The phrase 'unsung hero' might very well have been coined for turf professionals.

Being as close to the industry as we all are, regularly reading the output from the trade press and associations, one can forget about the lack of positive mainstream media coverage devoted to the profession.

Mostly groundstaff are featured running on with covers when there's torrential rain at Wimbledon or loitering on the outfield whilst there's a break for weather during a Test match.

It's a truism that when things are going well for a turf professional, their work isn't noticed. They are like a good referee or umpire in that respect. If the public haven't particularly noticed their input during a game, it means they have completed their job admirably. It's when things go awry that they have a camera stuck in their face.

But why not more coverage when things are going well? A Premier League groundsman might get a mention in the 'and finally' section of the paper if a particularly elaborate pitch design has been cut in that week, but beyond that? Not much really.

Which is why I was particularly encouraged to see a feature in National Club Golfer magazine recently, concentrating on the day in the life of a greenkeeper. The mag devoted a sizable article to spending the day with course manager of Moortown Golf Club, Steve Robinson.

The magazine, which is aimed at players, followed Steve around all day, giving an insight to those who enjoy the fruits of his labour, but who may not appreciate the time, effort, skill, professionalism and dedication which goes into ‘cutting the grass’.

The author of the article, Nick Suarez, points out to his readers, "The real eye opener was the time constraints and efforts that go in to making your course look so presentable." While Steve himself articulates the passion which goes into a role such as his, saying, "The involvement is massive – you sit there on holiday wondering how the course is."

Whilst another example of positive media coverage I heard of recently was admittedly, in the States, but could work just as well over here on a specialist sports channel. Airing on Fox Sports's Detroit affiliate, but shown nationwide via satellite television, is a programme called Michigan Golf Live which highlights the members and work of the Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association.

A proactive endeavour on behalf of the industry, the show is co-funded by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). The half hour programme is devoted to showcasing the 'unsung heroes who help make a golfer’s day at the golf course more enjoyable.' Reaction from viewers, according to the makers, has been very positive, with the production being described as a great way to connect with and educate golfers.

So let’s hope that once the wider media gets wind that there’s an appetite out there amongst the public for hearing a bit more ‘behind the scenes’ info of what goes into creating the surfaces on which they play and watch their heroes on, maybe we’ll start seeing a bit more in-depth coverage.