2015 Shields Memorial Golf Tournament

Over $17,000 raised for IAA Golf/Turf Program

IAA student volunteers pose with Karen Shields and Elvis. l to r: Evan Richter, Jimmy Halley, Tyler Barnhart, Ian Patrican, Christian Brinkerhoff, Karen Shields, Elvis, Shaun Clark, John Critzos, Marvin Martinez, Jeff Bynaker.

June 25, 2015

The 36th Annual Shields Memorial Tournament, held at Twin Shields Golf Club on May 8, attracted over 170 golfers who enjoyed a warm, sunny day that was perfect for golfing.

This year’s tournament raised over $17,000 that not only supports student travel to national and regional meetings and competitions, but also supports student scholarships. I am extremely proud of how the Shields Endowment has grown and now generates over $9,000 annually for student scholarships at the University of Maryland’s Institute of Applied Agriculture.  Since 1991 a total of 108 Shields Scholarships have been awarded to deserving students majoring in our Golf Turf program. 

As the advisor, instructor, and team coach I can attest to the students’ genuine appreciation for receiving a Shields Memorial Scholarship and being able to compete in national competitions. This year we won the 2015 STMA Student Challenge and placed 2nd in a field of 69 teams at the 2015 Collegiate Turf Bowl. These accomplishments would not have been possible without the support of alumni, industry, and the Shields families. Through the support of the Shields families hosting this annual event the IAA turf program has be able to gain national recognition.

Since the late 1990’s the Shields Memorial Tournament has alternated between Glenn Dale Golf Club and Twin Shields Golf Club. Unfortunately this was the last time Twin Shields will host the Shields Memorial since the course will be closing this fall. I am saddened to hear this news and I will always remember the warm hospitality that Karen Shields, Diane Allen, and John Dodson extended for this very special event at their facility. The 2016 Shields Memorial will be hosted at Glenn Dale Golf Club and I look forward to the continued support by our alumni, industry representatives, and the Shields families for this charitable event.