GMA ANNOUNCES 6 NATIONWIDE EVENTS

The Grounds Management Association (GMA) says they are expanding GMA Connect in 2026, rolling out six UK-wide events designed to bring practical, accessible learning directly to grounds staff and volunteers.

Following two successful pilot events in 2025, the 2026 GMA Connect programme will take place in Oxford, Cardiff, Manchester, Leeds, Southampton and Ipswich.

The Association says, designed around real world challenges faced by local grounds teams, GMA Connect focuses on practical solutions and takeaways that can be put to use immediately on site.

2026 Schedule:

• Abingdon School (Oxford) - Thursday 16 April
• Cardiff City Stadium (Cardiff) - Wednesday 22 April
• Joie Stadium, Manchester City (Manchester) - Thursday 14 May
• Headingley Stadium (Leeds) - Tuesday 19 May
• Stoneham Lane Football Complex (Southampton) - Thursday 21 May
• Ipswich Rugby Club (Ipswich) - Thursday 4 June

"The two pilot events in 2025 were a huge success, so we’re delighted to be rolling out six events across the UK in 2026," said Sarah Hunter, head of events at the GMA. "It’s all about delivering high-quality learning closer to home and making it more accessible and easier to fit around the busy lives of grounds people."