Click Here for Press Release: Press Release SRCC 5-19-2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 7, 2025

Sandy Run Country Club to Host Innovative Environmental STEAM Event for Local Students

ORELAND, PA – The Philadelphia Association of Golf Course Superintendents (PAGCS) is proud to announce an exciting environmental education outreach event at Sandy Run Country Club. On the morning of Monday, May 19, golf course superintendent Alex Lennertz will welcome 4th and 5th grade students from Good Shepard School for a GCSAA First Green field trip — a dynamic, hands-on learning experience that turns golf courses into outdoor STEAM classrooms.

First Green, a program of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), introduces students to science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) concepts in an outdoor setting. The curriculum is designed to connect classroom learning with real-world applications, using the natural environment of a golf course as a unique and engaging backdrop.

First Green field trips are funded by grants from GCSAA and PAGCS.

Event Details:

• WHEN: Monday, May 19, 2025 | 8:15 AM – 11:30 AM
• WHERE: Sandy Run Country Club, 200 E. Valley Green Rd., Oreland, PA 19075
• WHO: 21 students (7 from 4th grade, 14 from 5th grade), hosted by Alex Lennertz, local superintendents, and PAGCS affiliates
• WHAT: A hands-on STEM field trip featuring interactive learning stations

The morning will begin with a brief introduction to the club, its history, and its role in the community. Students will then rotate through a variety of learning stations including:

• Mathematics on the Course – exploring measurements and calculations used in course maintenance
• Technology on Course – learn about and see innovative tools used by superintendents
• Nature and Conservation – capturing the course through a creative lens, identifying plants, landforms, and environmental features, learn how to preserve open spaces
• Exploration/Physical Education – swing and learn!

This First Green event supports environmental awareness, promotes outdoor education, and introduces young students to potential future careers in turf management and the golf industry — all while having fun.

For more information, contact:
Alex Llennertz, host superintendent:
darunsturf@gmail.com/215-350-3576
Kristen Liebsch, Philadelphia Association of Golf Course Superintendents: kliebsch@pagcs.org/484-467-5298