Lance Rogers, CGCS, from Colonia (N.J.) Country Club, has developed quite a reputation as a tournament volunteer in New Jersey. First, the 27-year GCSAA member is part of a core group of area superintendents that feels it is extremely important to support the host staff by giving of their time and expertise when professional golf events come to town. Second, Rogers' expertise has landed him in a key position several times, helping in a small way to decide who wins or loses — Rogers cuts cups.
Trump National Bedminster’s Old Course is hosting the top female golfers in the world this week for the 2017 U.S. Women’s Open, and Rogers’ participation was never in doubt. Rogers volunteers to assist his friends and support the local superintendent, although he readily admits “every time I do it I pick up at least one or two things I can do at my own course.”
Cup changing for major championships is serious business, and Rogers' typically light personality tends to take a back seat when he's on the clock. “I enjoy it, but it gets pretty stressful” Rogers says. This is the fifth event he has volunteered at, and the third time Rogers has changed cups. Colleague Tyler Otero described Rogers’ approach as “passionate,” and that passion has paid off. He has already been referred to as an “artist” for his hole-painting technique.
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