Scott Mauldin , Mark Cote and Pete Stephens represent the VGCSAA on Capitol Hill . LEFT : Steven Ball , Damian
Beasley , Mark Madonna and Dave Callahan at
The Foundry GC .
VGCSAA
But , as any superintendent will tell you , top-tier golf course maintenance is not possible without an adequately staffed team .
A SHIFT IN STAFFING
While efficiency goes up amid modern innovations , staffing struggles have increased in a way few predicted . “ 15 years ago , I would have stacks of resumes on my desk , with a continual influx of people wanting to work at the golf course ,” says Mark Madonna , superintendent at Ashley Plantation in Daleville . “ This has changed , and not for the better .”
He notes that assistant superintendent positions have become notoriously difficult to fill . “ Historically , it was a lower paying position with a requirement of many hours , including weekends and holidays ,” Madonna explains . “ While the work-life balance was far from ideal , those who put in their time and learned the industry could become very successful , eventually establishing themselves as superintendents .”
Much like everything else , this has shifted over the years . “ It is easier to replace a superintendent in today ’ s market than it is to replace an assistant ,” Madonna shares . He and his team have learned that high-quality training is crucial , but it has become equally important to foster a sustainable work-life balance . Doing so can help ensure the training isn ’ t wasted by someone else hiring your assistants out from under you .
Interestingly , superintendents like Madonna have observed that advancements in chemicals and equipment have enabled efficiencies that do ultimately improve work-life balance for those maintaining the course . When tasks that once took all day can now be completed in an hour or two , superintendents , assistants and other employees experience less burnout and have additional time for training , team-building and more .
A LOOK TOWARD THE FUTURE
Advancements in the golf industry have certainly transformed the way course maintenance is carried out , but that ’ s not to say the life of an agrarian servant has become all wine and roses . Working as a golf course superintendent will always require a healthy amount of hard work . It ’ s a career path that is well suited for those who are drawn to the outdoors , possess a strong work ethic and are hopeful about the future of the field .
“ I love my job . I cannot imagine myself doing anything different ,” Madonna says . “ Where else can I be outside all day surrounded by beautiful scenery , have a 160- acre office and bring my dog with me ? Some of the hardest working , nicest and most genuine people are part of this brotherhood that we call the golf industry .”
Regardless of the numerous ways the field has transformed since the 70s , Fisher wholeheartedly agrees : “ Don ’ t tell anybody , but it ’ s the best job in the world .”
WORK-LIFE BALANCE : A PANOPTIC PERSPECTIVE
Careers in the golf industry present challenges in maintaining an appropriate balance between work , family life and personal time . A person ’ s overall well-being can suffer when work demands are high , leading to burnout , mental health issues and relationship problems .
When employees are happy , their work quality improves — and those who take pride in their work are generally happier . Achieving work-life harmony requires balance .”
– Lisa Goatley Licensed Professional Counselor
This field can be prone to :
• Long , unpredictable hours
• Stressful mental and physical conditions
Achieving a healthy work-life balance for your employees requires :
• Setting realistic workload expectations
• Encouraging regular breaks and time off
• Implementing wellness programs and initiatives
• Recognizing and rewarding employees for their efforts
• Promoting a supportive and inclusive workplace
• Regularly checking in to understand employee needs vsga . org J ULY / A UGUST 2024 | V IRGINIA G OLFER
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