Ladies Leading Turf: Volunteering for change
Increasing opportunities and visibility of women in key roles will be the focus of this year’s Ladies Leading Turf.
Now in its sixth edition, the annual event founded by Canadian Superintendent Leasha Schwab and supported by Syngenta, takes place during the GCSAA (Golf Course Superintendents Association of America) Conference and Trade Show in Orlando, Florida next month.
It brings together leading female professionals to share experiences and discuss the topical issues and challenges facing women in turf.
A catalyst for change
Back in 2020, there was one female volunteer on the maintenance team at the US Women’s Open. A year later, at San Francisco’s Olympic Club, almost half of the 60-strong team were female.
Troy Flanagan, Director of Golf Maintenance at The Olympic Club, recognised golf needed more diversity and working alongside Syngenta’s Kimberly Gard, recruited 28 more women to work at the 2021 US Women’s Open.
Troy is one of six leading turf experts meeting to explore the positive impacts of volunteering on women’s career development, as part of Ladies Leading Turf.
The panel will explore the stories of female volunteers at the 2021 and 2022 US Women’s Open and learn how an all-female turf team took charge of grounds for the Little League Softball World Series.
This year’s panel includes:
· Jill Seymour, Superintendent at Charleston Springs South Course in Millstone, New Jersey
· Alex Hills, Senior Assistant Superintendent at Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando, Florida
· Sunserrae Roesslein, Stadium Manager at North Area Athletic Complex in Golden, Colorado
· David Fruchte, Director of Golf & Grounds at Pine Needles and Mid Pines Resorts in Southern Pines, North Carolina
· Troy P Flanagan, Director of Golf Maintenance at the Olympic Club in San Francisco, Calif
· Kimberly Gard (Moderator), Territory Manager at Syngenta Golf
Moderator Kimberly Gard will chair a Q&A session and lead the panel discussion on the growing impact women are having on course care and the turf industry.
Ladies Leading Turf Q&A panel discussion ‘Volunteers and the Turf Team’ takes place on Wednesday February 8, from 3pm to 4pm, in the Valencia Room (ABC) at Orange County Convention Center.
It is followed by a drinks reception on the Interactive Grass Stage. All show delegates are welcome to attend, pre-booking is required.
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