Advancing advocacy

One of the more unappreciated roles GCSAA plays is that of an advocate for its members, the profession, the industry and the game. We have a tendency to take it for granted until it affects us personally. The reality is that the association’s advocacy efforts cast a big net over the entire membership for the betterment of all.

We dedicate a considerable amount of resources to advocating on your behalf. Our presence at National Golf Day in our nation’s capitol — along with our industry partners — sends a strong message to Congress of the recreational, economic, social and environmental benefits of golf. And we take this government relations effort not just to Washington, D.C., but to various statehouses as well.

We also clearly demonstrate our commitment to the environment and the well being of our communities. Our media campaign and our employer communication efforts stand as other examples of our advocacy role.

GCSAA is both aggressive and proactive in advocating on behalf of its golf course superintendent members. When the officers of GCSAA’s board of directors visit major championship sites, our schedules revolve around meetings with allied associations, networking with media representatives and building relationships with other influential persons present at these events. We also enjoy meeting with the host superintendents and our many members who take time out of their busy schedules to volunteer at these events.

In some cases, it’s more appropriate to partner with others in the golf industry for our advocacy efforts. GCSAA, along with our partners, sent an extremely strong message last month regarding negative comments in a USA Today editorial about the game of golf and its environmental role. Our voice carries more weight as part of a larger effort than it does alone.

At no previous time have allied golf organizations worked more closely and more effectively on issues affecting golf. We’ve made great gains in many areas in recent years that were only pipe dreams a decade or so ago. That’s why we dedicate time and resources to enhance our relationships and interactions with allied golf associations. We rely on each other — as we must — in areas where our respective strengths might be pooled.

It’s our hope that GCSAA members on the state and local level will replicate the relationships that we’ve been able to build on a national level. I’m heartened by the various state and regional golf initiatives in which allied associations have partnered for the common good.

Building relationships starts with all of us at our respective facilities. I implore you to take a more active role in your facility, your chapters and GCSAA. Your involvement will provide the impetus to resolve the economic, regulatory, legal and other challenges facing us today.

Start today to make the future of golf a priority in your life and help build your path to success.