The Southern League announced Ray Sayre, Director of Sports Turf Management for the Blue Wahoos, is this year’s Groundskeeper of the Year, as selected by the league’s field managers and umpires. Sayre also won the honor in 2013.
“It is truly an honor to get this recognition two years in a row. Maintaining our field is a year-round process and it takes the work and dedication of many people. I am thankful to be part of this talented and supportive team that helps me present such an amazing playing field,†said Sayre. “It is wonderful to know our hard work and fantastic playing field is appreciated by the Southern League, managers and umpires.â€
Sayre has been with the Wahoos since the team’s inaugural season.Sayre grew up in Lexington, Kentucky where he began his turf career working on the athletic fields for the University of Kentucky. He graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a degree in Turf Grass Management. Before making the move to Pensacola, Sayre worked for several minor league teams including the Louisville Bats (International League), the Greenville Drive (South Atlantic League) and the Bowling Green Hotrods (Midwest League).
The Southern League will now forward Sayre’s name to the Sports Turf Managers Association for voting on their classification winners in Minor League Baseball.