Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards 2026
We’re delighted to announce 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 Reesink Turfcare, Toro, and the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), the awards recognise the brightest emerging talent in the greenkeeping industry.
Winner of Student Greenkeeper of the Year, Jake Rose with Runner up Toby Smith, and Winner of the Young Award, Archie Raynham with Runner Up Sam Wells, all the finalists and judges.
Alwoodley First Assistant and Myerscough College student Jake Rose won Student Greenkeeper of the Year, having been a runner-up three years ago, with Essendon Country Club Greenkeeper Archie Raynham of Oaklands College claiming the Young award. 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. Jake commented on his win:
Rob Hogarth, Dealer Development – North at Reesink Turfcare and main award judge says: “Jake knew his subject matter and put the interview panel at ease. His answers were strong, consistent and well thought out. We feel sure he will go on to become someone who shapes the future of 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.
The finalists for Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2026 at Rockcliffe, County Durham.
Their performances gave the judging panel an insight into their technical understanding, communication skills and enthusiasm for the profession.
Archie says being rewarded for something he’d set his heart on is such a great feeling.
Darren Anderson, Dealer Development – South at Reesink Turfcare and Young award judge says: “Archie showed an impressive overall knowledge of greenkeeping. His professionalism and keenness shone through, and as a candidate, he presented himself exceptionally well. He connected with us as judges, and demonstrated knowledge, passion and potential to make a real impact.”
Toby Smith, Deputy Course Manager at Redlibbets and Hadlow College student, was the runner-up in the main category, while Isle of Purbeck Apprentice and Sam Wells of Myerscough College claimed that spot in the Young category.
Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO, concludes by saying: “Congratulations to Jake and Archie on this thoroughly deserved achievement. Every finalist performed with great distinction and demonstrated the talent emerging across our profession. These awards are always a highlight of the year, and we are extremely grateful to Reesink Turfcare and Toro for their continued support. The quality and enthusiasm on display at Rockliffe offered enormous encouragement for the future of greenkeeping.”
The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards will return in 2027. Details of the awards, including the nomination process and prizes available, can be found on the BIGGA and Reesink Turfcare websites.