News

One of the common challenges with social media is creating a cohesive design aesthetic that translates from your logo to your website, email, and social media channels. Within the last few years, Canva.com has become an easy alternative to Photoshop that requires a lot less training to create graphics for your brand.

The pro platform is less than $15 per month, and it gives you the option to upload your brand’s official logo and fonts in order to easily create matching graphics and templates. The pro version of Canva also offers a ton of pre-made graphics already sized for the correct social media platforms, which makes it easy to produce professional looking designs in a small amount of time.

If you have any questions about how to best leverage Canva, please contact Preston McClellan at pmcclellan@iaga.org.

By Preston McClellan, IAGA Consultant

Twitter has been in the news a lot recently for many reasons, and it should still be a pillar of your content and marketing strategies. There is an extremely strong and active community of millennials on Twitter that are passionate about golf – many of which compete in amateur events at some of the IAGA member associations. 

The challenge on Twitter comes when you try to reach new people and expand your audience. Oftentimes, people think you have to rely on going viral, while the more effective strategy of small engagement wins is much more effective. What does that mean?

Two social media strategies that are effective on Twitter: 

1. Competitor audience engagement: Make a list of at least 5 accounts on Twitter that have followers that you think would be interested in your content. For example, if there is a PGA TOUR event in your state, the tournament’s Twitter account would be a great example. 
   1. Each day, interact with 5-10 followers of those target accounts. You can follow them, like tweets, reply, hop into conversations, etc. 
   2. Keep a list of the accounts you follow and interact with to see which ones respond and reciprocate the engagement. Continue to engage with those accounts while discontinuing following or engaging with those who don’t reciprocate. 
   3. 5-10 new accounts engaged per day can net ~100 new followers a month. 
2. Search for phrases: Twitter allows you to search for phrases, so you can set up ongoing monitoring searches for your associations name or common terms relevant to your state and golf. This will enable you to have the opportunity to jump into relevant golf conversations even when you aren’t directly mentioned. 

The Georgia State Golf Association’s (GSGA) Foundation recently held an online auction to raise money for its scholarship programs. The GSGA solicited member clubs to donate rounds of golf and a few unique travel experiences provided by their auction platform host TravelPledge were also included.

This fundraising effort has raised over $100K in the last two years. The GSGA promoted the auction through various member communications and social media ads. In addition, their auction partner (TravelPledge) has a large group of past bidders that are alerted when auctions like this go live. This access to past bidders resulted in even more bidding this year compared to 2021.

The GSGA also offered runner-up matching bids for a handful of items that allowed a donated round or experience to be doubled at the end. Click HERE if you would like to view the GSGA Foundation Auction site.

To learn more about this program, reach out to the GSGA’s Director of Development Tripp Pendergast at tpendergast@gsga.org.

In case you didn’t know, there are so many talented people working across all of the IAGA member associations. Starting this week, we will highlight a staff member at an IAGA Member Association each week in the IAGA Weekly Digest.

First up: Julia Potter-Bobb, Director of Member Services at Indiana Golf.

Hometown: Granger, IN
Current Title: Director of Business Operations & Membership for Indiana Golf
On Course successes: Two time USGA Women’s Mid-Am Champion, 5 time State Am Champion, 9 time IWGA Women’s Player of the Year, 2020 Doubles Golf Champion (Mixed Division) with my husband Kiel
Work Successes: Recently, Julia and the team at Indiana Golf have worked to rebrand their membership program to focus more on member benefits. In addition, they have started the Indiana Golf Team Series to attract a more casual type of golfers with the net scramble format. Lastly, Indiana Golf has recently partnered with NextGen golf to use one of the Indiana events as their state qualifier for their national championship in 2022.

Broomall, PA — Access Development, North America’s largest discount loyalty network, today announced they have become a corporate partner of the International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA).

“Access Development is excited to announce this new partnership with the IAGA.  We look forward to adding substantial, instant value to all member associations of the IAGA through our private label network of merchant discounts,” said Brad Conner, Senior Director Wholesale Travel for Access Development.. “The Access® merchant network does more than just save people money. For nearly four decades, organizations have leveraged Access to build loyalty, improve retention and increase revenue – business goals we’re confident we can help IAGA associations achieve as well.”

“The IAGA is thrilled to partner with Access Development.  The IAGA membership is comprised of state, provincial, regional, and national golf associations.  Our member associations continually seek out additional member benefit offerings, and Access Development certainly fills that need with their white label member benefit discount program.  We already have members associations onboarding with them, and the IAGA is excited to see more organizations take advantage of this program,” said Bill Walker, Executive Director for the IAGA.

About Access Development

For over 35 years, Access Development has helped organizations connect with their customers and build revenue, engagement and loyalty through cash-back rewards, employee perks, and membership discount programs. The company’s private discount network of over 850,000 merchant locations is North America’s largest, providing discounts and rewards of up to 50% on everyday purchases. For more information on Access, please visit https://www.accessdevelopment.com or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/accessloyalty.

About the IAGA

The International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA), formed in 1968, serves as the industry trade organization whose mission is to advance the game of golf and serve those who play it by representing and developing those who lead it. The organization is comprised of over 80 golf associations that represent over 800 industry professionals as well as nearly 3M plus golfers across North America. The IAGA provides educational and networking opportunities and business resources to further its member organizations.

Jake Miller, Executive Director of the Utah Golf Association, was recently announced as the new USGA Regional Affairs Director for the Midwest Region, effective Tuesday, May 31st. In his role, he will be responsible for managing the relationship with Allied Golf Associations and Committee Members in the region, ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of USGA core services locally.  Learn a little more about Jake in this week’s IAGA Member Spotlight.

Golf Industry Career: Jake has spent the past nine years with the Utah Golf Association; the first five as the Director of Rules and Competitions and the past four as Executive Director.  During his tenure, the UGA experienced significant growth in membership and association revenues. He was instrumental in the development of the UGA’s Rules education program and the expansion of UGA championships to include qualifying.  Jake has served as a lead member of the Golf Alliance for Utah, a group tasked with championing the economic, environmental, recreational and lifestyle benefits of the game of golf in Utah. Jake has also been an impactful member of the AGA/USGA Strategic Planning working group, where he will continue his role on the core working team.

Background: Jake is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a major in kinesiology and received his master’s degree in sport administration from Belmont University in Nashville, TN. His past work experience includes time with the Tennessee Golf Association as a USGA P.J. Boatwright Jr. Intern and the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour in Florida as a Tournament Director.

Interests: Golf, fishing, hunting, and Green Bay Packers football.

Family: Wife (Heather) and two children (Ari and Brooks)

RENO, Nevada – Steve Rydel, a well-known member of the golf community in Northern Nevada, passed away April 11, 2022 from complications due to cancer. He was 67 years old. An avid golfer, Steve moved to Reno in 2000 from Washington State, where he took early retirement from a career as a Teamster to pursue a second career in the golf industry.

Steve interned with then NNGA executive director Pamela Whalen and was subsequently named assistant executive director. Pam recognized that the future of golf was going to be heavily dependent on computerization. “Steve had his own computer repair business in Washington,” Pam explained, “I saw that he had the computer skills necessary to bring NNGA into the 21st century. I knew that the next executive director must have strong computer skills and be highly computer literate.” Pam retired from NNGA in 2005 to focus full time on Northern Nevada Junior Golf Association as executive director, a position she still holds.

As executive director of NNGA, Steve continued his golf education. He passed the Professional Golfers’ Association of America (PGA) Playing Ability Test, clearing the way for him to complete the necessary requirements to become a Class A PGA Professional. Steve’s close friend and fellow PGA professional Mike Mazzaferri said, “Steve was very proud that he became a PGA member and went on to help countless other professionals achieve the same goal. He gave his time freely to help anyone that needed help in becoming a PGA member. More than a few professionals became PGA members because of Steve’s assistance.”

Steve also made contributions to the game of golf through his work with the United States Golf Association (USGA), serving on many USGA committees. Mike Sweeney, Director of Regional Affairs – West for the USGA said, “On behalf of our USGA staff, we are deeply saddened to learn of Steve’s passing. Steve worked closely with our USGA team for 20 years with hard work and leadership that strengthened and unified the game in Northern Nevada. His contributions to golf were immense, including advancing the game through the development of junior golfers, administering and promoting the World Handicap System, conducting USGA championship qualifiers and providing exceptional golf experiences for all NNGA members. Steve made a difference in the lives of many golfers, young and old. He was a wonderful representative for the USGA at the local level and will be missed immensely.”

As executive director, Steve worked closely with the NNGA executive board comprised of NNGA member representatives. Former NNGA board president Ken Clarke said, “Steve ran the NNGA with the satisfaction of the members as his number one goal. He had a good team in place and strived to make each event as good or better than the last one. I tried to give Steve raises each of the years I was president, but he declined, stating that the money was better served going to the organization.”

Steve mentored many young golfers over the years, from serving as team captain for several Boys’ and Girls’ Junior America Cup Teams, to hiring interns to work for the NNGA through the USGA’S PJ Boatwright Internship Program for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in golf administration.

A former USGA intern at NNGA, Dean Miller remembers Steve fondly. “My internship at NNGA was supposed to be a quick stop on my journey, but I ended up spending seven years working with Steve,” Dean said. “Looking back, it was the best decision I ever made and some of my fondest memories are of those years. Steve was not only the best mentor I could have ever asked for, but more importantly, I was truly blessed to call him my friend.”

Northern Nevada Golf Association was founded in 1972 and is one of 58 state and regional golf associations recognized as an Allied Golf Association of the USGA. Dependable leadership is one of the hallmarks of NNGA. In the 50-year history of the organization there have been just four executive directors. Founding director John Whalen not only had a vision for the NNGA, but he was also instrumental in the formation of the Sierra Nevada Chapter of the PGA and the Nevada State Golf Association. John passed away in 1998 and his wife Pam continued with NNGA as executive director.

Steve Rydel was NNGA’s third executive director, selecting Andrew Workman to succeed him as the fourth. Andrew served as NNGA assistant executive director in the year prior to Steve’s retirement. “Steve gave so much to the NNGA and its members throughout the years,” Andrew said. “His true impact was much larger than many of us could know because he liked to work behind the scenes and keep his name out of the spotlight. All of us at the NNGA owe a lot to Steve and we were very sad to learn of his passing.”

Steve retired from NNGA but not from the game of golf and golf administration. He completed the TM Certification Program for Golf Genius Software in 2021 and was often the man behind the little orange HELP button on the night shift at Golf Genius. Steve divided his time between staying and golfing with friends in Northern Nevada and living in Cabo San Lucas in Mexico, where he enjoyed both working and playing golf at the spectacular oceanfront resort Cabo del Sol.

Northern Nevada Golf Association (NNGA)
775-673-4653
members@nnga.org

SCOTTSDALE– The Executive Committee of the Arizona Golf Association (AGA) has named Joe Foley as Executive Director following an extensive national search. Foley comes to the AGA from the United States Golf Association (USGA), where he served as Director of Regional Affairs for the Midwest Region, and replaces Ed Gowan, who is retiring after 36 years with the AGA.

“It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know the folks from the AGA during this process,” said Foley. “The energy and excitement – if not hysteria – for golf in this state is infectious. I’m so excited to now be a part of it.”

Foley, 33, spent the last eight years with the USGA, rising through the ranks from Manager of Rules and Competitions, to Senior Manager of Corporate Partnerships, to Director of Regional Affairs. Working out of the NYC Metro area, he led the USGA’s business relationships with industry stakeholders in the Midwest, including relationships with state and regional golf associations, USGA committee members and other partners in the region.

“We met many qualified and accomplished candidates in our nationwide search process,” said AGA President Bob McNichols. “Joe Foley fits the experience profile that Ed Gowan brought in 1985 and will have the full support of Arizona golf for years to come. We welcome him and look forward to the success of the Foley Era at Arizona Golf.”

Notably, Foley managed the Rules of Golf Modernization Initiative, culminating with the most comprehensive update to the Rules of Golf in 30 years when released in January 2019. As the USGA’s project manager, he helped direct a cross-functional team of twenty USGA staff members and an external team made up of representatives from The R&A. Foley guided several working groups, including the digital, PR/communications, publications, and education teams, while collaborating with players, influencers, officials, and media over a two-year period by seeking input and building advocates for the initiative. For the first time, golfers and administrators were encouraged to insert their voice into the governance process to help shape the future of the game.

“When it comes to Amateur golf, Joe Foley has as wide a background and experience level, especially with the Rules, Handicapping, Course Rating and Amateur Status as anyone in the industry,” said Gowan, who will continue in a support role for the better part of 2022. “Arizona Golf is blessed to have Joe as its leader.”

“After 36 years of service, Ed has so much to be proud of,” said Foley of his predecessor. “The entire golf community – across the state and beyond – has been influenced and inspired by Ed in some way. It’s now our responsibility to build on his work and legacy in the next chapter of the AGA’s history.”

Prior to the USGA, Foley worked in the Education field, serving as a Finance & Operations Manager for Explore Charter Schools in New York. A 501(c)3 charter management organization, he monitored the fiscal health of four charter schools, reporting to senior administrators and a board of directors. Foley previously volunteered with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in rural Montana after earning his undergraduate degree in Management with an emphasis in Finance from Boston College.

An avid hiker and competitive golfer, Foley carries a 1.5 Index and enjoys playing in regional and national amateur championships. He plans to move to the Scottsdale area by the end of March and begin his tenure as Executive Director of the Arizona Golf Association on April 4.

About The Arizona Golf Association
The Arizona Golf Association has been serving amateur golfers in Arizona since 1923 when it held the first State Amateur Championship. Today, it is licensed by the United States Golf Association to provide handicapping and course rating services to more than 600 member clubs, to provide tournament and rules expertise to more than 90,000 members and to oversee the application of amateur status. For more information please visit azgolf.org, and follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

ABZ Benefits (ABZ), a proven leader specializing in superior member benefit plans for associations, has agreed to a long-term partnership with the International Association of Golf Administrators.  As a Gold Level Corporate Partner, ABZ will provide support of IAGA and their programs, which includes bringing new member benefits to IAGA, their member golf associations and golfers.

“We are super excited to be a Gold Level Partner of the IAGA.  This partnership will help us bring valuable benefits to member golfers including special savings and discounts on products such as car and home insurance.  We look forward to working with IAGA on communicating our partnership and benefits to their many member golf associations.” said Brian Zibuda, President and Founder, ABZ Benefits.

“The IAGA is thrilled to partner with ABZ Benefits.  We were introduced to Brian Zibuda and ABZ via one of our member associations (Mass Golf).  It is exciting to see the value that ABZ has brought to Mass Golf and we look forward to introducing ABZ to the entire IAGA community.” said Bill Walker, Executive Director, IAGA.

“Brian Zibuda and ABZ have been a tremendous partner for our organization and our membership. Instantaneously, through Brian’s network, we were able to solidify a local insurance partner to provide significant value and savings to build out our membership offering. What made us most comfortable in launching our partnership was Brian’s familiarity and connections throughout the industry.” said Jesse Menachem, Executive Director of Mass Golf.

About ABZ Benefits

ABZ Benefits and their founder Brian Zibuda have helped hundreds of organizations offer valuable benefits and discount programs to reward members and enhance the value these groups are able to bring to their members.  A long history of success has been achieved by being adept at developing and delivering insurance and benefit plans to maximize customer engagement.  This experience includes a consistent track record of establishing strong and enduring client and benefit provider relationships. To learn more, visit www.abzbenefits.com

The Arizona Golf Association (AGA) today announced the retirement of longtime Executive Director, Ed Gowan, effective February 2022. After 36 years at the helm of the AGA, he has decided the time is right to pass along the reigns to one of the premier amateur golf associations in the country.

“I’ve spent exactly one half of my life in this position,” said Gowan. “I’m very proud of what Arizona Golf has become thanks to many, many outstanding employees and board members.   Someone in this position is only as good as those supporting him, and I thank the members of Arizona Golf for the privilege.”

Gowan has served in his current role since June 1985, when the AGA had a staff of two people serving 120 clubs and 23,000 members throughout the Grand Canyon State. Fast forward to the present, and Gowan is set to leave his post having increased staffing to 23 employees serving more than 600 clubs and more than 90,000 members.

In addition to adding dozens of events to the AGA’s annual calendar, Gowan brought the USGA’s GHIN Handicap and Course Rating Systems to Arizona’s golfers. A noted Rules of Golf expert, he has officiated at 35 US Opens, 119 USGA Championships, the Masters and dozens of other international events, both professional and amateur. He is also a Founder of the Arizona Golf Foundation, the charitable arm of the AGA, and is the Co-Founder of the Patriot All-America Invitational collegiate golf showcase.

“The Arizona Golf Association would not be what it is today without the leadership, expertise, and guidance by Ed Gowan over the past 36 years, more than one third of its existence,” said Bob McNichols, AGA Executive Committee President. “Ed’s accomplishments, and dedication to the game of golf in ‘The State of Golf’ is unparalleled elsewhere.”

Prior to his arrival in Arizona, Gowan spent eight years with the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA), where he oversaw operations of more than 30 tournaments worldwide for his final four years, including championships in Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Ireland and England.

Gowan’s golf life includes two terms as president of the International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA), golf course renovation consulting and project management around the world, and group golf-travel management. He is a member of the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, a member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), a member of numerous USGA Committees and as a published golf writer, a member of the Golf Writers Association of America since 1973. An accomplished player, Gowan has also won numerous regional golf tournaments.

“Speaking on behalf of the many thousand members who have served with Ed on standing committees, the Executive Committee, as officers and promoters of ‘golf for all’ over the past 36 years, we owe our success as a state association to the CEO who made it all happen: Ed Gowan,” added McNichols. “It has been a privilege and pleasure to work with this ultimate professional who will be missed by all in the AGA and always revered in the annals of its’ history.”

A national search is underway for Gowan’s replacement, with an announcement forthcoming when a selection is made. Inquiries may be directed to AGA Executive Committee Vice President Michelle Cross via email at mmcross111@gmail.com, with the subject line reading “AGA Executive Director – Candidate.”

About Arizona Golf Association

The Arizona Golf Association has been serving amateur golfers in Arizona since 1923 when it held the first State Amateur Championship. Today, it is licensed by the United States Golf Association to provide handicapping and course rating services to member clubs, to provide tournament and rules expertise and to oversee the application of amateur status. For more information please visit azgolf.org.