Luke Chapman - Brighton and Hove Albion FC - Deputy Head Groundsperson
Luke Chapman has spent more than a decade growing his career, quite literally, at Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club. Now Deputy Head Groundsperson at the AMEX Stadium, Luke began as an apprentice before working his way up through the ranks. His willingness to learn has seen him play a vital part in the club’s remarkable journey from Championship football to competing in the Europa League.
Always keen to push himself, Luke was recognised in 2023 as runner-up in the club’s Chairman’s Award. He continues to invest in his professional development, now working towards his GMA Level 4 qualification, adding further expertise to his practical experience.
Luke has contributed to both his club and the wider industry by sharing knowledge and helping others take their first steps in the profession. At Brighton, he supports internships and apprenticeships, ensuring opportunities are open and accessible. In 2023, he helped organise the club’s first Sussex FA workshop for grassroots football clubs, where local volunteers and grounds teams could learn from the Premier League set-up. The success of the event means it will now be held annually. Beyond his professional role, Luke continues to advise his local cricket club, offering guidance and support even as family life limits the time he can spend on the ground itself.
Among his proudest achievements is his role in preparing the AMEX pitch for the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022. With just five weeks to grow in the surface, it was the shortest turnaround the team had ever faced. Combined with a scorching summer, it presented a formidable challenge, but Luke and his colleagues delivered a pitch worthy of the occasion. Being part of the Lionesses’ journey to becoming European champions was an unforgettable experience, and the recognition the team received from UEFA helped cement relationships that proved invaluable when Brighton reached European competition the following season.
Looking ahead, Luke is passionate about raising the profile of the profession. He believes in showcasing the importance of groundscare on stadium tours and through greater media presence. With sustainability at the forefront of the club’s values, he is also closely involved in plans to rebuild the AMEX pitch, with the ambition of creating one of the most sustainable playing surfaces in the Premier League.
Luke has been on a remarkable journey with us, celebrating ten years with Brighton and Hove Albion in May 2025. Luke’s journey began by starting his career as an apprentice and working his way to stadium deputy head. A formidable attitude and desire to learn. Luke self-funded his GMA Level 3 course and has recently been enrolled in the GMA Level 4 course. A strong desire to learn, improve, lead and train. Luke has led our team by example and provides pivotal learning and training courses to our new staff, apprenticeship staff and grounds interns. Luke leads a team of four below him: Lewis Turner, Ryan Matthews, Tom Bacon and Maddy Grover, who are all under 35 and deserve recognition and nominations alongside Luke. Their combined efforts and passions deserve to be celebrated as a team and as individuals."
Phil Fifield, Head Groundsperson – Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club
