I found my way into sports field management through a simple love of being outdoors and a curiosity about how great playing surfaces come to life. What began as an interest in turfgrass quickly became a lifelong career — one that has taken me from municipal parks to collegiate athletics, professional sports, and now international soccer with the FIFA World Cup.  

But the real story isn’t just about fields. It’s about the people who shaped my path and the responsibility I feel to open doors for those coming behind me. Like many women in this industry, I didn’t get here alone.  

Early in my career, I was fortunate to be supported by strong, talented women who showed me what leadership, resilience, and confidence look like in a male-dominated field. They modeled professionalism, encouraged me to take risks, and reminded me that my voice belonged at the table. Their mentorship helped me see a future for myself long before I fully understood what that future could be.  

I also benefited from male mentors who created inclusive, supportive environments where I could grow. They treated me as a colleague, not an exception. They challenged me, trusted me and made space for me to lead. Their belief in my abilities reinforced that good mentorship isn’t defined by gender — it’s defined by respect, opportunity and the willingness to invest in someone’s potential. Over time, I realized that what I loved most wasn’t just the science of turfgrass or the satisfaction of a perfectly prepared field. It was the passion behind it — the commitment to providing safe, high-quality athletic surfaces for communities, student-athletes and professionals.  

That passion has guided every step of my career, from local parks to NFL stadiums to FIFA training sites. It’s what keeps me striving for excellence, innovation and sustainability in every project I take on. As my career has grown, so has my responsibility to give back.  

Mentoring students and young professionals has become one of the most meaningful parts of my work. I especially value introducing girls to the careers behind the scenes in sports that they often don’t know exist. I want them to see that women belong in sports field management, in leadership roles, and in every space where decisions are made and excellence is expected. Supporting internships, field days, and conference programs allows me to help young people build confidence and gain hands-on experience.  

Creating welcoming workplaces for women is equally important. Representation matters, and I want girls to see themselves not just participating in sports, but shaping them, managing fields, leading crews, directing operations, and setting the standards for safety and performance. My story is rooted in turfgrass, but it has grown into something much bigger: helping the next generation of women believe in themselves, see their own potential and know they belong in this industry. If I can help even one woman find her passion, discover her confidence, or take her first step into a career she loves, then every field I’ve ever managed has been worth it. 

Abby McNeal, CSFM, CPRP, is the previous parks superintendent at City of Louisville (Colorado) Parks, Recreation and Open Space.

Learn more about NRPA's Get Her in the Game resources to expand access to youth sports in your community and share your story highlighting the powerful role youth sports programs play in strengthening lives and communities.