The winners of the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards 2026 have been crowned following two days of competition at Rockliffe in County Durham.
Organised by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), Reesink Turfcare and Toro, the awards recognise the brightest emerging talent in the greenkeeping industry.
Alwoodley First Assistant and Myerscough College student Jake Rose won Student Greenkeeper of the Year, having been a runner-up in the Young category three years ago, with Essendon Country Club Greenkeeper Archie Raynham of Oaklands College claiming the Young award.
The pair emerged victorious from a talented pool of finalists after demonstrating their knowledge, practical ability and commitment to developing a successful career in greenkeeping.
The 37th staging of the awards brought together nine finalists who had progressed through online interviews earlier in the year.
During the national finals at Rockliffe, near Darlington, the candidates completed a series of practical and theoretical challenges, including seed and grass identification, presentations and interviews.
Their performances gave the judging panel an insight into their technical understanding, communication skills and enthusiasm for the profession.
Toby Smith, Deputy Course Manager at Redlibbets and Hadlow College student, was the runner-up in the main category, while Isle of Purbeck Apprentice and Sam Wells of Myerscough College claimed that spot in the Young category.
The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards will return in 2027.
Details of the awards, including the nomination process and prizes available, can be found on the BIGGA and Reesink Turfcare websites.
Jake Rose, Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2026, said: "It's a massive honour. Coming runner-up in 2023 probably spurred me on that little bit more to want to do it again. It's a massive award and the prizes are phenomenal, so it's a pretty mint feeling all round. It's done and I can put my name to it now.
"I asked for feedback last time, so I knew where my strengths and weaknesses were. This time I went in with a clean slate, didn't focus on anyone else and just tried to do the best I could. Wherever that led, it led."
Archie Raynham, Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2026, said: "It's hard to put into words. Since I was about 12, greenkeeping is all I've wanted to do. I loved golf and had a big interest in lawn care, so I put the two together. I've always wanted to work outside, and to be rewarded for something I've set my heart on is such a great feeling.
"When my name was called, all the background noise just disappeared. It felt like all the hard work I'd put in had paid off. I'd tell anyone considering entering to absolutely go for it. You meet amazing people, get an opportunity to show what you know and can really demonstrate your passion. I couldn't recommend it enough."
Rob Hogarth, Dealer Development – North at Reesink Turfcare and main award judge, said: "Jake was confident, crisp and knowledgeable. He knew his subject matter and put the interview panel at ease. His answers were strong, consistent and well thought out. We feel sure he will go on to become someone who shapes the future of greenkeeping."
Darren Anderson, Dealer Development – South at Reesink Turfcare and Young award judge, explained: "Archie showed an impressive overall knowledge of greenkeeping. His professionalism and keenness shone through, and as a candidate, he presented himself exceptionally well. He connected with us as judges, and we felt excited about the future of the industry, with Archie demonstrating the knowledge, passion and potential to make a real impact."
Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO said: "Congratulations to Jake and Archie on this thoroughly deserved achievement. Every finalist performed with great distinction and demonstrated the talent emerging across our profession. These awards are always a highlight of the year, and we are extremely grateful to Reesink Turfcare and Toro for their continued support. The quality and enthusiasm on display at Rockliffe offered enormous encouragement for the future of greenkeeping."
