Recognizing the importance of supporting golf course management industry professionals, 25 companies have recommitted their support of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) by participating in the association's partner recognition program.

The Toro Co. and John Deere Golf remain at the Platinum Level, while Syngenta and Jacobsen reaffirmed Gold Level support in the fifth year of the program.

“The continued participation clearly indicates industry sees itself as an important contributor to the development of golf course management professionals and that GCSAA provides industry a high-quality platform to connect with their customers,” GCSAA Chief Executive Officer Rhett Evans says. “These companies are truly invested in the association and its members.”

GCSAA's Partner Recognition Program provides year-round exposure opportunities based on a prescribed level of investment. GCSAA industry partners can choose among Platinum, Gold and Silver levels as a means to achieve marketing objectives. Each level provides unique communications and recognition options to position themselves in the marketplace. Vehicles in the program include the Golf Industry Show, GCSAA Education Conference, Golf Course Management magazine, media communications, and GCSAA.org. Additional opportunities for exposure within GCSAA membership, committees, chapters, career services and others exist as well.

"Last year the McMahon Group surveyed club managers regarding association service to facilities and GCSAA was found to be the highest performing.” Evans said. “We could not have attained that level of performance without the support of our partners in providing the resources that enable us to deliver member programs and services. Not only do our partners advance the careers of our members, but they also enhance facility effectiveness and contribute to the golfer’s enjoyment of the game. It is a true partnership in every sense of the word. I know our members value the support."

Components of the program were developed based on feedback from industry. The association's primary communications vehicles are the most read in the industry and are considered by industry to be the cornerstone of its marketing activities. Among the other features that companies desired in their marketing mix were to maximize year-round visibility, secure proprietary options and engage in philanthropy in a strategic manner by supporting The Environmental Institute for Golf.

GCSAA is a leading golf organization and has as its focus golf course management. Since 1926, GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the United States and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to 19,000 members in more than 72 countries. GCSAA's mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. The association's philanthropic organization, The Environmental Institute for Golf, works to strengthen the compatibility of golf with the natural environment through research grants, support for education programs and outreach efforts. Find GCSAA on Facebook, follow GCSAA on Twitter, and visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org.

For more information contact:
Matt Brown, GCSAA managing director, marketing and development, 800-472-7878.