Thank a Superintendent Day returns Sept. 9

Golf’s annual recognition of its behind-the-scenes leaders returns Sept. 9 with the international Thank a Golf Course Superintendent Day. Organized for the fifth year by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, in partnership with global organizations like the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association, the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association, the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association and the Federation of European Golf Greenkeepers Associations, the event celebrates more than 31,000 professionals in 78 countries.

Superintendents play an indispensable role through expertise in turf management, environmental stewardship, water conservation and pest control, according to the GCSAA. Their work directly impacts not only course quality and aesthetics but also player experience and club financial performance. In recent years, these professionals have adopted sustainability measures and innovative irrigation strategies to ensure courses remain playable and eco-friendly during extreme weather — an increasingly relevant challenge for the industry.

Thank a Golf Course Superintendent Day aims to highlight these subtle yet vital contributions. The celebration features Golf Channel commercials and coordinated social media campaigns. Last year, the message reached 14 million followers, furthering appreciation and understanding for this profession. On Sept. 9, courses are encouraged to give special recognition to superintendents and maintenance staff, and everyone in golf is invited to participate online using hashtags #ThankASuper or #ThankAGreenkeeper.

As the industry faces challenges like resource management and environmental impact, the work of superintendents remains critical. This day serves as a timely call to support those who keep golf thriving behind the scenes.

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