Category Archives: Uncategorized

MSGA and Thru Golf Launch Grant Program to Fuel the Next Generation of Golfers in Maryland & D.C.

From the Maryland State Golf Association

The Maryland State Golf Association (MSGA) has partnered with Thru Golf, a rising leader in youth golf advocacy, to launch the MSGA x Thru Golf Grant Program – a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to deliver impactful financial support to promising junior golfers throughout Maryland and the District of Columbia.

The program aims to break down financial barriers and expand access to high-level playing and development opportunities through a simple, mission-driven grant process.

“The MSGA is proud to partner with Thru Golf to help develop the next generation of golfers,” said Sinclair Eaddy Jr., MSGA president. “By combining our resources and shared commitment to youth development, we aim to create meaningful opportunities for young golfers across our region. It is both an honor and a privilege to work alongside Maryland Golf Hall of Fame members Bob Morris and Marty West and their dedicated philanthropic partners.”

Schenck Named Evans Scholar of the Year

From the Minnesota Golf Association

University of Minnesota Evans Scholars Chapter House Vice President Bryson Schenck was named the 2025 Minnesota Golf Association’s Fritz Corrigan Evans Scholar of the Year at the MGA’s 2025 Annual Awards Dinner, Oct. 27 at Town & Country Club of St. Paul. Along with Schenck, the MGA honored outstanding players, volunteers, and club representatives for their contributions to the amateur game of golf in Minnesota. They include: Skip Hambright, as the MGA Giles Kobilka Award winner, and Braemar Golf Course, as the MGA Member Club of the Year.

The evening’s highlights also included recognition of Mark Aldrich, Lynn Anderson, Ava Hanneman, Max Tylke, Sam Udovich and Kathryn VanArragon as the MGA Players of the Year.

Connecticut’s Laniah Moffett Featured by PGA TOUR

From the Connecticut State Golf Association | PGA TOUR

From quiet and reserved to wanting to be a leader in the business world, Connecticut’s Laniah Moffett is using her experience at the Bridgestone HBCU Invitational and the game of golf to help bridge the gap into the professional world after college.

The 2022 winner of the Borck Junior, Moffett, had a strong 2025 CSGA season, finishing fifth at the Connecticut Women’s Amateur, T12 at the Connecticut Women’s Open, and T11 at the New England Women’s Amateur. In 2024, Moffett competed in the First Tee National Championship. Moffett is currently a sophomore at Howard University.

2025 SDGA Golfers of the Year

From South Dakota Golf Association

The SDGA Board of Directors is pleased to announce the 2025 Golfers-of-the-Year.

Male Golfer of the Year – Jake Olson, Watertown

Female Golfer of the Year – McKenzie Mages, Sioux Falls

Senior Male Golfer of the Year – Steve Beardsley, Rapid City

Senior Female Golfer of the Year – Julie Jansa, Sioux Falls

Junior Male Golfer of the Year – Jayden Antonen, Sioux Falls

Junior Female Golfer of the Year – Rylan Horning, Rapid City

The SDGA Golfers of the Year, as well as the 2025 Hall of Fame inductees, will be celebrated at the SDGA Annual Banquet on April 11, 2026 at the new clubhouse at Elmwood Golf Course in Sioux Falls. All interested parties are welcome to attend, and more information will be shared as we get closer to the event.

USGA Adding 14 State Junior Teams Under USNDP Umbrella

From the USGA

The USGA announced the launch of the State Junior Team Program in 14 states that will support the pipeline for elite junior golfers ages 13-18 into the U.S. National Development Program.

The 14 states added to the program are Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, South Dakota, Texas and Washington. Teams are created through the USGA’s close collaboration with its Allied Golf Associations (AGAs) and the PGA of America Sections. Rosters for these 14 teams will be released after the conclusion of the 2026 season.

“This program represents an important step in building the national player pathway,” said Heather Daly-Donofrio, USGA managing director, Player Relations and Development. “We’re already seeing that states with teams up and running are thriving, as juniors are taking advantage of new opportunities to develop. By creating state junior teams, we’re not only opening doors for more juniors to access resources and development opportunities, but also instilling pride in representing their home state. That combination will help elevate competition locally and deepen the overall pool of talent nationwide.”

New York Golf Economic & Environmental Impact Report

From the New York State Golf Association

Golf in New York is a $12.9 billion economic engine and steward of 103,000 acres of greenspace, according to the New York Golf Economic & Environmental Impact Report released today. The industry supports 89,044 jobs and $3.8 billion in labor income, contributing $1.03 billion in state and local taxes across the Empire State.

New York golf’s footprint is broad and accessible with 833 total courses, 72% public, and 153 municipal, delivering access across all ten New York regions. In 2023, golfers played 18.2 million rounds statewide and the industry produced a direct economic impact of $6.9 billion, reinforcing its role in New York’s fiscal health, community wellness, and economic development.

“At $12.9 billion in total impact, the game outpaces the combined contributions of the state’s craft beverage sector, horse racing industry, and Yankees home games,” said Bedford Golf & Tennis Club Certified Golf Course Superintendent and New York Golf Course Foundation President Robert Nielsen. “Our vision is to demonstrate golf’s role in advancing sustainable development and community well-being across New York State.”

Kentucky Golf Association 2025 Players of the Year

From the Kentucky Golf Association

The Kentucky Golf Association is proud to announce the 2025 KGA Players of the Year. These outstanding golfers demonstrated consistent excellence across state and national competitions, excelling in state championships, USGA competitions, and KGA Amateur Series events.

We want to thank all participants, sponsors, and host clubs for making this season memorable, and we look forward to another exciting year in 2026!

NJ Golf Conducts 126th Annual Meeting; David Cronheim Elected President

From NJ Golf

The 126th Annual Meeting of New Jersey Golf was held on Thursday, October 9 at Morris County Golf Club at which David B. Cronheim was elected President for a two-year term.

Cronheim, age 40 and a resident of Bernardsville, is part of a deeply rooted golf family. He is the grandson of Robert D. Cronheim who served as NJ Golf President from 1992-1993, and part of the Cronheim family which has owned and operated the Watchung Valley Golf Club since 1943, spanning four generations. He succeeds Rod McRae, III of Baltusrol Golf Club who completed a highly successful two-year term as President.

McRae’s two years of dedicated service was highlighted by record event participation and individual memberships to the organization. His tenure included a complete re-branding in the winter of 2025, and the inaugural AGA (Allied Golf Associations) Presidents Council which drew 46 executive leaders to Baltusrol in August from throughout the United States – including Puerto Rico and Alaska – plus Mexico.

Maryland Resident Tees Off Historic Five Millionth Round for Youth on Course

From Youth On Course

Youth on Course – the nonprofit organization providing youth with access to life-changing opportunities through golf – is proud to announce a milestone achievement of five million rounds played by its members.

Malaya Johnson, a Maryland native, played the five millionth round at Bowie Golf Club. Introduced to golf by her grandfather at just four years old, Johnson quickly fell in love with the sport and began competing in tournaments by the age of seven. Golf has become a central part of her life, providing opportunities for connection and competition. One of her favorite parts of the game has been sharing it with her sister, also a Youth on Course member, who has since gone on to play Division I college golf. For Malaya, the milestone is both a personal and collective celebration.

2025 Alabama All-State Junior Teams and Junior Players of the Year Announced

From the Alabama Golf Association

The Alabama Golf Association (AGA) announces the Alabama All-State Teams and Junior Players of the Year for 2025. This is the ninth year of the awards being presented by the Alabama Golf Association.

All-State teams are awarded based on the Alabama State Junior Golf Rankings System, which awards points per event based on the number of participants in the event combined with the overall strength of the field. These tournaments must also meet additional requirements to be a sanctioned rankings event. Teams are annually based on the player performance over the past 12 months from September 1 through August 31.

All-State team members, the Junior Boys Player of the Year and the Junior Girls Player of the Year winners will be honored with other Alabama State Players of the Year in early 2026.

Tim Hubbard: Answering the Call — Indiana’s Newest PGA HOPE Ambassador

From Indiana Golf

When service meets purpose, something powerful takes root. For Tim Hubbard, a 12-year veteran of the United States Army, that power found its new expression through golf and service as he steps into his role as Indiana’s newest PGA HOPE Ambassador.

Tim spent over a decade wearing the uniform, dedicating himself to his country. But transitioning back to civilian life can be hard, and finding meaning, connection, and wellness on the other side of service is vital. Enter PGA HOPE — an initiative that uses golf as a tool for recovery, wellness, and community among veterans, active duty service members, and military families.

PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) offers participants more than golf lessons: it brings together camaraderie, support, discipline, mental health benefits, and the chance to engage in something both therapeutic and social. For Tim Hubbard, embracing this mission has meant stepping not just into a leadership role, but into one of service beyond the military — helping others find what many veterans crave: connection, healing, and purpose.

Mungeam, ASGCA, helps Farm Neck reestablish a sand-and-scrub identity

From the American Society of Golf Course Architects

Mark Mungeam, ASGCA (Mungeam Golf Design), has been working at Farm Neck Golf Club in Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, since 2005, but it would be between 2023 and 2025 where his most substantial work would take place.

Golf Course Architecture reports: Farm Neck is a semi-private club in a resort area (the island of Martha’s Vineyard, off Cape Cod), where there also exists a healthy membership.

The course reopened earlier this month following a two-phase renovation. Hal Phillips spoke with Mark about the details of this project, his design philosophy and his priorities as he prepares to begin his tenure as president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects.

Washington Golf Foundation offers three new programs to support youth golf

From the Washington Golf Foundation

Since its launching in November 2022, the Washington Golf Foundation has led dedicated efforts to foster and advance the growth of the game in Washington, by supporting initiatives and programs that enrich and unite the golf community.

As that mission continues, the Foundation is proud to offer three additional scholarship and grant opportunities for 2026 – The Andrew Putnam Scholarship, Future Fairways Scholarship and Junior Golf Opportunity Grant – all aiming to provide financial support to some of the region’s most passionate and committed young players.

The Andrew Putnam Scholarship reflects Tacoma native and PGA TOUR player Andrew Putnam’s long-term commitment to serving junior golf and his deep connection to the region. The scholarship offers financial support to a standout junior player from Washington who demonstrates not only golf talent and financial need but also strong character and community engagement. For 2026, two $2,500 awards will be given to players aged 10-17, who exhibit a financial need, demonstrate academic achievement and sportsmanship, and have strong golf tournament results in addition to a passion for the game.

NCGA Foundation Biggest Winner at Evercore Silicon Valley Challenge

From the Northern California Golf Association

Team NCGA got the win at September’s annual Evercore Silicon Valley Golf Challenge, which meant it was a bigger victory for youth, adult golfers and golf programs throughout the NorCal region.

By virtue of winning the Challenge, Team NCGA—made up of 2025 President Kevin Peyton, Board members April Kenyon and Branche’ Jones, Poppy Holding Inc. COO Steve Schroeder and CEO Joe Huston–was able to designate the $50,000 winner’s check to a charity of its choice.

Naturally, the NCGA chose its own Foundation.

The check to the NCGA Foundation was presented to Huston by Evercore Senior Managing Director Stu Francis. Francis served as USGA president from 2020-22.

The NCGA Foundation, the charitable arm of the NCGA, aims to ensure that the game of golf in Northern California is vibrant, inclusive and accessible for all. Along with Youth on Course, the Foundation features other programs including NCGA Reach, which provides grants for public golf facilities and public programs.

FSGA Scholars: Investing in the Future of Golf

From the Florida State Golf Association

Each year, the FSGA Foundation invests in the future of golf. Not only by growing the game, but by supporting the young people who represent it best. Through the FSGA Foundation Scholars program, deserving students receive four-year renewable scholarships to help them pursue their education.

The FSGA Foundation is proud to announce that the Class of 2025 is our largest group of FSGA Scholars in program history. Thirty-eight students were awarded with four-year renewable scholarships. With 93 active scholars currently supported, this program continues to grow each year thanks to the generous contributions of the FSGA Foundation.

These scholarships open doors for young golfers by recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and character. Several of our FSGA Scholars are already making their mark at the next level. Katelyn Huber, a 2019 Futures Champion, 10-time FJT winner, and member of Team Florida from 2021–2025, in her very first collegiate event, finished in 4th place. Meanwhile, Arth Sinha, the 2023 Boys’ Junior Champion and 2024 Team Florida member, earned a top-5 finish in his first college tournament.

Redfield Bryan Makes 11 Career Hole-in-Ones, Including Four in Four Months

From the Louisiana Golf Association

The Louisiana Golf Association is proud to spotlight Redfield Bryan, an 88-year-old retired urologist, LSU baseball alum, and longtime member of Baton Rouge Country Club, whose commitment to health, fitness, and competition has kept him at the heart of the game for decades. Between early-morning tee times, twice-weekly workouts, and short-game practice, Bryan plays two to four rounds a week and still posts numbers that turn heads.

“I’ve been blessed with health, good friends, and a game I love,” Bryan said. “Golf lets you compete as much as you want, for as long as you want. You can chase scores, you can chase improvement, or you can just enjoy a walk with your buddies.”

Missouri Golf Association Recognizes 2025 MJT Players of the Year

From the Missouri Golf Association

The Missouri Golf Association is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Missouri Junior Tour (MJT) Player of the Year awards. The MJT provides opportunities for junior golfers across the state to compete and develop their skills, with a points system that rewards consistent, high-level performance throughout the season.

Players earned points based on their finishes in events across the tour, with their top five performances counting toward the final standings.

The Lake of the Ozarks Golf Trail, managed by the Lake of the Ozarks Golf Council, proudly sponsors the Missouri Junior Tour. Known for its scenic courses carved into the Ozark Hills, the Trail features 10 of the top 20 public golf courses in Missouri and has been named “The Best Vacation Spot in Missouri.”

Dawgs & Dreamers: The allure of USGA Qualifying

From the Idaho Golf Association

For most of my adult life, I’ve charitably described myself as a “scratch” golfer. My index tends to float from +1-ish to 2-ish these days — which, contrary to the popular imagination, means I fist pump a lot of par putts for 75. So, when I showed up to the 2025 U.S. Mid-Amateur Qualifier in Boise last month to compete against a field sprinkled with former tour pros and D1 dawgs, I knew I’d need a daydream to fill out my scorecard.

USGA Local Qualifiers have become some of my favorite days since I started working for the IGA as an intern in 2023. The “open” nature of national amateurs, to me, captures the soul of game — we’re all a few good breaks and one great round from the experience of a lifetime. And watching high school standouts give pros and pedigreed college players a run for their money in a playoff for the final spot is fantastic theatre for any golf nut. But the pressure to summon your best golf across 18 holes is a feeling you need to play with to understand.

Last year, my buddy Brien and I played in the U.S. Four-Ball Qualifier and realized somewhere around the turn that we were going to need more birdies than we had holes left to play. No helping of ham nor egg would save us. Still, it was fun to show up as a dreamer — a couple of men’s-league sticks with just enough game to (sometimes-vaguely) resemble the guys who paid their college tuition with good ball striking.

Introducing the New AZ GOLF Women’s Newsletter

From AZ GOLF

August in Arizona generally brings triple-digit temperatures, but this year it also brought the launch of the new AZ GOLF HerScene newsletter, a product designed specifically with women in mind, serving as a go-to source for updates, stories, and resources that support women’s journey in the game. Throughout the year, readers will hear directly from the women of AZ GOLF –staff, members, and leaders – as they share their perspectives, experiences, and insights.

Each edition will also include content tailored to female members, from practical tips to elevate play to stories that highlight the incredible women shaping golf in Arizona.

A groundbreaking project set to revolutionize the way our community engages with the sport of golf

From the Miami Valley Golf Association

A groundbreaking project set to revolutionize the way our community engages with the sport of golf.

The GolfNext Studio will be an integral part of the Premier Health YMCA campus, a collaborative effort with the YMCA of Greater Dayton, Goodwill, CareSource, Premier Health, County Corp and Wright State. This dynamic space will house a range of features designed to educate, employ, empower, and inspire individuals and families in our local area.

The Golf Next Studio is more than just a physical space; it’s a hub for fostering diversity and inclusion within our community. Located conveniently off Salem Road, this initiative aims to expose local families to the joys of golf while providing educational opportunities, employment prospects, and a supportive environment for everyone, regardless of age or background.

The International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA) announced today that Tom Ryan and Ed Gowan will be honored as recipients of the 2025 IAGA Distinguished Service Award. The award presentation will take place during the 2025 IAGA Annual Conference scheduled for November 3–6 at Horseshoe Bay Resort near Austin, Texas.

The IAGA is proud to recognize Tom and Ed for their outstanding leadership and lasting contributions to the game, both within the associations they served and across the broader golf industry. 

Tom Ryan retired in 2023 after serving 21 years as Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Minnesota Golf Association (MGA). During his tenure, Ryan guided the organization through pivotal decades for the golf industry, leading with resilience, strategic vision, and collaboration.

Under his leadership, the MGA hosted three statewide strategic planning summits, produced two economic impact studies, and implemented innovative solutions to modern challenges—including revamping the club membership model and addressing internet discount programs. Ryan also helped establish the MGA Foundation and advanced one of the nation’s most active player development initiatives, Youth on Course.

His leadership was instrumental during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he worked with state officials to secure golf’s early reopening in Minnesota. Ryan also played a key role in merging the Minnesota’s women’s golf associations with the MGA, fostering a stronger, unified community.

On a national level, Ryan served as President of the International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA), strengthening collaboration between the IAGA, the USGA, and local golf associations across the country.

Reflecting on his career, Ryan emphasized the power of teamwork: “The unique part was we all grew up in the job together,” he said of the MGA’s long-tenured staff.

Ed Gowan devoted more than four decades to advancing the game of golf, most notably as Executive Director of the Arizona Golf Association (AGA), a position he held for 36 years until his retirement in 2021. When he began, AZ GOLF had just two employees serving 23,000 members. By the end of his tenure, the organization had grown to a staff of 23 serving more than 90,000 members and 600 clubs statewide.

Gowan modernized the AGA by integrating the USGA’s Handicap and Course Rating systems into Arizona, improving access to GHIN services. He also founded the Arizona Golf Foundation and co-founded the Patriot All-America Invitational, a nationally respected collegiate event that honors fallen U.S. military heroes.

His influence extended far beyond Arizona. A two-time President of the IAGA, Gowan also served on the USGA’s Rules of Golf and Regional Affairs committees, where he helped rewrite the Rules of Golf in 1984. Over his career, he officiated at more than 130 USGA championships, including 35 U.S. Opens, and contributed to LPGA rules and operations early in his career.

Gowan’s leadership philosophy was grounded in opportunity and innovation. As he reflected, “Much of what I have done outside of Arizona came from seeing opportunity and acting. The word no is not in my vocabulary.”

In 2024, his lasting legacy was recognized with induction into the Arizona Golf Hall of Fame.

About the IAGA Distinguished Service Award

The IAGA Distinguished Service Award honors individuals who have made a meaningful and lasting impact on their golf community at the local, regional, or national level. Recipients exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and demonstrate outstanding leadership, innovation, mentorship, collaboration, and communication. They are champions of knowledge sharing, dedicated service, and the advancement of the game of golf.

About the IAGA

Founded in 1968, the International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA) is the industry trade organization representing golf associations across North America. Its mission is to advance the game of golf by supporting and developing those who manage and guide it. The IAGA comprises more than 90 member associations, representing nearly 800 industry professionals and over 3 million golfers. Through education, networking, and resources, the IAGA empowers its members to strengthen their organizations and enhance the overall golf experience.

Ouimet Caddies at the LPGA’s FM Championship Pro-Am

From the Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund

Nearly 100 Ouimet caddies represented The Fund on Wednesday, Aug. 27 at the LPGA’s FM Championship Pro-Am on a picture perfect day at TPC Boston.

Scholars and supporters walked inside the ropes with top business leaders and some of the most recognizable names on the LPGA Tour, including Nelly Korda, Rose Zhang, Lexi Thompson and Massachusetts’ own Megan Khang.

Phyllis Thomas Pink Ball at Diamante Country Club

From the Arkansas State Golf Association

The week began at Diamante Country Club in Hot Springs Village with the annual Phyllis Thomas Pink Ball, the largest women’s event of the year. Held in honor of Phyllis Thomas, a respected businesswoman who built Harbor Oaks Golf Club and played a pivotal role in promoting golf in Arkansas, the event drew a record-breaking field of 120 players across 30 teams.

Despite the extreme heat, the competition was fierce, and the camaraderie was just as strong. Congratulations to this year’s winners: Alyssa Hagewood, Donna Hagewood, Haley Arzaga, and Miae Ahnheo.

GAM Foundation Presents Scholarships to Professional Golf Management Students

From the Golf Association of Michigan

A couple of months ago at the awards ceremony for the CGA Match Play, the association’s longtime executive director, Ed Mate, made an apt comment about the ongoing work John and Amy Lee of Greeley are doing to pay tribute to their son, Michael, who passed away in December 2020 at age 28 after battling Covid-19. Mate called it a “testament to goodness.”

On Thursday, another example of that goodness came to fruition. The Mike Lee 9, a short course built mainly for golf beginners at the Boomerang Links facility in Greeley, was formally dedicated and opened. A 24-by-18-inch cast aluminum plaque noting Michael Lee’s many personal attributes and the support the city of Greeley and others provided in making Mike Lee 9 a reality sits on a pedestal near the first tee.

About 80 people, including the mayor of Greeley, John Gates, took part in the festivities honoring Lee, a well-liked, respected, upbeat young man who played high school golf at Greeley Central and won the CGA Match Play Championship in 2011.

2024 Maryland Women’s Open Runner-up Melanie Green Excelling on the EPSON Tour

From the Maryland State Golf Association

Melanie Green, a name increasingly familiar to followers of women’s golf, is on a determined path to earning an LPGA Tour card. This journey, which is rooted in a standout collegiate career and now flourishing on the EPSON Tour, recently saw a significant stop at the Maryland Women’s Open, an event that holds a special place as the first professional event of her career.

Green, a former standout at the University of South Florida (USF), left a lasting mark on the Bulls’ golf program. During her time at USF, she consistently showcased her talent, accumulating numerous accolades. She made the American Athletic All-Conference team four times, was a 2022 NCAA Regional individual qualifier, and was the first USF player to be named the American Athletic Conference Women’s Golfer of the Year, among many other accolades. Her collegiate success laid a strong foundation for her professional goals.

The transition from amateur status to playing as a professional can be particularly challenging for any golfer. However, the 25th Maryland Women’s Open served as an exciting launchpad for Green. “It was my first pro event, so I was a little more nervous but mainly excited,” she shared when asked about her initial thoughts on participating in the tournament. “It was a great event to start my pro career,” Green exclaimed. “Overall…such a great event for a state championship, one of the best ones across the country. I’m super happy that is where my start happened.”

Inmates learn the game, and about life, at The Home Course

From Washington Golf

They came from far away, literally and figuratively.

Tim Thrasher is the superintendent at Cedar Creek Corrections Center, a minimum-security facility in rural Thurston County, Wash. The facility is the final step in a long process for men who are nearing the end of their sentences, and Thrasher sees his main role as preparing the incarcerated individuals for a productive return to society.

And he sees the game of golf as one way of accomplishing this.

Three years ago, Thrasher started a golf program at Cedar Creek, as a form of the inmates’ rehabilitation. It is the only golf program of its kind in the U.S.

On July 29, Thrasher and a handful of plainclothes staff from Cedar Creek brought five inmates from the facility to The Home Course in DuPont, Wash. The excursion was arranged by Justin Gravatt, the PGA general manager at The Home Course, which is co-owned and operated by Washington Golf and the Pacific Northwest Golf Association.

2025 Fleming Fund Camp is a Success

From Virginia State Golf Association

The VSGA wrapped up its annual Fleming Fund Camp last month at Williamsburg National Golf Club, where junior girls from First Tee chapters across the state received both concentrated instruction and on-course experience from Head Golf Professional Claudia Ferrini, PGA, LPGA and Assistant Golf Professional David Moles. The VSGA thanks both Williamsburg National and First Tee for their partnerships, as well as our generous donors who help to make this camp possible. Use the link below to learn more about the Fleming Fund or to make a donation.

Grand opening of Mike Lee 9 short course at Boomerang — honoring 2011 CGA Match Play champ — a heartwarming affair; Lee leaves ‘legacy of hope, joy and togetherness’

From Colorado Golf Association

A couple of months ago at the awards ceremony for the CGA Match Play, the association’s longtime executive director, Ed Mate, made an apt comment about the ongoing work John and Amy Lee of Greeley are doing to pay tribute to their son, Michael, who passed away in December 2020 at age 28 after battling Covid-19. Mate called it a “testament to goodness.”

On Thursday, another example of that goodness came to fruition. The Mike Lee 9, a short course built mainly for golf beginners at the Boomerang Links facility in Greeley, was formally dedicated and opened. A 24-by-18-inch cast aluminum plaque noting Michael Lee’s many personal attributes and the support the city of Greeley and others provided in making Mike Lee 9 a reality sits on a pedestal near the first tee.

About 80 people, including the mayor of Greeley, John Gates, took part in the festivities honoring Lee, a well-liked, respected, upbeat young man who played high school golf at Greeley Central and won the CGA Match Play Championship in 2011.

Rebranded and Ready: OGA’s Big July

From Oregon Golf Association

The Oregon Golf Association has a brand-new look!
OGA recently completed a full rebrand, and their refreshed website is now live—featuring a modern design, improved navigation, and the same strong commitment to serving Oregon’s golf community. Take a look at OGA.org!

It’s also been a busy stretch in Oregon:

• The PNGA Amateur wrapped up last week in Sunriver

• The Pacific Coast Amateur is underway in Eugene, with OGA and AZ Golf named co-champions of the Morse Cup

• Next up: the Boy’s Junior America’s Cup at Columbia Edgewater Country Club (July 28–31)

• Then it’s on to the U.S. Women’s Amateur at Bandon Dunes Resort

• And the OGA Junior—Eddie Hogan Cup, rounds out the summer

Best of luck to all the players representing the Pacific Northwest!

The Indiana Golf Foundation Has Completed Their $6.5 Million Capital Campaign

From Indiana Golf

The Indiana Golf Foundation is proud to announce the successful completion of its capital campaign, officially surpassing the $6.5 million fundraising goal that has fueled the creation of a new home for Indiana Golf and First Tee – Indiana.

This transformational campaign made possible by the generous support of donors, community partners, and friends of the game has already resulted in the opening of the Pete and Alice Dye Indiana Golf Center, a facility designed to serve as the heartbeat of golf in Indiana.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who believed in this vision from the beginning,” said Indiana Golf Executive Director Mike David. “Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we now have a home that honors our history, supports our mission, and positions us for continued growth.”

The Golf Center officially opened its doors on June 5, 2025, with a grand opening celebration that brought together donors, staff, players, and community members. The space houses administrative offices, Indiana Golf Hall of Fame, and serves as a statewide hub for both Indiana Golf and First Tee – Indiana. The Hall of Fame area is open to the public Monday-Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm, if you haven’t already come check out the space!

How the Walker Cup Returned to Cypress Point Club

From Northern California Golf Association

The Walker Cup will make a triumphant return to Cypress Point Club in Pebble Beach on Sept. 5-7.

What exactly is the Walker Cup?

The Walker Cup is a biennial 10-man competition between the top amateurs from the United States and Great Britain & Ireland, contested over two days with 18 singles and eight foursomes (alternate-shot) matches. The USA leads the overall series that began in 1922, 39-9-1, but it has been tremendously competitive over the last three decades, with the USA holding just an 11-7 advantage since 1989.

The last time the event was held at Cypress Point was in 1981, when the Americans won the title, 15-9. Among the event’s highlights was Jim Holtgrieve’s play on the world-famous par-3 16th hole. Holtgrieve hit a 2 iron off the tee (240+ yards) to 2 feet, making birdie on the hole for the winning point.

It’s the first time the event returns to Cypress Point since 1981.

13 Year-Old Jack Cheever Brings Home a Win, Breaking Course Record at Marion Golf Club

From Mass Golf

MARION, Massachusetts – Marion Golf Club was no match for Jack Cheever (Dedham Golf and Polo Club), who broke the course record with a 12-under-par 58 at the 2025 Young Golfers’ Amateur, Powered by KOHR Golf.

The 13-year-old took the 9-hole course by the reins, carding a 6-under-par 29 on his front and back nine, and birdied five of the last six holes in his finish.

“The first time around, I made about a 10-footer for birdie on hole 9, and shot 29 on the front nine,” Cheever said. “So once I made that putt, I was like there’s nothing holding me back, and I was in the zone from there on out.”

The Young Golfers’ Amateur Championship Powered By KOHR Golf is open to junior golfers who have an active Mass Golf Membership, age 13 and under as of July 14, 2025. The event is played as an 18-hole Modified Stableford where points are awarded for Eagle (4), Birdie (3), Par (2), and Bogey (1). Any score double-bogey or higher receives no points. This championship uses the same format as the Barracuda Championship (the only PGA Tour championship that does not use the traditional format). While this format encourages risk-taking to rack up big points, it also rewards players for making pars and bogeys.

A Career for the Ages: Steckowych to be Inducted into NH Golf Hall of Fame

From New Hampshire Golf

Concord, NH – The New Hampshire Golf Hall of Fame Nominating Committee is proud to announce that longtime amateur standout Craig Steckowych will be inducted into the New Hampshire Golf Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2025. With a career that has spanned more than three decades and includes championships at every stage of competitive amateur golf, Steckowych’s record is among the most decorated in state history. But to Craig, the game has always been about more than just titles.

Steckowych’s journey in golf began as a teenager at Derryfield Country Club. “I started playing at 13 or 14 years old,” he recalls. “My dad was a member at Derryfield and came home one day with a junior membership for me and my older brother. That’s where it all started.”