Iowa State wins Turf Bowl
The 16th Annual Collegiate Turf Bowl Competition, held Feb. 11 at the GCSAA Education Conference in San Diego, was won by the Iowa State University team of Nick Dunlap, Tyler Dykstra, Bryan Huinker and Caleb Swanson. This is the 10th title for Iowa State in the last 12 years, and the Cyclones will take home the traveling trophy and a $4,000 cash prize.
View all results by team numbers. GCSAA appreciates the efforts of the students, advisers and superintendent graders who contributed to the success of this event. A study guide for the 2011 competition will be available in November.
16th Annual Collegiate Turf Bowl Competition

Presented in partnership with John Deere Golf
Thursday, Feb. 11
8 – 11:30 am
The Collegiate Turf Bowl Competition, facilitated by Leah Brilman, Ph.D., of the Turfgrass Breeders Association, engages teams of up to four participants in areas of mathematics, turfgrass growth and development, and identification of soils, diseases, weeds, insects and turfgrass species. The exam also focuses on the business and financial management side of the superintendent’s profession.
Winners and team placements will be announced at the Student/Superintendent Employment Fair and Networking Reception Thursday evening. New this year, the first place team will receive $4,000 for their turf club along with a traveling trophy, thanks in part to a partnership with John Deere Golf. John Deere Golf also provides a wide range of awards for the top 10 teams.
The cash prizes include:
- 1st place - $4,000
- 2nd place - $2,000
- 3rd place - $1,000
- 4th place - $800
- 5th place - $700
- 6th-10th - $300 each
Individual member registration is necessary. This can be done during your conference and show registration. Teams will sign in together on site at check-in at the Turf Bowl. For your convenience, we have provided a link to the 16th Annual Collegiate Turf Bowl Study Guide here.
Please note: This competition is for undergraduates only.
Student/Superintendent Employment Fair
Thursday, Feb. 11
5:30-6:15 pm

Presented in partnership with Hunter Industries
If you are prepared to make the transition from a student to an internship, crew or assistant superintendent position, make plans to attend the employment fair. This event brings you face-to-face with superintendents who are looking for qualified candidates to fill positions at their facility. The casual format of this event provides you the opportunity to engage and interview with superintendents in a comfortable and informal setting.
Student/Superintendent Networking Reception
Thursday, Feb. 11
6:15-7 pm

Presented in partnership with John Deere Golf
The Networking Reception will be held immediately following the Employment Fair. This event offers food, beverage and camaraderie in a relaxed and casual environment. The 16th Annual Collegiate Turf Bowl Competition winners and team placements will be announced during the reception. Make plans to attend and develop those strong peer-to-peer connections that make a difference.
Hot Topics created specifically for students
Networking Your Way to Success
8 – 8:30 a.m., Friday, Feb. 12
Learn to cultivate contacts and methods for networking that will serve you throughout your career.
Dress for Success
8:45 – 9:15 a.m., Friday, Feb. 12
Once you have completed your education, you will be ready to begin the interview process with potential employers. Learn how to make a positive first impression by dressing the professional part.
Making the Student to Assistant Transition
9:30 - 10 a.m., Friday, Feb. 12
If you are wondering what to expect when entering the job force, come to this Career Hot Topics session and hear one of your peers who has recently made this transition. Learn how to successfully manage the beginning of your professional career path.