Congratulations to Ryder Haulk, Assistant Sports Field Manager for Purdue university Athletics, on winning the “Stars and Stripes” mowing pattern contest!
Haulk’s “Red, White and Purdue” design at Bittinger Stadium shattered previous voting records, garnering 2,019 online “likes” nationwide and earning him a complimentary pass to the 2019 SFMA Annual Conference & Exhibition in Phoenix, Ariz. (Jan. 22-25). Brian Bornino, CSFM, also assisted with the project which included 50 stars and 13 stripes within the Purdue “P.” Finishing in second place – with more than 1,300 votes – was Danny Losito, Head Groundskeeper of the Columbia Fireflies (Columbia, S.C.).
“We always enjoy seeing the distinctive designs our members create to celebrate the Fourth of July, and this contest is a fun way to showcase their impressive skills,” says Kim Heck, CEO of SFMA. “It was great seeing the Purdue community come together and support Ryder and his team.”
Haulk attended Purdue for two years before transferring to Penn State University, where he received an Associate’s Degree in Turfgrass Science. He is currently enrolled in the B.S. of Turf Science program at Penn State University. Previous experience includes stints with the Indianapolis Indians, Washington Nationals and Florida State University Athletics.
“We’re honored to have won the Stars and Stripes contest; there were so many great entries this year!” says Haulk. “Creating themed field art without sacrificing safety or playability is always a fun challenge and it was truly a team effort as our student employees – Lane Zink, Brett Shoults, Matt Homco and Anthony Marquet – were a big help in creating the design.”
