Kevin Sunderman Named Chief Operating Officer at GCSAA

After nearly two decades as a golf course superintendent, Isla Del Sol Yacht & Country Club in St. Petersburg, Florida Director of Grounds, Kevin Sunderman, has been named COO for the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).

Kevin is uniquely qualified for the position, with more than 19 years of experience in professional golf course management, prior experience in the financial sector, a bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University in turfgrass management, and a master’s degree in business administration from Florida Southern College.

Prior to Isla Del Sol, Kevin worked at TPC Prestancia in Sarasota and East Lake Woodlands Country Club in Oldsmar. During his career, Sunderman developed skills beyond professional golf course management by leading multiple long-range strategic planning initiatives and gaining financial management experience as a Series 7-licensed financial advisor.

After six years on the GCSAA Board of Directors, Kevin has had deep exposure to the GCSAA headquarters team including work with the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show, corporate partners, education, diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, advocacy, environmental programs, and the GCSAA Foundation.

“When the opportunity arose for Kevin to join the GCSAA team, we knew we had found our next COO,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “His knowledge of GSAA and the industry, business acumen, and leadership skills provide the association with a speed of transition that will prove advantageous as we expand and enhance the programs and services we deliver to our membership. All members will continue to benefit from his knowledge, passion and dedication.”

Sunderman is a past president of the Florida GCSAand Florida West Coast GCSA, and served on various national GCSAA committees. He was appointed to the GCSAA Board of Directors in 2017, was elected vice president earlier this year and was nominated to be GCSAA president in 2023. Kevin will relinquish his position on the board to become COO.