The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) is launching a survey that invites all greenkeepers – whether members of the association or otherwise – to share their opinions on the structure and role of the association itself.
The survey is intended to ensure that greenkeepers are at the heart of plans to develop the activities and structure of BIGGA and ensure it is well-placed to meet the challenges of future years.
The survey is the first step in a consultation phase that is being undertaken in collaboration with Sporting Insights, the leading sports marketing research organisation. The survey can be completed here.
Image by David Ball, Thetford Golf Club
The questionnaire will give all greenkeepers the opportunity to have their say about BIGGA itself, whether positive or otherwise. Questions will cover the BIGGA membership offering, the value of benefits and initiatives that are currently available and how these might change. There will also be questions on membership categories, the role of volunteers and how BIGGA advocates for its members within the industry.
Those who complete the questionnaire will be entered into a draw to win £500 in Amazon vouchers.
Scott Reeves, BIGGA Head of Membership, said: “BIGGA has a proven history of advancing the profession of greenkeeping and providing its members with innovative benefits and opportunities. As the association approaches its 40th anniversary, we recognise that the industry is rapidly changing and if we are to remain an influential force within the golf and turf management industries, we must listen to all stakeholders, whether within membership or those who opt against joining BIGGA. This is a genuine opportunity for everyone in greenkeeping to influence the direction BIGGA takes over the coming years and we are committed to listening to all voices, whether supportive or otherwise.”
Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO, said: “The greenkeeping industry never stands still. Greenkeepers are renowned for being self-critical and always wanting to improve their facilities and their own knowledge. At BIGGA we aim to have a similar mentality, which is why we are again seeking clear feedback to ensure our offering to our members and the wider industry is as fit for purpose as it can be.
“I’m proud of the strides BIGGA has made during its lifetime but we cannot rest on our laurels and I hope very many of our members and other stakeholders in the industry will help us to achieve even more in the next few years.”
Steve Lloyd, BIGGA Chairperson and The Worcestershire Golf Club Course Manager, said: “Participating in this survey gives each of us a voice in shaping the future of our association and, ultimately, our profession. As greenkeepers, our insights and experiences are invaluable in defining the direction and support we need from BIGGA.
“Completing this survey is a chance to make sure the structure and role of the association truly reflect what’s most important for our work and the industry. I encourage all greenkeepers to take part and contribute to this vision for the future.”
BIGGA has long been an association that has evolved to suit the ever-changing needs of its members. A desire to improve professionalism and knowledge led to the development of the Continue to Learn education programme and the implementation of an industry-first Continuing Professional Development system. In recent years, challenges with workforce recruitment and retention and increasing concern relating to mental health have led to the significant investment intended to support members in these areas.
