The position forms a key part of its long term succession planning for both the Club and Wimbledon Championships and has arisen from the intended retirement of current Head Groundsman Eddie Seaward in 2012.
Neil, aged 41, has been at Wimbledon for 16 years, the past nine as Senior Groundsman. He will continue to understudy Eddie Seaward until after the London 2012 Olympic Games, when he will take over the position of Head Groundsman.
Ian Ritchie, Chief Executive of the All England Club, said: “The standard of candidate was first-class with the post attracting some very talented and experienced people. We commiserate with those who missed out this time, but are delighted that, in Neil, we have appointed the best person to ensure that Wimbledon’s life blood, its grass tennis courts, continue to play their vital role in the future success of the Club and The Championships.”
Neil Stubley said: “It is an honour to have been appointed and I am delighted at the prospect of being able to build on the fantastic work done by Eddie Seaward and the team. In the meantime there is the small matter of two Championships and the Olympics to consider.”
Neil Stubley
Head Groundsman Designate, The All England Lawn Tennis Club, Wimbledon Neil Stubley, (born 26/4/69), is an experienced and long-standing member of the All England Club’s Groundstaff team since joining from college in 1995.
In 2002, he was promoted to Senior Groundsman. In this position he has led the team’s day-to-day operation, including overseeing the work during The Championships. In addition, he has been a consultant for the Club and the Lawn Tennis Association on tennis related matters at other tennis clubs.
He holds a National Diploma in Sportsturf Management as well as being a BASIS registered advisor on pesticides. He is currently studying for a degree in Sportsturf.
Neil lives with wife Claire and their daughter in Worcester Park.
Published: 01/03/2011
