Bernhard Academy, in partnership with BIGGA, has selected 10 greenkeepers for a career-defining trip to America.
Bernhard Academy, a Premium Partner of the British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), has chosen 10 BIGGA members to participate in one of the most prestigious learning opportunities in the sports turf industry.
As a BIGGA Premium Partner, Bernhard Academy organises this biennial delegation, inviting 10 members to attend the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America’s (GCSAA) Conference and Trade Show. This year, the event is being held in Orlando, Florida. Securing a place on the delegation highlights a candidate as one of the most dedicated and talented ambassadors for the golf greenkeeping sector.
The week-long educational trip is packed with experiences designed to advance the careers of those taking part. It features site visits, seminars, networking events, and educational demonstrations. The successful delegates will also be invited to the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition in January to meet former participants of the programme, many of whom have gone on to achieve great success.
The BIGGA members selected for the 2026 BIGGA Delegation with Bernhard Academy are:
- Andrew Gibbs, Deputy Head Greenkeeper, Sunningdale Golf Club
- Michael Sage, Head Greenkeeper, Knowle Golf Club
- John Stewart, Course Manager, Minchinhampton Golf Club
- Dan Kendle, Head Greenkeeper, Newquay Golf Club
- Ruth Etches, First Assistant, Trentham Golf Club
- Jack Wellings, Deputy Course Manager, JCB Golf and Country Club
- Ian Kirwin, Course Manager, Bramhall Golf Club
- Michael Gibbons, Course Manager, Disley Golf Club
- Ryan Gall, Greenkeeper, Loch Lomond Golf Club
- Stuart Fergusson, Deputy Course Manager, Trump Turnberry
Steven Nixon says: the delegation is a staple of our educational programmes and we are very proud to be giving this opportunity to BIGGA members. Sami Strutt added: the opportunities and exposure our delegates gain from these trips can be genuinely career changing. For many, it’s been a turning point. The friendships built and the moments shared often lead to lifelong connections. We are always inspired by the delegation and our connection with the BIGGA members, knowing that we are providing not only professional development but an impactful life experience.
The GCSAA Conference and Trade Show runs from 2 – 5 February 2026. As part of their duties, the delegates will attend the BIGGA stand during the conference, speaking to visitors about the association and UK greenkeeping.