It had been a long time since “The Frozen Tundra” hosted a college game; 1983 to be exact, when the St. Norbert Green Knights faced the Fordham University Rams in “The Lombardi Bowl,” before a few hundred people as the two (then) Division III schools with ties to the legendary coach (the Packers train at St. Norbert still, Lombardi went to Fordham). Other than for the two schools it was pretty forgettable, and obviously a lot has changed in the evolution of the Packers brand, the upgrades to Lambeau Field and the marking and usefulness of facilities since that November Saturday decades ago.
Fast forward to last Saturday in Green Bay, a game, which if it came off seamlessly, could open the doors for more action, and more revenue, for the hallowed home of the Packers.
With just under four minutes remaining in this past weekend’s Wisconsin vs. LSU game, the Badgers’ Rafael Gaglianone kicked what would become the game winning field goal from 47 yards. While most people watched the snap, hold and kick, Green Bay ‘s Manager and Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) Past President Allen Johnson had his eyes on the Rafael’s plant foot, digging into his field.
Johnson began his 20th season in charge of Lambeau Field faced with the unique challenge of preparing his NFL field for a marquee college football game.
Logistically, Johnson was aided by the Packers playing two road NFL preseason games in the immediate weeks leading up to the Wisconsin and LSU matchup. This allowed Johnson and his team plenty of time to plan and create a design, which featured team logos in the corners of each end zone in addition to nine diagonal white stripes to give the field a “throwback” vibe.
The day-to-day responsibilities of Johnson and his crew pertaining to managing the field are constantly changing. Painting and re-painting the field takes numerous hours in the days leading up to any game, especially in this instance when creating a new logo on the 50-yard line. Trying to predict and fight the weather in advance could throw a wrench into Johnson’s plan-of-action for any given day.
Often, Johnson turns to the STMA for ideas, tips or anything turf-related. With a wide base of turf managers from all levels of sports with a field, the networking opportunities in this inclusive community for Johnson and fellow members are endless.
Johnson’s next opportunity to let his work shine is when the Packers face the Detroit Lions September 25 in its home opener. After such a successful college football kickoff last weekend, Johnson will get back to his roots and make sure the Packers’ home field is just as safe and playable as it was September 3.
Win or lose this weekend, the potential for even more green in Green Bay was enhanced by the college ranks last weekend.
