Category Archives: Uncategorized

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.”

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.