IAGA Quick Hits – 3.05.25
2025 Mass Golf Member Days Return with Stellar Courses, Updated Lottery System; Registration Opens March 4
A story from Mass Golf
Imagine stepping onto the first tee at a course you’ve only seen in pictures, the kind of place where you and your golf partners usually say, “Maybe someday.” For the past 15 years, Mass Golf Member Days have allowed thousands of Mass Golf members to fulfill those desires at some of Massachusetts’ most exclusive private courses — venues typically reserved for members and their guests only.
Following record participation last season, including a 25% increase in unique players, this series of one-day, 18-hole events continues with a fresh lineup, an updated lottery system, and a season packed with opportunities to play some of the most desired and storied courses all across Massachusetts.
And much like the return of major golf, signing up for Member Days is right around the corner. Beginning Tuesday, March 4, golfers can enter the lotteries for their preferred events. In order to participate, you must have an active GHIN Number and create a Golf Genius Player Profile if one hasn’t already been created. This system ensures a fair and efficient way for all Mass Golf members to get their chance to participate.
RIGA Hires Steve Yatrousis
A story from the Rhode Island Golf Association
The Rhode Island Golf Association is pleased to announce that Steven Yatrousis has been named the new Manager of Championship Administration for the non-profit organization.
RIGA Executive Director Robert Ward made the official announcement. Yatrousis will start his new role March 3.
“We’re excited to add Steve to our staff,” Ward said. “His golf background, experience at Mass Golf and overall enthusiasm will be a big asset to the RIGA and its members.”
Yatrousis, 28, of East Providence, previously served as Manager of Championship Administration for Mass Golf. He was responsible for the administrative functions and support for all Mass Golf championships, women’s championships and USGA qualifiers. He also coordinated event volunteer management, recruitment, development, and retention. During that time, Mass Golf had a 24% increase in individuals who volunteer for events.
A native of Wethersfield, Conn., Yatrousis is a past USGA P.J. Boatwright Intern with Mass Golf, and also served as the organization’s Championship Coordinator.
David Jacobsen receives 2025 Joe Dey Award for outstanding volunteerism in golf
A story from the Pacific Northwest Golf Association
The USGA has named David Jacobsen of Portland, Ore., as the 2025 recipient of the Joe Dey Award, in recognition of his exemplary service to the game and incredible impact in welcoming thousands to the sport through junior golf.
Named after Joe Dey, USGA executive director from 1934-1969, the award honors the game’s most exceptional volunteers. Beyond his service to the Oregon Golf Association (OGA), Jacobsen has volunteered at the national level with the USGA for more than four decades.
“This honor came as a surprise and I am extremely grateful to the USGA for this incredible recognition,” said Jacobsen. “The wonderful game of golf is filled with thousands of volunteers at the local, state, regional and national level. To be among those recognized for my service – knowing Mr. Dey’s distinguished place in the game and the impact of previous recipients – is humbling.”