Category Archives: News

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.

Virginia’s Lauren Greenlief and Alex Austin at the U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship 

Story from Virginia State Golf Association

Congratulations to Lauren Greenlief and Alex Austin for incredible runs at the U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship this week! Austin advanced to the quarterfinals for the second straight year, after eventually falling 6 and 5 to Lindsay Gahm of Louisville, KY. Greenlief, competing in her ninth U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur, defeated number 1 seed Jacqueline Setas of East Lansing, MI in the quarterfinals, but was defeated 2 and 1 by Gahm, Austin’s opponent in the previous round, in the semifinals. Greenlief also made the ninth known hole-in-one in championship history in her Round of 64 victory on Monday.

Miami Valley Golf’s Next Studio

Story from Miami Valley Golf

The GolfNEXT Studio, a new initiative at the YMCA Northwest Health and Wellness campus in Dayton, is dedicated to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in golf. Featuring simulators, a putting green, and equipment suitable for all ages, the studio aims to foster diversity, provide educational opportunities, and enhance community wellness. It also supports youth programs such as “Golf. My Future. My Game.”

AZ Golf’s Catherine Carmignani Puts Ascendant Career Track to Work in Arizona

Story from GGP Women

Catherine Carmignani’s career has been a journey of growth and leadership. After a decade in collegiate sports, she entered the golf industry in 2019 with Mass Golf, quickly rising to assistant executive director. Now, she steps into a new role as the executive director of AZ Golf. Carmignani’s success highlights her commitment to inspiring women in sports administration and creating a lasting impact in golf.

SoloRider Making Memories for Mazurak

Story from Golf Saskatchewan

Graham Mazurak, once an avid golfer, is back on the course after a stroke thanks to the SoloRider adaptive golf cart at Silverwood Golf Course. With the help of volunteer Logan Knutson, Mazurak has returned to the sport he loves, saying there’s nothing better than being out with friends. Their partnership has sparked joy for both, creating lasting memories through the game of golf.

Golf PR’s Golf Para Todos Program

Story from Golf Puerto Rico

Golf PR’s Golf Para Todos program, part of the PRGA Community Service Program which began in 1999, aims to bring golf to every child in Puerto Rico, especially those from low-income families. This initiative has introduced hundreds of young people to the game who might otherwise never have had the opportunity. For 2024, three events have been conducted under this program, with three more planned for the year. To support this initiative, donations of golf clubs and bags are being collected to provide equipment to children in need. By making golf accessible, the program seeks to offer valuable personal development opportunities and inspire a lifelong passion for the sport.

Golf Canada’s 2024 Canadian All Abilities Championship is set for Timber Ridge Golf Course

Story from Golf Canada

The 2024 Canadian All Abilities Championship, presented by BDO, will take place from September 10-12 at Timber Ridge Golf Course in Brighton, Ontario. With a record field of 60 golfers, the event showcases athletes with neurological, intellectual, sensory, and physical impairments. The competition features both Gross Stroke Play and Net Stableford formats for men and women, including champions like Natasha Stasiuk and Chris Willis. The tournament highlights Golf Canada’s commitment to inclusivity and adaptive sports.

Berwick Golf Club’s Storm Recovery: Golf Association of Philadelphia Membership Brings USGA Support

Story from Golf Association of Philadelphia

Earlier this summer, Berwick Golf Club endured significant damage after a powerful storm tore through the area, rendering the greens unplayable and severely impacting the facilities. Fortunately, as a proud member of the Golf Association of Philadelphia (GAP), the club was able to leverage its connections with the USGA for critical support. The USGA’s expert team quickly assessed the damage and is now guiding the restoration process. With their assistance, Berwick Golf Club is confident that it will not only be restored but emerge better and stronger than before.

Southern Nevada Golf’s 100 Hole Hike raises over $66K for Youth on Course

In July, Southern Nevada Golf Association 100 Hole Hikers raised $66,641 for Youth on Course, helping juniors play golf at Southern Nevada courses for just $5. The funds will support hundreds of rounds for young golfers over the next year, fostering their development both on and off the course. A huge thank you to our hikers, donors, and the Southern Nevada golf community for their incredible support!

Oregon Golf Association’s Silvies Valley Ranch Provides a Unique Golfing Experience

Nestled in Eastern Oregon, Silvies Valley Ranch offers a one-of-a-kind blend of luxury, adventure, and sustainability. Spanning over 140,000 acres, the ranch features innovative reversible golf courses designed by Dan Hixson, where the same terrain offers two distinct experiences on alternating days. Visitors can also enjoy the unique charm of goat caddies on the 7-hole McVeigh’s Gauntlet course, adding a playful twist to their golfing adventure. Committed to environmental stewardship, Silvies Valley Ranch combines world-class golf with eco-friendly practices, regenerative agriculture, and luxury accommodations, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure in Oregon’s high desert.

Arizonans Tee Up for Success, On and Off the Course, with the Underrated Tour

In June, Alexis Lamadrid from Phoenix won the season opener of the Underrated Tour at Old Barnwell, securing her spot in the Curry Cup Championship this September. Founded by NBA star Stephen Curry, the Underrated Tour aims to create equity and opportunity in golf, offering student-athletes like Lamadrid mentorship, networking, and increased visibility. The Tour stands out by fostering a sense of community and providing unique off-course experiences that help participants succeed beyond the game. Lamadrid’s victory reflects the confidence and growth she’s gained through her time on the Underrated Tour.