Rudding Park's First Assistant Greenkeeper has been announced as the winner of 'Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2021.'
26-year-old Matthew Milligan saw off hundreds of applicants to reach the national finals where just six candidates competed for the title at Celtic Manor Resort.
The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association, alongside Toro and Reesink Turfcare, announced Matthew as the winner following a nationwide search for the country’s leading student greenkeepers. Matthew said:"I can’t believe it – I am buzzing! Greenkeeping has become my passion but I couldn’t have achieved this without the support of my friends, family and colleagues. "Rudding Park have really invested in my development so I was determined to work hard and bring the trophy back 'home' to Rudding Park!"The award aims to test the participant's knowledge, not only of greenkeeping tasks, skills and heath and safety, but also understanding the job role; personal development; industry awareness; the Toro company; BIGGA and career aspirations. Rudding Park Head Greenkeeper Richard Hollingworth said:
"We are thrilled for Matthew. Winning this national award is career defining moment – not many people get the chance to hone their skills on some of the best courses in the world."Jason Norwood, the winner of the award in 2019, also came from Rudding Park - something that Richard believes may have added pressure onto Matthew. He added:
"There was extra pressure on him given Jason won in 2019, however, we had complete confidence in Matthew. He really deserved this - I am so pleased for him."Matthew will receive an eight-week all expenses paid scholarship to America, including a six-week residential turf management study course at the University of Massachusetts, a trip to the Golf Industry Show in Orlando, Florida and a visit to Toro’s facilities. Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.
Legendary Harrogate police officer to retire after 23 years
New roadworks set for Halfpenny Lane in Knaresborough
Harrogate Theatre to recruit Fundraising Manager
Return of Your Harrogate and Fat Badger Golf Day raises £10,000 for local charities
Amber's at Cedar Court launches new Thursday Club
Harrogate supercar financier wins prestigious national award
Harrogate BID appoints town centre support officer
Council spends another £300,000 on Station Gateway
Luxury womenswear brand opens shop in Harrogate
Harrogate pre-school rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted
Celebrity guests revealed for return of holiday show in Harrogate
Chris Aldred appointed Harrogate charter mayor
First hippo in 20 years born at Flamingo Land Resort
Residents question 'completion' of gas works on Halfpenny Lane
Harrogate hospital staff 'stressed and anxious' over workloads
Biannual open gardens event returns to Ripon
Record-breaking fundraising total for Harrogate motor show
Harrogate bar goes viral for bottomless Guinness brunch
TV stars reunite to fundraise in support of Harrogate businessman
Halfpenny Lane bridge to reopen this week
