Though there are no doubt some attendees still enjoying the California sunshine, many of us have returned to reality and the single digit or colder temperatures that awaited us. The chance to renew old friendships and begin new ones was a large part of the worthwhile experience, as well as the seminars, trade show and informal bull sessions.
Doug Schattinger, president of Pioneer Athletics, reflected the spirit of this 20th annual Sports Turf Managers Association Conference when he won the 50/50 raffle at Wednesday night’s reception and immediately gave the money back to the organization’s SAFE charity.
SAFE also benefitted from that day’s golf tournament, sponsored by Jacobsen, played at The Ranch Golf Club overlooking Silicon Valley. Big elevation changes and tight fairways were no match for Pennsylvanians Steve LeGros, Dan Douglas, Todd Vanek, and Mr. Pate, who finished at 57 in the scramble to win first place.
Professionals from MLB, MLS and NFL teams partnered with several sponsors yesterday to refurbish a local field to wrap up the festivities.
Coverage of award winners from the Annual Banquet will be posted tomorrow.