The 2024 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show Highlights

Networking and learning at the GCSAA Conference 2024.

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News Summary

The 2024 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in Phoenix attracted nearly 11,000 attendees, featuring record-breaking seminar attendance, a sold-out trade show, and recognition for outstanding contributions to the golf industry. This year’s event included competitions, a sustainability showcase, and significant donations to educational programs.

The 2024 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show: A Massive Gathering for Golf Enthusiasts!

What an exciting time it was at the 2024 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show that happened recently! The event took place in the heart of Phoenix and drew in an incredible crowd of nearly 11,000 attendees. From golf superintendents to equipment managers, this year’s event catered to a wide array of professionals in the golf industry, and folks eagerly participated in what turned out to be an educational bonanza!

Record-Breaking Seminar Attendance!

Education was a huge focus of the conference, with over 6,600 seminar seats available. This impressive figure marked the highest occupancy for seminar seating since the good ol’ days back in 2008. Attendees had the chance to engage in specialized education tailored for their roles, whether they were rockstar superintendents, enthusiastic assistants, or keen students eager to learn more about their future careers.

The educational formats were diverse and exciting! Participants could opt for traditional classroom settings or join in on any of the seven interactive facility tours taking place at local golf courses, giving them firsthand experience in the field.

Trade Show Extravaganza!

You wouldn’t believe the buzz around the trade show! Spanning an enormous 352,000 square feet at the Phoenix Convention Center, the exhibit space played host to a whopping 470 exhibits. This year’s trade show was even reported to have sold out, which speaks volumes about the interest and excitement surrounding the golf industry!

Golf Championships Kick Off the Conference!

But that’s not all! The conference kicked off in style with the much-anticipated GCSAA Golf Championships, proudly sponsored by Toro for the 30th consecutive year. A total of 638 unique golfers came out to compete across six flighted competitions on different golf courses, all vying for glory. The National Championship crowned a new victor, with Seth Strickland from the Miami Beach Golf Club taking home his sixth victory. The competition was fierce!

Celebrating Sustainability in Golf

This year, the event proudly showcased Golf’s Sustainability Showcase, a brilliant new collaboration between various golf organizations. Featuring interactive displays and captivating storytelling, this initiative emphasized the importance of sustainability within the golf community and invited everyone to be part of a greener future.

Recognizing Outstanding Contributions

During the event, the Sunrise Celebration was particularly special as it honored Dottie Pepper with the Old Tom Morris Award and Tenia Workman with the Outstanding Contribution Award. A fantastic moment of recognition for individuals who have made a positive impact in the industry!

Million-Dollar Support for Education!

Another highlight was the announcement of a jaw-dropping $1 million donation from Mike and Tami Hoffman to the GCSAA First Green program. This incredibly generous contribution will mainly support the STEAM Ahead initiative, aiming to inspire the next generation of golfers and greenkeepers.

Special Awards and Celebrations!

The Thursday Send-Off Celebration wrapped things up nicely by presenting several awards. The GCSAA Col. John Morley Award went to William “Bill” Murray, while Richie Kremer received the Emerging Leader Award. Wayne Mills also had a big moment as he was honored with the GCSAA President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship, celebrating those who contribute to sustainability efforts.

A Closure that Inspires!

The event wrapped up with a captivating keynote from Brendan McDonough, a survivor of the Yarnell Hill Wildfire. His inspiring story encouraged everyone to not only celebrate their achievements but also to focus on resilience and community.

As we look ahead, mark your calendars for the next GCSAA Conference and Trade Show scheduled for February 3-6, 2025, in San Diego. The excitement is already brewing for what will surely be another thrilling gathering of golf enthusiasts!