Category Archives: News

Delisanti Wins 102nd NYS Men’s Amateur in Four-Hole Playoff

From New York State Golf Association

What looked like a leisurely cruise to victory turned into a marathon struggle for Anthony Delisanti, but he finally prevailed in the gloaming darkness Thursday night to claim the 102nd New York State Amateur championship at Yahnundasis Golf Club. Delisanti, the 22-year-old Sanborn native who just finished a stellar career at Valparaiso University, seized control of the tournament by shooting a course-record 64 in the second round. He entered the final 18 holes up by four shots, and his lead still was four with 12 holes to play.

But New York City’s John Hiller, who plays out of Westchester Country Club and who just finished his freshman year at Duke University, chased Delisanti down by firing a 6-under-par 65 in the final round. Both players finished 72 holes tied at 9-under-par 275.

An epic four-hole playoff ensued. After both made three straight pars, they moved to the 148-yard seventh hole at 8:47 p.m., with the last rays of twilight almost gone. In what seemed like a scene out of the movie “The Legend of Bagger Vance,” three vans were brought to the green to illuminate it with their headlights. Delisanti put his tee shot to 15 feet and he made par. Hiller missed the green a tad long and then missed a 10-foot putt for par.

“I’ve been playing in NYSGA events since I was 10, 11 years old when I was a sub-junior,” Delisanti said. “This is the biggest event they host, and I’ve always wanted to etch my name on that trophy. It was pretty cool to be able to finally do that.”

From PNGA Champion to OGA President – the journey of Donna Smoot

From Pacific Northwest Golf Association

As with many people in the region’s golf community, the game has been a throughline for Donna Smoot of Portland, Ore., and has carried her throughout most of her life. She was a junior golf phenom, a PNGA champion, a high school golf coach, and after eight years serving on the Oregon Golf Association’s Executive Committee she is now that association’s president, a role which also places her on the PNGA Board of Directors, furthering the collaboration between the PNGA and its member associations.

“This has really been a ‘full circle’ experience for me,” Smoot says. “I look at the other members of the board, and I’ve known many of them my whole life. I played junior golf with them when we were kids. Golf is something that stays with you, and after a while you see other people on a similar journey. It’s such a great way to stay connected.”

She learned how to play the game at Portland Golf Club, where her parents were members. “I played in all the OGA and PNGA championships while I was growing up,” she says. “I was really into it, and really enjoyed it.”

Join the 2025 LPGA Amateurs Virtual Scramble

From the LPGA Amateurs Golf Association

The LPGA Amateurs Virtual Scramble is an opportunity for you to compete with fellow LPGA Amateurs members from the US, Canada, Bermuda, and the Dominican Republic virtually!

Grab three friends and hit the course for a 4-person scramble on any Par 72—or keep it casual at a golf entertainment venue like TopGolf or a simulator.

Play anytime between July 18 and August 3.

Proceeds support the Women on Par Scholarship and Grant, helping women pursue education or benefit from the game of golf.

Play your way, support a cause, and have a great time doing it.

Kentucky Golf Foundation Announces 2025 Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame Class

From Golf House Kentucky

The Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame was established in 1984 as a joint effort by the Kentucky Golf Association and the Kentucky PGA to honor individuals in Kentucky who have attained significant achievements and accomplishments in various areas of golf. Membership includes individuals with remarkable records as players, golf professionals, golf course superintendents, educators, and golf administrators. These inductees have not only excelled in their respective roles but have also demonstrated a lasting commitment to growing the game, shaping its future, and inspiring generations of golfers throughout the Commonwealth.

Each year, the Hall of Fame celebrates those whose impact on the sport transcends competition—those who have elevated Kentucky golf through leadership, service, and passion. Details regarding the 2025 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be shared in the coming weeks.

The Kentucky Golf Foundation is honored to announce the inductees of the 2025 Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame class: Keith Ohr, PGA, Andy Roberts, Emma Talley, and Josh Teater.

Alex Holder wins 125th Indiana State Amateur at Purdue’s Ackerman-Allen Course, youngest in over 50 years

From Indiana Golf

In a thrilling final round filled with pressure, heat, and heart, Alex Holder of Fort Wayne, Indiana, captured the 125th Indiana State Amateur Championship title at Purdue University’s Ackerman-Allen Course, becoming one of the youngest champions in over five decades.

Battling through three days of intense competition under sweltering conditions with temperatures climbing into the 90s, Holder emerged from a tightly packed leaderboard to hoist the trophy — thanks to a remarkable back nine that featured three birdies and a clutch eagle on the par-5 16th hole.

Holder entered Monday’s final round with a three-shot lead, but nothing came easy. The day opened with challenging starts for many players, and Holder was no exception.

“I wanted to get off to a good start,” Holder said “but I got off to a really bad start today and I didn’t have much going my way. The front nine was really rough.”

That adversity didn’t last. The 17-year-old settled in, remained patient, and slowly turned the tide. “I just kind of kept playing and kept staying patient — there’s birdies out there,” he said. “I think I got settled in a little better on the back nine and was able to ease up and play more of my game.”

Hughes Brothers Help Establish Sean “Sonny” Fleming Scholarship

From Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund

Former caddies and members gathered at The Country Club on May 15 as Ouimet Alumni Chris and Dan Hughes formally announced the creation of the Sean “Sonny” Fleming Scholarship, the latest of the Ouimet Fund’s 200 named endowed scholarships.

Thanks to the collective generosity of caddies, members, family and friends, the Sean “Sonny” Fleming Scholarship was established in honor of a longtime beloved friend and caddie at The Country Club. In honor of Sonny’s spirit and dedication, this endowed award is for a current Ouimet Scholar who caddied or still caddies at The Country Club and exemplifies the best of Sonny.

“Back in our junior year of college, we were invited us to speak at a luncheon at TCC about what the Ouimet Fund meant to us,” said Dan Hughes. “I mentioned then that I hoped to someday give back by starting a scholarship in someone’s name. Seven years later, I’m thrilled we’re making that a reality.”

“Launching this scholarship is a way for us to begin to pay it forward for the next generation as well as keep the legacy going for a man who positively touched the lives of many over the years at TCC,” said Chris Hughes.

West Virginia Golf Association Announces 13th Class of the West Virginia Golf Hall of Fame

From West Virginia Golf Association

The West Virginia Golf Hall of Fame revealed its first-ever inductees in 2009, when the incomparable pair of William C. Campbell and Sam Snead were enshrined as the inaugural class. Since that time an impressive list of those who made a profound impact on the game of golf in the Mountain State have been honored.

The West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA) is extremely excited to announce the 2025 West Virginia Golf Hall of Fame inductees: David Bradshaw, originally of Harper’s Ferry and now a resident of California, Weirton native Mike Krak and Sam O’Dell of Hurricane.  They will be enshrined in ceremonies conducted later this year and join 20 who have been recipients of this prestigious honor.

Trina Arnott – a volunteer with a smile

From Washington Golf

There are several contributing factors toward a WA Golf championship running smoothly, with an atmosphere that’s equal parts comfortable, welcoming, and well-conducted.

Volunteers – whether starting, scoring, rules-officiating or scorekeeping – provide just that. Trina Arnott, for example, has lent her service (and her smile) to WA Golf competitors for the better part of 12 years, becoming a well-known presence at championship sites throughout Western Washington.

Arnott, from Olympia, first volunteered at Salish Cliffs Golf Club in Shelton around that time, at the behest of one of her friends who had also done so. Although there were butterflies early on, she associates the experience with positive memories.

“It was my first one,” she said of her nerves with a laugh.

Over a decade later, in 2025, Arnott has already served in championships such as the Washington Champion of Champions, Women’s Amateur and Women’s Mid-Amateur, all staged at The Home Course, a friendly drive away from the capital city.

Sheer enjoyment of being around players at any outing, as well as the event staff, are just part of what drives Arnott to continue to donate her time.

“I Wish I’d Started Sooner.”

From the Southern California Golf Association

I wish I started sooner.

How many times have you heard someone say that about taking up the game of golf? Imagine the skill, the swing, the low handicap. Now imagine giving that kind of head start to someone else—someone young, eager and just waiting for a shot.

That’s what we’ve been doing at Mission Hills CC for the past 15 years.

It started simple. A few of us in the men’s club thought, “What if we invited just one junior golfer to play in our annual tournament?” No banners, no fanfare—just a tee time and a chance. Now, every year since 2010, we’ve welcomed one SCGA Junior golfer to play alongside us. And every year, that single presence quietly changes the day.

You hear it in conversations at lunch. You feel it walking 18. These kids are talented, respectful and grounded. They remind us of what the game teaches: patience, humility and community.

Some have gone on to play in college. One is now an assistant pro at Thunderbird CC. Another is studying at CU Boulder. Most just needed someone to open a door.

What started as one invitation turned into something more. Year after year, our members began pooling donations—nothing fancy, just passing the hat around during the tournament. And together, over time, we’ve raised over $30,000 for the SCGA Junior Golf Foundation.

“Launching Tomorrow’s Game” Capital Campaign Reaches Key Milestones

From Maine Golf

Maine Golf is pleased to announce that to date we have raised $2.7M of our $3M goal for the “Launching Tomorrow’s Game” Capital Campaign to create a new statewide junior and family golf learning facility at the Maine Golf Center Freeport. Thanks to the incredible generosity of many in the Maine Golf community, we are closing in on our goal with 90% raised.

This momentum has enabled Maine Golf to enter into a purchase and sale agreement with L.L. Bean to acquire the Maine Golf Center property. With the agreement in place, plans are moving forward to begin construction this summer on the first phase of the project—a state-of-the art TopTracer driving range with covered hitting bays, centrally located on the property. Once completed, this will be the first TopTracer range in Maine. A ceremonial groundbreaking event will take place at the end of July, with a formal date to be announced.

The second phase of the project will include construction of a new family-friendly clubhouse and additional golf course improvements beginning in 2026. We anticipate that Maine Golf Center Freeport will remain open during construction with minimal disruption to play.

Longtime Longmeadow CC Members To Receive Newly Combined Distinguished Service Award

From Mass Golf

As a continued part of its 125-year celebration, Mass Golf is introducing a new way to honor the individuals who have served the game as leaders and kept the game and its events running strongly for decades.

The newly established Mass Golf Distinguished Service Award combines the legacies of two long-standing honors: the Women’s Golf Association of Massachusetts’ May Jackson Award and the Massachusetts Golf Association’s Frank H. Sellman Distinguished Service Award, recognizing exceptional volunteer service and leadership across the state’s golf community.

The inaugural recipients are Roberta Bolduc and Cary Jubinville, both of Longmeadow Country Club, whose combined decades of service reflect the very spirit of this new honor. They will be recognized at the 2025 Mass Golf Annual Meeting in October.

“Roberta and Cary represent everything this now-unified distinction stands for: longtime service, leadership, and a deep love for the game,” said Jesse Menachem, Mass Golf’s Executive Director/CEO. “Their contributions have especially resonated in Western Massachusetts, where their vision and commitment have helped shape a vibrant and enduring golf community. Anyone who’s spent time alongside them knows how deeply they care, not just about the game, but about the people it brings together. Honoring them in unison makes this all the more special.”

Golf Ontario Launches Adaptive Golf Month

From Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is proud to kick off Adaptive Golf Month – a province-wide initiative celebrating accessibility, inclusion, the athletes and communities driving change in the sport.

Funded through the EnAbling Change Program from the Ontario Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility, Adaptive Golf Month will feature a full calendar of events, athlete showcases, educational opportunities, and inclusive programming. It’s all part of Golf Ontario’s long-term commitment to its Vision of Golf for All.

Throughout July, Golf Ontario, alongside key partners including Special Olympics Ontario, ParaGolf Ontario, and ParaSport Ontario, will share a full calendar of activities and events across the province to inspire, educate, and expand golf access for individuals with disabilities.

Golf Takes the Spotlight at State Capitol During Pennsylvania Golf Day

From the Golf Association of Philadelphia

Pennsylvania Golf Day 2025 brought together representatives from across the state’s golf community at the Capitol in Harrisburg for a day of advocacy, education, and celebration. Industry leaders—from GAP and the Western Pennsylvania Golf Association to the PGA of America, GCSAA, First Tee, and others—joined forces to highlight the game’s far-reaching benefits. From fueling economic growth and supporting thousands of jobs to fostering youth development, promoting accessibility, and enriching local communities, golf continues to make a lasting impact throughout the Keystone State.

Adding to the day’s excitement: with both the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club and the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club being held just a year apart within the Commonwealth, Pennsylvania’s role on golf’s biggest stages took center stage. To celebrate the moment, both championship trophies—the U.S. Open Trophy and the Wanamaker Trophy—were on display at the Capitol, underscoring the state’s significance in the sport’s national landscape.

To cap off the day, the trophies were brought into Governor Josh Shapiro’s office, where he enjoyed some time (and content creation) with the hardware and engaged in a thoughtful conversation with the group about golf’s place in Pennsylvania. He expressed his appreciation for the game’s impact and affirmed its value across economic, recreational, and community dimensions.

Team NJ Golf Successfully Completes 100 Hole Hike

From New Jersey Golf

On Monday, June 9, Rich Kennedy, Eric Houseknecht, and Jeff Liebler took on an incredible challenge—completing 125 holes of golf in a single day to raise funds for Youth on Course.

The trio participated in the 100 Hole Hike, going above and beyond by playing 25 extra holes to mark the milestone anniversary of NJ Golf. Their effort supports Youth on Course, a national nonprofit dedicated to making golf more accessible for young players. The program helps subsidize green fees, allowing junior golfers to play rounds for just $5 at more than 30 participating courses throughout New Jersey.

For the extra 25 holes of the hike, Madison Head Golf Professional Ryan Druska and Daniel Castano, Director of Golf at Hudson Golf, joined the trio. In total, 23 birdies were made over the 125 holes, highlighted by a hole-in-one from Kennedy on the 20th hole of the day. To further elevate the impact, the Association donated $125 for every birdie made during the special 25 extra holes—turning great shots into even greater opportunities for young golfers.

The group raised just over $12,000 and is currently ranked the No. 1 team in the country.

2025 ANNIKA Award race features five standout AJGA alumnae

From the AJGA

As the collegiate golf season nears its close, the spotlight turns to one of the most prestigious honors in women’s college golf: the ANNIKA Award presented by Stifel. Named after golf legend Annika Sörenstam, the award celebrates the top female collegiate golfer of the year—an athlete whose performance, sportsmanship and impact on the game have set her apart. What makes this honor even more meaningful is its unique selection process, with votes cast by fellow college golfers, coaches and members of the college golf media, ensuring that the winner is truly recognized by the game’s most invested voices.

A testament to the American Junior Golf Association’s mission, every recipient of the ANNIKA Award to date has been an alumna of the AJGA, highlighting the organization’s vital role in DEVELOPING GOLF’S NEXT GENERATION®. That tradition continues in 2025, with five of the 10 players on the Final ANNIKA Award Watch List representing AJGA alumnae.

2025 Ohio Golf Hall of Fame Inductees

From the Ohio Golf Association

The Ohio Golf Association has announced the Ohio Golf Hall of Fame class of 2025.

The Ohio Golf Hall of Fame strives to recognize outstanding achievements of Ohioans who play or support the game of golf. The Hall of Fame was founded in 1992 and features members such as Jack Nicklaus, Bob Hope, Arnold Palmer, Tammie Green, John Cook, and Ben Curtis, among others.

The 2025 induction ceremony will be held at Scioto Country Club in Columbus, Ohio, on Wednesday, Sept. 17. Ticket information and other ceremony details will be posted on ohiogolf.org at a future date.

A New Era Begins: Pete and Alice Dye Indiana Golf Center Officially Opens Its Doors

From Indiana Golf

June 5, 2025, marked a historic day for Indiana Golf and the community it serves.

With over 200 guests in attendance—including donors, supporters, community leaders, family, and friends—Indiana Golf celebrated the grand opening of the Pete and Alice Dye Indiana Golf Center, a 13,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility that will serve as the new home for all of Indiana Golf’s associations and operations.

The event was a celebration of vision, collaboration, and legacy. Emcee Brian Hammons, the voice of Indiana Golf and longtime Golf Channel news anchor, welcomed the crowd and introduced a lineup of distinguished speakers. Steve Starrett, Capital Campaign Manager, shared insights into the dedication and support that brought the project to life. Alan Morrison, Director of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, spoke about the Center’s broader impact on the state’s recreational and cultural landscape. Gina Giacone, Indiana Golf Foundation President, reflected on the Center’s significance in shaping the future of junior golf and community programming.

Beyond Oakmont, many West Penn courses benefit from a U.S. Open

From Western Pennsylvania Golf Association

In days gone by, the arrival of the U.S. Open at a golf course or club near you in mid-June meant a couple things. Golf fans traveled from great distances to witness the best players in the world take on one of best layouts in the country.

And while those fans were in town to watch, they also wanted to play.

As a result, a week-long cottage industry was born, one that has put smiles on the faces of visiting golfers, money into bank accounts of courses and clubs and, hopefully, a down-to-the-wire finish on the 72nd hole at the Open site.

Private clubs at one point would limit — and even close — member play during Open week, opting instead to allow corporations to schedule play for their employees. That came at a cost, of course, and a nice pay day for clubs and public courses. Times have changed over the years in terms of how much golf is being played, and rarely are courses shut down in favor of corporate visitors, regardless if the price reaches $500 per player.

“Our membership categories are filled at every level,” said Chartiers Country Club head professional Joe Klinchock. “We have a lot of demand for tee times. Tuesday will be the only day where members can entertain clients. It won’t be outside play, just members and guests.”

Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall Takes Time to Talk Golf with Industry Leaders at 17th Golf Day at the Capitol

From the Golf Association of Michigan

Speaker of the House Matt Hall (R-Richland Township) made time in his busy schedule to talk golf, specifically about the industry during the 17th Michigan Legislative Golf Day at the Capitol event Wednesday.

Hall met with presidents, executive directors and owners from the Michigan Golf Alliance member organizations in his office, asked questions seeking input from the industry leaders and answered questions, too.

“Speaker Hall listened to our message, talked about specific legislation that pertains to our industry and made it clear he believes in what we do and understands the impact golf has on the state,” Jada Paisley, executive director of the Michigan Golf Course Association, said.

“Our golf leaders had the opportunity to discuss the industry with Speaker Hall and thanked him for all of his efforts. I can’t overstate the importance of this day in delivering the message to our government leaders.”

SNGA Rules Officials Make Difference at National USGA Events Including U.S. Women’s Open

From Southern Nevada Golf Association

Southern Nevada Golf Association rules officials are among the best in America. Proof of this are their presence at some of the top United States Golf Association events and majors in the country. Sue May, Tim Quinn and Rusty Beckel each officiated the recent U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills. It was an experience they will cherish, and the beginning of a busy summer for them.

Boatwright Summit – a trip back in time, and forward to the future

From Washington Golf 

Nestled within central New Jersey is a town whose name is (rightly so) synonymous with American golf pedigree. That would be Liberty Corner, home to the United States Golf Association. One look at the grounds gives an indication of the prestige held there – pristine brick buildings, a tall Rolex clock, and grass almost as fluffy as it is green, are just some of what meets the eye.

I was invited there this past week, alongside WA Golf’s Championship Department Intern Luke Roque, as one of over 90 USGA P.J. Boatwright interns from Allied Golf Associations across the country, all attending the annual Boatwright Summit. The program is designed to give individuals experience in golf administration, across a variety of roles, with the summit an opportunity to host them and provide an up-close look at the industry, networking opportunities, playful challenges and more.

MSGA, VSGA announce partnership to benefit D.C. Golf

From Maryland State Golf Association

The Maryland State Golf Association (MSGA) and the Virginia State Golf Association (VSGA) are excited to announce a partnership to enhance golf initiatives in Washington, D.C. The MSGA and VSGA have a long-standing history of supporting competitive golf, and this partnership aims to formalize a structured and recurring investment in the D.C. golf landscape.

As part of this partnership, the DC Amateur Championship’s hosting structure will alternate between the MSGA and VSGA. The MSGA will manage the event in 2025 and 2027, while the VSGA will take the lead in 2026. This collaborative hosting arrangement ensures that both organizations play an integral role in the championship, with all proceeds directed toward the D.C. Golf Initiative. The 2025 DC Amateur Championship is slated to take place at Argyle Country Club in Silver Spring, Maryland from August 7-9.

Additionally, clubs from Maryland and Virginia will be invited to join the Summer Team Matches as part of this partnership. The MSGA and VSGA will jointly coordinate outreach efforts to their respective clubs, with clubs that have participated in the event over the last three years receiving initial invites. A representative from each organization will be present at the Summer Team Finals to ensure joint oversight and engagement. Round one for the Summer Team Matches will take place on Saturday, July 5, at various locations.

Endless Inspiration at Inaugural SCGA Adaptive Championship

From Southern California Golf Association

The SCGA is proud to celebrate its successful completion of the Inaugural Adaptive Championship presented by Callaway Golf. While the first-time event served a 32-player field representing 12 different impairment categories, the SCGA focused its coverage on the spirit of the event—highlighting community, connection and camaraderie.

49 Scholars Earn Awards at 2025 VSGA Scholarship Day

From Virginia State Golf Association

Forty-five high-school seniors and four graduate students in the turfgrass research program at Virginia Tech were among 49 scholars honored as the VSGA-VIP Scholarship Foundation announced its 2025 award recipients on VSGA Scholarship Day at Hermitage Country Club.

The Foundation provides grants and gifts for scholarships, scientific and educational research, and other charitable purposes. This year’s grants total $196,500 and since being launched, the program has distributed nearly $3.2 million to 1,252 students.

Included in the 2025 total are a pair of $10,000 awards, matching the largest gifts the Foundation has ever rewarded.

“The VSGA-VIP Scholarship Foundation was overwhelmed this year with high quality applications,” VSGA-VIP Scholarship Foundation President Joan Gardner said. “We’re more than pleased to award a record number of scholarships, especially to many scholars who had a special connection with our VSGA member clubs.”

GAM has launched an exciting new digital publication, Michigan Links Digital, as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance communication and engagement with its members

From the Golf Association of Michigan 

The Golf Association of Michigan (GAM) has launched an exciting new digital publication, Michigan Links Digital, as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance communication and engagement with its members. Designed to be published three times a year, this digital magazine offers a dynamic platform to share compelling stories, updates, and insights from across Michigan’s vibrant golf community. With an emphasis on storytelling and member connection, the magazine aims to bring the GAM’s mission and activities closer to its audience. The inaugural issue was released on Tuesday, May 13, and is now available for viewing online.

Massachusetts Golf Hall of Fame To Induct Its Largest Class in History

A story from Mass Golf

In celebration of Mass Golf’s 125th anniversary, the Massachusetts Golf Hall of Fame is inducting its largest class to date, including seven individuals recognized for their outstanding contributions to the game.

For the first time, the Hall of Fame will introduce 10 inductees as “Pioneers”, a newly established category recognizing early trailblazers who helped shape the foundation of golf in Massachusetts. These Pioneers include the founders of both the Women’s Golf Association of Boston/Women’s Golf Association of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Golf Association.

“This is a truly special moment for Mass Golf,” said Thomas F. Bagley III, Committee Chairman of the Massachusetts Golf Hall of Fame. “As we celebrate 125 years of our organization’s history, it’s only fitting that we honor a class this expansive and diverse. Their contributions have helped shape the wide-reaching legacy of golf in Massachusetts, and each of them has rightfully earned their place among the legends enshrined in the Hall of Fame.”

The official induction ceremony will take place as part of the Mass Golf Annual Meeting, with an early afternoon ceremony and luncheon on October 16, 2025, at Thorny Lea Golf Club in Brockton. More details will be released at a later date.

CSGA Wins Eighth Straight Julius Boros Challenge Cup

From the the Connecticut State Golf Association

For the eighth consecutive year the Connecticut State Golf Association has captured the Julius Boros Challenge Cup.

On an unseasonably chilly and overcast day at New Haven Country Club the CSGA battled their way to a 42.5-29.5 victory over the Connecticut Section PGA in the 54th playing of the annual matches. The CSGA has won all but one of the matches during its eight-year winning streak by double digits. The lone exception came in 2022.

“The Challenge Cup is always a great event that all the players look forward to,” ninth-year team captain Roger Everin said. “You never know what the outcome is going to be each year. I told the players that they can’t be thinking about winning or any streaks or anything like that. I asked them to compete at the level that I knew they were capable of and they responded.”

Mass Golf Adds PGA Professionals Grace McKinnon & Sean Morahan To Championships Staff

A story from Mass Golf 

Mass Golf, the state golf association for Massachusetts, has announced that PGA Professionals Grace McKinnon and Sean Morahan have joined its Championships staff. McKinnon has been hired as the Manager of Championship Administration, while Morahan will assume the role of Championship Coordinator.

McKinnon was a USGA Boatwright intern with Mass Golf in 2023 and spent the past year as a USGA Long Term Amateur Championship Intern. Morahan most recently served as Assistant Golf Professional at Charles River Country Club.

“We’re thrilled to welcome both Grace and Sean to the Championships team,” said Kevin Eldridge, Mass Golf’s Senior Director of Rules & Competitions. “Grace’s familiarity with our operations and her experience with national events make her a tremendous asset as we continue to elevate our championship offerings. Sean’s diverse background and leadership at top-tier clubs bring a new level of operational strength and professionalism that will enhance the experience for our players and member clubs.”

The Anticipated Return of Quarry Oaks

A story from the Nebraska Golf Association

After more than two years without a tee piercing the ground. Without a divot. Without a ball mark. Quarry Oaks is back. Quarry Oaks Golf Club in Ashland shut down for two full seasons to renovate a golf course that needed a little facelift and a few significant changes. It reopens today, May 1, to the public and a new era will begin for the club.

The course originally opened in 1997 and has been one of the most scenic courses in Nebraska since, with significant elevation changes across the entire property, and views of the Platte River for much of the back nine.

Tree management had always been an issue, as the property was dense with several different species of trees. The bunkers needed work, and a few holes needed a new look. The Abel family has owned the course since its inception, and went all in to assert Quarry Oaks as one of the best public facilities in the state.

NYSGA Appoints Joseph Mancuso as General Counsel

From the the New York State Golf Association

The New York State Golf Association (NYSGA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Joseph Mancuso as General Counsel, effective immediately. Mancuso will serve as an officer on the NYSGA’s Executive Committee, offering legal guidance and oversight to support the NYSGA’s mission to engage, embrace and enhance the New York State Golf community.

Mancuso is a partner and member of the Executive Committee at Hancock Estabrook, LLP, where he practices in the Banking & Finance and Corporate sectors. He brings a wealth of legal and organizational expertise to the NYSGA, having been selected Syracuse’s 2024 “Lawyer of the Year” for Corporate Law. Mancuso has also appeared on the Best Lawyers in America list for five consecutive years.

“As a lifelong player and supporter of the game of golf, I am excited and honored by the opportunity to serve as General Counsel and an officer on the Executive Committee of the NYSGA,” said Mancuso. “I look forward to furthering the organization’s mission of promoting and conserving the traditions of golf throughout the State, and I am eager to apply my years of legal experience and club management to the benefit of the NYSGA.”

Little Rock Area Native Tees Up At Augusta National

A story from the Arkansas State Golf Association 

Former ASGA Junior match play champion Mackenzie Lee, a Little Rock native and Southern Methodist University golfer, is living her dream at the Augusta National Women’s Amateur. Lee, who won the ASGA Junior Match Play title four times, said the experience of playing at Augusta National was both surreal and inspiring.

“It was good,” Lee said of her practice round, noting that the day felt a bit “off” because the crowd was not yet in attendance. “I do think part of the hype at Augusta is the energy the spectators bring. Even though the crowd wasn’t there yet, the course was in amazing condition; as always,” she added.

Lee recalled going to Augusta a decade ago as a participant in the Drive, Chip, and Putt National Finals. “I only really remember one hole from back then, a downhill tee shot that stood out, but when I stepped onto the property for Monday’s practice round, it all came rushing back,” she explained.

Walking along the fairways with her swing coach, Patrick Sullivan, Lee described the atmosphere as “mysterious” and “spectacular.” Entering through Magnolia Lane, she admitted that her heart warmed with excitement, even as a touch of nerves crept in. “It’s that mix of anticipation and the once-in-a-lifetime feeling of playing here,” she said. “I never thought I’d be here, but here I am.”

‘Up and Down’ the Iowa Golf Scene – Wizard of Fun

A story from the Iowa Golf Association

Allison George is on a dual crusade – a crusade to make the game fun for players of all levels and to elevate the status of women in a game that historically has been dominated by the proverbial “good ‘ole boys.” The owner and general manager of Toad Valley Golf Course in Pleasant Hill, George has achieved significant strides on both fronts.

A multi-generational family-owned business, Toad Valley was once a 200-acre farm plot used by Allison’s grandfather Dale Brady to test his farm implement equipment. More than 50 years later, it has emerged as a well-diversified golf complex featuring an 18-hole championship layout, the “Field of Greens” miniature golf course, two indoor golf simulators and the 6,000 square foot “Flight Zone” top-tracer driving range that features ten heated bays, lounging area, restrooms, snack bar and covered porch. The Topgolf-like facility was added in 2023 as the course celebrated its 50th anniversary.

“I’m a big believer that golf is meant to be fun,” George told Up and Down the Iowa Golf Scene during a recent interview at Toad Valley. “Our philosophy here is to create an environment that produces and sells family memories. When a family looks back to recall its best experiences, we want them to remember Toad Valley.”

Maury Povich Joins MGA Foundation Board of Directors

From the the Metropolitan Golf Association

The MGA Foundation, the charitable arm of the Metropolitan Golf Association, is pleased to announce the appointment of Maury Povich to its Board of Directors. The MGA Foundation is dedicated to growing the game of golf in the Met Area and supports the MGA’s mission to champion, invest in, and advance the game of golf for the future of the Met Area golf community.

Povich has been a longtime supporter of the MGA Foundation, and in his new role, he will help guide the Foundation’s programs, support fundraising initiatives, and work with fellow board members to further enhance the Foundation’s reach and impact.

“We are delighted to welcome Maury Povich to our Foundation Board of Directors. Maury is a tremendous ambassador for the game and our mission to impact lives through golf, and we’re eager to work with him in his new capacity,” says Ned Zachar, President of the MGA and Chair of the MGA Foundation.

“I feel so honored to be selected as a member of the MGA Foundation Board,” said Povich. “I have been a vigorous supporter of the Foundation for the past 20 years and believe strongly in its mission. The MGA is the crown jewel of golf organizations in the United States, and I feel blessed to be a part of its future.”

Q&A with President Abby Black: Getting to know the IGA Board of Directors’ new President

From the the Idaho Golf Assocation

The Idaho Golf Association’s board of directors assembled last month to elect a new executive committee. Serving three year terms, IGA board members act as ambassadors of the IGA’s mission to engage, enhance and grow the Idaho golf community and oversee our vision to enrich the lives of every Idaho golfer. They are all people for whom the continued development of golf in Idaho matters a great deal.

Among those board members is Abby Black, a member of The Club at SpurWing and an accomplished IGA Championship player as a former Tournament of Champions winner and the reigning  Women’s Four-Ball champion. You’ll be sure to see her out at many IGA events this year, but she’ll be competing as the new president of the IGA board of directors for the very first time.

We caught up with her last week to help you get to know our new president.