GCSAA leadership training program is funded by Nufarm

Lawrence, Kan. (Aug. 25, 2026) – Eight assistant superintendent members of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) have been chosen for the ninth class of the EXCEL Leadership Program, which is funded by Nufarm. The three-year program offers leadership training for personal, career and community/industry stewardship for assistant superintendents – the future leaders in the golf course management industry.

“EXECL truly makes a positive impact on the career trajectory of these GCSAA assistant superintendent members, which in turn, benefits the entire industry,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “Thank you to Nufarm for helping us offer this opportunity and congratulations to the members of this year’s class.” 

The EXCEL Leadership Program features two, three-day education and training sessions and a trip to the annual GCSAA Conference and Trade Show. The latest class will join the existing EXCEL cohorts at the Fall Meeting, Oct. 6-9, at GCSAA headquarters in Lawrence, Kan.; the 2027 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in New Orleans, La.; and the Spring Meeting, April 13-16, in Pinehurst, N.C.

“Nufarm is thrilled to welcome another exceptional group of assistant superintendents into the EXCEL Program,” said Jeff Eldridge, CGCS, U.S. golf segment lead, Nufarm. “The individuals selected for this year's class have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to their professional growth and to advancing the golf industry as a whole. We are proud to partner with GCSAA to provide valuable professional development opportunities that will help accelerate their careers, strengthen their leadership skills, and prepare them for future superintendent and industry leadership roles.”

The members of the 2026 EXCEL Leadership Program are:

• Devin Andrews of Jeremy Ranch Golf & Country Club, Park City, Utah
• Abby Head of Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indianapolis, Ind.
• Trevor Kiunke of Inglewood Golf Club, Kenmore, Wash.
• Patrick McDonald of Union League Liberty Hill, Lafayette Hill, Pa.
• Jacob Ocholik of Wayzata Country Club in Wayzata, Minn.
• Renee Schmaltz of Glendale Golf & Country Club in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
• Tizayi Tundu Sithole of Country Club of New Canaan in New Canaan, Conn.
• Edward Wetherell of Circling Raven Golf Club in Worley, Idaho.

To learn more, visit gcsaa.org/excel.