The trio join after a strong application process with an impressive number of candidates from across the sector.

The GMA NextGen group brings together young professionals who act as ambassadors for the industry. Their mission is to inspire and support more young people into careers in grounds management, helping to secure a skilled and sustainable workforce for the future.

Introducing the New Members

James Williamson, Club Development Partner at Cricket Wales, has been a passionate sports person from a young age. Growing up in Cornwall, he supported sports development through a variety of coaching roles before moving to Cardiff in 2019 to study Sport and Exercise Science (BSc). After graduating, he chose to stay in Wales and turn his passion for sport into a full-time career. James now helps Cricket Wales create welcoming, sustainable cricket facilities across the country. James is particularly motivated to help young people discover the wide range of opportunities within the sector.

Sonny Keywood, Groundsperson at Brighton & Hove Albion FC, has always loved sport and spending time outdoors, making grounds management a perfect career. Sonny first learned about the industry through his dad, realising early on that it offered far more variety and opportunity than he had imagined. He enjoys the fast pace of his role and the day-to-day challenges that come with maintaining elite playing surfaces. He sees NextGen as a platform to raise the profile of the profession and help young people see grounds management as a respected and rewarding career choice.

Calum Clarkson, Groundsperson at George Heriot’s School, takes great pride in preparing top-quality cricket pitches and sports surfaces. Alongside his work maintaining the grounds at George Heriot’s School, he is Head Groundsman at Royal High Corstorphine Cricket Club. Growing up in sport, he understands how much high-quality surfaces matter for safety, performance and player experience. Having once been unaware of the career routes available in turf care, he is now committed to championing the profession and inspiring future talent.

Jack Langley, Co‑Chair of the GMA NextGen group, said: "James, Sonny and Calum bring real energy and industry insight to the existing group. Each of them has a brilliant story about how they found their way into grounds management, and they share a willingness to supporting young people entering the profession. We’re excited to have them on board and to see the impact they’ll make."

Meg Lay, Co‑Chair of the GMA NextGen group, added: "The NextGen group exists to give young professionals a voice and to help drive the industry forward. James, Sonny and Calum each bring fresh perspectives and valuable experience. Their excitement is exactly what we need as we continue promoting the sector and inspiring the next generation."

Find out more about the NextGen group by visiting www.thegma.org.uk/nextgen.