2022 PLAYER AWARDS

Jay Anderson Champion of Golf

As a young boy, Jay Anderson watched Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer on television; he credits watching the golf greats as his inspiration to get into golf at an early age. A talented player throughout his youth and collegiate career in Illinois, Anderson shifted his career focus from golf professional to financial broker during the 1980s. By 1987, he would call Arizona home as he took on a new position with his company.

Shortly after his move, Anderson became a regular competitor in Arizona Golf Association events, where his influence was noted by former AGA Tournament Director, James Waitt. Anderson accepted an offer to join the Men’s Tournament Committee in 2000, utilizing his background as a competitive player to elevate the tournament player experience.

His positive impact on the Association and golf community eventually led to a position on the AGA’s Executive Committee, and by 2010, he was elected AGA President. In addition to his AGA roles, Anderson serves as a USGA Committee Member – an opportunity he cherishes. He attributes his love of being a starter to Ron Reid, a former USGA Regional Affairs Director, who taught him everything about the craft.

These days, you will find the Past President volunteering at AGA tournaments, USGA Qualifiers, and the Patriot All-America on the first tee, putting players at ease and sending them off on time. In his role on the Council of Past Presidents, he continues to provide guidance in nominating future AGA Executive Committee members. On occasion, you may still spot him on the tee sheet of an AGA event.

Ellen O’Hara

Doc Graves Volunteer of the Year Award

Ask anyone who has tried: Becoming an expert Rules Official is no easy task. Achieving that status takes a staggering amount of studying, time, dedication and passion. Since 1999, when 2022 Doc Graves Volunteer of the Year Ellen O’Hara’s volunteer journey began, she has displayed each of those traits in surplus.

Her first volunteer opportunity came when she accepted a role as part of the Women’s Amateur Public Links Committee on the recommendation of her friend, Barbara Douglas. Although it was just her first stint as a volunteer, she quickly excelled at raising funds which sent players to the Championship. With her role on the WAPL Committee, she knew it was her responsibility to become proficient in the rules. With the encouragement of Robin Farran and her father, she attended her first Rules of Golf Workshop in 2000, achieved expert status in 2013 and started volunteering for the Arizona Golf Association.

Also a talented golfer, O’Hara’s playing career includes a trip to the 2001 U.S. Women’s Senior Amateur. She had to put the clubs away due to a series of shoulder operations but began to dedicate even more time to the Rules of Golf. Over the years, O’Hara has officiated countless USGA Championships, served on the Joanne Winter Arizona Silver Belle Board and is currently a USGA Committee Member. In 2022, she assisted over 50 days as a Rules Official for the Junior Golf Association of Arizona and the AGA.

“It was a big surprise to me when I was told that I would be the recipient of the Doc Graves Volunteer of the Year Award,” said O’Hara. “I am greatly honored to receive this prestigious award from the Arizona Golf Association. Doc Graves was a good friend and for me he was the ultimate dedicated volunteer for the betterment of golf in Arizona.”