From stadium pitch prep at 4am to shaping the next generation of grounds professionals, meet Bradley Tennant – a passionate figure in the world of turf.
At Fleet Line Markers, we're proud to work with incredible professionals at every level of sport. In this spotlight, we chat with Bradley Tennant, Director of IGFH, Director of Education for GroundsFest Academy, and volunteer stadium pitch manager at Swindon Supermarine.
Bradley’s journey through the turf care industry is one of passion, graft, and giving back, from early apprenticeships to international work, and now education. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at the man behind the mower.
The Essentials
- Name: Bradley Tennant
- Job Titles:
- Director, IGFH
- Director of Education, GroundsFest Academy
- Volunteer Stadium Pitch Manager, Swindon Supermarine
- Team Size: 2 (plus 1 on matchdays)
- Pitch Count: 1
- Pitch Type: Natural, soil-based pitch. With an area we call 'the postage stamp' on the dugout side of the halfway line, this area is fully sand constructed with a soakaway underneath. The pitch has sand-band drainage installed, which can be seen during these dry summers.
What’s in the Shed?
Bradley’s kit setup reflects both professionalism and creativity:
“The club owns 2 Dennis 34r rotary mowers, a Dennis G860, Fleet Kombi line markers and a handful of handmade kits, such as our dragmat, which is upcycled from leftover artificial turf. The team also has a light roller, which has been resurrected to become a useful tool in our arsenal.”
Favourite bit of kit?
“A ProCore or equivalent, whether I'll actually own one is another story - however, I'd love to have one. They open a door of options, especially during the winter months. A very useful tool.”
Wishlist?
“A SISIS auto slit or pedestrian slitter. Game changers, aeration is so important. Aeration, aeration, aeration.”
Bradley, Unfiltered
Tea or coffee?
“Coffee in the morning, tea in the afternoon.”
Go-to meal deal?
“If it's a working day, a good old meal deal. Sundried tomato and mozzarella wrap, those ridged paprika crisps and a coffee.”
Favourite team?
“The mighty red and white - Stoke City. (You can't help where you grow up)”
Favourite show?
“I watch very little TV, but it would be Only Fools and Horses. Classic.”
Favourite food?
“Loaded nachos, I could eat those every day of the week.”
Pets?
“Grew up with dogs, now an owner of 2 cats.”
Hobbies?
“Occasionally attempt to play football, into indoor climbing 3/4 times per week. Great fun.”
Alarm time?
“6 am most days, April - September, I can often be found at 4 am.”
First job at work?
“Put the kettle on.”
Hero or Idol Growing up?
“I always wanted to become a professional player, I played at a good level and came through academies. Unfortunately never made it, so I became a groundsman! A story many will tell. If I had to look at one player, it'd be Matthew Eitherington - Great player.”
A Career in Turf, from Apprentice to Educator
Bradley’s journey started with an apprenticeship, an uncertain path that led to a career full of impact:
“I started in the Industry through an apprenticeship with a local training provider, a story I have documented a few times. I left school with minimal qualifications, unsure of what to do next. Greenkeeping and Ground care found me. Now I have a level 5, certificates in everything you can imagine and deliver education back into the industry. I've gone full circle.”
Bradley’s Turf CV Highlights:
- Apprenticeship / Senior Gardener - Natures Way Stoke Ltd
- Grounds staff at The Belfry, Nottingham Forest, University of Nottingham, and Sydney University
- Head Groundsman at Crossfield’s School & Swindon Supermarine
- Matchday staff at Wembley Stadium and Reading FC
- Lecturer and trainer at Wiltshire College
- Support Pitch Advisor for The FA
- Now at IGFH and Grounds Fest Academy
Matchday Routine: Professionalism in Practice
Bradley’s team takes pride in creating a top-tier surface, and it starts early.
“This can vary hugely dependent on the weather, the usual plan would be to inspect the pitch first of all. Usually, then followed by divoting and a mow, even if the grass isn't growing, we'd like to keep the pattern for presentation. I'm a keen believer that professionalism raises everyone, a good surface produces good football... sometimes for the away team too. Then we'd over-mark the pitch using strings and our trusted Fleet Kombi line marker and Super C paint. Drop the goals and place the corner flags, then we're pretty much done. In adverse rainfall, we may need to aerate or fork areas, often also adding sand to ensure a safe game can be played. I've now stepped back, and the fantastic team of Callum and Pete now carry out the majority of this work, and I provided feedback and advice when required. I'm very happy with the surface the guys produce; it speaks for itself.”
Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation
“Make the most of each and every opportunity, work overseas, volunteer for matchdays or tournaments at your local club, school or golf course. Good things come to those who put the extra 10% in; there's some fantastic compensation to be had in this industry once you make your way up the career ladder.”
Personal Wins
Biggest achievement?
“Playing football at Wembley and scoring 2 goals, how many others can say that?”
Dream dinner guests?
“I've met a few celebrities working in sports, and to be honest, you quickly realise most aren't as you think. I'd much prefer to sit around a table with a few friends. Simon Moore, Rhys Norville and Alex McDermott get an invite.... then if I can have a +1, I'll invite Bridgo out of the office.”
Final Whistle
Bradley’s story shows just how varied, rewarding, and global a career in turf care can be. From matchday mows to mentoring future grounds professionals, his dedication runs deep, and Fleet is proud to support customers like Bradley who go above and beyond for the game.
