Thursday, September 7, 2017

A perspective on the Melrose Leadership Academy


I recently had the opportunity to chat with 2017 Melrose Leadership Academy attendee, Brad Caporini. Brad is a Class A member and the superintendent at Old Corkscrew Golf Club in Estero, Florida. Brad had never been to the Golf Industry Show prior to the conference in Orlando. The Melrose Academy provided Brad an experience about which he still is raving.

In our conversation, Brad relayed that every aspect of the process was so rewarding. I asked how the application process was to complete and he revealed it reminded him a little of a job interview. He meant this as a positive comment. “It was a thorough questionnaire that made me think introspectively and analyze how I worked day to day. I put a lot of consideration into my responses and I am glad it paid off!”

Brad was equally impressed by the phone call he received from a GCSAA board member notifying him that he was selected to participate in the 2017 Melrose Leadership Academy. At the time, GCSAA Secretary/Treasurer, Darren Davis, CGCS, also followed up with a letter that really struck a chord with Brad. He was moved that he was getting these personal outreach touches by GCSAA board members.

Once the time came to attend the Golf Industry Show, Brad was excited to participate in the itinerary that was presented. Brad truly felt special to be a part of the select few individuals that were chosen. He took in every event with enthusiasm and he specifically made note that Mischia Wright, associate director of EIFG, really fueled his excitement by her professionalism and her engaging demeanor. Every facet of the interaction was equally rewarding and the networking opportunities were endless. As a matter of fact, a fellow attendee from Pennsylvania that Brad connected with reached out to make sure Brad was doing okay heading into what could be a long few days with the impact of Hurricane Irma uncertain. These connections were exactly what made the experience so memorable for Brad.

Brad feels like he may be ruined because his expectations will always be as high as what he experienced through his participation in the Melrose Leadership Academy. From the opening ceremony to the closing celebration, Brad embraced every aspect of the 2017 Golf Industry Show.

It is my hope that others will investigate the chance to participate in the Melrose Leadership Academy and have an experience that rivals what Brad enjoyed. The deadline for the 2018 Melrose Leadership Academy in San Antonio is rapidly approaching. The application needs to be in by September 15, 2017. You must be a Class A or B member of GCSAA as well as a member of your local chapter. You must have been a member for at least five years and not have attended the Golf Industry Show in the past five years.

If you think this is an opportunity you would like to pursue, apply.
If you have any questions about the program, I would be glad to answer them or I am confident the GCSAA field staff representative in your region will assist. (I guess I am hopeful that my blog's reach is even outside my region! Here’s hoping…)

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