It all started when the Eagles vs. the Detroit Lions game became a piece of Philadelphia sports history. With near white out conditions' just before kickoff, and the accumulation of about 8" of snow throughout the game, it was something people here will never forget! Shockingly, the weather forecasters had not seen this one coming. So with backpack blowers and shovels, Tony and his staff did all they could. To me, the funniest part of the whole thing, is the questions about field conditions when the teams combine for 54 points.
To add just a little more to the challenge, there was a second snow storm during the week and then that small event known as the Army Navy Game, when another storm hit! Being there for my first Army Navy Game, it was something to see and the field looked great!
Lincoln Financial Field-2013 Army Navy Game
Then just down the road is PP&L Park, home of the Philadelphia Union. John Torres was preparing to host the NCAA College Cup finals. Using all options available, including a Toro Sand Pro 5040 with a plow with PVC pipe on the bottom, they were able to get the field up and ready!
PP&L Park-2013 College Cup
To me a sports field manager has a similar outlook as an umpire or referee, the less people notice them and just appreciate an excellent playing field or a well officiated game, the better. But for these two gentlemen and their staff' it has been a long week, but hopefully rewarding, for the incredible jobs they did!
Congratulations to Tony & John and their staff's for a job well done!!!
WJC
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