Lawrence, Kan. (Jan. 10, 2023) – When the doors open to the 2023 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show, the industry will be greeted with the Interactive Grass Learning Stage at the entrance to the show.
This 20,000-sq. ft. area will feature two forward tees, partial builds, a green featuring three different types of turf, irrigation demos and more. The Golf Course Builders Association of America (GCBAA), Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), United States Golf Association (USGA) and American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) have collaborated to add to the interactive experience at the 2023 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show to build an area replicating features found on actual golf courses.
This interactive area will be the Show’s main stage featuring valuable presentations from the GCSAA, USGA, GCBAA, ASGCA and others. Throughout the two trade show days, attendees will be able to experience demonstrations and interact with GCBAA builders, ASGCA golf course architects, members of the USGA Green Section staff and GCSAA members, all of whom are well-versed in the planning, design, construction, maintenance and other factors related to golf course management.
In addition, visitors will be able to learn by viewing partial builds featuring side cutaways of a USGA spec putting green, interact with a drip irrigation installation and discover innovative data collection technology. With specially designed networking areas, the industry will be able to gather and learn from each other while onsite. Every element has been developed and built “by the industry for the industry” to offer a true hands-on learning experience.
“Our members and industry are hands-on. The grass stage further enhances our focus on delivering the most interactive experience you won’t find anywhere else,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “The incredible work and collaboration between the GCBAA, USGA, ASGCA and GCSAA will enable our industry to share valuable ideas, insights and new approaches to apply immediately at golf facilities worldwide, continuing their essential role in golf’s success.”
“We are proud to lead the construction of this important industry program. With input from our members along with support from our GCBAA industry partners, we are excited to see this innovative and unique stage to come to life,” shared Justin Apel, GCBAA executive director. “This effort is just one part of our long relationship as presenting partner of GCSAA Conference and Trade Show offering our members added opportunities to learn and enhance their careers and business.”
“From utilizing technology to positively impact turfgrass management, to how we create a stage for a USGA Championship course, our teammates from the Green Section are excited to showcase their expertise at the Interactive Grass Learning Stage next month,” said Mike Whan, USGA CEO. “It’s been great to see the unified partnership between everyone involved to bring this innovative experience to life.”
“The collaboration between the four associations will result in an experience that will benefit attendees across all areas of responsibility for the design, construction, renovation, and maintenance of golf courses,” added Chad Ritterbusch, ASGCA executive director. “As the industry comes together, we are proud to be part of this effort to enhance learning for our members and everyone attending the Show.”
Construction of the Interactive Grass Learning Stage will take place prior to the show opening, so it will be fully operational for all attendees when the doors open. Multiple industry partners are providing support, including Waupaca Sand and Solutions/SportZmix Solutions, Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc., Sod Solutions, Golf Agronomics, Caterpillar, Inc., Ring Power, Sunbelt Rentals, and Ewing Irrigation and Landscape Supply.
About GCSAA
The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to more than 19,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and improve communities through enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter. Visit our industry-leading magazine at GCMonline.com.
The GCSAA Foundation is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to secure funding and support to strengthen advocacy, education, and research that advances the work of golf course management professionals. Visit the Foundation at www.gcsaa.org/foundation.
About the GCBAA
The Golf Course Builders Association of America (GCBAA) is a nonprofit trade association of the world's foremost golf course builders and leading suppliers to the golf course construction industry. It was founded in the early 1970s, and its members represent all segments of the golf course construction industry.
It is the only organization in the world organized by and for golf course builders, and the only organization that represents the interests of the golf course construction industry.
The Association also endeavors to provide comprehensive programs and services to construction contractors and specialists regarding the changing regulations and technology of golf course construction.
The GCBAA is a founding member of the National Golf Course Owners and continues to work closely with the other Allied Associations of Golf including the American Society of Golf Course Architects, the National Golf Course Owners Association, the United States Golf Association, the National Golf Foundation and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, on a variety of issues that affect the golf course construction industry.
About the USGA
The USGA is a nonprofit organization that celebrates, serves and advances the game of golf. Founded in 1894, we conduct many of golf’s premier professional and amateur championships, including the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open Presented by ProMedica. With The R&A, we govern the sport via a global set of playing, equipment, handicapping and amateur status rules. The USGA campus in Liberty Corner, New Jersey, is home to the Association’s Research and Test Center, where science and innovation are fueling a healthy and sustainable game for the future. The campus is also home to the USGA Golf Museum, where we honor the game by curating the world’s most comprehensive archive of golf artifacts. To learn more, visit www.usga.org.
About the ASGCA
Founded in 1946, the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) is the professional association representing golf course architects in North America. Our members, past and present, represent the most acclaimed and experienced design professionals in the golf industry, including legendary names like Ross, Langford, Jones, Thompson and Maxwell. Our collective work spans the globe, ranging from the most famous, storied courses in golf to local favorites with deep community roots.
Contact:
Mike Strauss
Manager, Media Relations
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 5164
mstrauss@gcsaa