Long Ashton’s GCMA Team of the Year nomination reflects a club united by shared goals, open communication, and a commitment to excellence across every department.
Teamwork is not just a buzzword at Long Ashton Golf Club, but a philosophy that runs through every part of the operation.
That spirit has now been recognised on a national stage, with the club shortlisted for the GCMA Team of the Year award.
For General Manager Reece Miller, the nomination is particularly meaningful because it celebrates the collective efforts of everyone at the club, from greenkeeping to F&B, administration to the PGA Professional team.
Long Ashton’s success has been built on collaboration, clear communication and a shared commitment to excellence.
Here, Reece explains how that strong culture of unity underpins everything they do, and how that approach continues to drive Long Ashton’s growth.
What does being shortlisted for the GCMA Team of the Year mean to you and everyone at Long Ashton?
It means a tremendous amount, not only to me but also to my team. For me, this award is different from all others, as it combines the efforts of every department at our club. It brings us together and recognises the contributions of all our staff, not just one department. I am fortunate to have such a fantastic and devoted team that works across all areas.
Having our collective hard work, collaboration, and passion for the club recognised on a national stage is something we are incredibly proud of.
Every department, from greenkeeping, F&B, administration to the PGA Professional team, plays a vital role, and being shortlisted validates the ‘one team’ ethos we have here at Long Ashton GC.
Can you describe some of the key achievements or initiatives that you feel led to the nomination?
Several initiatives stand out to me. Our successful delivery of major on-course projects, such as the drainage works on our 6th and 7th holes, and in-house projects, including the rebuild of a USGA-spec putting green, the renovation of the 11th and 17th hole bunkers, and our driving range expansion, demonstrated both technical expertise and teamwork. We are fortunate to complete projects to such a high standard with our in-house team here at Long Ashton GC, without needing to employ external contractors like others.
Our full kitchen refurbishment has enabled our team to continue providing an excellent offering to our members, with the resources to further enhance this already fantastic service. Equally, our commitment to junior development has grown our junior membership from 46 to 125.
On top of that, our consistently high 59Club scores across all departments, recognised through continued service awards and the retention of our Gold Flag, demonstrate the daily excellence our staff provide for members and guests.
How would you sum up the culture within your team, and how has that played a role in your success?
I have been fortunate throughout my career as a General Manager to work with some great teams that collaborate closely. Here at Long Ashton, however, I have found that everyone, from casual staff to the Directors, understands they are part of something much bigger than just their own department. That shared sense of responsibility creates an environment where we support each other, take ownership, and genuinely enjoy contributing to the club’s progress. Just recently, staff from F&B volunteered to help with course maintenance.
I cannot thank them enough for the sense of togetherness they bring to the club.
How do you and your staff make sure everyone is aligned towards the same goals?
Communication is key. Being transparent and clearly communicating expectations and the club’s goals is crucial. Dedicating time for regular one-on-one and team conversations ensures buy-in from everyone.
We achieve alignment through open communication and shared ownership. Regular reviews of 59Club results, member surveys, and project updates help each department understand how they contribute to the club’s success. By celebrating wins together and openly discussing areas for improvement, we keep everyone engaged and focused on our shared goals.
The 59Club in-house, year-end celebrations allow me to show, through data and a touch of humour, how each individual plays a part in the club’s overall score and success.
Looking ahead, what are the club’s main priorities or projects for the next 12–18 months?
Our focus is on continuing the implementation of our Course Development Plan, including further bunker refurbishments, preparation for the redesign of the second hole, and the redevelopment of the driving range. We will also continue our work with The R&A towards Golf 2030 and transition from mains water to a self-sustaining water source. Additionally, we shall progress with phase two of our clubhouse modernisation, ensuring that our facilities match the quality of our course.
Alongside this, we will continue to invest in sustainability initiatives, such as Operation Pollination, to further strengthen our environmental credentials.
GCMA Awards 2025
The winners will be crowned at the Gala Dinner during the Golf Club Management Conference & Exhibition on 17th November 2025 at Cotswold Water Park, Wiltshire. It promises to be a memorable evening of celebration, reflecting the vital role golf club managers and their teams play in the growth and success of the game.
