Greenskeeper position

[mackingchicken]

Just wondering how the best approach would be to become a greenskeeper? I am very interested in this and wondering what course you can do? Or just attempt to get an apprenticeship at a local club?

[iacas]

Just wondering how the best approach would be to become a greenskeeper? I am very interested in this and wondering what course you can do? Or just attempt to get an apprenticeship at a local club?

You will need a degree in agronomy or something. Go talk to a local superintendent. And don't call him a "greenskeeper." :)

[Foursum Golf]

There are lots of programs out there to take. Here is an example after a quick google search:

http://plantscience.psu.edu/majors/golf

Erik is right though, talk to a Super and he/she will point you in the right direction.

[Foursum Golf]

If you're in Canada, Guelph has a good program. A friend of mine took it. I can intro you if you'd like.

[wils5150]

I would first get a job on the grounds crew and see if you like it. There are many good programs out there Umass, Rutgers and Penn State to name a few. The life of a Superintendent can be both rewarding and a bitch. Long hours, 6 sometimes 7 days a week and sometimes very unstable. I have been a Superintendent for 13 years (4 at my last course) walked in to work and the director of the 2 course said sorry your position is eliminated due to funding. So at age 47 I am out of a job thinking hard about a career change . I am not trying to discourage you in any way. If its something you want go for it but be prepared for long hours ant mediocre pay and moving to new jobs every so often. Sadly the days of staying at a course for many years seems to be a thing of the past.