Member Spotlight

Christopher Lilly

Sports Field Specialist

Blackstone Valley Vocational School District

Upton, Massachusetts

How did you get your start in the sports turf industry?

After relocating to the Worcester, MA area, I was seeking a career shift that would allow me to continue working outdoors. I came across a position at Shrewsbury Landscapes, Inc. which I initially assumed was focused on traditional landscaping. However, it was there that I was introduced to the fascinating and specialized world of sports turf management, sparking a passion that ultimately defined my new professional path.

Where did you go from there?

I began my journey in the sports turf industry as a laborer, quickly discovering a deep passion for turf management. The industry’s parallels with my previous work in agriculture became clear, and I immersed myself in learning from experienced professionals—whether it was golf course superintendents, subcontractors, or grounds managers. Eager to advance, I pursued an online certificate from The Ohio State University and obtained my Pesticide License.

After eight years in the field and rising to the role of operations manager, I sought a position that offered a better balance between my career and growing family. That opportunity came with Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School (BVT), where I now serve as Sports Field Specialist. With BVT’s sports teams competing at a highly competitive level, my role is to elevate the quality of their athletic fields. Since joining the team in June, we’ve made significant progress, though there’s still more to accomplish.

Who has been your mentor in the sports field industry?

Many of my mentors in the sports turf industry may not even realize the impact they’ve had on me. One such mentor is Ron Dobosz, who connected with me on Facebook through a mutual groundskeepers group. Coincidentally, we are both alumni of the same high school, and I naturally gravitated toward his posts, observing how effortlessly he manages his town’s fields. This past summer, I decided to paint our goal posts for the first time and reached out to Ron for guidance. He walked me through the process, and thanks to his help, the project went seamlessly.

Another early influence was Ed Olsen from the town of Needham, MA. During my time as a contractor there, I had the opportunity to work closely with Ed. He taught me that paying attention to even the smallest details can make a significant difference in the quality of the work. Both individuals played key roles in shaping my approach to the sports field industry.

What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received?

Continuously invest in both your knowledge and your network. Turf management is an ever-evolving field, with advancements in technology, sustainability practices, and product innovation. Staying up to date through certifications, workshops, and industry conferences will ensure you’re ahead of the curve. Equally important is building strong relationships with peers, suppliers, and clients—collaboration and open communication are key to solving challenges efficiently and fostering longterm success. Finally, always prioritize attention to detail; the quality of your work speaks volumes and can set you apart in a competitive industry.

What’s your favorite thing about your current position?

The atmosphere at the school is truly incredible. I have a lot of ideas, but none of them could come to life without the strong support system around me. Whether it’s collaborating with the Paint and Design Studio to create custom logos and stencils or working with the Construction Technology Shop to repurpose old gym mats for a padded wall on the baseball field, there’s a real sense of teamwork. The administration is also fully supportive, ensuring I have the resources needed to succeed. It’s this collaborative environment that has enabled me to achieve so much in such a short time.

Is there a recent project that you have been able to complete/implement?

While we haven’t completed many large-scale projects, we’ve focused on several smaller initiatives to enhance the school’s overall appearance. For example, we repainted the goal posts, and the students designed new flags featuring our school colors and name to fly from the uprights. We also created stencils to display the school’s name and a breast cancer awareness ribbon for October. Currently, I’m working on expanding the football field’s irrigation system to include the softball field, as well as installing a new well to provide irrigation for both the baseball and field hockey fields.

What is the next “game-changer” you see on the horizon for the sports field industry?

A game-changer for the sports turf industry is the increasing integration of technology and data-driven solutions. Innovations like GPS-guided equipment, automated irrigation systems, and sensors that monitor soil health, moisture, and weather conditions are revolutionizing turf management. These tools allow for more precise and efficient maintenance, optimizing resource use while enhancing turf quality and sustainability. Additionally, the shift toward environmentally friendly practices, such as organic fertilizers and water conservation techniques, is becoming crucial as sustainability takes center stage. Embracing these advancements will be key to staying competitive and meeting the growing demand for high-performance, ecoconscious sports fields

What advice would you give to people starting out in sports turf management today?

Pay close attention to the details. In my experience, people are more likely to notice the small things before the larger aspects. When they see you taking care of the field or facility, they are more inclined to treat it with respect. Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance; there’s no shame in wanting to learn. Surround yourself with a supportive team that includes industry experts, sales representatives, administrators, coaches, and athletes. Their insights and perspectives are invaluable to your success

Please tell us a bit about your family life and what you enjoy doing in your free time.

My wife, Katie, our daughter, Quinn, and I love embarking on day trips to explore beautiful destinations, such as the coast of Maine and the beaches of Cape Cod. I also enjoy watching sports, whether it’s on television or in person. However, after working in the sports field industry, I find myself more focused on the details, such as the fonts used for field numbers or contemplating how I might implement specific mowing patterns on my fields.

What have you found most beneficial about being a NE-SFMA member?

I have greatly appreciated the support system that NE-SFMA provides, which allows me to exchange ideas and gain valuable insights. This network instills the confidence to explore new initiatives that I might have previously thought were beyond my reach.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with your fellow NE-SFMA members?

I am truly honored to be recognized in this article, and I want to express my gratitude to the NE-SFMA community for their continued support. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to learn from each of you, share my own experiences, and contribute to our collective knowledge. I believe that our industry thrives on collaboration, and I look forward to exchanging insights, sharing laughs, and telling stories that inspire us all. Together, we can continue to elevate the standards of sports turf management and foster a vibrant community.