ASGCA President Jan Bel Jan has focused much of her career on bringing into the game of golf those who are on the fringes; introducing Scoring Tees to improve the playing experience, committing to the Alliance for Accessible Golf, and now providing opportunities for the next generation of course employees. This new venture was part of her “Tartan Talks” podcast with Golf Course Industry.
Bel Jan told Guy Cipriano of her efforts at South Fork High School in Stuart, Florida.
“South Fork High School had three par 3’s and a driving range created 20-25 years ago as part of a career-tech high school. The school board has now funded creation of a ‘Turf Learning Center.’ I have redesigned it and we will work with the students to update the holes, driving range and a new short game area over five years.
“Students in the Landscape Design program at the school will participate in design, construction and maintenance of facility. They will understand why math and science are needed. It will be a wonderful experience at a school that has already produced at least a half-dozen superintendents. We want students to have the opportunity for a career whether they go to college or not. This is hands-on experience and builds ideals of hard work and being a team player that will make them better employees after they graduate.”
The complete “Tartan Talks” interview can be heard here.