Sioux Center Parks Director Lee Van Meeteren was named Iowa’s Sports Field Manager of the Year.
Van Meeteren received the statewide award at the recent Iowa Sports Field Management Association (ISFMA) banquet in Des Moines. The award recognizes professional ability and contribution to Iowa’s sports turf industry.
“Lee, along with his staff and facilities serve as a model of excellence throughout the sports field community,” said Jeff Lamoureux, ISFMA Executive Director. “Lee is well-deserving of this recognition.”
Lamoureux said Van Meeteren has selflessly contributed to the success of the Iowa Sports Field Management Association, serving in several leadership roles, hosting educational workshops in Sioux Center, and even recently being selected for the national Sports Field Management Association board.
Van Meeteren was nominated by former Sioux Center Community Schools athletic director Mark Hulshof and Sioux Center Assistant Parks Director Colton Waring, then selected at the state level.
“Lee is always asking what is next and how we can improve upon this. He is not afraid to try something new and innovative and always looking for input,” Waring said. “These qualities are why I believe we have such phenomenal facilities and continue to move forward instead of staying stagnant.”
“You don’t get these awards by yourself. It takes a team,” Van Meeteren said, thanking the Parks Department staff for their work and highlighting the collaboration between the City, Dordt University, and Sioux Center schools. “This is what joint use is all about, to have the personnel and the tools to do things the right way.”
Van Meeteren’s work has helped Sioux Center be recognized with 2019 Softball Field of the Year, 2018 Iowa Diamond of the year, and 2017 Iowa Baseball Field of the Year. He has served 12 years on the state ISFMA board and recently began serving with the national board.
