By Michael Bradley

The season is upon us---long days, warm nights, and golfers scrambling to enjoy what we all make possible. 2026, being the 100^th birthday of the Organization that has and will continue to aid us in our endeavors, has been extensively mentioned and for good reasons. I was reminded of what our founder, Col. John Morley, said.

Chapters and sponsors have donated Plaques, carved bricks, endowments, and other gifts. I feel that we can do more than these Chapters. Let's evaluate ourselves individually and as a Chapter to determine how we can strengthen our Chapter and its parent organization going forward. Only then will we define our Chapter.

We can be members of golf clubs, car clubs, and church bodies, to mention a few. Your hand or foot is a part of your body, like your eyes, stomach, and vital organs. A member serves the whole being. Much like a hand or foot, some members serve the whole through provision, others through small service, and others still through service on a larger scale. I want for every golf course in the State of New Mexico, along with any from neighboring states that are inclined to be members of the RGGCSA, GCSAA, and the SWTA. Our employers should want to provide these memberships, as they invest in you for the good of the course at which you provide your services.

I trust that all of you know that the RGGCSA is here, providing relevant education for your turf needs and earning GCSAA and state pesticide CEUs. We also provide you with a group of peers that can and will assist as best they can in any situation-a Family in turf, we eat and golf together. Some crying is involved, too, generally by my teammates, though. We also provide access to vendors from throughout the state, making it easy to place orders, ask questions, or schedule on-site visits for those same purposes and more. In conjunction with GCSAA, we provide a marvelous tool, the BMP manual. This manual is essential to your course, and to every course in our state and in other states as well.

GCSAA uses BMP to tackle problems head-on with the EPA and other agencies, demonstrating that we are the world's best stewards. They also develop crew training materials in English and Spanish to support our crews' training. Offering greenkeeper certificate programs, among others. They offer many programs for individual members to enhance career advancement. They make Rounds 4 Research possible, greatly enhancing Chapter dollars for research and education. They then amplify the education and family aspect of the Chapters.

SWTA is essential for tying all fine turf-to-turf adjacent careers together, offering a 3-day event with golf, education, CEUs, a tradeshow, and networking. We are easily introduced to more potential employees and, hopefully, to lasting friendships.

I vote to be of service, not just to these organizations that I value and appreciate, but to each of you, whom I value and appreciate. I cannot do this alone, nor can the Board; it will take all of us. As Col. John Morley said, “No life is, or can be, self-existent. We depend upon each other”.

Have an excellent season.

When you step onto a lush, perfectly manicured golf course, the serenity and beauty can feel almost magical.  Yet, behind this scene is the meticulous and often underappreciated superintendent and golf course grounds staff. We are the unsung heroes of the golf world, ensuring that every blade of grass is just right, and every bunker is pristine.  The heart of every superintendent’s job is ensuring that you make the course better.

Every day we are tasked with placement of tee markers and hole locations, considering factors like player skill levels and weather conditions.  Mowing greens, fairways and roughs, raking bunkers and repairing divots and ball marks and so much more.  This daily grind ensures that the golfers enjoy a consistent and challenging playing experience.

On our course, I have found a recipe for success.  I recognize and celebrate achievements by acknowledging the hard work and successes of each team member.  Daily, we work side by side, and I encourage open communication by creating an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas, concerns, and feedback.  Open communication develops trust and can lead to innovative solutions.  I promote work-life balance to maintain a healthy work-life balance.  I recognize the importance of taking breaks to prevent burnout and keep morale high.  Lastly, I lead by example.  Leadership plays a crucial role in setting the tone for our golf course.  I demonstrate a positive attitude, respect, and collaboration in my daily interactions.  My team follows suit, creating the ripple effect throughout our organization.

Despite the many challenges, being a golf course superintendent is a deeply rewarding profession and I wouldn’t have it any other way.  I feel the immense satisfaction in seeing golfers enjoy the course.  Our roles blend science, art and a love for the outdoors, all while ensuring that the game of golf continues to thrive for decades to come.

All the best,

Sam Garza

NMMI Golf Course