We’re digging deep into the world of Aquatrols’ Sports Turf Territory Manager of North America & Canada, Greg Bennett. Get to know him better below.
What is your role at Aquatrols?
Sports Turf Territory Manager in the US & Canada.
How long have you been with the company?
Almost nine years, I began working at Precision Laboratories in 2017.
Where did you grow up, and what brought you to your current city?
I grew up in Worcester and Shrewsbury Massachusetts, now living 30 minutes north in Westminster MA (home to the Westminster Oyster Cracker). My wife is an elementary school special education teacher in the district; we moved here for our kids’ school.
What does your typical day look like?
Currently, when not traveling, my day begins at 4:10 AM to bring my son to high school hockey practice. After that, I drop him at school, go home to see my wife and our youngest off to school, then get to work! Everyday takes on a life of its own, I could have a sports turf meeting, a site visit with a local sports field manager or distributor rep., or mostly, following up with customers and promoting/selling our newest innovation, XStatic.
What drew you to this field, and how did you get started?
Prior to joining Precision, I was a golf course superintendent. I spent over 15 years working on course as an assistant superintendent at three courses and a GCS at three. I’ve had the pleasure of working at all types of facilities, such as high-end, private, 36-hole, high-use, public, and municipal. I began working outside golf shop operations at Stow Acres Country Club, 17 miles outside of Boston. My responsibilities included cleaning carts, picking range balls, fore caddy and starter. One summer I was playing professional soccer and cut back my hours with the pro shop, but once the soccer season began, I had more time than I originally thought. I approached the Superintendent and asked if he had openings and he did. My first day I was dropped off at the par 3 seventh hole on the south course to weed bunkers and I loved it, I was hooked! The next season I worked full-time, then worked up to foreman, then Assistant Superintendent in charge the north course.
What’s your favorite part of the job or most rewarding project you’ve worked on?
The most rewarding part of my job has always been working with end users to provide a water management solution to a problem that improves the health and quality of their playing surfaces, and in some cases gets them home to their families earlier than normal and less stressed out. Relationships and partnerships drive the business, I enjoy building those relationships then celebrating achieved success with our distributor parters.
How do you see the industry evolving in the next few years?
I see the industry continuing to move toward smarter, more efficient solutions. There’s a growing focus on sustainability and performance, and companies that can combine innovation with real-world results will lead the way. I am fortunate enough to work for one of the most innovative companies in the world, Lamberti S.P.A. These innovations in all spaces of turf grass management have allowed the end user to work much smarter to provide excellent playing conditions in golf and sports turf.
Is there a product or innovation from Aquatrols you’re particularly excited about right now?
Xstatic is a product I’m genuinely excited about. It’s a strong example of how innovation can translate into practical, meaningful results for customers. I’ve had the pleasure of working with municipalities, universities and even the field crew at Gillette Stadium in pre-launch trials. It’s particularly exciting to see them go from using Downey fabric softener to an innovative technology to increase the playability, safety, and aesthetics of their synthetic turf fields.
Do you have a favorite industry tip or tool?
My favorite industry tip is to always start with the ‘why.’ Understanding the problem before jumping to a solution usually leads to better outcomes—and stronger trust. Never hesitate to lean on your colleagues. The turf industry is loaded with people that are willing and enjoy helping others thrive. Stay curious. The industry is always evolving, and the people who keep learning—new products, new approaches, new perspectives—tend to stay ahead.”
If you weren’t in this field, what would you be doing instead?
Gym Teacher/High School Coach. I thought about majoring in education to become a gym teacher. I did coach Varsity boys soccer and Ice Hockey (MA State Champs in 2009) at my alma mater, Shrewsbury High. Ther demands of our industry became too much so I had to resign and focus on the golf course.
What’s one surprising thing people might not know about you?
Being a girl dad! It’s equal parts fun, crazy, unpredictable and humbling. Our girls are 9 and 11 and everyday is an adventure. From Daddy Daughter dates, to waking up from a nap with my toenails painted to one of them walking by saying, “What’s up FATMAN!! I love every moment.
What is your favorite hobby, activity, or creative outlet?
Beach and boating in the summer for sure. Sky diving is a blast! Reading and audio books keep me grounded but my passion is coaching. I coach hockey, soccer, basketball and lacrosse.
First concert?
AC/DC at the Centrum in Worcester, MA. I was a 14-year-old Sophomore, my ears were ringing through the first two periods of school the next day, it was awesome!
Coffee or tea?
Coffee, black with the occasional latte. Peppermint mocha from Starbucks is currently my jam.
Favorite food?
Chicken Parm.
Bucket list location to visit?
Iceland and England for a Man City/Liverpool match.
