Introducing Carlos Venegas:
ESSMA: To kick things off, can you please introduce yourself to the ESSMA community? Who are you, what is your role within Sevilla FC, and what are your daily tasks there?
Mr. Venegas: Certainly. I’m Carlos Venegas, I have a degree as an agricultural engineer from the University of Seville. Following that, I pursued a BSc in sports, top science, and management at Essex University. Subsequently, I specialized in Plant Pathology at the University of Seville. Initially, I worked as a Sports Construction Manager in golf courses for six years. In 2006, I returned to Seville to take on the role of grounds manager for football pitches. When I started, we had four natural pitches, four synthetic pitches, and the stadium training fields. My work has primarily focused on turf, which is distinct from general gardening. I believe with that I was a pioneer in the turf industry here in Spain.
ESSMA: Shifting focus to your current responsibilities, Carlos, could you elaborate on your daily tasks within Sevilla FC? As the operation manager now, are you still actively involved in pitch maintenance, or is your role more focused on overseeing and coordinating the grounds management team?
Mr. Venegas: Certainly. In my current role as an operation manager in Seville, I am actively engaged in various aspects of maintenance and turf management. This includes overseeing all the turf within the club, encompassing both the training pitches and the stadium. I work closely with the grounds management team to ensure the playing surfaces meet the required standards. Additionally, I collaborate with the sustainability manager on a master plan for the upcoming years, emphasizing sustainability initiatives. It’s a multifaceted role that involves a range of tasks to position the club in a favourable position.
Innovative Sustainability Initiatives:
ESSMA: Well talking about sustainability, it’s clear that this is a key focus for you. Could you elaborate on the initiatives you’re currently undertaking to improve sustainability at Sevilla FC?
Mr. Venegas: Absolutely. We have developed a comprehensive plan addressing various areas. One of the primary challenges in Seville is water scarcity. To address this, we want to implement measures such as using sensors to precisely control water usage and minimise wastage. As I mentioned during the ESSMA pitch management workshop 2022 in Seville, we are constructing a wastewater treatment plant to collect and recycle water from the training pitches. With 26 teams utilising the facility, this initiative aims to significantly reduce water wastage, particularly from showers. We are also implementing cultural practices as a vital component of our sustainability plan. This involves adopting a robust program of Plant Growth Regulators (PGR) to enhance turf quality while minimising mowing requirements. Additionally, we want to transition to electrical machinery throughout the stadium, ensuring that 100% of our equipment is electric. We believe it is feasible to do so using high-quality electrical equipment in the market. Focusing on fertilisation, our goal is to achieve 100% organic fertilisation to avoid groundwater pollution. This involves reducing nitrogen leaching and utilising biological products. While initial costs for biological products may be higher, we find that the long-term benefits, both environmentally and operationally, justify the investment. Furthermore, we are actively engaged in experimental practices with different turf species. We are in the process of changing the turf variety to one that requires less water. Collaborating with the University of Seville, we conduct ongoing research using machinery and biological products to continually improve our sustainability program. In essence, our initiatives span various fronts, from water efficiency and machinery electrification to organic fertilisation and ongoing research for sustainable turf management.
Cost Efficiency through Innovation:
ESSMA: Shifting gears to another crucial aspect, cost efficiency, can you share your insights on how new technologies and products might assist in reducing costs in pitch management?
Mr. Venegas: Cost efficiency is a genuine concern for us, especially considering the challenges brought about by crises like the recent one. Despite these challenges, we are actively exploring ways to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. One example is our initiative to install solar panels on the roofs of our buildings, a step towards sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions. In the Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium, we have transitioned to using SGL lamps for LED lighting, a decision driven by both cost savings and increased efficiency. This extends to the illumination of all our pitches and even the street lamps in the vicinity. As a result, our electricity costs have decreased compared to the pre-2019 period. The club recognises the importance of ongoing research and innovation in sustainability, with a keen understanding that economic factors are integral to sustainability. We are committed to exploring technologies and practices that not only contribute to environmental goals but also align with sound economic principles, ensuring that sustainability initiatives are financially viable.
ESSMA: Delving into the specifics of pitch management decisions, Carlos, have there been instances where the club expressed concerns about certain expenditures, such as soil heating costs? Were there any directives from the club to reduce spending in specific areas, or were you granted autonomy in making these decisions?
Mr. Venegas: Indeed, there was a scenario with one pitch featuring cool-season grass in the stadium. In the past, we utilized a large fan to regulate temperature. However, the initial approach led to substantial expenses, as the fans operated continuously, generating noise concerns for the neighborhood. In response, we implemented sensors that activate the fans only when the temperature reaches 30 degrees. This adjustment was made to address both cost considerations and community concerns. I can appreciate the perspective of clubs being cautious about excessive spending on soil heating, given the significant financial implications involved. It’s a balancing act, and I understand the need to manage costs effectively.
Adapting to Climate Change:
ESSMA: Climate change is undeniably affecting Seville, Carlos. Can you share how these climate changes are impacting your approach to pitch management? Are there observable effects, and how have you adapted your practices to address these challenges?
Mr. Venegas: The impact of climate change in Seville is profound, and it’s not something I perceive as a mere concept. It’s a tangible reality. An illustrative example is the transition period in 2012, where mid-September was ideal for Bermuda grass, providing the perfect conditions. However, for the necessary tillering of the grass, cold weather is required. In recent years, even in December, the colder temperatures arrive later, disrupting the tillering process. The delay extends each year, approximately 15 days later than the previous one. It’s an alarming cycle, and we find ourselves adjusting our schedules accordingly. While we used to initiate certain practices in mid-September, we now have to push them back to October. The changing climate dynamics are indeed challenging our traditional approaches to pitch management.
ESSMA: It’s evident that climate change is impacting regions across the globe, Carlos. In Germany, for instance, there’s a rise in gray leaf disease and more extreme weather conditions. How has climate change influenced the design and adaptation of systems at the training center, especially in terms of drainage systems and addressing changing weather patterns?
Mr. Venegas: The design of the training center is of paramount importance, considering the challenges posed by climate change. It encompasses aspects such as efficient water drainage systems to manage increased rainfall and the creation of a well-designed irrigation system. We currently have three bank stations for irrigation, but ideally, I’d prefer a single station to enhance efficiency, reduce electricity consumption, and ultimately save costs for water and nutrients. The orientation of the training center, specifically north-south alignment, is a deliberate choice. It helps manage shade from trees. I emphasize planting trees strategically, ensuring they do not interfere with the turf and contribute positively to the overall ecosystem. Additionally, I advocate for a modern approach in agriculture, incorporating natural grass in the middle of spaces to reduce the need for constant cleaning. This not only aids in carbon production but also minimizes maintenance requirements. Design plays a crucial role in optimizing training pitches, and collaboration between architects and agronomists is key. In our case, I was consulted in about 90% of the process, and ideally, I’d prefer full consultation, ensuring a holistic approach to design and functionality.
Addressing Human Resources Challenges:
ESSMA: Addressing the human resources aspect, Carlos, could you provide insights into the setup of your team responsible for turf maintenance and infrastructure care? How is your staff structured to manage the various pitches and overall maintenance requirements?
Mr. Venegas: The staffing situation in turf maintenance is a global challenge. I’ve had discussions with colleagues from the United Kingdom, Germany, and elsewhere, and the issue is consistent. Finding skilled staff is increasingly difficult. Many young individuals are not inclined to work in conditions involving heat and cold. Instead, they are more drawn to digital platforms like TikTok. This presents a significant challenge as the perception of working as groundsmen has shifted. A job that was once highly regarded now faces a shortage of staff due to the changing preferences of the workforce. This is a widespread issue across Europe, making it challenging to find individuals who are passionate about working in this field. It’s a complex situation that requires attention and perhaps a shift in how the profession is perceived and valued. External contractors are a solution we are actively pursuing. However, in accordance with Spanish law, there are restrictions on mixing internal and external personnel. Currently, we are in the process of seeking external contractors, particularly for gardening and other necessary tasks. This is the primary avenue available to us to address the staffing challenges within the legal framework.
The Evolution of the Industry:
ESSMA: Reflecting on your extensive experience, Carlos, what are the most significant changes you’ve witnessed in the industry from the beginning of your career until now? We’ve touched on sustainability and climate change, but are there other noteworthy transformations, perhaps the integration of data-driven approaches?
Mr. Venegas: There have been numerous changes, and one notable transformation is the accessibility of data. Nowadays, with a simple click from home, I can monitor irrigation and track the evolution of each pitch through satellite photos. In the early days, it took me around two hours each day to monitor all the pitches on-site, but now I can do it remotely with a laptop or tablet. The ease of accessing data has significantly improved efficiency and overall management. However, while we have a wealth of data, the challenge lies in interpreting it effectively. The sheer volume of data can be overwhelming, and figuring out what is truly relevant is an ongoing task.
ESSMA: It’s fascinating to witness the evolution of technology in the industry. Considering your role, is data the primary focus, or do you still place importance on being physically present on the pitch, observing and feeling the conditions? How do you strike a balance between data-driven approaches and hands-on experience?
Mr. Venegas: Striking a balance is crucial. Relying solely on data is insufficient for effective facility management. While data provides valuable insights, being on the pitch is essential. Sometimes, issues that may seem minor through data analysis can be more significant when observed on-site. For instance, the pitch may appear perfect visually, but underlying problems like poor seeding density may exist. Therefore, it’s imperative to maintain a balance and be physically present on the pitch every day for a comprehensive understanding of the conditions.
ESSMA: The exchange of knowledge is vital in an industry that constantly evolves with new changes and technologies. How do you perceive the importance of events like the workshops organised by ESSMA and others within the industry?
Mr. Venegas: These events are incredibly important. Attending workshops provides an opportunity not only to learn from expert lecturers but also to engage with colleagues. The value lies not just in the presentations but in the shared experiences and solutions that colleagues offer. It’s a platform where you can gain valuable insights, discover innovative techniques, and find solutions to specific problems. Last year, when we hosted the pitch management workshop, it was a rewarding experience. The interactions and discussions among participants, the exchange of information, and the diverse perspectives brought by individuals from different countries and climates made the workshop exceptionally valuable. It reinforced the significance of such events in fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing within the industry.
