TOM BACON - BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION FC - GROUNDSPERSON

Tom has built his career around a constant drive to improve. Now part of the grounds team at Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, Tom brings experience from both football and tennis, having previously worked at the renowned Devonshire Park International Lawn Tennis Centre.

His ability to adapt across different surfaces, environments, and pressures has helped him develop into a versatile and highly regarded groundsperson.

Tom’s career began at Devonshire Park, where he honed his craft maintaining world-class tennis courts. His contribution was recognised as part of the award-winning Tennis Team of the Year in 2018, 2019 and again in 2023. A personal highlight came in 2018 when he reached the final of the prestigious GMA Most Promising Sports Turf Student of the Year. Alongside hands-on experience, Tom successfully achieved his Level 3 qualification in Sports Turf Management, earning merit and distinction grades. This balance of practical expertise and strong theoretical knowledge has given him a solid foundation to progress in his career.

At Brighton & Hove Albion, Tom plays a key role in preparing and maintaining Premier League playing surfaces to the highest standard. From pitch preparations for high-profile fixtures to machinery maintenance, data analysis and adapting techniques for different turf conditions, his contributions directly impact both player safety and match performance. Tom takes pride in supporting the smooth running of the grounds team, ensuring every detail is optimised for elite-level sport.

Challenges have been met head-on throughout his career. Working under pressure in front of large crowds and supporting professional athletes have all sharpened his resilience and calmness. These experiences have helped Tom develop into a reliable team player with strong communication skills and the confidence to deliver consistently, even in demanding environments.

Looking ahead, Tom’s ambition is to complete his Level 4 qualification in Sports Turf Management. He is particularly passionate about contributing to the growth of women’s football, recognising its expanding presence and unique requirements. Beyond his own development, Tom is committed to sharing knowledge with peers and supporting local clubs to raise standards across the wider industry.

His vision is to contribute to the industry’s future while helping inspire and support others along the way.

Tom has joined us a year and a half ago from Devonshire Park Tennis, he is a proven winner having helped the team there to multiple Grounds Team of the Year accolades. Fantastic range of skills and brilliant attitude, keen and positive and a joy to work with. Brings enthusiasm and new approaches to his work. Tom has a bright future ahead of him, with a pathway towards being a Head Groundsperson one day, and we are extremely fortunate that we have him with us now as a key member of our team."

Phil Fifield, Head of Stadiums – Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club