The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), Reesink Turfcare and Toro announced the winners of the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards at Rudding Park in North Yorkshire.
Two talented greenkeepers were rewarded at the 36th awards – Bradley Taylor, a student at Myerscough College, and Matthew Strutt Donnelly, who attends Berkshire College of Agriculture, won after impressing judges across a series of assessments designed to test their knowledge, skill and passion for greenkeeping.
Bradley, first assistant at Beau Desert Golf Club in Staffordshire, was awarded the main Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year prize; while Matthew, an apprentice at Stoneham Golf Club in Hampshire, secured the Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year award.
Following regional judging, eight finalists were selected to compete in the finals at Rudding Park near Harrogate. Over two days, they undertook a range of practical and theoretical tests – from seed and grass identification to presentations and interviews – giving them a platform to showcase their expertise and enthusiasm.
Jamie Beattie, assistant greenkeeper at Royal Liverpool, was the runner-up for the main award, with fellow Myerscough College student and Parkstone apprentice Oli Badger claiming the runner-up spot in the young student category.
The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards will return in 2026. More information, including how to nominate a student greenkeeper and the prizes on offer, can be found here.
