Category Archives: News

Bridging the Gap: A Look Into the New England Public Golf Forum

In the ever-evolving world of golf, public courses often find themselves navigating a unique set of challenges. From limited resources and competing priorities to staying relevant in a crowded market, municipal and public-access courses can sometimes feel isolated from the broader golfing community. However, an exciting new initiative led by Mass Golf, in partnership with the National Links Trust (NLT), is breaking down these barriers. The inaugural New England Public Golf Forum, held in October 2023, aimed to bridge the gap between public and private golf courses, offering a platform for education, networking, and collaboration.

The New England Public Golf Forum was designed to create a space for public golf professionals, course managers, and key decision-makers from municipal courses to connect, learn, and share ideas. The event drew over 125 attendees from across New England, including municipal course managers, Parks and Recreation departments, golf advisory committees, and partners such as the New England PGA, the New England Golf Course Owners Association, and regional golf associations. The event also drew strong support from the USGA, with Erin Groeneveld and the Green Section team contributing to the educational program.

Mass Golf’s Senior Director of Member Services, Mark Gagne, noted that the Forum was built on years of experience and a deep understanding of the golf industry. “While private clubs had benefited from similar forums we conducted in the past, public courses weren’t seeing the same value,” Gagne explained. “Public courses make up 60% of our member clubs, so we wanted to create a space where they could connect, learn, and grow.”

The Forum’s concept gained traction after Gagne attended one of NLT’s renowned symposiums, where he recognized a natural synergy between Mass Golf’s goals and NLT’s expertise in supporting public-access golf. This collaboration, along with Gagne’s 30 years of experience in private club leadership, allowed them to bring together a diverse group of panelists and speakers, covering a range of topics critical to the public golf sector.

“The National Links Trust was a perfect fit,” Gagne explained. “They specialize in municipal golf, and their vision for expanding educational outreach in New England aligned perfectly with ours.”

Over the course of the day, attendees participated in sessions on topics ranging from “The State of Public Golf” to “Golf Course Architecture Trends” and “Sustainability in Public Golf.” A standout session focused on a Cape Cod municipal golf course’s successful $6 million renovation, showing how community support can transform a public facility. Another explored how emerging technologies—such as AI and autonomous mowing equipment—are shaping the future of golf course management.

Networking opportunities were also a key component of the event. “There was a real sense of community throughout the day,” Gagne said. “People weren’t just learning from the sessions—they were having conversations that will continue after the Forum.”

The road to organizing such a large-scale event wasn’t without its challenges, particularly with the coordination of 30+ panelists and a packed schedule. “It was an ambitious program, and I didn’t fully anticipate how much time and resources it would take to pull it all together,” Gagne admitted. Despite these challenges, the Mass Golf team—Gagne, Jenna Walkiewicz, and Jared Winiarz—along with Andrew Szunyog and Jeff Arnold from NLT, worked tirelessly to ensure everything ran smoothly.

The impact of the event exceeded expectations, with positive feedback from attendees and a renewed sense of community among municipal and private course professionals alike. “The turnout and feedback were fantastic,” said Gagne. “But what was most rewarding was seeing how the event brought together so many diverse stakeholders. This is just the beginning.”

Looking ahead, Gagne sees the New England Public Golf Forum as a model that could be replicated across the country. “This type of event could really help golf associations nationwide support their public courses,” he said. “We’re already planning how to build on this momentum—next year, we might scale it down to a more regular format, but the goal is to keep the conversation going.”

As Mass Golf looks to the future, the Forum’s lasting impact is clear: by creating a space for education, networking, and collaboration, the event has set a new standard for supporting public golf in New England. “The energy, knowledge, and relationships formed at this Forum will have a lasting effect,” Gagne said. “This is just the beginning of something transformative for public golf.”

By: Santana Shipley

An Instrument of Redemption – Launching a Golf Program at a Minimum-Security Facility

A story from WA Golf

Tim Thrasher knows what some people say when the conversation turns to preparing incarcerated individuals for a productive return to society.

He hears, “Aren’t they there to be punished?” or “They certainly aren’t there to play golf.” Thrasher, superintendent at Cedar Creek Corrections Center, a minimum-security facility in rural Thurston County, Wash., hears the noise, but doesn’t much engage in the conversation.

He does listens to his heart, and it tells him that all the things he appreciates about golf in his own life can be just as good for the men at Cedar Creek who are in his charge. Cedar Creek is the final step in a long process for these men, who are nearing the end of their sentences.

GAM Foundation Surpasses $1 Million in Subsidies Via Youth on Course

A story from the Golf Association of Michigan

The Michigan golf season enjoyed an extension with good fall weather, golfers flocked to courses and the Golf Association of Michigan Foundation’s Youth on Course program reached a major milestone.

“I have big news to share,” said Foundation Director Laura Bavaird in a recent note to foundation board members and staff. “After October’s incredible weather the GAM Foundation has surpassed the $1 million in subsidies mark. This is truly an unbelievable moment for our grassroots foundation, and I am beyond proud to be here for it.”

2024 MGA Awards and Special Presentations

A story from the Metropolitan Golf Association

The Metropolitan Golf Association held its 127th Annual Meeting and Dinner on December 3 and celebrated its 2024 award winners:

Ina Kim-Schaad, MGA Women’s Player of the Year

Matt Lowe, MGA Jerry Courville Player of the Year

Jack Chung, MGA Junior Player of the Year Award, Presented by Callaway

Jeff Holzschuh, 2024 Distinguished Service Award Winner

Additionally, the MGA Honors Hall of Merit welcomed two new inductees, Sherwood Moore, a pioneer in the golf course superintendent community, and the founders of the Women’s Metropolitan Golf Association (WMGA).

We are grateful for the continued support of our member clubs, individuals, neighboring associations, and all friends of the MGA as we close out another successful year of golf in the Met Area.

High-Level Competition, Boatwright Internship Preps Hoffman for Career in Golf

A story from the Iowa Golf Association

Decades from now, when Paige Hoffman looks back on what most certainly will be an impactful career in golf administration, she will have no trouble identifying what got her start in the business. An Iowa High School state golf champion at age 16 and an Iowa Women’s Amateur Champion at age 17, the highly decorated Hoffman is underway with her senior season at Northwest Missouri State University, an NCAA Division II school in Maryville, MO.

Her playing accomplishments aside, an internship with the Iowa Golf Association during the 2023 and 2024 seasons modified her career path. Hoffman participated in the P.J. Boatwright Internship program sponsored by the United States Golf Association (USGA).

Maine Golf Center Freeport: Year in Review

A story from Maine Golf

In just the second full year that Maine Golf has taken over the operations at Maine Golf Center Freeport, we saw a great uptick in both the number of rounds played and in the amount of programming offered to the general public. Junior golf is on the rise here in Maine, and at Maine Golf Center Freeport we were doing out part to get as much programming in place as we can to keep this trend moving forward.

Over 1,800 rounds of golf played by Youth on Course participants, where the youth greens fee is only $5 for golfers aged 6-18. Local host site for the Drive, Chip & Putt Championship. MGC Freeport hosted over 100 junior golfers looking to move onto regionals and eventually Augusta National for the finals.

2024 Kaulig Companies Championship Gives $1.3 Million to Charity

A story from the Northern Ohio Golf Association

With combined proceeds from the 2024 Kaulig Companies Championship and the Ambassador of Golf Event presented by FirstEnergy Foundation, $1,343,640 was raised for Northeast Ohio charities.

The 2024 donation is the largest annual charitable total ever generated from professional golf events at Firestone Country Club, surpassing the record that was set in 2023.

With the 2024 donation, events at Firestone Country Club have now generated more than $33 million in charitable giving through professional golf tournaments, dating back to 1984. The 2024 tournament marked the second year with title sponsor, Kaulig Companies, for this PGA TOUR Champions major event. Next year’s tournament dates are June 18-22, 2025.

Alabama Golf Association Hires Director of Golf Operations and Championships

A story from the Alabama Golf Association

The Alabama Golf Association is pleased to announce the hiring of Hall Upshaw as the Director of Golf Operations and Championships. Upshaw, a Memphis, Tennessee native, will manage the day-to-day operations of the Golf Operations and Championships department, assist with administration of the Southern Junior and Southern Amateur Championships, serve as the official in charge at select AGA championships and USGA Qualifiers as well as manage sponsorship development.

“I am excited to join the Alabama Golf Association as the Director of Golf Operations and Championships,” Upshaw said. “I look forward to bringing the knowledge and skills I have gained to enhance our programs and deliver the highest quality service to our members and staff.”

Golf Reunites Camper, Counselor After 50 Years

A story from the Golf Association of Philadelphia

Uncle Harry is the name Ward Bauman remembered.

All counselors at Camp Akiba in Stroudsburg, Pa. used the preface uncle or aunt. Harry Landsburg happened to be the counselor responsible for overseeing the camp’s golf activity. In the summer of 1968, Bauman, an eager 9-year-old fascinated by a sport he watched devotedly on television, signed up.

“We would go to a net, and all of us would take turns hitting balls into the net. He would give us coaching, and then he would take some of the better kids out for a round of golf maybe once or twice during the summer,” Bauman, 65, of Princeton, N.J., said. “After a lot of bugging, I remember that he let me come and play at Indian Mountain Golf Course. My score was a newspaper 82 for nine holes. In spite of that first round, I couldn’t wait to get back to camp the next summer to continue to learn to play golf. Those nine holes kick-started my love for golf.” Bauman, a Ridge at Back Brook and Saucon Valley Country Club member, learned golf’s fundamentals from Landsburg. It set Bauman on a competitive path that garnered 25 club championships.

Fifty years later, the two reunited for the first time.

Southern California Golf Association’s Junior Golf Foundation Breaks Ground at Maggie Hathaway GC

A story from the Southern California Golf Association

The renovation of the historic Maggie Hathaway GC, as part of the FORE Youth: 2023 U.S. Open Community Legacy campaign, is officially underway following a groundbreaking ceremony held on property on November 7th.

This is a significant milestone in a long-term project that began with the 2023 U.S. Open at The Los Angeles CC (LACC) and will culminate with the reopening of an enhanced and rejuvenated golf facility, along with a new clubhouse and community room. The renewal of the course, while maintaining its character and feel, will enhance its long-standing role as a communal gathering spot.

“This project is more than a renovation; it’s a commitment to nurturing the next generation of golfers and fostering a love for the game within this community,” said SCGA Junior Golf Foundation Executive Director, Kevin Gigax. “The FORE Youth campaign ensures that Maggie Hathaway Golf Course continues to be a welcoming space where young athletes can develop their skills, build confidence, and connect with peers.”

Idaho Golf Hall of Fame: The Inaugural Induction

A story from the Idaho Golf Association

As the sun fell toward the horizon on Oct. 11, a unique group of Idaho golf enthusiasts and their families stepped off elevators and filed into Stueckle Sky Center – a space perched high above Boise State’s Albertsons Stadium – for the inaugural induction of the Idaho Golf Hall of Fame.

The sense of history in the air was fit for the golden hour pouring through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The night had arrived after three years of work from the Idaho Golf Association’s board of directors, staff and PGA Rocky Mountain Section representatives. For far too long, golf in Idaho had gone on without formal recognition of those who have pushed the game forward for decades.

Of the seven members of the inaugural class – Wayne Berry, Karen Darrington, Shirley Englehorn, Arnold Haneke, Joe Malay, Scott Masingill, and Jean Smith – the latter three were in attendance Friday night.

Cockpit To Clubhouse, Honoring Our ASGA Veterans

A story from the Arkansas State Golf Association

This year, we are highlighting two ASGA members who are veterans, acknowledging their achievements in the military but also their love for the game of golf!

From soaring skies to rolling fairways, Ben Loftis and Tammy Hutchins-Frye have carried their love for service and golf across decades. Both veterans and champions on the course, their stories reflect a profound connection between the discipline of the military and the integrity of the game they cherish. This Veterans Day, we honor their remarkable journeys from the cockpit to the clubhouse.

Offering Relief: Carolinas Golf Industry Assists Storm Victims

Story from the Global Golf Post

The floodwaters from Hurricane Helene were still receding in the North Carolina mountains, the extent of the almost unimaginable damage still coming to light from two weeks ago, when some employees at Pinehurst Resort suggested using leftover boxes from the U.S. Open as collection bins stationed around the resort and the village for residents to drop off essentials to help the thousands coping with the devastation three hours to the west.

Within a few days, a tractor-trailer had been filled with items and was making its way into the mountains where food, water and other essentials are still desperately needed as the autumn chill settles over an area where heat and power haven’t been fully restored.

GOLFWORKS – Celebrating 30 Years

A story from Metropolitan Golf Association

In celebration of 30 years of the MGA Foundation’s GOLFWORKS student intern program, all Met Area golfers and friends are encouraged to tune into a special video that captures the stories of the people and places that play such an important part in the program. The MGA Foundation is proud of the impact that GOLFWORKS makes on the interns, alumni, participating clubs, and the Met Area golf community. A special thank you to Tremont Sporting Co. for producing this anniversary video.

From its first year in 1994, with 12 students working at six clubs, GOLFWORKS has grown to impact nearly 3,000 students throughout the years, teaching them important life skills and introducing them to the golf industry. Thanks to the support of founding partner MetLife, the program’s success is a critical link to helping the MGA Foundation make the game of golf and meaningful employment accessible to everyone.

Poppy Ridge Course Renovations Project

A story from Northern California Golf Association

If you’ve been to Poppy Ridge Golf Course in Livermore recently, you probably noticed that grass is starting to come in at what will be the new 18-hole NCGA member course. The new 18-hole course will feature three different types of grasses.
The tees, fairways and greens-surrounding areas will all be Santa Ana Bermuda grass, which is sod that has been installed.

“We think the Bermuda will love this climate,” architect Jay Blasi explained. “The Bermuda loves the heat and requires less water.”

On the greens complexes themselves, those will be seeded with a new variety of Bentgrass. The third and final type of grass will be a hydro-seeded Fescue mix. That grass will be featured in the out-of-play areas. The Poppy Ridge plans include the creation of a new 18-hole course, a nine-hole composite course with a few new holes and various improvements to its practice areas including the driving range, which is again open for members and public use. The renovation project is anticipated to be completed in mid-2025.

Women in Golf: Building Community Through Golf Canada’s ‘She Plays Golf’

Golf Canada’s ‘She Plays Golf’ initiative is making significant strides in fostering inclusivity and increasing the participation of women and girls in golf. “Golf Canada made a commitment to increasing representation of equity deserving communities in golf,” shared Laura Wilson, Golf Canada’s Director for Inclusion Programs, and Safe Sport. The initiative seeks to provide pathways for women and girls to engage in golf across various platforms, from green grass facilities to leadership roles within the sport.

Originally piloted in Calgary in 2023, ‘She Plays Golf’ expanded to the greater Vancouver and Toronto regions in 2024. Wilson emphasized the importance of collaborative partnerships in the program’s success: “Our idea was not to reinvent the wheel… We looked at existing programs in the various communities, who the leaders were, and we didn’t want to compete with them.” Instead, the program aims to fill gaps in the existing participation pathways by collaborating with local leaders and organizations to enhance the experience for women.

Looking ahead, the vision for “She Plays Golf” is to establish a comprehensive ecosystem where women and girls can participate at all levels, whether they’re new to the sport or aspiring professionals. Wilson explained, “We’re looking to create opportunities for women, at any stage of their development.” The program includes introductory events like try golf sessions, networking opportunities through initiatives like the RBC women’s networking series, and competitive pathways for those aiming for the LPGA tour.

Wilson offered valuable advice for other organizations seeking to enhance female participation in golf: “The number one thing I would say is look and see what’s being done within the community and how you can support and amplify existing programs and address any gaps that may exist.” Emphasizing the importance of a welcoming atmosphere, she noted that minimizing barriers for newcomers—such as simplifying dress codes, providing equipment, and ensuring costs are manageable—is essential. “Creating that safe and welcoming environment was really the key to our success,” she remarked. Volunteers were instrumental in this approach, serving not only as facilitators but also as mentors and cheerleaders for new participants.

Feedback from participants in this program have been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing surprise at how enjoyable the sport can be. Several participants shared that they initially didn’t think golf was a sport for them, but their experiences changed their perceptions. This shift in attitude has led to ongoing interest, with women eager to continue playing and seeking out additional programs. Wilson noted, “We provided feedback to individuals about ongoing programming in their community that they could register for,” ensuring that the momentum generated by the program continues.

In 2025, Golf Canada plans to enhance the program further by partnering with more golf facilities to offer try golf sessions throughout the season, rather than limiting activities to specific festival weeks. Wilson expressed her gratitude to Golf Canada for the opportunity to pilot this program and her hope for its continued growth and impact, stating, “I’m just very grateful to be in this position and to have the opportunity to create programming that we hope will engage more women and girls in the sport.”

The “She Plays Golf” initiative not only serves as a beacon of inclusivity within the sport but also provides a blueprint for other organizations aiming to increase female participation. By fostering partnerships, creating welcoming environments, and responding to participant feedback, Golf Canada is building a strong community for women in golf—demonstrated by the participation of over 800 women across 23 activations at 18 facilities. A crucial aspect of this initiative is Golf Canada’s commitment to partnering with community groups that align with their vision for promoting sport and physical activity among young girls. Collaborations with organizations like Fast and Female and Girls in Sport Alberta allowed them to invite inspiring speakers who emphasized the importance of active participation. This unified approach not only enriches the golfing experience but also inspires a new generation of female athletes, proving that when communities come together, the impact can be truly transformative.

By: Santana Shipley

Carol Onufro Elected 105th WPGA President

Story from the WPGA

Carol Onufro has been elected as the 105th president of the Western Pennsylvania Golf Association (WPGA), marking a historic moment as the first woman to hold this prestigious position. “I am honored and humbled to serve as the WPGA president, and I look forward to continuing the association’s great work in promoting the game of golf,” said Onufro. Her election reflects the association’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and growth within the sport.

The Foundation Birthday Bash Best Ball will now be the Links for Lives

Story from Carolinas Golf Association

The Carolinas Golf Association (CGA) sends its thoughts and prayers to all those impacted by Hurricane Helene, particularly in South Carolina and North Carolina. In an effort to support those affected, the CGA has transformed its upcoming Carolinas Golf Foundation (CGF) Birthday Bash into “Links for Lives,” a fundraiser for hurricane relief. The event will be held on October 28th at Pine Needles Resort, with all proceeds going to those in need. Teams can participate in the one-day four-ball tournament for a reduced entry fee of $500—a great opportunity to enjoy a day of golf while raising money for those affected by the storm.

Kim Shek and Adithi Anand – Player-Caddie on course at U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur

Story from Washington Golf

For Kim Shek and Adithi Anand, it was camaraderie and a shared competitiveness, as Shek made a deep run at the 2024 U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur, with Anand as her caddie during the national championship held in late September at Broadmoor Golf Club in Seattle. The first time the two met, they were paired together by chance at a round at Sahalee Country Club in Sammamish, Wash. “It was pouring rain,” Anand said. “Miserable. But we became friends from that point on. I was still in high school at the time.”

A story from Maine Golf: Growth of High School Golf in Maine Creates Squeeze for Rosters and Tee Times

Story from Portland Press Herald

High school golf in Maine is thriving, with increasing numbers of students eager to play the sport. Schools like Yarmouth High have seen rosters grow significantly, showcasing the rising popularity of golf among youth. While the demand for tee times has presented logistical challenges, it reflects the success of golf’s growth during and after the pandemic. Coaches and courses are adapting with innovative solutions, ensuring that more students than ever have access to the game, and fostering the next generation of golfers.

Indiana Golf Magazine Video Series

Story from Indiana Golf

The Indiana Golf Foundation has introduced an exciting new initiative to support their monthly giving club, designed to engage younger golfers and boost donor participation. This addition, now featured on the website, has officially been launched and offers unique opportunities for involvement. For more information on how to join and contribute to the future of golf, visit the Indiana Golf Foundation at indianagolf.org/fore.

New Jersey Golf Foundation’s Annual Golf Classic Raises $275,000

Story from The Golf Wire

The New Jersey Golf Foundation’s 18th Annual Golf Classic raised an impressive $275,000 to support golf programs for youth, military veterans, and individuals with special needs. Held at Baltusrol Golf Club, this signature fundraising event honored Chris Baldwin as the 2024 Chairman’s Award recipient for his dedicated contributions. The funds will enhance key programs like PGA HOPE for veterans, Special Olympics Golf, and PGA Junior League.

CSF Awards Dinner Celebrates Clubs and Contributors

Story from New Jersey State Golf Association

The NJSGA Caddie Scholarship Foundation recently held its annual Appreciation and Awards Dinner at Upper Montclair Country Club, celebrating 77 years of providing scholarships to caddies pursuing higher education. Highlights included recognizing the top contributing clubs, with Baltusrol Golf Club and Echo Lake Country Club among the leaders. Echo Lake Country Club and the Mary Reinhart Stackhouse Foundation were inducted into the Diamond Society for their remarkable contributions. The event also expressed deep gratitude for the ongoing support of donors and clubs, impacting 164 scholars for the 2024-25 academic year.

Ex-tennis pro Lisa Spain Short Goes Long on Golf Ambition

Story from Global Golf Post Women

Lisa Spain Short’s remarkable journey from tennis pro to competitive golfer showcases her resilience. After recovering from triple-negative breast cancer and undergoing chemotherapy, she turned to golf on the encouragement of her son. Six years later, she competed in her first USGA championship, the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur. Short, a former NCAA tennis champion, has embraced the challenges of golf with the same determination that defined her tennis career, setting competitive goals as she continues to excel in the sport.

Setting the Standard

Story from Colorado Golf Association

The 2024 BMW Championship at Castle Pines Golf Club set a new fundraising record for the Evans Scholarship for caddies, potentially nearing $8 million in donations. Over 125,000 attendees supported the event, with proceeds helping fund scholarships for teenage caddies who excel in academics, leadership, and financial need. This year’s success highlights the dedication of the Castle Pines community, with exceptional service from volunteers and praise from players, fans, and organizers. The event’s future in Colorado remains a hopeful topic of discussion.