TurfBase helps Octavi get the pitches closer to perfection at FC Barcelona
Grounds Manager Octavi Creus uses TurfBase as his new eyes while striving to excellence
Octavi Creus is responsible for creating excellent pitches at FC Barcelona and is involved in the development of the new 105.000-seat Camp Nou. While FC Barcelona is a club with strong traditions, their groundsman has proven to be very progressive and an advocate for the use of data in pitch management.
Octavi played a key role in the development of our new data dashboard, TurfBase. As part of our test group, he explored the app’s features, provided valuable feedback, and contributed to shaping the ideal data dashboard for the modern groundsman.
Enhancing the senses with data
Octavi has over 35 years of experience in the industry, and he has seen how the industry has evolved. As a biologist and agronomist, he recognises the importance of data in pitch management: “Traditionally, the groundsman works only with his own eyes and feelings, but he needs science and technology to enhance his work and confirm what he has to do. Grounds management is not only about using your eyes, nose, or hands. Of course, I need them very much, but just as much as I need the science, data, and formulas to get a true opinion. I’m an advocate of science and innovation, and TurfBase is a perfect example of what we need.”
Octavi’s new eyes
Octavi oversees seven grass pitches across three locations. While the Estadi Johan Cruyff and Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper are situated next to each other, the stadium is more than 17 kilometres away. Given his meetings and other responsibilities, it’s impossible for Octavi to inspect all the pitches daily. That’s where TurfBase proves invaluable.
“I manage a team of 18 people working on the pitches, including three managers. Now, they can precisely log their observations directly into the app. Previously, they would share what they noticed, such as the pitch colour or general conditions. With TurfBase, I have six data points per pitch, providing me with information like humidity, temperature, sun hours, and lighting time. Ultimately, I’m responsible, so I need all the information available to oversee the pitches effectively. With the TurfBase app, I have everything I need in my pocket.”
Octavi shares an example of how he uses TurfBase remotely: “Last week, I was checking the app with a colleague and noticed a red alert on one of the pitches. We immediately knew there was an issue. It turned out to be a broken sprinkler. I was at home, but I called the groundsman responsible for that pitch and guided him to the exact spot where the problem was. We fixed the sprinkler quickly and avoided any further issues, it’s perfect!”
The pitches are at the heart of a groundsman’s life, remaining top of mind, even during time away from work. “TurfBase brings me peace of mind when I’m not at work. I constantly think about the pitches, even when I’m enjoying my time off. Normally, I’d feel a bit uneasy when I was away. But last weekend, I was skiing, and I could check all the pitch values through the app. That gave me a sense of reassurance. TurfBase has become my new eyes, I can keep watch over the pitches at all times.”
“I don’t reach excellence just by using my senses; I need science and technology. TurfBase is going to help us improve our work. We’re going to be better and reach a higher level.”
Nothing less than excellence
FC Barcelona is renowned for its legendary players, breathtaking football, and the development of extraordinary talent at its famed academy, La Masia. At this club, perfection isn’t just a goal—it’s a standard. Octavi explains, “At FC Barcelona, we always strive for excellence. It’s excellence or nothing, only perfection is acceptable here.”
The pitches of FC Barcelona are held to the same standard of excellence, and innovations like TurfBase assist Octavi in reaching this high level of quality. “I don’t reach excellence just by using my senses; I need science and technology. TurfBase is going to help us improve our work. We’re going to be better and reach a higher level. It gives us the opportunity to implement more science and technology, and real, accurate data. This helps us get closer to perfection.”
By the groundskeeper, for the groundskeeper
Hear from other involved groundskeepers about their first experiences with TurfBase.
“Being part of the test group was a fascinating experience. It was interesting to see how different members had unique ideas and requests for using the app. I valued the chance to embrace new technology and offer feedback, both positive and constructive. I truly enjoyed every bit of it!”
“It was a good experience to be part of the test group. I think it’s always beneficial when you try to improve your products by involving your customers, because they are the ones who will be using them. I was able to provide regular feedback and express my personal needs and preferences. I think it was great!”
