IAGA Quick Hits | 10.17.25
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.