Head groundsman John Wright, who is responsible for the pitches at the Alan Higgs Centre,  home to Coventry City FC’s Academy, has received a Medal for Excellence Award from the City & Guilds Group.


John Wright

Nominated by the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) and chosen from more than two million candidates, John was recognised for his outstanding work towards his Level 3 Work-based Horticulture (Sports Turf - Groundsman) course. He completed this two-year course in just five months, which saw him studying until early hours most nights while working full time at the sports facility.

His submitted work was deemed to be of such exceptional standard, that his tutor Allan Moore says he would keep some of this work for further reference.

After receiving the award John, aged 22, said: “ It took a lot of effort in a very short period of time and I’m extremely proud that City & Guilds has recognised my achievement. I would also like to thank the IOG for nominating me for the award and giving recognition to my work. I am young, ambitious and determined to achieve excellence wherever I can - this is just one example.”

Commenting on the award, IOF CEO Geoff Webb said: “Jon epitomizes the many new and emerging groundsman who are raising the bar when it comes to professionalism and standards. Supported by Allan Moore, who himself has helped many students, we welcome the announcement and are proud of both Jon and Allan who are committed and dedicated to this great profession. All at the IOG send our congratulations.”

Speaking about the awards programme, Chris Jones, City & Guilds Group CEO said: “We are all about helping people gain the skills they need to be successful. Part of that is celebrating the wonderful accomplishments that they have along the way. All of our Medals for Excellence winners have demonstrated hard work, dedication and passion, which make them stand out. They should all be proud of their achievements, and I wish them all the best for the Lion Awards and for their futures.”