As she aims to make a career in grounds more accessible to under-represented groups, Liddy is leading by example, as one of only two percent of females working in the grounds management sector, which is responsible for maintaining the nation’s pitches. She is working with NextGen to change this statistic.

Why did you decide to get involved with the GMA NextGen?

I was looking to meet other like-minded individuals in the grounds sector and learn more about the industry as a whole and getting involved with the GMA Next Gen is giving me that which is great.

What’s your role on the board?

Specifically, I am part of the strategy division, however we all contribute in many ways to help deliver our goals and commitments we have as the GMA NextGen.

What do you enjoy most about being involved?

I really enjoy working as part of a passionate team like the NextGen and the networking opportunities that being part of the NextGen presents. I have met so many different people from all areas of the grounds industry, and it’s been great to hear about their individual experiences and perspectives.

What do you hope to achieve?

As part of the NextGen, I hope to raise awareness of the grounds industry, the job opportunities it presents, and encourage young people to get involved. I am particularly passionate about helping to improve the diversity of the grounds industry and making it more accessible to those groups who are currently under-represented.

Where do you work and what does that involve?

I work as a Groundsperson for the Football Association at St. George’s Park. This essentially involves daily maintenance of the 12 pitches we have, to ensure they are prepped to the highest standards for our site users.

How did you get into the industry?

Pretty much by chance really. I have an agricultural background and a degree in Sport and Exercise Science, and when I saw the Groundsperson role at St. George’s Park, it seemed like the perfect combination of those elements, so I thought “Why not give this a go!”.

What’s your advice to those thinking about a career in grounds?

My advice would be to give it a go, you may not like it, or it may be the career you didn’t known you were missing. But if you don’t try, you’ll never know!

What’s the best bit about working in the industry?

Personally, I think the best parts about my job are the physical nature of the work and the opportunity to work in an outdoor environment surrounded by nature. The health benefits, both mental and physical, are an added bonus!