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Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. This episode spotlights the Alabama Turfgrass Association incoming president Lee Fillingim – Golf Course Superintendent at Cherokee Pines Golf Course in Centre, Alabama.

With 30 years in the golf course and turfgrass industry and 11 years as a member of the Alabama Turfgrass Association, Lee Fillingim has built a career defined by dedication, leadership, relationships, and a genuine passion for the people who make up the turfgrass industry.

Lee earned his B.S. in Operations Management from Auburn University and began his golf course management career at The Fields Golf Course in LaGrange, Georgia. He later returned to Auburn to earn a second degree in Agronomy and Soils before moving to Macon, Georgia, where he began his career as a Golf Course Superintendent.

Lee and his wife, Lagina, originally planned to spend only a year and a half in Macon. Instead, the community became home for the next 18 years. From there, the family relocated to Anniston, Alabama, where Lee served as Golf Course Superintendent at Anniston Country Club for 11 years. Today, he leads the turfgrass operation at Cherokee Pines Golf Course in Centre.

Throughout his career, Lee has embraced opportunities to serve and give back to the industry. His leadership experience includes serving on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Golf Course Superintendents Association, serving as President of the Alabama Golf Course Superintendents Association, and now preparing to serve as incoming President of the Alabama Turfgrass Association.

The Influence of Mentors

When Lee reflects on his three decades in the industry, one of the things he values most is the many people who have influenced his career.

“Mentors come in many forms,” Lee says. “Whether coworkers, sales representatives, fellow superintendents, sod farm owners, landscapers, or educators, each has played a role in shaping us in the everyday moments of our work.”

While he is grateful for the lessons learned from countless people along the way, one mentor has had a particularly lasting influence: Wade Thomas, Superintendent at Idle Hour Country Club in Macon, Georgia.

“Wade has been and continues to this day to be my most influential mentor,” Lee says.

More Than an Association

For Lee, the Alabama Turfgrass Association represents something much bigger than an industry organization.

“What stands out most about the ATA—and about this industry as a whole—is that it’s never been driven by money,” he says. “Of course, we all work to support our families, but the way we treat one another goes far beyond business. We operate like family.”

Lee believes that spirit is what makes the ATA special. Its committees, programs, and initiatives are built around education, guidance, and a genuine commitment to helping others.

“Our goal is to help every member succeed, no matter the situation or opportunity,” he says.

As he prepares to take on the role of ATA President, that commitment to education, service, and fellowship will be at the heart of his leadership.

Looking Toward the Future

Like many who have spent decades in the turfgrass industry, Lee has witnessed tremendous changes in technology and equipment. He believes the next major transformation may be the biggest yet.

“Autonomous technology and AI will no doubt be the biggest game changer in the industry,” Lee says.

“It is amazing to see how, in theory, one can operate an operation from a smartphone and game controller just sitting at a desk. Just drop off a mower and hit start from your iPhone. It reminds me of George Jetson!”

While technology will continue to change the way turf is managed, Lee believes the relationships within the industry will remain just as important as ever.

Family First

Behind Lee’s career and many years of service are his wife, Lagina, their four children, and two grandchildren—all of whom have played an instrumental and supportive role throughout his professional journey.

When he’s away from work, Lee enjoys spending time with his family and, of course, playing golf.

His favorite rounds? The ones where he manages to break 100.

With three decades of experience behind him and a new chapter of leadership ahead, Lee Fillingim brings to the Alabama Turfgrass Association not only extensive industry knowledge, but also a deep appreciation for the people, relationships, and shared commitment that make this industry special.

As he steps into the role of ATA President, members can look forward to leadership grounded in experience, service, and—most importantly—the belief that we are better when we work together.

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