THOMAS VLACH
Certified Golf Course Superintendent
AGRONOMY: OVERVIEW
Tom has provided world-class conditions to the clubs he has had the privilege to work with for the length of his career. He knows agronomy and turf management, and understands what it takes to produce these great results in varying economic and club-specific conditions. A few of the key reasons Tom is a qualified professional are highlighted below.
Summary of Qualifications
– Experienced Superintendent with CGCS status since
1996 from GCSAA; youngest member to become certified.
– Highly-effective communicator with all involved in club and public.
– Directly involved with over 25 professional events, which includes
many PGA Tour events such as The Players.
– Thorough knowledge and field experience in all aspects of golf
course construction; completed both new construction and renovation
work with architects Rees Jones, Pete Dye, and Ron Forse.
– Successfully develop and mentor management staff to meet
club demands and industry standards.
– Recipient of numerous industry awards and recognition;
won National Award for Resort Category by ELGA.
Agronomic Philosophy
One of the keys to Tom's success is thorough planning and implementation of his agronomic philosophy. While there are many components to his philosophy, it is critical to tie them all together with leadership and insightful management. An overview of his philosophy is included below.
CREATE STANDARDS FOR GOLF COURSE
Mowing frequency -- Course accessories -- Green speed -- Bunker maintenance -- Course detailing
DEVELOP MAINTENANCE STAFF
Set high standards for performance -- Create culture of excellence -- Cross-training of skills -- Safety is critical -- Reflect positive image for club
CREATE AGRONOMIC PROGRAMS
Document and plan all major applications and activities for each year -- Standardized soil and tissue-testing -- Standardized water quality-testing
STRONG MECHANICS DEPARTMENT
Preventative Maintenance -- Five-year replacement program -- Require continuing education
ENCOURAGE MASTER PLANNING
Examine playability, grass types, irrigation, drainage, cart paths and traffic patterns
COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM
Create personal connection with as many members as possible -- Participate in club meetings -- Daily communication with clubhouse and pro shop -- Utilize latest in social media such as Twitter and Agronomy Blog
ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS
Clean maintenance facility -- Detailed record-keeping for fertilizer and chemical applications and inventory
ANCILLARY FEATURES ARE IMPORTANT
Advocate for well-designed and manicured landscaping where club desires -- Extensive tree removal to promote turf health -- Work with clubhouse to provide beautiful plantings around all facilities on property
©2012 THOMAS VLACH. WEBSITE BY PLAYBOOKS FOR GOLF.