Super-Scratch Foundation seeks donations for turf-scholarship fund

In addition to scholarships, the Super-Scratch Foundation hosts a golf tournament for its members. The team that wins the Super-Scratch Championship, held at Huntingdon Valley (Pa.) CC, gets to allocate a portion of the National Agronomy Association Fund to universities of their choosing. (Photo: Golfdom staff)

A group of industry professionals believe that the agronomy industry has been overlooked for too long, and now they’re doing something about it. In an effort to create an easier path to education for future generations of superintendents and industry professionals, the Super-Scratch Foundation is awarding scholarships to turf students nationwide.

According to the foundation, over the past five years, it has given more than $50,000 towards agronomy degrees, doubling its support each year. Foundation members say the lack of turfgrass students affects the feeder programs to other industries beyond golf courses, causing issues for clubs, superintendents and members.

A group of superintendents and members at Huntingdon Valley (Pa.) CC launched the foundation in 2020. Super-Scratch receives its funding through donations from club members and courses around the U.S.

“All of us have posted jobs for assistants and interns over the past 10 years and noticed the decline in applications,” says Scott Bordner, head superintendent, Union League National GC, Swainton, N.J. “If we don’t have a louder voice, how are others going to know there is a shortage?”

Currently, the foundation is looking for groups to allocate $1,000 from their operating budgets to help the cause. Courses that do will be designated as Advocate Clubs on the foundation’s yearly communications and website.