One lucky turfgrass science student will help prepare the field at NRG Stadium in Houston, TX, for Super Bowl LI

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (October 4, 2016) Toro is pleased to announce the 15th annual Toro Super Bowl® Sports Turf Training Program. In January 2017, one lucky turfgrass science student will travel to Houston, Texas, to help the grounds crew prepare the field for the biggest game in football. With an extensive history of supporting student scholarships and educational activities, Toro and the National Football League (NFL) grounds crew are proud to offer this unique learning experience.

Toro equipment and representatives have been involved in helping prepare the stadium and practice fields for the Super Bowl for almost 50 years. Starting with the inaugural World Championship in 1967, the NFL grounds crew has relied on Toro for its expertise and equipment in preparing the game field and multiple practice facilities. In 2002, the organizations partnered to establish the Toro Super Bowl Sports Turf Training Program. Through the Sports Turf Training Program, Toro and the NFL’s Super Bowl grounds team collaborate to offer a program aimed at enhancing the skills of emerging sports turf professionals. This program provides hands-on experience in establishing and maintaining some of the best playing surfaces in the world. This year’s recipient will work alongside NFL field director, Ed Mangan, George Toma, and the Super Bowl grounds crew at NRG Stadium on turf maintenance, logo painting, field preparation for media day, halftime preparation and field clean-up. Beginning on January 28, 2017, the winner will be on hand at NRG Stadium preparing the field leading up to the game on February 5, 2017.

To be considered for the program, applicants must complete and submit an application form, as well as a 500-word typed essay, describing the applicant’s professional goals. A reference and résumé are also required.

Entries must be received by October 21, 2016. Applicants must be enrolled in at least the second year of a two-year turf program, or in at least the junior year of a four-year turf program. The application must include the contact information of a school advisor or representative, as well.

The winner will be notified no later than November 4, 2016. Applications can be completed online here. For questions or comments, please contact dale.getz@toro.com.
* Super Bowl is a registered trademark of the National Football League

About The Toro Company
The Toro Company (NYSE: TTC) is a leading worldwide provider of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment including turf, snow and ground engaging equipment, and irrigation and outdoor lighting solutions. With sales of $2.4 billion in fiscal 2015, Toro’s global presence extends to more than 90 countries. Through constant innovation and caring relationships built on trust and integrity, Toro and its family of brands have built a legacy of excellence by helping customers care for golf courses, landscapes, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties and agricultural fields. For more information, visit www.toro.com.