NGCSA

Airborne . . . that was my thought when I teed off at Nebraska Golf Day. The tee was pretty wobbly as it went into the ground and I managed to somehow place the ball on it. Luckily my drive went straight, not long, but looked good for the spectators. Relieved, I pondered why it should matter so much that I could hit a golf ball. Surely that would not be the only recollection people would have of this day. Perhaps it was personal pride that made me want to hit a good drive for the gallery, but more importantly was that I wanted to demonstrate that superintendents are golf guys too. Too often, our knowledge of the game is discounted by golfers. They consider us grass guys, but don’t realize that, first and foremost, we are golf guys that know and understand all the intricacies of the game. But somehow the ability to hit a golf ball instantly gives you more credibility with golfers. That fact (although never stated) unfortunately probably gives the golf professional more clout with some of your club’s members. How can we overcome that? It is simple and often acknowledged that the superintendent needs to play the game-especially with your members, patrons, and bosses. This allows them to see you as a golfer, not as a guy/gal who just works at their golf course. Golfers relate to each other as only those who play the game can understand and appreciate. They share stories of their best rounds, bad lies, and winning a skins match on the 18^th hole. Be a golfer-it will enhance your status as an authority about the game.

Now back to Nebraska Golf Day- it was a huge success that brought all involved with golf together to display their collective passion for the game. The allied associations promoted the many good things that golf does economically, socially, physically, and environmentally. As each association’s leader presented notable facts and figures, I was struck by how far-reaching golf really is and how important it is to so many people. I was pleased to represent our association and tout the environmental good we do as superintendents. You too should be proud to be part of a great industry.

Nebraska Golf Day would not have been if not for Kristin Crawford. She initiated the idea and was instrumental in accessing the Governor’s participation. I was totally impressed by her ability to network with others in the industry including other allied association leaders. Her ability to coordinate this event signifies her professional approach to all Nebraska GCSA events. Nebraska GCSA staff was attentive to each and every detail that went into producing an impressive event that all involved with Nebraska golf could relish. I want to publicly give them kudos for a job very well done, and I appreciate their efforts to showcase our association and its members.