Tom started cutting grass as a summer student on the turf care crew - when he finished his two year college diploma he was offered a full time position.

"This is a job for early risers - whether or not you enjoy it you enjoy it is another matter. Depending on the time of year, we are in by 6:00 am and on the course by 6:30 am. While most members think we just maintain the grass - this is a major part of our job - we also maintain ponds, streams, and other roughs, and periodically relocate the holes on putting greens to eliminate uneven wear of the turf and add interest and challenge to the game.  

At some courses, we may even help plan and develop additions or changes to the course.  The grounds crew also have the responsibility of keeping canopies, benches, ball washers, and tee markers repaired and freshly painted.  Our jobs may also include raking and mulching leaves, clearing snow from walkways and parking lots, and repairing those walkways and parking lots.

In the off season we usually work on the equipment and carry out major renovations to the course.

Our days are long and the work is often hard but I really like being outside where I can enjoy nature and the natural beauty of the course."