News

IAGA honors Gowan, Ryan, and Shoup

From the Global Golf Biz

Ed Gowan is surrounded by his family after being honored with the IAGA Distinguished Service Award.

The International Association of Golf Administrators honored three individuals and one foundation with awards at its 2025 annual conference at Horseshoe Bay Resort near Austin, Texas.

Ed Gowan, former executive director of the Arizona Golf Association, and Tom Ryan, former executive director and chief operating officer of the Minnesota Golf Association, received IAGA Distinguished Service Awards for their decades-long contributions.

Gowan, who led the Arizona Golf Association for 36 years before retiring in 2022, helped grow the organization from two employees serving 23,000 members to a statewide staff serving more than 90,000 golfers. Ryan, who retired in 2023 after 21 years at the helm of the Minnesota Golf Association, guided the association through transformative periods for the industry.

Golf Drives $2 Billion Economic Impact Across Missouri

From the Missouri Golf Alliance

The game of golf isn’t just thriving in Missouri — it’s driving billions into the state’s economy.

According to a new Missouri Golf Economic Impact Report, developed by the Missouri Golf Alliance—a collaborative partnership comprised of the Missouri Golf Association, Central Links Golf, and the Metropolitan Amateur Golf Association—and conducted by Buffalo Groupe, golf generated an astounding $2.1 billion economic impact in 2023, the most recent year with complete data. This total reflects the sport’s wide-ranging influence, encompassing course operations, tourism, real estate, retail, and charitable giving.

At the heart of this impact is nearly $1.4 billion in direct economic output, supporting over 21,700 jobs and contributing approximately $250 million in state and local tax revenues.

“The golf industry plays a meaningful role in Missouri’s economy, from supporting small businesses to welcoming visitors from across the country and world,” said Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe. “From our rural communities to our largest metro areas, golf supports jobs, drives tourism, and contributes to the strong, growing economy we’re building for Missouri’s future.”

The findings underscore golf’s growing footprint in the Show-Me State. When the last industry study was completed in 2010, the total impact stood at $1.7 billion, meaning the game’s contribution has grown by nearly 25% in just over a decade.

Maryland State Golf Association Names Bob Dolan, PGA, as Inaugural Coach for Team Maryland

From the Maryland State Golf Association

The Maryland State Golf Association (MSGA) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Bob Dolan, PGA, as the inaugural coach of Team Maryland. This announcement comes on the heels of the official launch of Team Maryland, a new initiative through the United States Golf Association’s (USGA) U.S. National Development Program (USNDP) to foster junior golf excellence throughout the state and the District of Columbia.

“Bob Dolan has long been a trusted friend and steadfast supporter of the MSGA. He has distinguished himself as a professional, a player, and a mentor to generations of golfers,” said Sinclair Eaddy, MSGA president. “After a remarkable career at Columbia Country Club, we are excited to see him begin his next chapter guiding the state’s top junior players. His leadership and insight will be invaluable as we build Team Maryland and advance our statewide player development program. We are truly fortunate to have someone so widely respected for both his integrity and his lasting contributions to the game.”

Team Maryland aims to identify, develop, and support the state’s brightest young golf talent by offering them elite training, coaching, and competitive experiences. The team, which will be named in late 2026, will comprise five boys and five girls. A selection committee will oversee the team selection criteria and the operation of Team Maryland, in accordance with guidelines provided by the USNDP.

Arizona Adaptive Open Pulls Top Talent For Second Annual Event

From AZ Golf

The world’s top adaptive golfers returned to Arizona for the second annual Arizona Adaptive Open Championship, held December 8–10 at Papago Golf Club in Phoenix. The 36-hole stroke-play event showcased 60 WR4GD-certified competitors vying for the overall Men’s and Women’s championships, along with titles within their individual impairment categories.

The championship reflects AZ GOLF’s commitment to creating meaningful playing opportunities for golfers of all backgrounds, skill levels, and abilities. Through extensive research and collaboration within the adaptive golf community, AZ GOLF has worked to deliver an authentic championship environment while reducing barriers to participation.

The Arizona Adaptive Open debuted in 2024 at Papago Golf Club. In the maiden event, Tennessee’s Ford Martin and Virginia’s Cassie Sengul went wire-to-wire to capture the Open in the men’s and women’s divisions, respectively. While several East Coast Allied Golf Associations had already introduced adaptive golf championships, AZ GOLF was the first to bring such an event to the western region.

Pacific Coast Amateur to be held on the new 18-hole course at Poppy Ridge 

From the Northern California Golf Association

The Pacific Coast Golf Association (PCGA) has announced that the 59th Pacific Coast Amateur Championship will take place July 21-24, 2026, at Poppy Ridge Golf Course in Livermore, Calif.

This marks the first time Poppy Ridge – owned and operated by the Northern California Golf Association – will host the Pacific Coast Amateur. Its sister course, Poppy Hills in Pebble Beach, previously hosted the championship in 1996.

It was that year – 1996 – when what is now Poppy Ridge originally opened as a 27-hole facility with three 9-hole layouts. In May 2025, a 13-month total redesign and rebuilding of the course was completed, under the design of Jay Blasi, who had worked right beside Robert Trent Jones II to design Chambers Bay in Washington, which itself has hosted the Pacific Coast Amateur on three occasions (2017, 2021, 2024).

The new Poppy Ridge course offers playability, variety, and flexibility throughout its wide, undulating fairways, making it a prime location to host the top amateur golfers of the world. It also makes use of new Santa Ana Bermuda fairways and Prestige Bentgrass putting greens, combining to form an exceptional, water-efficient playing surface any golfer is meant to enjoy.

MGA Celebrates 2025 Season, Award Winners

From the Metropolitan Golf Association

The Metropolitan Golf Association honored year-end award winners on Dec. 3, hosting its annual Awards Celebration at Westchester Country Club in Rye, N.Y.

The 2025 player of the year recipients, Christian Cavaliere, Megha Ganne, and Lucas Rizo-Patron were all recognized, as was Distinguished Service Award honoree, Rich Lerner.

Golf Channel host and essayist Lerner was presented with the MGA’s highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award. Brandel Chamblee provided an eloquent introduction of Lerner, reflecting on his on-air partner’s unmatched story-telling abilities.

“Think how the game of golf has made all our lives better,” Lerner said in his remarks. “The friends we have made. The places we have gone. The laughs we’ve had. The trophies you’ve won. The bonds you’ve forged. The memories we’ve created. From my dad’s driving range to the Golf Channel to right here tonight, my life better, thanks to this association, thanks to all of you.”

Created in 1973, the MGA Distinguished Service Award is presented annually to a candidate who has contributed “distinguished service to golf and its related activities, consistent with the valued standards and honorable traditions of the game.”

Lynne Haraway Named 2025-2026 SCGA President

From the Southern California Golf Association

Lynne Haraway, an SCGA member through Wood Ranch GC, was selected President of the Association at its Annual Meeting, in October at Brookside GC. She succeeds Zack Moran.

Haraway joined the SCGA Board in 2017 following the unification between the Women’s Southern California Golf Association (WSCGA) and the SCGA. A former WSCGA board member, she played a crucial role in the unification process, which brought over 21,000 female golfers and expanded competitive opportunities for women across Southern California.

“I am so looking forward to a busy and fun year, serving the SCGA and our Southern California golf community,” Haraway said. “This organization is extremely professional, respected and ready to meet any challenge or opportunity. We are ready for 2026 and beyond.”

Joining Haraway as 2025-26 SCGA Officers are Vice President Tom Reul, Briarwood GC, Secretary John Fischer, The Los Angeles CC and Treasurer Laurence Stein, Brentwood CC. Haraway will lead a diverse board representing a cross-section of clubs, backgrounds, skills and geography.

Mass Golf’s Club Partner Program Will Now Provide Matching Grants To Supplement Municipal Course Renovations

From Mass Golf

“Let’s go check out a green,” suggested Elliott Dowling wanting to keep things moving on a sun-splashed but bone-chilling Thursday morning earlier this month.

Climbing from a stretch spongey fairway under repair for the remainder of the season, he made his way toward the elevated 4th green at Brookline Golf Course. There, three bundled-up figures stood over a patchwork of scattered leaves and weather-hardened grass, the wind cutting sideways through the trees.

In the center, Dowling, Regional Director for the USGA Green Section’s Course Consulting Service, knelt with a soil profiler in hand, extracting a plug from green layered with almost a century of history. On either side stood head golf course superintendent Michael Murphy and assistant superintendent Dean, who shifted their weight around while sharing their observations of the landscape over the years.

From a distance, the scene could’ve been mistaken for an official USGA site visit, the kind reserved for championship contenders. But Brookline, more often called ‘Putterham’ after its surrounding neighborhood, wasn’t prepping for elite tournament scrutiny.” That’s a task more fitting for its neighbor, the one with the squirrel crest and U.S. Open legacy.

Unique Format, Shared Purpose at C. Layne Williams Invitational

From the Georgia State Golf Association

For the second-straight year, the GSGA Competitions season concluded with the C. Layne Williams Invitational – an event created to honor Georgia Golf Hall of Famer Layne Williams and his lasting impact. Williams dedicated more than 30 years to leading the GSGA’s Rules and Competitions Department before his passing in 2021.

Four players from 10 different Player of the Year categories earned invitations to compete Nov. 14-15 at Cherokee Town and Country Club and Bobby Jones Golf Course in Atlanta. Following the first round each year, we’ve held our GSGA Celebration of Champions to honor our champions from the season and Players of the Year.

The 40-player field features men and women of all ages across multiple divisions and pairings are setup to reflect this diversity. What makes this event special is the format – all competitors play different tees based on their category, while competing for the overall trophy.

In the picture included, this group featured four different categories: Junior Girls’, Junior Boys’, Women’s Mid-Am and Senior Men’s.

VSGA-VIP Scholarship Foundation announces new named awards

From the Virginia State Golf Association

The VSGA-VIP Scholarship Foundation is pleased to announce the addition of three new named scholarships to its roster of offerings for 2026—the Linda A. DiVall Award, the Jake Allison Award, and the Ned Baber Award.

“The VSGA-VIP Scholarship Foundation is gratified by the extraordinary generosity of the Jake Allison family, the Ned Baber family, and of Linda DiVall in establishing three new named award scholarships,” Foundation President Joan Gardner said. “Such awards are a vital part of our mission to enhance the educational opportunities for Virginia’s youth with an interest in golf. While the annual revenue from VSGA-VIP cards is our bedrock, donations that establish major named awards ensure we will be able to acknowledge and support outstanding student golfers well into the future.”

Another named scholarship, the Benny Wang Trust Award, was previously announced in June and will also go live in 2026.

Seven Inducted Into 2025 NYSGA Hall of Fame Class at Yahnundasis

From the New York State Golf Association

The New York State Golf Association (NYSGA) welcomed its latest class of trailblazers, community leaders and decorated players at the 2025 NYSGA Hall of Fame Ceremony at Yahnundasis Golf Club on Friday evening.

The Class of 2025, comprised of Debbie Austin, Moira Dunn-Bohls, Ed Furgol, Craig Harmon, Wayne Levi, Sherrill Sherman and George Zahringer III, represents a group of individuals who’ve made a significant impact on the game of golf and helped shape its landscape across New York State.

Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame Celebrates 2025 Induction Class!

From Golf House Kentucky

The Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame hosted a special evening Monday, November 17, at the Marriott Louisville East to celebrate individuals who have made a meaningful and lasting impact on golf in Kentucky.

The 2025 class featured Hall of Fame inductees Emma Talley, Josh Teater, Keith Ohr, PGA, and Andy Roberts, along with Distinguished Service Award honorees Barbara Peak and Tim Reeves, PGA. The event highlighted exceptional accomplishments, character, and dedication that continue to shape and strengthen the golf community across the Commonwealth.

Leighann LaRocca Makes History as First Female President of the Iowa Golf Association

From Iowa Golf Association

The Iowa Golf Association (IGA) is proud to announce that Leighann LaRocca (above) has been elected as the first female President in the organization’s long and storied history. LaRocca’s election marks a historic milestone for the IGA and a powerful reflection of the growing inclusivity and leadership of women in golf throughout the state of Iowa.

LaRocca, who will serve a two-year term as president, has been a passionate and active member of the Iowa golf community for decades. Joining her on the IGA Executive Committee are Vaughn Halyard, Vice President, Matt Arenholz, Secretary, and Jon Brown, Treasurer (continuing in his role).

For LaRocca, the game of golf has been a lifelong source of friendship, personal growth, and joy — a journey that began humbly and has led to one of the most respected leadership roles in Iowa golf.

“I grew up on a farm in northwest Iowa, so summers were spent working outside,” LaRocca said. “My parents didn’t golf, so it didn’t even come onto my radar until my junior summer at UNI. I needed a class to graduate, so I took golf too. I learned the basics and we could play at the UNI course — which is now Highway 218.”

Golf Ontario Backs National Off-Course Golf Strategy to Grow the Game Year-Round

From Golf Ontario

In collaboration with Golf Canada’s newly launched national Off-Course Strategy and Just Swing campaign, Golf Ontario is proud to support and engage with the growing off-course golf market across Ontario.

“Off-course golf is expanding how and where people connect with the sport,” said Kyle McFarlane, Golf Ontario CEO. “All golf is golf. Whether it’s played indoors or outdoors, on a simulator or at a course, it all connects people to the game we love. Through the Just Swing campaign, and in partnership with Golf Canada, we’re committed to supporting facilities and golfers year-round. Golf in Ontario is a 365-day sport, and together we’re ensuring there are more ways than ever for people to play, belong, and stay engaged.”

As part of this strategy, Golf Ontario and Golf Canada are introducing a new Facility Membership Program designed specifically for off-course operators. This initiative allows simulators, indoor centres and golf entertainment venues to become official member facilities of Golf Ontario and Golf Canada—connecting their businesses with the province’s largest and most engaged golf community. The program provides facility owners with new ways to grow participation, strengthen engagement, and access valuable year-round member benefits.

Golf’s Economic Impact in Oregon Surges to $2.4 Billion

From Oregon Golf Association

Golf’s economic footprint in Oregon is showing serious muscle, according to the latest 2025 statewide report. The industry generated a $2.4 billion total economic impact in 2024, thanks to $1.6 billion in direct activity across facilities, tourism, retail, real estate and related businesses.

More than 18,000 jobs were supported and over $252 million in state and local tax revenue recorded, underscoring how golf has emerged not only as a sport and pastime but as a significant driver of Oregon’s outdoor-economy ecosystem.

What’s particularly noteworthy is where the growth is coming from. Tourism alone accounts for 36% of the activity — roughly $838 million — while golf-related real estate values more than tripled from $58 million in 2019 to $184 million in 2024.

With participation up to about 390,000 golfers statewide and some 5.3 million rounds played — nearly a 19% increase since 2019 — the ripple effect stretches far beyond the fairways.

By partnering with the Oregon Golf Association, this project is helping to shed light on how golf supports jobs, boosts tourism, and builds community value all across the state.

LGA Member Niel Phillips Records Two Holes-in-One on the Same Hole, Same Day

From Louisiana Golf Association

In a moment that the golf world won’t stop talking about anytime soon, Niel Phillips, a sophomore at Sewanee: The University of the South, did something most players will never experience once, let alone twice. On Monday, October 20, 2025, during the Chick-fil-A Invitational at Stonebridge Golf Club in Rome, Georgia, the New Orleans native made two holes-in-one on the same hole in the same day.

Yes, you read that right. Two aces. Same hole. Same day.

Phillips, a longtime Louisiana Golf Association and former Louisiana Junior Golf Tour member, started his morning round by knocking in a 6-iron on the par-3 eighth hole. Hours later, he returned to that same tee box in his afternoon round, this time pulling a 7-iron, and did it again.

“It was something else, that’s for sure,” Phillips told Golf Channel after the round. “Two good swings and some good luck.”

The odds of an amateur making a single ace sit somewhere around 12,000 to 1. Pulling off two on the same hole within a few hours pushes those odds into the tens of millions to one. It’s the kind of thing you have to say out loud twice just to believe it happened.

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.