Give to the SAFE Foundation and help provide scholarships, grants and funding for educational and/or research programs for field safety. SAFE has awarded more than $250,000 in scholarships, grants and educational programs during the past 10 years. It has steadily increased the amounts it awards to deserving recipients.
Scholarships for STMA members’ children
Apply for the Darian Daily Legacy Scholarship. This merit-based scholarship is designed to help parents and guardians with the costs of higher education for students not pursuing turfgrass management.
Two $2,500 scholarships will be awarded each year. Eligible students must be enrolled at a college or university and be pursuing a degree outside of the turfgrass management field. The parent, stepparent or guardian must be a current member of STMA and have been a member for 3 years. Parents fill out the online application with input from the student and send it electronically with a high school or current college transcript. Answer just one essay question: “What legacy do you want to leave your child and how has your career helped to define that?” The application is found at STMA.org and must be submitted by October 15.
This scholarship recognizes the legacy left by Darian Daily, a highly involved, 20-year member who passed away suddenly in 2016. Darian was foremost a family man, and he was very committed to advancing students. This scholarship honors those qualities.
Leo Goertz Membership Grants
Are you, or do you know, a sports turf manager or crew who isn’t a national member? Nominate them (or yourself) to receive a 2-year membership to STMA through the Leo Goertz Membership Grant program. The only additional requirement is that they have not been a member for 5 years (STMA can check that when you submit the one-question application.) Up to seven 2-year memberships will be awarded through a random drawing. Online applications are due October 15. Go to STMA.org
Leo Goertz was a long-time member of STMA and a SAFE Board member who gave much time and energy to fundraising. Pioneer Athletics funds this program.
Not a golfer? Or love the game?
SAFE’s newest event, TopGolf appeals to both! Debuting Tuesday, January 16 at the 2018 Conference in Ft. Worth, a TopGolf experience will replace SAFE’s traditional golf tournament. The uncertainty of January weather in Ft. Worth is driving the change for this year.
TopGolf has been taking the golf world by storm with its innovative take on the game. Players are placed in climate-controlled “bays,” similar to bowling lanes, accompanied by full-service staff and lounges. It offers addictive point-scoring games as well as tournament play to make it fun for all guests, regardless of experience. There is a 240-yard outfield with dartboard-like targets in the ground and micro-chipped golf balls that automatically keep score!
This afternoon event is from noon to 3 pm with food and beverages included. This timing will allow participates to travel in on Tuesday morning, golf, and then attend the bowling event that evening. The Fort Worth location just opened and can be seen from the conference hotels. Plan now to play! Golf is co-sponsored by Diamond Pro and Harrell’s.
Bowl for SAFE (and for fun)!
SAFE is again hosting a bowling event, with more than just bowling, Tuesday, January 16 from 6-9pm! Look for games and different competitions throughout the event. Our host, Brunswick Westcreek Lanes, is less than 10 miles from the convention center. SAFE will also provide a full smokehouse barbeque and drink tickets to all bowlers, courtesy of Title Sponsor Fields Inc., and drink sponsor Beacon Athletics.
SAFE Mission: To enrich communities through championing safe, sustainable sports and recreation fields for all athletes. SAFEFields.org; STMA.org.
Ways to give
- Participate in a SAFE Fundraiser, such as golf or bowling.
- Donate an “experience-based” activity, such as tickets to a coveted sports event for our live auction or raffle.
- Provide an item for our silent auction. High-end gift baskets, limited edition or unique sports memorabilia, field maintenance products/equipment, gift cards, and electronics raise the most money.
- Bid on auction items and buy raffle tickets.
- Contribute a cash donation to fund a scholarship or grant. Go to SAFEFields.org, click on “Make a Donation.”
Turfgrass scholarships available
The SAFE Foundation annually funds $16,000 in direct scholarship dollars for students pursuing a career in turfgrass management or research. In addition, those who are awarded the scholarship are also provided complimentary conference registration and hotel expenses at the annual conference. The Toro Company helps to fund this program. Applications are due October 15. To apply, go to STMA.org.