Winning Student Greenkeepers Named
Following two days of competition
The winners of the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards 2026 have been crowned following two days of competition at Rockliffe in County Durham.
Organised by BIGGA, Reesink Turfcare and Toro, the awards recognise the brightest emerging talent in the greenkeeping industry.
Alwoodley first assistant and Myerscough College student Jake Rose won Student Greenkeeper of the Year, having been a runner-up in the Young category three years ago, with Essendon Country Club greenkeeper Archie Raynham of Oaklands College claiming the Young award.
Jake said of his victory, “It’s a massive honour. Coming runner-up in 2023 probably spurred me on that little bit more to want to do it again. It’s a massive award and the prizes are phenomenal, so it’s a pretty mint feeling all round.” Whilst Archie commented of his, “It’s hard to put into words. Since I was about 12, greenkeeping is all I’ve wanted to do. I loved golf and had a big interest in lawn care, so I put the two together.”
The pair emerged victorious from a talented pool of finalists after demonstrating their knowledge, practical ability and commitment to developing a successful career in greenkeeping.
The 37th staging of the awards brought together nine finalists who had progressed through online interviews earlier in the year.
During the national finals at Rockliffe, near Darlington, the candidates completed a series of practical and theoretical challenges, including seed and grass identification, presentations and interviews.
Organisers say their performances gave the judging panel an insight into their technical understanding, communication skills and enthusiasm for the profession.
Toby Smith, deputy course manager at Redlibbets and Hadlow College student, was the runner-up in the main category, while Isle of Purbeck apprentice Sam Wells of Myerscough College claimed that spot in the Young category.
The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards will return in 2027.
