Pioneers in the Field 2024

Larry DiVito 
Head Groundskeeper // Minnesota Twins
2024 Class of Pioneers in the Field

With a deep admiration and love for the game, much of Larry DiVito’s life has been set within the four corners of a baseball diamond. DiVito has starred in every role from player to coach in America’s favorite pastime. For the past three decades Larry Divito, CSFM, has taken the stage as a groundskeeper. 

Abby McNeal
Parks Superintendent // City of Louisville, Colorado
2024 Class of Pioneers in the Field

Hard work. Integrity. Dedication. Genuine. Dependable. Words that are powerful on their own, an even more so when applied to make a lasting impact. Words that are at the core of every commitment Abby McNeal, Parks Superintendent for the City of Louisville, Colorado has made throughout her life. 

Corey Levine
Athletic Field & Grounds Superintendent // University of North Florida
2024 Class of Pioneers in the Field

If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door. Corey Levine, Athletic Field & Grounds Superintendent at the University of North Florida, has made a career out of building doors. Over the past decade, Levine has built his knowledge of sports turf, a network of mentors and a home in our industry.

Tony Leonard
Vice President of Grounds // Philadelphia Eagles 
2024 Class of Pioneers in the Field

If our lives were maps and we made a mark for each person, place or experience along the way, what would your journey look like? How many people changed the course of your life? Which experiences sky rocketed you into new opportunities? And what was the setting for some of your favorite memories? Tony Leonard, Vice President of Grounds for the Philadelphia Eagles, has been with the team for 23 years.

Nick Miller

Grounds Coordinator // City of Aurora Parks and Recreation
2024 Class of Pioneers in the Field

On any given Saturday in September, Nick Miller looks like any other parent watching his kids play soccer in Aurora, Ohio. While the other parents in attendance appreciate being able to watch their kids play, for Miller the reward holds double meaning. 

Andy McNitt
Head Groundskeeper // Chicago Bears
2024 Class of Pioneers in the Field

Four decades ago turfgrass chose Andy McNitt. McNitt, the recently retired professor of soil science, director of the Center for Sports Surface Research, and advisor to the NFL said the career path in the turfgrass industry chose him forty years ago and it was a no brainer to dive in head first.