You get what you give: Local chapter participation is key

par•tic•i•pate | verb. a) to take part b) to have a part or share in something ¶ I pulled this from an old Webster’s dictionary, circa 1990. What does participation mean to today’s turf managers?

I’ve always been involved. It started way back as an assistant at Sugar Mill Country Club in New Smyrna Beach, Fla. I worked with Mike Beard, and he always encouraged participation in chapter events. If he didn’t go, he made sure he sent me. When we both had the opportunity to attend, I knew it was going to be a good day. It meant a lot to a young assistant.

Can I remember the topics or speakers? Not at all. I do remember all the lifelong friends I’ve met, including the superintendents at the best clubs and several trade secrets they shared.

I didn’t have the benefit of a 4-year degree, or even a turfgrass major (no turf bowls for me). I had my AA degree, a job and lots of determination to succeed (thanks, Mom). I viewed participation as a way to learn the business from the viewpoint of others. I had a great boss who shared his knowledge and secrets of growing grass with me. I was a sponge when it came to learning new things and techniques from others. This was accelerated by attending chapter events.

Today, all across the country, many local chapter participation levels are lethargic. I know this doesn’t apply everywhere, but I see it locally and know other chapters are experiencing lower numbers. I often wonder why. Education is better now, clubs are receptive, courses are great and you’re among friends, peers and brothers in turf.

I have heard a plethora of reasons and all are valid. Perhaps you’ve heard them too, including the following:

1. Family time. If this isn’t the most important reason to miss a meeting, I don’t know what is. Face it, many of us married way over our heads. We’re blessed for that. But our spouses know by now how important it is to gain and share knowledge in our business. Staying fresh and motivated in our careers also impacts our home life. You don’t have to go to every meeting, but every meeting should be a part of your calendar.

2. Can’t get away or too busy. I get it. Job first, priorities intact. But you can’t get away every time a meeting rolls around? Really? Then send your assistant. Certainly one of you should plan on attending.

3. $$$$. If your club/course doesn’t reimburse you, the cost of going to meetings can add up. Can you put a value on your attendance? Sure. Maybe an affiliate member could assist in your attendance. I know at our chapter — Palm Beach GCSA — the general meeting and education portion are free. That’s right, free. If you want lunch and want to play golf there’s a fee, of course. I wish I could report that this free meeting idea was overwhelmingly successful. It should be.

4. Salesmen. You don’t want to talk to them or get paired with them. Why not? Infectious diseases? You might find you have more in common with them than you think. Regardless, what’s wrong with meeting new people? Besides, you just say no to a pitch… they’re used to it.

5. Too far to drive. This doesn’t apply to you if you have a drive that’s less than one hour in any direction. Just ask superintendents in Montana, Idaho, Nebraska, etc.

6. I am a hermit (or I don’t need to go). No you are not! You are a superintendent. We have one of the most difficult, challenging, rewarding, exceptional, coolest, envied jobs in sports. We are a unique fraternity in a unique business. Sharing each other’s successes and failures is one of the greatest parts of the profession.

One could say I’m just venting again, but I’m concerned about this fraternity of superintendents. I see less and less participation in a great profession. We must continue to learn, grow, share and participate at some level in our profession, and not just on Twitter. Make it a point to renew your membership, attend chapter events and share your experiences. There just might be someone in attendance who needs it.