News

Forsyth and McCord Headline SoCal Golf Hall of Fame Class

From the Southern California Golf Association

Watch Charles Barkley and Jim Nantz congratulate Gary

Listen to former players, including Lilia Vu, congratulate Carrie

The Southern California Golf Hall of Fame, a regional program managed by the SCGA and SoCal PGA, recently inducted its 2025 class. Legendary UCLA college coach, Carrie Forsyth and renowned broadcaster, Gary McCord, a SoCal native and UC Riverside alum, headlined a class of five luminaries. The event was hosted by golf course architect, historian and author, Geoff Shackelford.

ESF awards record number of caddie scholarships

A story from Western Golf Association Evans Scholars Foundation

A record 360 students from across the country have been awarded the Evans Scholarship, a prestigious full housing and tuition college grant offered to golf caddies.

This fall, they will begin college as Evans Scholars, attending a leading university nationwide. The Evans Scholarship is valued at more than $125,000 over four years. A full list of winners, including their awarded universities, can be found in the attachment.

In the fall, the first groups of Evans Scholars will attend two new partner universities

the University of Delaware and the University of South Carolina. The Western Golf Association (WGA), headquartered in Glenview, Ill., oversees the Evans Scholars Program. Recently recognized as the Scholarship Provider of the Year by the National Scholarship Providers Association, the Evans Scholars Foundation (ESF) is one of golf’s favorite charities and the nation’s largest scholarship program for caddies.

David Ingram, Mike Nixon to be inducted into the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame in May

A story from the Tennessee Golf Association

“We are pleased to have two tremendous gentlemen of the game make up the 2025 inductee class of the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame,” said Whit Turnbow, President of the Tennessee Golf Foundation. “David and Mike have both left, in their own way, an indelible mark on golf in Tennessee, and we look forward to honoring those accomplishments this spring.”

DAVID INGRAM, a Nashville native, has long been a staunch supporter of golf-related initiatives in Tennessee. He is the current president of The Golf Club of Tennessee, which was established in 1989 by his late father E. Bronson Ingram II and Toby Wilt, and is regarded as one of the premier courses in the country. David has continued the family legacy 35 years later with the recent addition of a second golf course at GCTN designed by noteworthy architect Gil Hanse.

MIKE NIXON of Nashville has a long, distinguished career, both as a competitor and as an industry professional. Nixon has the rare distinction of being the first, and currently only one of two, golfers who have competed in the U.S. Junior, the U.S Amateur, the U.S. Mid-Amateur, the U.S. Pub-Links, and the U.S. Senior Amateur. He completed this feat over the span of 52 years, attesting to the longevity of his superb playing ability.

VSGA partners with VT-STEM on 2024-25 online program

A story from the Virginia State Golf Association

The 2024-25 session of the Virginia Tech School of Turfgrass Ecology and Management (VT-STEM)—a 13-week training course in the principles of turfgrass ecology and management through both synchronous and asynchronous learning—was recently completed. The Virginia State Golf Association provided grants to over 30 students, each of whom were employees at VSGA member clubs, allowing for those interested in breaking into or advancing in the turfgrass industry to take the class free of charge.

VT-STEM is a comprehensive introductory turfgrass training program that works around busy work and family schedules. The program, held entirely online, is intended to primarily serve the educational needs of those without formal training in turfgrass science, but are either employed in or have interest in working in the turfgrass industry.

This was the fifth year that the program was held, but the first year that the VSGA grant allowed free access to staff members at VSGA member clubs. The course ran from November 1, 2024, through January 10, 2025.

NYSGA Brings Back Familiar Faces

Stories from New York State Golf Association

Read More about Jack C.

Read More about Jack M. 

The New York State Golf Association (NYSGA) is excited to announce the appointments of two former USGA P.J. Boatwright Jr. interns, Jack Corcoran and Jack Margaros, into integral roles within the organization

Jack Corcoran has joined the NYSGA as the new Manager of Regional Associations & Junior Golf. A 2024 Boatwright intern, Corcoran began this role in December, where he now oversees tournament operations for Regional Golf Associations (RGA) across the state, including Syracuse, Buffalo, the Capital Region, and the Triple Cities. In addition, Corcoran will provide operational oversight for other NYSGA-supported competitions beyond these regions.

The NYSGA is also excited to welcome Jack Margaros as its new Manager of Media. Effective immediately, Margaros will handle the NYSGA’s communications and media efforts for state championships, qualifiers, member events, the NYSGA Foundation, and supported regional associations. Like Corcoran, Margaros brings valuable experience from his time as a Boatwright intern.

GAO.ca is Now GolfOntario.ca

A story from Golf Ontario

We’re excited to share that Golf Ontario has a new home online! As of this week, our website has officially transitioned from gao.ca to golfontario.ca.

Why the Change?

This update aligns with our brand identity and makes it even easier for golfers, clubs, and partners to find us online. Our commitment to growing the game and serving Ontario’s golf community remains the same—just with a refreshed, more intuitive web address!

What You Need to Know:

✅ Our website has moved – You can now find us at golfontario.ca.

✅ Our emails have changed – All Golf Ontario staff can now be reached at @golfontario.ca. Be sure to update your contacts!

✅ gao.ca will automatically redirect to ensure a seamless transition.

Phillip Frazier Elected LGA President

A story from Louisiana Golf Association

Phillip Frazier of Baton Rouge was elected to serve as President of the Louisiana Golf Association (LGA) at its Annual and Board of Directors meeting at Le Triomphe Golf & Country Club. Frazier will serve a two-year term leading the LGA Executive Committee and the Board of nineteen other volunteers that provide strategic direction and oversight to the Association’s full-time staff.

Frazier has served on the LGA Board of Directors since 2021 and was Vice-President the previous two years.  He officially took the reins from outgoing LGA President Mary Capouch following the adjournment of Saturday’s meeting. “I am thankful for the opportunity to help grow golf in Louisiana and look forward to working with the LGA staff, Board of Directors, and all of our members to ensure a vibrant future for the game in our state,” said Frazier.

WPGA reveals commemorative logo for 125th Amateur Championship

A story from Western Pennsylvania Golf Association

The Western Pennsylvania Golf Association has unveiled a commemorative logo to celebrate the 125th WPGA Amateur Championship this summer. The logo, crafted after the USGA’s standard logos for national championships, features the historic W.C. Fownes Jr. Trophy’s awarded to the champion of the West Penn Amateur.

The 125th WPGA Amateur Championship will be held on July 14-15 at historic Sunnehanna Country Club, just one month after the playing of the 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club.

“Amateur golf is the lifeblood of the game, and the WPGA Amateur Championship has been the marquee amateur event in our region for 125 years,” says Terry Teasdale, Executive Director of the WPGA.

“As we looked at a way to properly honor the history of the competition during this exciting year for golf in our region, we knew that we needed a historical, premier club to host. We achieved that with Sunnehanna Country Club. We also hoped to honor the rich history of the event and golf in Western Pennsylvania with the creation of a commemorative logo that celebrates the W.C. Fownes Jr. Trophy.”

Golf Ontario Announces 2025 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame Inductee

A story from Golf Ontario

Golf Ontario is proud to announce that Alena Sharp, Archie Berube, Grant Fraser, and Charles Blair MacDonald will be inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025. Additionally, Doug Ball will be honoured with the prestigious Lorne Rubenstein Media Award for his outstanding contributions to golf photojournalism.

The Ontario Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on May 7 at its home, Wooden Sticks Golf Course in Uxbridge, Ont.

“Each of our 2025 inductees has made a profound impact on golf in Ontario, and we look forward to celebrating their incredible achievements on May 7,” said Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane. “The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is always a special occasion—bringing together past and present inductees to honour their legacies and celebrate the great game of golf in our province.”

SCGA Partners with Callaway Golf on Adaptive Championship

A story from Southern California Golf Association

The Southern California Golf Association (SCGA) announced a three-year partnership with Callaway Golf, who will serve as title sponsor of the SCGA’s new annual Adaptive Championship. The inaugural event will be contested May 21-22 at Goose Creek Golf Club in Jurupa Valley, Calif.

As the event’s title sponsor, Callaway Golf will be included in all event promotions to the SCGA’s 200,000+ membership and the entire Southland golf community, as well as in pre- and post-event communication with participants. In addition, all onsite event signage will be co-branded with SCGA and Callaway logos. Representatives from both organizations will be onsite to engage with participants and attendees.

“We are proud to partner with the Southern California Golf Association on what’s sure to be an outstanding championship for years to come,” said Callaway Golf President, Glenn Hickey. “Callaway is a longtime supporter of adaptive golf players and events, and we’re excited to watch these exceptional players compete at such a great venue.”

Industry leaders convene at Mid-Atlantic Golf Conference

A story from Virginia State Golf Association

Leaders from across the golf industry gathered at Hermitage Country Club on Tuesday for the Mid-Atlantic Golf Conference to explore the evolving landscape of golf and discuss innovative strategies to propel the golf industry forward.

Emceed by PGA Tour winner Robert Wrenn, the event featured speakers from several prominent national organizations:

• Mike Whan, CEO, United States Golf Association
• Jay Karen, CEO, National Golf Course Owners Association
• Rhett Evans, CEO, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
• Don Rea, President, PGA of America
• Bill Shonk, Director, Club Management Association of America

More than 170 golf leaders from around the region attended the event.

Each speaker shared insights and strategies while discussing the current state of golf.

New Jersey Golf Announces Apparel Partnership with Tharanco Lifestyles

A story from NJ Golf

New Jersey Golf is proud to announce its partnership with Tharanco Lifestyles as the Official Outfitter of NJ Golf.

“Teaming up with this forward-thinking brand is the ideal way to help introduce the new image of NJ Golf,” said NJ Golf Executive Director, Kevin Purcell. “With 125 years of commitment to New Jersey’s golf community, we’re thrilled to partner with

Tharanco Lifestyles to engage the next generation of golfers.”

Tharanco Lifestyles, which features Dunning, the Greg Norman Collection, and Tourney brands, offers the widest and most appealing breadth of technical golf apparel in the industry. The combination of styling, price points, tiered golf club distribution, and a wide variety of sizes ranging from XS in women’s to select men’s styles in 4XL make the collection truly impressive.

GCSAA Rounds 4 Research Auction is Back!

Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

We’re excited to invite you to participate in the upcoming Rounds 4 Research Auction, where you can bid on exclusive rounds at bucket list courses and hidden gems in your backyard, while supporting vital research initiatives within the golf community.

Rounds 4 Research aims to generate resources to fund research and help ensure the future of the game we all love. And with your help, we can do just that!

Cori Matheson Honored with the Dorothy Pease Champion of Golf Award

A story from AZ Golf

To honor the memory of Dorothy Pease, in recognition of her selfless service to golf, the Champion of Golf Award is given annually to an individual who, by his or her contributions, has advanced the game of golf for women.

During and after her collegiate golf career, Cori Matheson held multiple positions with the Southwest Section PGA, JGAA and First Tee of Phoenix, eventually becoming a Class A LPGA Professional and LPGA Member. In 2013, she started in her current role as Director of LPGA*USGA Girls Golf of Phoenix. A Girls Golf alumna herself, Matheson knows the organization’s impact firsthand. She has worked to continue Girls Golf’s mission of empowering girls through golf. Under her leadership, LPGA*USGA Girls Golf of Phoenix has grown to over 550 sites and serves over 100,000 participants annually. In 2023, Girls Golf reached its one millionth participant since inception.

Course Rating vs. Bogey Rating vs. Slope Rating

A story from Nebraska Golf

Every golfer with a Handicap Index can tell you what their number is and most know how to figure out how many strokes they get on a certain day by calculating their Course Handicap and Playing Handicap.

Most know there are ratings for each tee set on a golf course, but do you know what each number means? Well, they are the foundation of the World Handicap System, and without them, you wouldn’t be able to compare yourself to other golfers and use your Handicap Index equitably at courses around the world.

Golf courses often display two numbers on their scorecards, but there is a third that is important as well, and a good measuring stick for most golfers. The Course Rating™ and Slope Rating® are the first two numbers, and the third is the Bogey Rating™.

These numbers are established through the Course Rating System, which allows NebGolf staff and volunteers to evaluate courses around the state. The ratings are determined by assessing the effective length of the golf course and the obstacles and challenges that face scratch and bogey players in their respective landing zones around the course.

Breaking Barriers: How British Columbia Golf and WA Golf Are Revolutionizing Women’s Golf

Women’s golf has seen an exciting transformation in recent years, with new initiatives redefining accessibility and engagement. Two standout programs leading this shift are British Columbia Golf’s Cloud Series and WA Golf’s Ladies Link League. Designed to foster participation, these innovative formats offer a fresh take on competitive and social golf, making the game more inclusive for women of all skill levels.

The Cloud Series emerged in 2020 when British Columbia Golf sought a way to participate in Women’s Golf Day despite COVID-19 restrictions. With in-person events off the table, they developed a virtual scramble where women could play at their home courses, submit their scores, and compete remotely. What started as a one-time event quickly gained traction. “We had nearly 300 women participate in our first year, and it just kept growing,” shared Tyler McKay, Manager of Competitions & Member Events at British Columbia Golf. By 2024, the series had expanded to six monthly tournaments with an average of 604 golfers per event.

Meanwhile, WA Golf was facing a different challenge. Their existing four-ball match play event for women was seeing dwindling participation, with fewer than half the expected players signing up in 2023. After learning about the Cloud Series, they decided to reimagine their own offering. “We wanted to create something that was more inclusive, something that could bring in new golfers while still appealing to competitive players,” explained Audrey Orem, WA Golf’s Manager of Membership & Handicapping. The result was the Ladies Link League, a six-month-long event featuring different formats each month, a low entry fee, and a strong emphasis on community-building. The changes worked—participation surged to an average of 197 players per month in its first year.

One of the key elements that make these programs so successful is their format variety. The Cloud Series cycles through different team-based formats to keep the experience fresh, incorporating styles like shamble, best ball, and modified scramble. WA Golf’s Ladies Link League adopted a similar approach, alternating scramble formats to cater to different skill levels. “The scrambles have been fantastic for beginners,” noted Sam Crader, WA Golf’s Manager of Golf Operations. “They make the game feel more approachable and fun, which is exactly what we wanted.”

Beyond participation numbers, these programs are driving real change within the golf community. Clubs across British Columbia and Washington have started adopting the formats for their own women’s leagues, further extending the reach of these initiatives. Both organizations credit player feedback as a crucial component of their growth. “Listening to our players has been the key,” McKay emphasized. “We constantly refine the event based on what they tell us, which has helped us create an experience they truly enjoy.”

Technology has also played a vital role in their success. Both programs utilize Golf Genius for scoring, leaderboards, and event management, making remote play possible. Social media and digital surveys help drive engagement, while instructional guides ensure that players, regardless of tech-savviness, can easily participate. Looking ahead, both organizations have ambitious plans. British Columbia Golf is launching a Men’s Cloud Series and exploring a cloud-based simulator competition for the off-season. WA Golf is expanding its social engagement efforts, introducing chat forums and hosting official meetup days for participants to connect in person.

With the success of these programs, British Columbia Golf and WA Golf are setting a new standard for accessibility in the sport. By embracing innovation and prioritizing community, they are not just increasing participation—they are reshaping the way women experience golf. Their willingness to share insights and help other organizations adopt similar models speaks to the broader movement of growing the game in a meaningful, lasting way. As these initiatives continue to evolve, they serve as an inspiring blueprint for the future of women’s golf.

Tyler McKay, Manager of Competitions & Member Events at British Columbia Golf, can be reached via email at tyler@britishcolumbiagolf.org.

Audrey Orem, Manager of Membership & Handicapping at WA Golf, is available at aorem@wagolf.org.

Sam Crader, Manager of Golf Operations at WA Golf, can be contacted at scrader@wagolf.org.

By: Santana Shipley

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.”

Chevron joins The Nelly Invitational as Presenting Sponsor

A story from the American Junior Golf Association

The American Junior Golf Association is proud to announce Chevron’s historic three-year commitment to The Nelly Invitational, reinforcing its dedication to the next generation of golfers.

As part of this partnership, The Nelly Invitational presented by Chevron will offer players $2,000 travel stipends, for entry fees, flights, hotels and rental cars, the highest in AJGA history for a stroke-play event. Each international player will receive an additional $500 stipend. This initiative underscores a shared commitment to helping reduce barriers for elite girl golfers from across the globe and to begin setting a new standard for competitive excellence.

GAM CHAMPION OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION: The Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services at Oakland University

A story from the Golf Association of Michigan

At the end of a busy golf day at the Oakland University Golf & Learning Center, which includes two championship golf courses and a state-of-the-art practice facility and range, Golf Services Manager Ashley Dewling likes to stop for a second before sunset and watch what is happening.

“I’ve been running around all day, I’m tired, had enough of golf, but then I see wonderful kids and adults getting introduced to the game in such a wonderful way and it puts a smile back on my face,” she said. “It’s just something very special.”

The Joanne and Ted Lindsay Foundation Autism Outreach Services at Oakland University has been named the Golf Association of Michigan (GAM) Champion of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for 2025.

The program, commonly referred to as OUCARES, includes the outreach services of the Oakland University Center for Autism. It was nominated for the GAM honor by Dewling, who volunteers and serves the GAM as a Governor and committee member.

Rob Jansen Appointed 2025 President of the International Association of Golf Administrators

A story about the IAGA

The International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA) is proud to announce Rob Jansen, Executive Director of the Wisconsin State Golf Association (WSGA), as the 2025 IAGA Board President. Jansen’s leadership and deep connection to golf administration make him an exceptional choice to guide the association forward.

Jansen’s journey into golf administration began during college with an internship at the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA). Jansen reflected on this pivotal role highlighting that it set him on a path for a career in golf administration. “After interning with the AJGA for two summers, they hired me for a full-time position in the Player Services department, and I relocated to Georgia. I had great mentors at the AJGA, including Chief Operating Officer Mark Oskarson and Executive Director Stephen Hamblin. They entrusted me with significant responsibilities early on, which prepared me for my role at the WSGA and allowed me to return to the state where I grew up and contribute to its golf community.” said Jansen.

The Oklahoma Golf Association Has Unveiled a Modernized Website as Part of a Comprehensive Rebranding Initiative

A story about the Oklahoma Golf Association

The Oklahoma Golf Association has transitioned away from our old text heavy logo to a logo that reflects more of an identity to our state. Our new logo now includes an oil derrick with a golf flagstick and golf hole underneath. The colors are also updated to reflect the Oklahoma blue used in our state flag.

This rebranding represents our state’s ties to the oil and gas industry. It is also important to modernize our logo, creating an inclusive brand that all golfers in Oklahoma can be proud of, one that is unique to us! Alongside the new logo, OGA has launched a redesigned website to enhance user experience and provide streamlined access to tournament registration, membership services, and association news. The updated site features a fresh, modern look with improved navigation and mobile-friendly functionality, making it easier for members to engage with OGA events and resources.

Rob Jansen Appointed 2025 President of the International Association of Golf Administrators

The International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA) is proud to announce Rob Jansen, Executive Director of the Wisconsin State Golf Association (WSGA), as the 2025 IAGA Board President. Jansen’s leadership and deep connection to golf administration make him an exceptional choice to guide the association forward.

Jansen’s journey into golf administration began during college with an internship at the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA). Jansen reflected on this pivotal role highlighting that it set him on a path for a career in golf administration. “After interning with the AJGA for two summers, they hired me for a full-time position in the Player Services department, and I relocated to Georgia. I had great mentors at the AJGA, including Chief Operating Officer Mark Oskarson and Executive Director Stephen Hamblin. They entrusted me with significant responsibilities early on, which prepared me for my role at the WSGA and allowed me to return to the state where I grew up and contribute to its golf community.” said Jansen. 

The announcement of Jansen’s presidency came at the IAGA Annual Conference this past November, which brought together over 350 individuals from 67 golf associations and 29 partner companies. 

Since taking the helm at the WSGA, Jansen has continuously driven growth and innovation. Now, as the IAGA President, his focus will be on fostering collaboration and advancing the association’s mission. “It’s an exciting time for golf associations, marked by consecutive years of growth,” he said. “Our greatest successes have come from working together and sharing ideas. I hope we can double down on what’s working, invest in our people, and provide more value to our members.”

Jansen’s time as the 2024 IAGA Vice President has prepared him well for this leadership role. “Serving on the Board and Executive Committee has given me great insight into the association and its strategic planning,” he noted. “I’m excited to build on the great work that’s already been done.”

With his passion for the game and dedication to the golf community, Jansen is ready to lead the IAGA into a successful and impactful 2025.

Below is the complete listing of the IAGA Board of Directors:

• Rob Jansen, President (Wisconsin State Golf Association)
• Brian Mahoney, Secretary/Treasurer (Metropolitan Golf Association)
• Stacy Dennis, Secretary/Treasurer (Texas Golf Association)
• Matt Vanderpool, Immediate Past President (Georgia State Golf Association)
• Jean-Pierre Beaulieu, Director At Large (Golf Quebec)
• Cat Carmignani, Director At Large (Mass Golf)
• Jeff Magaditsch, Director At Large (Florida State Golf Association)
• Kevin O’Connor, Director At Large (Southern California Golf Association)
• Rick Rangel, Director At Large (Oregon Golf Association)

About the IAGA

The International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA), established in 1968, is the industry trade organization committed to advancing the game of golf and serving those who play it by representing and developing golf’s leaders. With a membership of over 80 golf associations, representing more than 800 industry professionals and serving nearly 3 million golfers across North America, the IAGA provides educational, networking, and business resources to further its member organizations.

Golf Means $3.04 Billion to MN Economy

A story from the Minnesota Golf Association

Since the previous economic impact study was released in 2019, and after weathering a global pandemic, Minnesota’s golf industry has experienced a resurgence in golfer participation and rounds played, and corresponding economic growth. The size of Minnesota’s direct golf economy grew accordingly, from $1.555 billion to $1.867 billion, or at a 2.31 percent CAGR* (compound annual growth rate).

When the total economic impact of golf-related activities is considered (core industries such as golf facility operations, construction, capital investment, plus enabled industries like real estate and hospitality/tourism), Minnesota’s golf industry generated approximately $3.04 billion in direct, indirect and induced economic output, $1.207 billion of wage income and 34,829 jobs.

Padgett and Eger to Be Inducted into the Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame Class of 2025

A story from the Carolinas Golf Association

The Carolinas Golf Association is excited to announce that Don Padgett II and David Eger will be inducted into the Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame in 2025.

The Padgett name has long been associated with Pinehurst Resort. For those who have visited Pinehurst Resort, the Padgett Learning Center is a prominent reminder of the family’s impact on the game. David Eger’s induction into the Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame is a testament to his exceptional contributions both as a player and an administrator.

Padgett and Eger’s upcoming induction into the Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame is not only a celebration of their individual achievements, but also of their lifelong dedication to the game of golf and their significant contributions to the Carolinas golf community. Their leadership, passion, and commitment to excellence continue to inspire golfers of all ages and backgrounds. Join us March 22, 2025 at Pinehurst Resort and Country Club to celebrate their induction into the Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame.

Maryland State Golf Association to Assume Championships and Award Scholarship Formerly Administered by Washington Metropolitan Golf Association

A story from the Maryland State Golf Association

Lutherville-Timonium, MD – The Maryland State Golf Association (MSGA) announced today that it will assume responsibility for specific programs of the Washington Metropolitan Golf Association (WMGA) following the WMGA’s recent decision to cease operations.

In 2025, the MSGA will conduct two events that have been mainstays of the WMGA schedule. The first event will be the DC Amateur Championship, originally called the District of Columbia Amateur and most recently the Metropolitan Amateur. It was first held in 1914 and is one of the nation’s oldest amateur golf tournaments. Argyle Country Club will host this year’s championship on August 7, 8, and 9.

Honoring African American Golfers Who Shaped The Game’s History In Massachusetts

A story from Mass Golf

The significance of Black history in golf has helped shape the game in Massachusetts and beyond. Throughout February, Mass Golf will shine a spotlight on the achievements, contributions, and lasting impact of African American golfers in the state’s history.

This year’s celebration holds even greater significance as Mass Golf embarks on its 125th anniversary. As part of this commemorative year, we are committed to amplifying the rich history of golf in the Commonwealth, which includes the groups and individuals that not only demonstrated excellence on the course but also broke barriers and paved the way for future generations.

Making History: Utah junior golf superstar

Kihei Akina’s national recognition heightens the expectations of him as a college golfer

A story from the Utah Golf Association

This week, the Lone Peak High School senior became one of 11 boys (along with 11 girls) named to the U.S. National Junior Team. He’s the first Utahn to join what the United States Golf Association labels a “clear pathway to elite competition.”

Launched by the USGA in 2023, the U.S. National Development Program represents America’s effort to model other golf-driven countries and follow the feeder systems of other Olympic sports in this country.

Akina described the selection as “pretty cool to represent the country,” adding he’s “looking forward to learning and getting better with these kids.”

Inaugural Midwest Adaptive Open set for September 2025

A story from the Central Links Golf Association

Central Links Golf, in partnership with other Central Region Golf Associations, is excited to announce the Midwest Adaptive Open to be held September 10-11, 2025. This new Championship will be played at Sand Creek Station in Newton, Kansas, home of the 3rd U.S. Adaptive Open Championship, hosted by the USGA in the summer of 2024. The Midwest Adaptive Open will be open to golfers of various classifications of impairments, such as individuals with arm and leg impairments, amputations, blind golfers and those with neurological and intellectual impairments.

The Central Links Golf community experienced first-hand how inspiring Adaptive Golf is with the U.S. Adaptive Open last summer. Central Links Golf staff and volunteers were able to be on site in various capacities leading up to the Championship and during the event. The USGA provided a great blueprint from which to work and internal discussions of hosting a Midwest Adaptive Open began after the conclusion of the U.S. Adaptive Open.

Alex, Foehl and Komline Selected to New Jersey Golf Hall of Fame

A story from New Jersey Golf

New Jersey Golf has announced the members of the Class of 2025 Hall of Fame which features some of the game’s top players and administrators.

The class is headlined by players Marina Alex and Brian Komline, and former NJ Golf Executive Director, Steve Foehl.

“As we celebrate the 125th anniversary of our organization, it’s only fitting to honor an exceptional class of inductees,” expressed NJ Golf Executive Director, Kevin Purcell. “Steve Foehl’s 25 years of leadership at the organization not only expanded our programs but also strengthened our influence in the golf community. Brian and Marina, widely regarded as the best golfers of their generation, still have much to contribute to the game. Yet, at this milestone moment for NJ Golf their induction into our Hall of Fame feels especially meaningful.”