Magazine - Norwich claim Championship Groundsman of the Year Award

By Editor in Football on 30th Apr 2007 14:00

NORWICH City's excellent Carrow Road pitch has been catching the eye all season - and now City's groundsman Gary Kemp has been honoured for his excellent work.

Gary has been named as the 2006/2007 Wickes Groundsman of the Year for the Coca-Cola Championship, beating the likes of Preston and Southampton, who were both commended for their efforts.

City's award also prevents Ipswich from completing a hat-trick of titles after scooping the honour the previous two seasons.

City boss Peter Grant congratulated Gary for his hard work this season, and said: "It's fabulous. I've known Gary for a long time now and all his staff have worked extremely hard.

"The pitch today looks like a start of the season pitch, never mind an end of the season pitch. That's probably because he never allows me on it at any time! He was fantastic when I was here as a player and I think it looks even better now."

Gary has been at Carrow Road since 1988, but it is the first time he has picked up the award, which is judged by the Sports Turf Research Institute.

From that organisation, Dr Stephen Baker explained: "Norwich City's pitch has an excellent surface despite heavy use. Gary Kemp has also kept control of the weed grasses and overall the standard of the pitch is outstanding."

Congratulations to Gary and his team from everyone at Pitchcare.

Read more articles in Football, by Editor or from April 2007.