Tizayi Sithole selected to receive the 2026 Larry Powell Scholarship

Tizayi Sithole has been named the recipient of the 2026 Larry Powell Scholarship from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). Sithole is currently pursuing a master’s degree in turfgrass science management through Penn State World Campus and serves as an assistant superintendent at the Country Club of New Canaan in New Canaan, Conn.

The scholarship, funded by donors through the GCSAA Foundation, is named after 52-year GCSAA member Larry Powell, superintendent at Clearview Golf Club in East Canton, Ohio. The course, built by his father, the late Bill Powell, is the only facility in Ohio that has been designed, built, owned and operated by an African American. Bill and Larry became the only African American father-son members of GCSAA. The Powell family, which includes Larry’s sister Renee, the second African American to play on the LPGA Tour, was honored with GCSAA’s Old Tom Morris Award in 2019.

Sithole, a native of Africa and six-year member of GCSAA, received his bachelor’s of science in agriculture, agronomy and crop science from the University of Zimbabwe in 2016. His completion of a master’s of science in turfgrass science, golf course operation and grounds management through Penn State World Campus will be made possible thanks to the Larry Powell Scholarship. 

While golfing at in Zimbabwe, Sithole met members of the grounds crew.

“That experience inspired me to learn more about the turfgrass industry, and I discovered that greenkeeping is a respected profession with meaningful career opportunities,” Sithole said. “I am continuing my education so I can grow in this field and inspire others to recognize the value of this career path.”

Sithole’s educational background also includes HNC (Higher National Certificate) in golf course management from SRUC (Scotland’s Rural College) and HNC in sports turf management and maintenance from The Ohio State University, both completed in 2021, and an HND (Higher National Diploma) in golf course management obtained through SRUC in 2024. 

“My long-term dream is to help advance and strengthen the turfgrass industry in Africa. I hope to continue my education to the Ph.D. level, build expertise in turfgrass science and management, and eventually move into turfgrass consultancy,” he said. “I also want to create initiatives that introduce more young people to the industry and help them see turfgrass management as a respected and rewarding career path.”

As a member of GCSAA, Sithole has made friends and connected with peers from around the world, and he has learned a great deal through the association’s educational platforms. GCSAA’s certification programs have helped him grow professionally, secure meaningful jobs, and gain respect and support from others in the industry. 

“This award means a great deal to me. I am grateful for the legacy Mr. Powell left behind, which continues to encourage people like me to advance in the turfgrass industry,” he said. “I am honored to receive this scholarship, and I hope to serve as a proud ambassador for the award moving forward. Winning it has strengthened my confidence and affirmed my commitment to this profession.”

To learn more about the Larry Powell Scholarship visit www.gcsaa.org/career/scholarships.

About GCSAA

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to 20,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and improve communities through the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org.

The GCSAA Foundation is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to secure funding and support to strengthen advocacy, education, and research that advances the work of golf course management professionals. Visit the Foundation at www.gcsaa.org/foundation.