Aaron Tong - Hull City AFC - Head of Grounds
Aaron Tong is an accomplished sports turf professional and Head of Grounds at Hull City AFC, where he has overseen the MKM Stadium pitch since 2016. Responsible for maintaining a surface that hosts both elite football and rugby fixtures, Aaron has successfully navigated the unique challenges of unpredictable weather, demanding schedules, and limited recovery times. His commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community engagement has not only enhanced pitch quality but also contributed to the wider growth of the grounds management industry.
At Hull City, Aaron has driven the adoption of cutting-edge technology to improve turf health and performance. This includes the use of LED grow lighting systems and the UVC180, a tool that reduces reliance on fungicides and promotes more sustainable turf management. He has also overseen a full pitch reconstruction, the first since the stadium opened in 2002, ensuring that the playing surface meets the highest professional standards. His leadership extends to implementing electric mowers at the stadium and improving welfare facilities for his team, creating a modern, forward-thinking working environment.
Beyond his club responsibilities, Aaron is passionate about supporting grassroots football and rugby. He has played a central role in hosting events in partnership with the FA and GMA, opening the MKM Stadium to grassroots volunteers to share best practices and inspire the next generation of grounds professionals. His ability to connect elite-level expertise with community needs reflects his belief that the future of the industry depends on knowledge sharing, mentorship, and inclusivity.
Aaron’s professional development has also been shaped by his active involvement in industry events, including the SGL Masterclass and GMA Connect. These opportunities have enabled him to stay at the forefront of industry developments and apply new insights at Hull City and beyond. His focus on balancing budgets with eco-friendly, cost-effective solutions demonstrates both practical leadership and a vision for sustainable progress in grounds care.
Looking ahead, Aaron is committed to continuing his support for grassroots sport and nurturing young professionals entering the industry. His future goals include expanding education and mentoring opportunities, embedding more sustainable working practices, and championing innovation that benefits both professional clubs and community facilities. With a proven record of achievement, a passion for sustainability, and a dedication to sharing knowledge, Aaron Tong is helping to shape the future of sports turf management in England and beyond.
I had the pleasure of working with Aaron for a short year at the golf course Bentwoud in the Netherlands. Aaron was extremely hardworking and he left nothing behind. Always went above and beyond his call of duty. Despite me trying to get him to come work here every year, I know he is happy at Hull and has achieved many great things.
Floris Bakker, Head Greenkeeper - Golfbaan Bentwoud
