Brandon Moyo [email protected]
ZIMBABWE-born, USA-based greenkeeper Tizayi Sithole continues to break new ground and explore new frontiers following his enrolment in the 2026 Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) Excel Leadership Programme.
Sithole will once again fly the Zimbabwean flag high as he joins the three-year programme, which provides participants with training in management.
In addition, Sithole, who serves as an assistant superintendent at the Country Club of New Canaan in New Canaan, Connecticut, had the opportunity to attend the GCSAA’s 100th anniversary celebrations, where he was also honoured for his hard work and progress from being a greenkeeper in Zimbabwe to an assistant superintendent in the USA.
“I keep making history, setting the stage for future turf grass gurus on the global stage. In honour of Col. J Moley; ‘No life can is, or can be, self existent, we depend upon each other.’ These words still stand true to their meaning and thank you GCSAA for the advancements in turf skill,” Sithole wrote.
Speaking to Zimpapers Sports Hub following his recent recognition, Sithole said he was eager to pursue his dream of revolutionising the turfgrass industry in Africa.
“I am filled with gratitude and being acknowledged at the celebrations dinner, I am more energised to continue with my journey to revolutionise the turf grass industry across Africa. I had thought of giving up but after this and learning about the founders of GCSAA 100 years ago, I feel I don’t have to be selfish and must do what ever it may take to make this a reality: Africa Chapter of the GCSAA,” said Sithole.
In August, Sithole, who is pursuing a master’s degree in turfgrass science and management through Penn State World Campus, was named a recipient of the Larry Powell Scholarship by the GCSAA.
The scholarship, funded by donors through the GCSAA Foundation, is named after Larry Powell, a 52-year GCSAA member and superintendent at Clearview Golf Club in East Canton, Ohio.
A six-year member of the GCSAA, Sithole graduated from the University of Zimbabwe in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture, specialising in agronomy and crop science.
Sithole’s interest in greenkeeping began while golfing in Zimbabwe, where he met members of the grounds crew. The encounter inspired him to pursue a career in the profession.
“That experience inspired me to learn more about the turfgrass industry, and I discovered that greenkeeping is a respected profession with meaningful career opportunities. I am continuing my education so I can grow in this field and inspire others to recognise the value of this career path,” said Sithole (via GCSAA).
He added: “My long-term dream is to help advance and strengthen the turfgrass industry in Africa. I hope to continue my education to the Ph.D. level, build expertise in turfgrass science and management, and eventually move into turfgrass consultancy. I also want to create initiatives that introduce more young people to the industry and help them see turfgrass management as a respected and rewarding career path.”
