Stanley Hayden - Fulham FC - Deputy Head of Grounds
Stanley plays a pivotal role in managing the club’s training facilities and delivering elite-level playing surfaces. His focus is on creating pitches that are visually impressive, consistently reliable and capable of supporting peak performance for players regardless of weather or fixture demands.
Over the past decade, Stanley has built his expertise across some of the UK’s leading sports venues including The Grove, Watford FC, Tottenham Hotspur’s Training Ground and Arsenal’s Hale End Academy. These roles exposed him to a variety of challenges, honing his ability to adapt in high-pressure, fast-paced environments.
A key part of Stanley’s approach is blending high-quality turf care with sustainable, forward-thinking methods. He actively seeks smarter, greener ways to work such as reducing water usage, integrating eco-friendly products, adopting data-driven maintenance routines and exploring electric machinery.
At Fulham FC, Stanley has overseen advanced nutrient programs, implemented moisture management systems and introduced data-led assessments to improve pitch quality, player safety and injury prevention. These initiatives have strengthened the club’s performance capabilities and reinforced its competitive edge. Beyond day-to-day operations, he is committed to mentoring apprentices and junior staff and sharing his expertise within the wider grounds community.
Stanley is also passionate about connecting sports grounds with environmental initiatives. He has collaborated with local wildlife trusts on biodiversity projects, including rewilding schemes, demonstrating how high-performance turf care can coexist with ecological responsibility.
Looking ahead, Stanley aims to further integrate sustainable practices across elite sports venues. He’s also dedicated to mentoring the next generation of grounds professionals, ensuring that future leaders in the industry combine technical excellence with environmental stewardship.
Since joining us in January, Stan has made a real impact as Deputy Head of Grounds at Fulham FC. From day one, he’s hit the ground running, bringing great energy, a strong work ethic, and a clear passion for what he does. He’s settled in quickly and taken on his role with confidence and care. Stan’s been a huge support to the team, helping to maintain and improve the high standards we set across all our pitches and facilities. He’s hands-on, reliable, and always looking for ways to improve what we do. His attention to detail and pride in the job are clear to see, and that’s made a big difference in a short space of time. What stands out most is how well Stan has fitted into the team. He communicates well, gets stuck in, and earns respect through his attitude and consistency. He’s brought fresh ideas and a positive mindset that have lifted those around him. It’s been a strong start for Stan, and I’m looking forward to seeing how he continues to grow in the role. We’re lucky to have him on board."
Stuart Mackley, Head of Grounds – Fulham FC
