Growing the Pitch Management Industry Together

The MHP Arena in Stuttgart provided the stage for SGL’s latest showcase; an event dedicated to pitch management where grounds teams from all over Europe came together for practical insights, product demonstrations, and networking.

Different competitions, different insights

With international guest speakers from across the pitch management industry, a wide range of perspectives was shared, offering the audience valuable insights and practical tips. Fabian Riesterer, Head Groundsman at VfB Stuttgart, revealed the ins and outs of his team’s greenkeeping strategy, while Alan Russel, Head Groundsperson at Arsenal F.C., offered the perspective of a top Premier League venue. Later, both joined Johannes Samitz, Stadium Director of SK Rapid Wien, for a lively panel discussion. Together with the audience, they explored the value of investing in pitch management and the increasing role of data in driving those decisions, resulting in a highly engaging and informative session.

At the event, numerous speakers from the industry discussed and gave presentations on the topic of pitch management.
At the event, numerous speakers from the industry discussed and gave presentations on the topic of pitch management. Image: SGL System

Focus on innovation Innovation was also in the spotlight throughout the event. Highlights included the SGL TurfRobot (an autonomous UVC robot for grass disease control), the SGL fLEX pitch performance testing tool, and the latest generation of LED grow lights. In his Innovation presentation, SGL Area Manager DACH Maximilian Wuttge guided the audience through the features of these innovations before participants moved pitch-side to see the products in action and ask their questions directly.

The functions of the solutions were demonstrated on the lawn of the MHP Arena in Stuttgart.
The functions of the solutions were demonstrated on the lawn of the MHP Arena in Stuttgart. Image: SGL System

Growing the pitch management industry

It is SGL’s goal to raise the standard of the pitch management industry together. Sharing insights, connecting with professionals, and continuously developing products and services are essential to achieving sustainable, high-quality pitch management. That’s why SGL hosts multiple events around the world each year, such as the VfB Stuttgart showcase, bringing knowledge and expertise together to keep the industry growing. (stadiaworld, 16.09.2025)

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