This week, host Richard Graves welcomes Nick Pappas, Field Director for the NFL, for a fascinating deep dive into the science, technology, and precision that go into preparing elite-level playing surfaces for one of the biggest sports leagues in the world.

From the Super Bowl to international games in London, Germany, and Madrid, Nick shares how data, innovation, and collaboration are driving the future of field management, and how the NFL ensures world-class conditions that protect player safety and optimise performance.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How the NFL’s field operations team prepares and maintains elite playing surfaces across 32 clubs and international venues


• The science behind player safety and surface performance — and how injury data informs turf design


• Why the debate between natural and artificial grass isn’t as simple as it seems


• How advanced testing tools like BEAST and STRIKE are revolutionising surface analysis


• The challenges of delivering perfect fields in unique stadiums like Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid


• How the NFL’s “digital athlete” concept links field data, biomechanics, and player health

About Nick Pappas

Nick Pappas, CSFM, is the Field Director for the National Football League (NFL), overseeing field operations for all major league events, including the Super Bowl, Pro Bowl, and NFL International Games.

With a background in turfgrass science and agronomy, Nick has become one of the foremost experts in professional sports field management. He leads the NFL’s global efforts in surface research, innovation, and player safety, working closely with the NFLPA, engineers, and medical experts to ensure every game is played on a surface that meets the highest standards of safety and performance.

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