Surviving Wet Winters and Building a New Team with James Bass
Episode Overview
Managing a golf course through a wet winter requires resilience and innovation. Recruiting a new team can bring fresh perspectives and energy. Support from higher-ups is crucial for implementing necessary changes. Balancing technical tasks with personal life is challenging but essential. Team cohesion and morale are key to overcoming tough seasons.
I'm sick of hearing 'I've never done this' - it's now 'this is how we are doing it'.
Ever wondered what it takes to keep a golf course in top shape through a soggy winter? In this episode of Henry Westons Old Mate the Podcast, host Stuart Butler sits down with James Bass, the head greenkeeper at Worley Park, to talk about the challenges and triumphs of greenkeeping. James shares his experiences of managing a team through one of the wettest winters in recent memory and the process of recruiting a whole new team of greenkeepers.
From dealing with organic matter in golf greens to the complexities of drainage and worm control, James provides a candid look at the day-to-day realities of maintaining a golf course. James discusses the significant changes at Worley Park since he took over, including the complete turnover of staff and the backing he received from his maintenance director, Ross.
He highlights the importance of having a supportive team and the impact of new recruits, both young apprentices and seasoned workers returning to greenkeeping after years in other fields. The episode also touches on the emotional aspects of the job, such as the sudden passing of their CEO and how it affected the team. With a mix of technical details and personal anecdotes, this episode offers valuable insights into the world of greenkeeping.
Whether you're a golf enthusiast or someone interested in the behind-the-scenes work that goes into maintaining a golf course, you'll find this conversation both informative and engaging. Plus, there's a bit of light-hearted banter to keep things entertaining. So, if you're curious about how greenkeepers manage through tough seasons and what it takes to build a cohesive team, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear James Bass's honest and down-to-earth perspective on greenkeeping at Worley Park.