Beyond traditional maintenance, in-house workshop changes the game

Raising the standard in sports field management

When it comes to sports field management, De Ceuster has occupied a prominent position for many years. From day one, the contracting company specialised in precision work and extends this to its sports division. It does so thanks to its innovative approach and in-depth expertise. With a focus on delivering top-quality sports fields, De Ceuster plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving sports facilities ranging from grass sports fields to golf courses. 

Ing Kim Swinnen, Sports Manager: “Our department excels in applying advanced techniques for sports field maintenance. The use of specialised machinery, such as an ‘affrezer’ for renovating both natural and artificial grass pitches and Verti-drains® for effective aeration, underlines our commitment to innovation. These techniques are essential for maintaining healthy turf, which is crucial for sports performance as well as player safety.” 

Combining theory and practice 

The SPORT team consists of experienced professionals who have in-depth knowledge of both the science and practical aspects of sports field management. “That experience may be taken very literally,” continues Kim Swinnen. 

“Take, for example, Thierry De Jonghe, ex-greenkeeper of Sporting Lokeren, KV Mechelen and Anderlecht, and therefore a (large) vessel of technical knowledge. Thus, in addition to a very grounded theoretical knowledge, we also have a cartload of practical experience. 

But actually, our whole team offers a personalised approach, tailored to the specific needs of each sports field. This approach not only guarantees the quality of the pitches, but also contributes to the long-term health of sports facilities.” 

Successful collaboration with KV Mechelen 

By working closely with clubs, De Ceuster ensures that pitches not only meet, but exceed the high demands of top-level sport. These collaborations illustrate how De Ceuster's expertise directly contributes to improving playing conditions on professional sports fields. An example of De Ceuster's impact is his collaboration with KV Mechelen.  

Kim Swinnen: “This cooperation is really quite a nice one. There, we even have two of our employees - ‘Jeanke’ & Jordy - working as full-time greenkeepers. And it pays off, because the natural grass pitch ‘behind the barracks’ is still one of the finest and best maintained 100% natural football pitches in the Pro League!”  

Knowledge is power 

De Ceuster also emphasises training and research. By investing in the knowledge development of its employees and keeping up with the latest developments in sports field management, the company remains at the forefront of the industry. This commitment to constant improvement is a key factor in its success. 

Kim Swinnen: “We attend a lot of training courses (external/internal) and seminars, to keep sharpening our knowledge. Even abroad, if necessary. This also allows us to keep our customers informed of the latest news. Our business manager Els De Ceuster - Herman's daughter - is very keen on innovation and technology. So we are really given every opportunity to keep up with
educate.” 

The power of having your own studio 

“We are not a box shop, but have our own workshop. Where - spread across our departments - we still have almost 600 machines. Combine that with about five real technicians, and you know that we can develop/build just about any machine, or at least completely adapt it to our wishes and/or those of the customer. That not only allows us to come up with unique machines on the market. But we also always have spare machines or parts available during the ‘renovation’ season - when everyone's schedule is full to bursting. That ensures peace of mind for our customers. Not everyone can say that,” Kim Swinnen concludes.