Golf course superintendent honored for advocacy efforts, advancement of association priority issues and congressional outreach

Lawrence, Kan. (Jan. 26, 2021) – Marc Weston, golf course superintendent at Indian Hill Country Club in Newington, Conn., has been named a Grassroots Ambassador Leadership Award winner from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).

The Grassroots Ambassador Leadership Award, presented quarterly in partnership with The Toro Co., recognizes and honors individuals who have demonstrated growth in advocacy and advancement of the GCSAA Priority Issues Agenda through congressional outreach and relationship development with a member of Congress. Through Toro, the winners will receive a trip to take part in the 2021 National Golf Day in Washington, D.C.

“Congratulations to Marc,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “He has not just been a great advocate for Connecticut golf in Washington, but he sees the vital importance of collaboration and camaraderie with his fellow ambassadors.”

The GAL Award is part of the GCSAA Grassroots Ambassadors program, which pairs superintendents with members of Congress to build strong relationships between them. More than 430 GCSAA members currently serve as ambassadors.

“Attending National Golf Day has been one of the greatest things I never thought I would be able to do with my career,” Weston, a 23-year member of GCSAA said. “Meeting with the D.C. staffers was a successful, great experience, but what stuck with me is the energy. Hundreds of people who either got on a plane or took a long drive sitting and exchanging ideas.”

Weston is paired with Rep. John Larson (D-CT-01) and has worked hard to create a relationship with the congressman and his office. He’s spoken about golf’s economic and charitable impact in Connecticut with Larson and met with his staffers during National Golf Day. After his first trip

to National Golf Day, Weston hosted “Beers & Burgers,” a golf advocacy event for his fellow Grassroots Ambassadors.

“To me, nothing is more important than helping our industry to establish meaningful connections supported by a strong network and valued relationships,” Weston said. “My goal has always been to continue to bring people together. It is a true honor to receive this recognition from GCSAA.”