities of the team. Learn how to lead.

Do I have a favorite Woodpeckers moment?

There are so many moments to choose from, however, the Inaugural Opening Day has a lot of unique stories that revolve around getting the stadium ready, coordinating all the “first and only” times things could happen in the stadium. I like sharing the stories about the CSX employee who last minute worked on the Game Day crew or the Black Daggers skydivers who had to crash land in the Kids Zone (play area) and the kids were taking selfies with them right after and lastly, the championships that have followed.

I have to say seeing players who played on our field in 2019 contribute to the Astros World Series success and earning the Series MVP in 2022 is probably my favorite Woodpeckers moment. It’s pretty cool watching the young players grow into baseball superstars.

We sincerely appreciate Alpha’s time and thoughtfulness in sharing his experiences and wisdom with us. Have a story you want to share with us? Email info@turfgrasscouncilnc.org