The Stockport County ground staff have been recognised at the EFL’s 2022/23 Grounds Teams of the Season awards, as we were named as one of the ‘highly commended’ clubs in League Two.
Although Newport County won the division’s overall award for the second season running, the amazing work of Liam Cash and his team saw County chosen as one of two highly commended teams, alongside Carlisle United.
To inform the decision-making, pitch marks are provided by the referee and away team manager for all EFL League matches. The top Clubs from each division with the highest divisional average are then visited by Neil Rodger, from STRI (Sports Turf Research Institute), where further assessments are carried out, which cover pitch quality, environmental conditions and usage, resources, management and sustainability.
Once all Club visits have taken place, in-depth reports and recommendations are submitted to the Playing Surfaces Committee, at which point winners are determined.
Cashy and the team will receive a certificate to commemorate their achievement; richly deserved recognition having kept the Edgeley Park surface immaculate all season long.
Head Groundsman, Liam Cash said:
“We know exactly what Edgeley Park means to people, so it’s always our aim as staff to produce the best pitch possible. One which supporters and club officials can be proud of. The feedback this year has been consistently positive from players and coaches, particularly throughout winter which is always pleasing. It’s very much a team effort both at EP and with the pitches at Carrington, so it’s nice for the team to get some recognition.”
