From the President

Fairways of Opportunity

As we explore golf in our great state in this summer edition, I am reminded of how our professional paths can be shaped in the most unexpected ways. My introduction to golf happened quite by accident, and yet it has profoundly shaped my career and my life.

When I was accepted into the Turfgrass Management Program at North Carolina State University (NCSU), I had no clear direction on which sector of the industry I would pursue. In fact, golf was probably at the bottom of my list of potential paths. My initial plan, after graduating high school, was to continue working for my dad on the crew of his asphalt paving company, a job I had done for years. However, a chance opportunity to work at The Kinston Country Club for the summer changed everything. I decided to take the job at the country club to gain some basic turfgrass knowledge before starting my formal education at NCSU. From the moment I stepped onto the course, I fell in love with the work. There was something about the meticulous care and attention required to maintain a golf course that resonated with me. By the time I began my classes that fall, I was already thinking about how I could apply what I was learning to golf course management. The idea of entering any other segment of the industry simply faded away.

Early in my career, I did take a brief detour outside of the golf industry. I accepted a position as a production manager for a landscaping company. Almost immediately, I realized how much I missed the unique challenges and rewards of golf course management. It wasn’t long before I found myself drawn back to where I felt I truly belonged.

Returning to the golf industry led me to my first position as a golf course superintendent at The Kinston Country Club, the very place where my passion for golf course management was ignited. It felt like a full-circle moment, coming back to where it all began and having the opportunity to apply my knowledge and skills in a setting that had already played a significant role in my life.

As we focus on the theme of golf in this edition of NC Turfgrass Magazine, I am reminded of the critical role that golf plays in our industry and in our communities. Golf courses are more than just places to play; they are vital green spaces that require the expertise and dedication of turfgrass professionals to thrive. Our work not only enhances the playing experience but also contributes to the environmental sustainability and aesthetic beauty of these courses.

Our commitment to excellence in turfgrass management ensures that North Carolina's golf courses remain some of the best in the country. Whether you are just starting out in this field or have been a part of it for many years, your efforts are essential to the continued success and growth of the golf industry. Let's continue to support each other and share our knowledge and experiences.

Wil Sutton

President

Turfgrass Council of North Carolina