GCSAA announces newest class of leadership program

Eight assistant superintendent members of the GCSAA have been chosen for the seventh class of the EXCEL Leadership Program, funded by Nufarm. The three-year program offers leadership training for personal, career and community/industry stewardship for assistant superintendents — the future leaders in the golf course management industry.

The EXCEL Leadership Program features a pair of three-day education and training sessions and a trip to the annual GCSAA Conference and Trade Show. The 2024 class will attend the Fall Meeting, Oct. 8-10 at Desert Mountain in Scottsdale, Arizona, the 2025 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in San Diego, and the Spring Meeting in 2025.

“GCSAA is grateful to once again provide professional development for future leaders in the golf course management industry through the Nufarm EXCEL Leadership Program,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “Congratulations to those selected for this year’s class — your dedication to your craft and commitment to advancing your profession is commendable.”

 The members of the 2024 EXCEL Leadership Program are:

• Will Bendy Jr. of Olde Florida Golf Club in Fort Myers, Florida
• Caleb Handley of Black Course-Bethpage State Park in Farmingdale, New York
• Andrew Hessa of Pinehurst at Bishops Bay Country Club in Middleton, Wisconsin
• Austin Kaval of The Golf Club at Lansdowne in Lansdowne, Virginia
• Gavin Kopczynskie of Wilmington Country Club in Wilmington, Delaware
• Derick Mara of Mayacama Golf Club in Petaluma, California
• Will Reece of Philadelphia Cricket Club in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Tyler Robb of The Grove XXIII in Hobe Sound, Florida