The SUMMIT - Colorado PGA Magazine - March 2019 by Colorado PGA

The

SUMMIT

The SUMMIT is the official digital magazine of the Colorado PGA

MERCHANDISING!

WHAT OUR MEMBERS ARE SAYING ABOUT 2019 TRENDS

Three New Board Members Elected

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside Pillar Grants Awarded West Chapter Award Winners Announced Changes Coming to Tournament Program Two New REACH Trustees On Board

The Official Magazine of the Colorado PGA The SUMMIT is produced by the Colorado PGA

Colorado PGA Officers

West Chapter Officers Jeff Boyer, PGA President | 2019-2020 Eagle Ranch Golf Course

Dr. Phil Brown President/Founder, Six Points Consulting

Jim Hajek, PGA Vice-President | 2019-2020 Fossil Trace Golf Club

Brett Gagnon, PGA Vice-President | 2019-2020 Red Sky Golf Club

Dr. Stephen Davis Cheyenne Mountain Dental Group

Luke Brosterhous Secretary | 2017-2019 Catamount Ranch and Club

Brad Dombaugh CEO - PSA Worldwide Corp.

Ben Welsh, PGA President | 2019-2020 Frost Creek Golf Club

Cathy Matthews-Kane, PGA Secretary | 2019-2020 Country Club of Colorado Ty Thompson, PGA President | 2019-2020 Crosshairs Consulting

Board of Directors

Andy Benson, PGA | 2017-2019 Highlands Ranch Golf Club

Ed Marzec, PGA Honorary President | 2019-2020 Red Sky Golf Club

West Chapter Board of Directors

Jeff Boyer, PGA | 2019-2020 Eagle Ranch Golf Course

Tom Apple, PGA | 2019-2021 Country Club of the Rockies

Bob Doyle, PGA Past District 9 Director Life Member

Jacques Deyoe, PGA | 2017-2019 Maroon Creek Club

Kyle Heyen, PGA Past District 9 Director Hiwan Golf Club Charles ‘Vic’ Kline, PGA Past District 9 Director Ed Marzec, PGA | 2019-2021 PGA Member Jim Miller, PGA | 2018-2020 Sonnenalp Golf Club Josh Miller, PGA | 2019-2021 GOLFTEC Dennis Murray, PGA | 2018-2020 Valley Country Club Mike O’Donnell, PGA | 2018-2020 Fort Carson Bobby Quaratino, PGA | 2017-2019 West Woods Golf Course Chris Swinhart, PGA | 2017-2019 Thorncreek Golf Course Dave Troyer, PGA | 2019-2021 CommonGround Golf Course

Independent Directors Theo Gregory Spencer Zinn

Alice Plain, PGA | 2018 - 2020 Vail Golf Club

Walter Glover EVP/COO - United States Olympic Endowment Theo Gregory Senior Vice President - El Pomar Foundation Dominic Karaba President - Specialty Lending and Business Banking - UMB Bill Keller Lieutenant Colonel USAF, Retired Bob Lally Navy Captain, Retired

Kenny Thayer, PGA | 2019-2021 Beavercreek Golf Club Steve VanDyke, PGA | 2018-2020 River Valley Ranch GC

Colorado PGA REACH Trustees Spencer Zinn Chairman

John Andrew Brigadier General USAF - Retired Dan Bennett Investor/Partner, Southwest Greens Management John Bond President, BOOST Performance Consulting Agent, ReMax Urban Properties Anne Broholm CEO | AHEAD Tom Bauerle Owner - Colorado Golf and Turf

George Lee VP - Ameriprise Financial Services Adam McDiarmid Regional Manager - Business Banking - UMB Scott McGraw VP of Employee Benefits Cherry Creek Insurance Group Honorable Sue Payton President - SCI Aerospace Inc. LTG Ed Soriano, US Army (Ret) Director, Bus. Dev. Global Land Forces - Northrop Grumman Corporation Mike Talaga Credit Analyst Janus Henderson Investors

Staff

Executive Director/CEO Eddie Ainsworth, PGA eainsworth@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1593 C (719) 761-6125 Assistant Executive Director Patrick Salva psalva@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1597 C (303) 246-1007 Tournament Director Justin Limon, PGA jlimon@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1588 C (720) 390-1160 Player Development Director Holly Champion, PGA hchampion@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1591 C (217) 232-1790 Junior Golf Manager Scott Minta sminta@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1590 C (630) 532-3230 Finance Specialist Annie O’Donnell adonnell@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1595 Marketing and Communications Coordinator Judy Malone jmalone@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1594

Field Staff

Career Consultant Keith Soriano, PGA ksoriano@pgahq.com C (720) 841-1006 PGA Junior League Regional Manager Anthony Vitale, PGA avitale@pgahq.com C (561) 267-1208

Bill Vogeney Chief Revenue Officer Ent Credit Union

Colorado PGA

6630 Bear Dance Drive | Larkspur, CO 80118 P | (303) 681-0742 www.coloradopga.com

The SUMMIT is distributed free to members and affiliates of the Colorado PGA eleven times per year. The articles and other information contained within this publication are informational and do not necessarily represent the view or opinions of the Colorado PGA. The Colorado PGA assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made for or by any product in this publication whether reported or advertised. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the Colorado PGA is prohibited.

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What’s Inside

President’s Report 4 Vision2020 and Our Mission Remain at the Forefront of our Association 5 Bacheldor, Perry and Stilwell Elected to Serve on the Board of Directors Membership News 6 Member Update 7 Longtime Colorado Springs Professional Majure Passes Away Executive Director’s Report 8 Spring is in the Air and We Couldn’t Be More Excited! District Director Report/PGA of America News 10 PGA Member Logo, PGA.coach and Golf Retirement Plus Special Merchandise Feature 14 Brian Carlson, PGA 19 Jeff Hanson, PGA 15 Jake O’Dell, PGA 20 Todd Marley, PGA 16 Steve David, PGA 21 Jim Hajek, PGA 17 Russ Miller, PGA 22 2019 Hot List! 18 Kirk Rider, PGA Colorado PGA News 24 Quarter Century Club - Bolles, Lepore and Loeffler West Chapter News 27 West Chapter Spring Meeting and Tournament Season 28 West Chapter Award Winners Colorado PGA REACH News 30 Davis and Talaga Added to REACH Trustees 31 Colorado PGA REACH Pillar Grants Awarded Junior Golf News 32 Colorado to Host Drive, Chip & Putt Regional Qualifier Tournament News 33 Exciting Changes Announced for Tournament Season

March 2019

President’s Message

Vision2020 and Our Mission Remain at the Forefront of our Association It was great to see all of you who were able to attend our Spring Membership Meeting at Pinehurst Country Club. I always enjoy the networking opportunities we get as an Association when we meet, and I hope all of you appreciated the new seating set-up using table rounds instead of theatre style.

My thanks to each of our candidates who ran for the Board of Directors. This is one of the most important things we do each spring, elect our leadership, and it takes a special person to stand up in front of our Membership and say I want to serve. Congratulations to Mark Bacheldor, CJ Perry and Keith Stilwell. I look forward to serving with you and I’m excited for what each of you will bring to our Board. I hope all of you who were in attendance enjoyed hearing an update on our strategic plan, Vison 2020, and the work that our Committees have been doing over the winter. We have much going on in our Section and a lot to be proud of. It means a great deal to me as your Section President to be able to increase support to our PGA Professionals through increased prize money for our premier Professional Only events, increased support through our Education Programs and increased funding through our Foundation. These things have always been at the forefront of what we do as a Board of Directors, and it is wonderful to see our continued growth in these areas.

Vision2020

As our Honorary President Ty Thompson stated in his Financial Report, the state of our Section is strong. Our Committees continue to work hard on your behalf, and we thank them for their efforts. Your Officers and Board of Directors are fully committed to Vision 2020 and our mission will forever be to “Serve the Member and Grow the Game.”

Ben Welsh, PGA President Colorado PGA Head Professional Frost Creek bwelsh@pga.com P | (970) 328-2326 C | (970) 688-0115

We always love to hear from you on how we are doing, so please feel free to reach out to any of us to let us know what we can improve on to better serve our Colorado PGA Members and Associates. Have a great Golf Season, and I hope to see as many of you as possible throughout the season at our Colorado PGA Tournaments and Events. All the Best,

Ben Welsh, PGA Head Golf Professional President, Colorado PGA Section 970-328-2326 (Shop) 970-688-0115 (Cell)

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Colorado PGA News

Bacheldor, Perry and Stilwell Elected to Serve on the Board of Directors Trio Begin Three-Year Term at 2019 Fall Membership Meeting

hree members of the Colorado PGA were elected to serve three-year terms as members of the Colorado Board of Directors on Monday, March 25, during the Spring Business Meeting at Pinehurst Country Club. In a tightly contested race, Mark Bacheldor, PGA, Program Director for UCCS PGA Golf Management; CJ Perry, PGA, Regional Marketing Director at GOLFTEC; and Keith Stilwell, PGA, General Manager at Cheyenne Shadows Golf Club, were all elected to serve their first terms as Directors at Large.

Mark Bacheldor, PGA UCCS PGA Golf Mgmt.

“My thanks to each of our candidates who ran for the Board of Directors,” expressed Ben Welsh, PGA, President of the Colorado Section. “This is one of the most important things we do each spring, electing our leadership, and it takes a special person to stand up in front of our Membership and say I want to serve. I look forward to serving with Mark, CJ and Keith and I’m excited for what each of them will bring to our Board.” Having been part of the second class of the UCCS Golf Management Program, Bacheldor is now the program’s Director. In this role he has the daily opportunity to mentor and enrich the lives of students; future PGA Professionals. His focus, therefore, is on enriching the opportunities, benefits and reputation of the PGA Professional at large in the golf industry. “It is my hope that as a member of the Colorado Section PGA Board of Directors, I can support the mission of impacting lives, both internal and external, with the game I love,” commented Bacheldor. Colorado native, Perry, got the bug to serve on the Board after volunteering within the Colorado PGA for Golf in Schools, Junior Events, Denver Golf Expo and, most recently, the Tournament Committee. Through these activities, his passion to help the Section and its Members has grown. Having the opportunity to travel the country and interact with PGA Members from other Sections with his job, Perry brings with him ideas and suggestions that he hopes to be able to share with the Colorado Board.

March 2019

CJ Perry, PGA GOLFTEC - HQ

Keith Stilwell, PGA Cheyenne Shadows GC

“I want to thank all the Members for electing me to the Board of Directors. I am very honored, and I will do my best to serve the Membership well. I’ll use my strategic and critical thinking skills, as well as my desire for continued learning to help continue growing this wonderful Colorado PGA Section,” said Perry after being elected. Embracing Trevor Regan’s “Train Ugly” concepts, Stilwell plans to do his best to represent his fellow PGA Members and provide a voice on several platforms that directly affect the value the PGA can provide to its Membership. He sees Member engagement and education as two critical areas that can significantly impact Member experiences. Being elected to a position on the Board, Stilwell is anxious to be active in an environment where strategic teamwork and proven leadership are the foundation for success. After being elected, Stilwell commented, “I’m excited about the opportunity to serve on the Board and to serve the Members. This is something I have wanted to do for quite some time, so I am eager get to work and help find ways to add value to the Members and Professionals.” All three newly elected Board of Director Members will begin their terms at the Fall Membership Meeting on October 14, 2019, at Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Club.

Membership News

Membership News An update on our Colorado PGA Members By the Numbers Members - 723 | Associates - 104 Total - 827 Male Members - 692 | Female Members - 35 11th out of 41 Sections

Generational Breakdown 1900-1926 - G.I.s 1 ( 0.1%) 1927-1945 - Traditionalists - 33 (4.6%) 1946-1964 - Baby Boomers - 243 (33.6%) 1965-1977 - Gen X - 198 (27.4%) 1978-1999 - Millennials - 248 (34.3%)

113 – Management positions (MP, A-4, A-9, A-11, A-13) 310 – Club Professionals (A-1, A-2, A-7, A-8) 109 – Instructors (A-6, A-10, A-12, A-14) 23 – Expanded Career Paths (A-15 thru A-24) 116 – Life Members (LM, LMM, LMA, LMMA) 56 – Other Categories (A-3, A-5, HM, IN, F, RM)

New Members

The Colorado PGA welcomes new members and associates to our Section on a regular basis. For some, this is the first time they have joined our Section while others may be returning. Please join us in welcoming them! Morgan A. Berger, PGA | A-8 | Pine Creek Golf Course David L. Good, PGA | A-23 | Dick’s Sporting Goods Andrew M. Hebert, PGA | A-8 | Indian Peaks Golf Course Samuel M. Siebert, PGA | A-8 | Denver Country Club

Class and Employment Changes

On the Move

Welcome Wagon

Welcome to the following members who have recently joined the Colorado PGA.

Jeff Covington, PGA | A-4 | Blackstone Golf Club | previously in the Minnesota Section

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Membership News

New Associates

The Colorado PGA welcomes our newly registered associates. Associates in the PGA of America are responsible for upholding the mission of the PGA, to establish and elevate the standards of the profession and to grow interest and participation in the game of golf. Jason R. Maddox | Mariana Butte Golf Course | B-8 Evan M. Schultz | West Woods Golf Club | B-8 Edward J Sheptak | Eagle Ranch Golf Club | B-8

Longtime Colorado Springs Professional Majure Passes Away B

ill Majure, 81, of Colorado Springs passed away March 1, 2019. He was born in Philadelphia, Mississippi on October 23, 1937. Bill Graduated from Union High School. He attended Mississippi State on a football scholarship and graduated from Memphis State with a Bachelor’s degree in physical education. After a four-month courtship, Bill married Carolyn (Tegtman) Majure on September 11, 1960. Carolyn was one of his two lifelong love affairs; his other love was the game of golf. Bill enjoyed a distinguished 42-year career as a golf professional that started in 1963. He became the head professional at Phoenix Country Club in 1972, and he finished his career at the Country Club of Colorado in Colorado Springs where he was the Director of Golf from 1984-2005. During the course of his career, Bill gave golf lessons to Jack Benny and played in the Phoenix Open with Arnold Palmer. Perhaps his proudest moment came in 2001 when he was inducted into the Colorado Golf Hall of Fame. More information about Bill’s career in golf can be found online at www.coloradogolfhalloffame.org/bill-majure.

Mississippi born and raised, Bill was the epitome of a southern gentleman. Gracious, warm and charming, Bill Majure was a man of integrity who earned the respect and admiration of his many friends and colleagues. Bill is survived by his wife Carolyn; children David Majure and Laura Sciba; and grandchildren Hayden & Sean Majure and Caroline Sciba.

A celebration of Bill Majure’s life will be held in the spring. Time and location to be announced.

Where’s Waldo Contest Winners Announced

In conjunction with the launch of the new Colorado PGA website, members were able to find “Waldo” (seen to the right) in five places on the site. By finding at least three of the images, the following members have won a $50 Gift Card: •

Erin Diegel

•

Rob Grall

•

Derek Rush

•

Kala Rusk

•

Phil McCarthy

March 2019

Executive Director’s Message

Spring is in the Air and We Couldn’t Be More Excited! My Fellow Colorado PGA Professionals,

It is always exciting and inspiring for me to get together with all of you at our Membership Meetings. Besides getting to visit with some of you individually and hear about all the latest updates in your life, the Spring Business Meeting means that Golf Season is finally upon us. Knowing that the month of April is always filled with all-four seasons of weather, it’s the beginning of another great year of golf in Colorado where our PGA Professionals shine and once again prove that they are they Best of the Best in our industry. I am extremely proud of the leadership of our Board of Directors and all the hard work that our Committees have put in this off-season. It is very rewarding to be associated with such an outstanding group of volunteers who are working towards improving the lives of our fellow Colorado PGA Professionals. I’d like to add my congratulations to Mark Bacheldor, CJ Perry and Keith Stilwell on becoming our newly elected Board Members. I look forward to working with each of you. As I stated during the meeting, your Section Staff is committed to being good stewards of our Section Resources, Serving Our Members to the best of our abilities, Growing the Game here in the Colorado Section and Making a Positive Difference in the Lives of Others through the Game of Golf. It gives me great pride to work with such an outstanding team that is committed to getting better each and every day in our service to you, our Colorado PGA Members. We have no “sacred cows” in the Colorado Section and we always appreciate you letting us know how we can improve on what we do.

Eddie Ainsworth, PGA CEO/Executive Director Colorado PGA eainsworth@pgahq.com

We’ve got an exciting and full schedule of events ahead of us. Hopefully, you will be able to join us as we all continue to network and grow as professionals. From time to time, I’m reminded of an old proverb, “As iron sharpens iron, one person sharpens another.” Together we all make up the Colorado Section of the PGA of America, one of the Best in the Country! I cannot encourage all of you enough to use each other as a network to do exactly this. Sharpen each other. Together we are better. Don’t wait for someone else to pick up the phone and call you to expand your network. Take the initiative. You’ll be glad you did and amazed at how people really like to help other people. As always, we’re here to help. We love to help assist and serve our PGA Members and Associates. Very Respectfully,

Eddie Ainsworth, PGA Executive Director/CEO Colorado PGA 6630 Bear Dance Drive Larkspur, CO 80118 eainsworth@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1593 C (719) 761-6125

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Colorado PGA News

The Future Business of Coaching Workshop to Highlight PGA.coach and ADM T

he launch of PGA.Coach was executed at the PGA Merchandise Show and will be highlighted here in the Colorado PGA at the Revenue Workshop 2.0 on Wednesday, April 3, 2019 at Meridian Golf Club.

The ultimate goal of the workshop is to highlight the American Development Model, PGA.Coach and to highlight how to implement these programs at the facility level.

The Future Business of Coaching Workshop Meridian Golf Club Wedneday, April 3, 2019 8:00am - 4:00pm

The goal of ADM and PGA.coach is to maximize each athleteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s potential, create well-rounded athletes and develop principles that create life-long golfers for generations. It is a concerted effort between the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and its Golf's Governing Bodies of sport to apply long-term athlete development principles in a way that resonates with the culture of sport in the United States. ADM and PGA.Coach are essential for growing the sport. It will allow PGA Professionals to evolve and adapt to the changes in the game and to create passionate students and life-long golfers. To register for the workshop, please click here.

March 2019

PGA of America News

PGA of America Update PGA Member Logo, PGA.coach and Golf Retirement Plus I hope each of you are “wintering” well – it has been a rough one and judging from the storm that you experienced in mid-March, it isn’t over yet!

Following is a brief update on some of the happenings at the National Board level. PGA Logo The Board of Directors and Officers have received a lot of feedback about the recent change in the PGA Logo. The current logo with the “PROFESSIONAL” rocker was changed to a rocker that just says “MEMBER.” From there, if a professional were to go on and get “specialized,” the rocker will say “SPECIALIZED PROFESSIONAL,” then once the professional is certified the rocker will say “CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL,” and then finally, once the professional obtains Master Professional status, the rocker will say “MASTER PROFESSIONAL.” There has been a lot of feedback on the change from the “PROFESSIONAL” rocker to the “MEMBER” rocker. In response to this feedback, the Board has decided that for the remainder of 2019, we will allow PGA Members to choose whether they use the MEMBER or PROFESSIONAL rocker. At the 2019 Annual Meeting, we will seek input and feedback from the delegates on the direction that we will take moving forward Ron Rawls, PGA in regard to our logos featuring District 9 Director PGA of America the rocker. Head Professional Crane Creek CC

Board Approved Bylaw Modifications The PGA Board of Directors made multiple Bylaw modifications during the Board meeting at the Merchandise Show. Here is a brief overview of those modifications: The Board extended the validity of a Playing Ability Test from two years to eight years. This

came as a recommendation from the Membership and Employment Committees. The eight-year time frame mitigated timing issues while continuing to meet the Bylaw requirement associated with the PAT. The Board considered and passed a recommendation from the Membership and Employment Committees allowing scores from the first two competition rounds of a collegiate golf tournament (Division I, II, III and NAIA) to be used to satisfy the 36-hole PGA Playing Ability Test requirement. PAT validity would extend eight years past the date of passing. The Board considered and passed a recommendation from the Governance Task Force to add a PGA Member as an At-Large Director, effective immediately. This Officer Committee selection, with Board ratification, allows additional expertise and inclusion on the Board. The Board considered and passed a recommendation from the Governance Task Force to add a third non-PGA Member as an Independent Director. This Officer Committee selection, with Board ratification, allows additional expertise and inclusion on the Board. The Board considered and passed a recommendation from the Governance Task Force to remove the Honorary President as a Board Member, effective at the conclusion of the 2019 Annual Meeting. The Honorary President will no longer serve on the Board but will continue with certain rights and privileges historically commensurate with the role. This reduces the total time commitment of an Officer from eight to six years. I will be happy to discuss these modifications further with any of you individually. PGA.Coach PGA.Coach is a vehicle to help PGA Professionals understand the American Development Model (ADM) principles and how to apply them at their facilities. PGA.Coach provides a short training program for the industry and coach specific tools for PGA members. There is no cost for PGA.Coach. Just go to www.PGA. Coach and sign up for the training. After you complete the virtual training (which takes 2-3 hours), you will be given access to the PGA.Coach app. The app includes: Lesson planning, note taking and assessment tools for all ages and skill levels. The ability to create your own lesson plans using over 150 different ADM inspired activities. Preset lesson plans designed by ADM experts.

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PGA of America News Assessments for all ages and skill levels. PGA Members will be eligible to earn MSR credits for completing the PGA.Coach training. Don’t wait, go visit PGA.Coach today! Golf Retirement Plus Plan Update For 20+ years, PGA Golf Retirement Plus has been an excellent way for PGA Members to prepare for retirement or for life’s unexpected situations. Thanks to the support from 30+ Golf Retirement Plus partner programs from many of golf’s leading companies, PGA Members not only benefit financially from participation but can also bring added value to their facility through special partner offers. Partner contributions are only one way to invest money into a Golf Retirement Plus account. Although the majority of partner programs are facility-based, there are a few personal use programs that do not require your employer’s authorization. You may also make personal contributions or deposit tournament winnings into a Golf Retirement Plus account. Several Golf Retirement Plus partners offer “above and beyond” incentive programs where both the facility and PGA Member benefit from facility purchases creating a win-win scenario for both Member and employer.

March 2019

In 2018, the PGA entered a new age of Golf Retirement Plus by partnering with VALIC, an AIG company. Not only does VALIC offer a top performing variable annuity program, but its vast network of financial advisors are available to meet with PGA Members through face-to-face meetings. VALIC also offers state-of-the-art financial education and resources to its account holders. Allowing PGA Members to participate in Golf Retirement Plus is a great way to attract, reward and retain employees. We encourage all PGA Members to speak to their employer about participating in this great Member Benefit. I enjoyed seeing many of you at the spring meeting. It is always nice to discuss and share ideas about these topics and others. Sincerely, Ron Rawls, PGA District 9 Director PGA of America Head Professional Crane Creek CC

Colorado PGA News

Brand New Specialization Workshop to be Delivered in Colorado PGA

New Step in Lifelong Learning Being Delivered in Classroom Setting for the First Time

uilding on the success of the In-Person Certified Professional Program delivered in the Colorado PGA for the last six years, the Colorado PGA is partnering with the PGA of America Education Department to host a PGA of America Specialization Workshop in Executive Management.

Executive Management Specialization Workshop April 15-16, 2019 The Golf Club at Bear Dance

“We’ve seen great results with our Click here for more information and to register in-person Certified Professional Program and look to continue in that same direction with the Specialization Workshop,” noted Colorado PGA Executive Director Eddie Ainsworth. “The classroom or “in-person” style of learning delivers an incredible experience where those participating in the program can not only learn from the material but from their peers in the class.” The idea behind the Specialization is to continuously improve your business and teaching skills to meet the increasing demands of the golf industry. The PGA Specialized Program is an educational curriculum that supports the goals of PGA Members who are committed to excellence and furthering their career. It delivers “on-demand” access to training when your schedule permits, and reduces time and travel costs associated with traditional training. pga.org The Executive Management track provides leadership, hospitality and organizational structure while strategically managing the entire enterprise. This includes all departmental and business operations such as Club Operations, Food & Beverage, Golf Operations, Golf Course Maintenance, Membership, Fitness, Aquatics and Tennis. It also incorporates the administration of financing of the golf business.

To complete the Specialized designation, you must:

•

Be a PGA Member

•

Pay an online course library access fee of $350 (Course library offers more than 200 courses (MSR Eligible))

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Select one of three specific career paths: Teaching & Coaching, Golf Operations or Executive Management (the Colorado PGA has selected Executive Management for the first in-person workshop)

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Complete the 30 Required courses within your career path selection

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Complete 10 Self-Selected (elective) courses from our PGA Course Library

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Submit a written project (View the project guidelines here. There is a $100 fee to unlock access)

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Once Specialization is complete, the next step in your journey is Certification.

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Career News

Lay-Ups, Loops, and Leaders “Vulnerability doesn’t come after trust-it precedes it. Leaping into the unknown, when done alongside others, causes the solid ground of trust to materialize beneath our feet.” - Daniel Coyle, The Culture Code The middle of March means it is officially time for In practice, a Vulnerability Loop follows the same 5 March Madness, a time that energizes fanbases and steps: turns players making layups into legends. In college 1. Person A sends a signal of vulnerability basketball, some of the biggest stars are the coaches, 2. Person B detects the signal as their skill at building both teams and a winning 3. Person B responds by signaling their own culture have made them household names. vulnerability What are the traits that make coaches like Mike 4. Person A detects the signal Krzyzewski, John Calipari, and Bill Self successful? How 5. A norm is established; closeness and trust do we explain the sudden rise of the "Cinderella" teams increase each year? And what can we learn from them that can If vulnerability can lead to trust, what can this trust lead be applied to our lives and workplaces? to? The teams competing in March Madness share a sense of purpose, common goals Recently, I blogged about the importance of and standards. They also share recognition. I asked for feedback from the Membership a special bond that can only be and received some incredible insight. One of the forged through the Vulnerability submissions provided the inspiration for this message, Loop. Could the groups you and it is as follows: belong to (family, work, etc.) benefit from enhanced levels of "Allow yourself, as the giver of recognition, to be truly vulnerability and trust? authentic. This can sometimes make us feel vulnerable when expressing our feelings, but this will make the Next month, we will examine moment so much more empowering for the giver and how to use the trust you create receiver. Don't be afraid of expressing your gratitude to build even higher performing freely and honestly.” teams. Until then, best of luck to your favorite team this March! When the action of providing recognition is also an Keith Soriano, PGA, is act of vulnerability, the interaction transforms into In the Loop, a PGA Career Services something more powerful and provides us a good Keith Soriano, PGA Consultant serving place to start analyzing successful groups or teams. the Colorado and PGA of America In his book "The Culture Code," Daniel Coyle talks at Utah Sections. He can 100 Avenue of the Champions be reached at (720) length about an interaction termed a Vulnerability Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 841-1006 or ksoriano@ Loop, which is "a shared exchange of openness (and) M | 720.841.1006 pgahq.com. the most basic building block of cooperation and O | 561.935.6832 trust." E | ksoriano@pgahq.com

March 2019

Special Merchandise Feature

Relationships and Exceptional Experience the Key at Walnut Creek Golf Preserve How did you go about developing your merchandising philosophy and why? By Brian Carlson, PGA | Head Professional | Walnut Creek Golf Preserve At Walnut Creek Golf Preserve, we believe a successful golf shop isn’t simply based on volume and revenue. We believe you need to know your market, what your position is in that market and how it aligns with your facilities vision/mission. Once you identify your position, you can build unique strategies, measure what success looks like and define what value you can bring to your merchandise operation, which in turn adds value to the overall club experience. Our merchandise philosophy is simple – its built around our customer service philosophy of building relationships and providing exceptional experiences. People want to feel good about where they spend their time and money and we work hard at being that “3rd Place” after work and home! The golf shop needs to be that great experience where fun conversations happen, laughter is heard and stories are told. The golf shop should be a place that excites the all the senses – sight, smell, hearing, taste and touch. We work hard to provide exceptional experiences in our golf shop by playing music, piping in seasonal smells through scent marketing machines and the use of candles – which are also for sale and a BIG seller in our shop! We continually encourage and coach our team to come up with visually exciting displays and use unique props with mannequins that showcase our merchandise about every 10-12 feet throughout the golf shop. Each display needs to evoke an emotional experience that guests can interact with and our merchandise is meant to be touched, picked up or gripped. Displays tell a story in our golf shop and give a “vibe” about who we are and why we are a unique shopping experience. If you’re not passionate about merchandising, it will show – take the time to learn from other successful golf shops, stores, restaurants and businesses that excite you and that make you want to visit them again because of the experience. Then try to find ways to incorporate those experiences into your merchandise plan and product assortment plans.

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Special Merchandise Feature

The Club at Flying Horse Focuses on Continuous Evolution to Meet Member Needs How did you go about developing your merchandising philosophy and why? By Jake O’Dell, PGA | Head Professional | The Club at Flying Horse I have always enjoyed this question because the first word that comes to mind is “evolve.” The Club at Flying Horse is going into its 15th season and I have been fortunate enough to see our growth for 14 of those years. The club’s merchandising program started out of a kiosk cart that developed into a mobile shop in our Athletic Club, to now our current shop that we are very proud of and are continuing to expand with retail space for our lodge and pool. Simply stated, I developed our merchandising strategy by continuously evolving our concepts and strategy to best accommodate the upcoming season. Through all of our transitions, I have experienced many successes in our retail operation along with many failures. The one key concept I always have tried to hone-in-on is watching the industry trends and making sure our operation could evolve and react to those trends. The reason this philosophy has been key is that we have a target audience within our membership, and to keep them engaged and excited about shopping with us, we need to be capable of adjusting and setting the trend. We are able to support this evolving philosophy and freedom for a few reasons. First, we have exceptional staff that not only are incentivized to move product but also take great pride in our retail program. Second, Colorado has some of the most amazing brand representatives and our relationship and honesty with our reps set us up for continuous success year in and year out. Last and most important is our relationship with our members. We know what our audience is looking for and if we don’t have it, then we make sure we do everything we can to get it. This bond allows for great sell-through and purchasing power for future buys.

March 2019

Special Merchandise Feature

Merchandsing Mix Sets Denver Country Club Apart What is the most unique thing about your merchandising strategy that sets you apart from other facilities? by Steve David, PGA | Head Golf Professional | Denver Country Club

strongly believe that we at Denver Country Club separate ourselves through our merchandising mix – products offered – and through our buying process that includes multiple delivery windows. Our Golf Shop supports in excess of 15 different vendors for menswear and up to 12 different vendors for ladieswear. For men, we provide over 30 deliveries and for women up to 20 deliveries for the spring, summer, fall and holiday seasons. Each season is unique as to the variety of products and color stories that are offered. During the holiday season, when many facilities are attempting to reduce their inventory from the past season, we take a different approach by turning our Golf Shop into a holiday specialty store that offers not only clothing but accessories for home and office. Candles, artwork, hand-made candy, custom belts, ski accessories, snow globes and scarves are just a few of the offerings. The vendors that are showcased in our Golf Shop during the holiday season are “specialty” companies that offer clothing and accessories from outside of the golf mainstream. The six-week holiday selling season is one of our most profitable.

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Special Merchandise Feature

Execlusive Callaway Partnership Pays Huge Dividends at The Broadmoor What best practices have you used when it comes to hard goods? By Russ Miller, PGA | Director of Golf | The Broadmoor The Broadmoor Golf Club has always focused on providing the best products and services to our members and guests. In the past, to offer our members the best selection in hard goods, we conducted a Demo Day at the beginning of the season. We invited all major club vendors and paired the club presentation with food and beverage offerings to entice our members to not only view the new club technology but also enjoy the event as a social gathering. Our Demo Days had mixed results and generated moderate club sales. In 2016, we chose to commit to one vendor and became a Callaway exclusive club. This partnership has had amazing results and we increased club sales by more than 100 percent in just one year and sustained this growth the following year. At the beginning of our partnership, we worked with the Callaway marketing team to design a dedicated hard goods space in the Golf Shop. Our Callaway wall features the newest clubs, golf balls and, as a special feature, a TV was incorporated into the design. It shows a continuously running loop of the golf ball and club design, as well as footage from the Broadmoor, shot with Annika Sorenstam. We also showcase the Callaway technology on the in-room TVs throughout the 780-room resort. This has generated interest from our guests who proceed to come to the Golf Shop to inquire about the features of the golf balls and clubs. We also carry the newest golf clubs in our rental sets and our guests enjoy being able to test the clubs for a whole round of golf. The most successful endeavor is our club fitting days. We schedule several days with the Callaway team who bring all their equipment, including Trackman, alignment aids and fitting equipment. They also bring the most experienced club fitters for our events and they provide our members with a memorable and highly satisfactory experience. Members feel valued and truly enjoy the uninterrupted time they get to spend with a club-fitting professional. This has resulted in the significant increase in hard good sales and has been a proven success for the Golf Club.

March 2019

Special Merchandise Feature

Unique Club Structure Allows Bear Creek Staff to Flourish How did you go about developing your merchandising philosophy and why? by Kirk Rider, PGA | Head Golf Professional | Bear Creek Golf Club Each facility in the golf industry is different in terms of the customers that play at their course. At Bear Creek Golf Club, our club is extremely unique in that it focuses on men of all ages and abilities. Developing our merchandise philosophy starts with personally getting to know our members and guests. I have emphasized to my whole staff, whether they work in the golf shop, outside operations or valet, that we are one family at the club and we treat everyone like family when they come to our club. This atmosphere has created a very comfortable and relaxing environment for all. This customer relationship is what it’s all about! Listening to them day-in and day-out has “This customer relationship is what it’s all about!” noted Kirk Rider, PGA given my golf shop operation a blueprint for Head Professional from Bear Creek Golf Club. Rider was awarded the 2015 merchandise purchasing. Knowing your customer Colorado PGA Private Merchandiser of the Year Award. allows you to formulate a precise buying plan for the whole golf shop. Train your staff to be observant of everyone who walks through the shop and engage them personally. Make mental notes of their dress appearance and what they are currently wearing from head to toe. By paying attention to what your customer is wearing day to day, you can possibly adjust your buying efforts to stay ahead of the curve to adapt to their buying habits. Personally owning my golf shop definitely gives us the freedom to make more creative merchandise decisions and allows us to sell lots of products based on our members/guests needs. These decisions have outlined our buying plan to offer a variety of goods that directly match our customer. I emphasize continuing to create this family-oriented setting in my golf shop daily, which generates a more loyal customer. This merchandise philosophy has established me as a successful entrepreneur, thanks to my whole staff.

Rider notes that training your staff to be observant of everyone who walks through the shop and engage them personally is a key to his operation at Bear Creek Golf Club.

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Special Merchandise Feature

Training Staff on New Technology is Imperative to Red Sky GC What best practices have you used when it comes to selling hard goods? by Jeff Hanson, PGA | Director of Golf | Red Sky Golf Club There is currently so much technology in golf equipment that is rapidly changing as we begin a new selling season. It remains imperative that we encourage and train all staff to learn and study the latest trends, while relying heavily on the manufacturers to engage and inform us on all the current information. We like to have each company representative come to staff meetings for product training once per season. At Red Sky Golf Club, we host an annual Demo Day in early June where we serve free sliders, signature Red Sky Lemonades and offer 20 percent discounts to encourage participation and have many success stories to share. Trust is the core of any relationship and my staff has created great trust over the years mainly because of their longevity. We use Trackman technology to fit our members and guests and encourage our staff to fit with many companies to precisely match the members needs and not just the hot new driver or something they read in a magazine. We like to use technology and science to eliminate any bias. You simply cannot guess what they need, thus, developing relationships with our partners to stage Product training is a key to hard good sales at Red Sky Golf Club. Jeff Hanson and his staff like individual demo days is very important. In this way, a member can try more variations in shafts, heads and components in a more selective and to have sales reps come to staff meetings to personalized environment to find the ideal fitting solution. My Director of share information about new products. Instruction, Larry Rinker, and I host “Monday Night Jazz.” This is a combination of wine and cheese, Larry on jazz guitar and a new teaching topic each week. This has become a fun and exciting way to learn how to play better and continue to purchase new equipment. We stand behind our product so if a member doesn’t like his new purchase, we will refund, give him a free lesson with the new product or find something else he likes better. In addition, we host an hour and a half each Friday morning on the driving range called “Quick Hits,” which supplies a Golf Professional to provide free tips while walking the range. This further creates trust and, more times than not, a new purchase.

March 2019

Special Merchandise Feature

Creatively Displaying Merchandise is Vital to South Suburban Success What best practices do you use when it comes to visual merchandising and why? By Todd Marley, PGA | Head Professional | South Suburban Golf Course

The visual displays in a golf shop are often the window to the golfer experience after making a par on 18, naturally. There are several tools for displaying merchandising I like to incorporate into this window: mannequins, seasonal props and designated shopping areas. Many consumers are impulse buyers and by having a golf shop that uses well-dressed forms helps promote sales. I believe it is important to have something eye-catching on each mannequin throughout the shop. Using a colorful or funky shirt will draw attention to the display and often times create interest to an otherwise neutral short or skort. It is also very important to have the forms dressed as life-like as possible. Giving the mannequin a natural waistline and stuffing the arms with tissue paper creates this image.

This can be created by different props such as suitcases, creates, and chests. This interest will give the impression that there are more choices of apparel than meets the eye. Lastly, our biggest asset, is the public that comes through the door here at South Suburban Golf Course. I would like each and every golfer to experience a user-friendly environment, therefore organization is foremost. Having a designated men’s and ladies’ area is important in this aspect. These areas are natural in most shopping environments and I prefer to create an ease of shopping for the consumer. However, there is nothing wrong with overlapping men’s and lady’s clearance items. Often times this is beneficial to the customer and the golf shop for multiple sales. Creatively displaying merchandise is vital to generate sales in the golf shop and an image that I prefer to uphold here at South Suburban.

Here in Colorado we are fortunate to have four seasons. It’s very simple to create visual displays by incorporating such items as flowers for spring and maybe a beach theme for summer. Bringing in seasonal props or themes invites the customer to embrace the experience of purchasing from the golf shop and not a big box store. Another important tool when merchandising, is giving a flat surface different elevations.

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Special Merchandise Feature

Three Keys Lead Fossil Trace GC in Hard Good Sales What best practices have you used when it comes to selling hard goods? By Jim Hajek, PGA | Head Professional | Fossil Trace Golf Club The Fossil Trace staff believes that if you are truly going to be highly successful in the hard goods business, you must have: 1.

The appropriate equipment to do so

A “guest first” philosophy

A staff that embraces club fitting

To have the appropriate equipment, one needs a good launch monitor that gives, at a minimum, ball speed, back spin and launch angle. You will need fitting carts from the manufacturers with whom you choose to do business. All of this will cost $$$ but as your business grows, you will be offered greater perks from the equipment companies. We have chosen six manufacturer partners, which is ample – we would think a minimum of three would do the trick.

equipment that doesn’t fit correctly or will not help his/her game will lead to upset customers who tell friends and colleagues about their poor experience. Our goal is to help golfers play better – therefore, if we feel the equipment will not accomplish this, we let the player know. Why have them throw money at something that doesn’t help them reach their goals? We have a great reputation of not “selling” but fitting a player to improve their game, who then tells friends and colleagues which leads to additional fittings and potential sales. A staff that embraces club fitting is mission critical. You may have the right philosophy and appropriate equipment but without the whole team behind the club fitting program – you will not be wildly successful. As a bonus, we incentivize the club fitters with a fitting fee (paid by the player), as well as commission on the equipment. This allows for the fitter to generate revenue for themselves, making it worth their time. This is similar to lesson revenue so whether teaching or fitting, the staff member makes near the same amount per hour. Since equipment can have a huge and immediate effect on a player’s game, properly fitting a player may improve their game quicker than instruction. However, both combined can have tremendous improvements for a player.

The “guest first” philosophy involves fitting vs. selling and doing what is in the best interest of a player even if that means you lose a potential sale. If your goal is to simply “sell” equipment, we believe that is a short-term game, which may end in you getting out of the equipment business. Selling a player

March 2019

Special Merchandise Feature

2019 Hot List!

We asked some of our best and brightest Colorado PGA Members ot give us their input on products they see the most potential for growth in 2019 and why?

I believe we will see the biggest growth in our wedge business. In 2019, we have committed to creating several wedge fitting days with an educational aspect designed to help our membership better understand the importance of wedge play including distance control, spin and bounce. We will be stressing the importance of greenside play, as well as wedge control. Steve David, PGA Head Professional | Denver Country Club

Color golf balls are a small category in our product assortment, but I expect the new high visibility “yellow” ProV1 to change that. We feel these will be hot sellers and have the most potential for category growth in 2019! The ProV1 player has been asking for a high visibility ball for a long time now – that player loves the performance of ProV1; however, they’ve also wanted easy to see options, too. Brian J. Carlson, PGA Head Professional | Walnut Creek Golf Preserve

My staff and I are extremely excited about our investment into purchasing the new FlightScope X3 launch monitor. This 3D tracking radar and image processing will only enhance our teaching and club fitting experience. We believe having this advanced technology will tremendously increase our club sales. Kirk Rider, PGA Head Professional | Bear Creek Golf Club

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Special Merchandise Feature

We don’t see just one product but more a product line. The greatest opportunity for increased sales and revenue surround golf equipment. So many have exited the hard goods business for a number of reasons making this has the greatest chance of making a major impact to our bottom line for years to come. Jim Hajek, PGA Head Professional | Fossil Trace Golf Club

We are bringing in Aftershokz wireless headphones with bone induction technology this year. This exciting technology allows you to still talk, hear your shot and communicate with your foursome all while listening to your favorite music and not disturbing others. Now you will be able to hear the wildlife trying to attack you on the 17th fairway late in the evening! Jeff Hanson, PGA Director of Golf | Red Sky Golf Club

Athleisure wear will continue to grow and expand into the golf industry. You see it with big brands such as Adidas and even more traditional brands like Peter Millar. The style to wear on and off the course will continue to grow not only in apparel but with footwear, as well. Jake O’Dell, PGA Head Professional | The Club at Flying Horse Let me tell you about the Sun Mountain Clubglider Journey travel bag. I believe this product is one of the hottest items on the market for 2019. I have personally used this travel bag and happy to report on its durability and functionality. I had people stop me in the airport and ask me the name brand and where I found such an ingenious travel bag. Unlike most travel covers, the Sun Mountain Clubglider Journey travel bag has an extension wheel/support that pops out of the bottom of the soft-shell cover. This allows for easy steering and mobility. In fact, one can maneuver this travel cover with one finger (I’m not kidding). The support bar on wheels allows the travel cover to seem wait less, like rolling around a suitcase. Todd Marley, PGA Head Professional | South Suburban Golf Course

March 2019

Quarter Century Club

Celebrating 25 Years of Service as a PGA Member

PGA Members who have served the PGA of America with honor and pride for 25 years are elected to the Quarter Century Club. Their steadfast promotion of our great sport is recognized with a letter from the PGA President, a special Quarter Century Club certificate and a gold Quarter Century Club lapel pin. This month, the Colorado Section is proud to feature three inductees into the Quarter Century Club. They are Kevin Bolles, Director of Golf at Boulder Country Club; Mike Lepore, Head Professional at Airport Golf Course; and Life Member Bill Loeffler. Learn a little more about these Professionals and help them celebrate this accomplishment.

Kevin Bolles, PGA Director of Golf | Boulder Country Club Where did you grow up? I grew up in Colorado in the Lakewood and Boulder areas. What was your first introduction to the game of golf? A bit unconventional but my first exposure to golf was at the Putt-Putt at the McDonalds in Boulder. Why did you choose to become a PGA Golf Professional? I had been playing golf professionally; however, that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work out for me. I needed a job and here I still am. What makes you most proud about being a PGA Professional? I am most proud of being able to provide the services needed to others for them to be able to play golf and enjoy the game. What golf facilities have you been employed at and in what capacity? I have been fortunate to have spent my entire career at Boulder Country Club serving in multiple positions from player services and Assistant Professional to Director of Golf. What do you feel is the most meaningful contribution to the game of golf you have made? Working with juniors gives me the greatest joy and the largest sense of impact to the game. What hobbies do you have outside of golf? I enjoy skiing and dog walking when I am not working. If you could have a dream foursome, who would it be and why? It would be Arnie Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson.

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Quarter Century Club

Mike Lepore, PGA Head Professional | Airport Golf Course, Cheyenne, Wyo. Where did you grow up? I was born and raised in Cheyenne, Wyo. What was your first introduction to the game of golf? My dad, Lew, introduced me to the game when I was about seven. He was the golf Professional at Airport Golf Club and I just started picking it up. Why did you choose to become a PGA Golf Professional? I think it was because of what the game has done for me in my life and, as a Professional, I’ve been able to give some of that back. What makes you most proud about being a PGA Professional? What makes me most proud is being a part of an organization that includes so many great people who are working every day to make the best game even better! What golf facilities have you been employed at and in what capacity? I have spent my entire golf career at the Airport and Prairie View Courses in Cheyenne. What do you feel is the most meaningful contribution to the game of golf you have made? My work with high school golf in the state of Wyoming has been my most meaningful contribution to the game of golf. Like many programs, we have gone through some growing pains, but my fellow coaches and I are doing some great things to make the experience the best it can be for the kids. What hobbies do you have outside of golf? I like computers and enjoy flight simulation. If you could have a dream foursome, who would it be and why? Myran Craig, Don Fox, Bill Metier, Vic Kline and Lew Lepore would be my choices. I know that’s five, but these men taught me what it means to be a Golf Professional. They were always there for me, willing to help me and point me in the right direction. They also taught me that golf isn’t always about how well you play, but how you treat people.

Lepore has spent his entire career at Airport Golf Club and Prarie View Golf Course in Cheyenne, Wyo.

March 2019

Quarter Century Club

William (Bill) Loeffler, PGA Life Member Where did you grow up? I was born in Denver and grew up near Cheesman Park. After we moved a little further South, I went to Cherry Creek High School. What was your first introduction to the game of golf? My father joined Cherry Hills Country Club in 1965 and that is where he introduced me to the game. In the summer, I would be dropped off every morning and became a part of the junior program under Warren Smith. Why did you choose to become a PGA Golf Professional? After growing up around the great professionals who worked for Warren Smith, it was just natural that they were my mentors. I’ve always wanted to be a golf Professional and when my attempt to play the PGA Tour came to an end, it was a natural transition to the PGA of America.

Bill Loeffler shown here competing at Colorado Golf Club in the 2010 Senior PGA Championship.

What makes you most proud about being a PGA Professional? This is a tough question for me as no one thing stands out. I see how all the Section Professionals continually give their time and efforts towards making golf a relevant part of their communities. The values that surround the game are so important for kids to incorporate into their lives, hence, first tee and golf in schools, etc. The way Pros can bring the game to beginners is fantastic. The ability to wear a business hat and make a living at this wonderful game...its priceless. Finally, I’m so proud that, through the PGA, I’ve been able to create friendships with some of the greatest people I’ve ever met. Friendships that will last a lifetime!!! What golf facilities have you been employed at and in what capacity? After leaving the Tour in 1983, I went through various career opportunities outside golf. In 1988, I got back into golf when I joined the staff at Beaver Creek Golf Club in Vail. Next came Inverness Golf Club, and then Castle Pines Golf Club, all as assistants. After five years, in 1992, my wife Sandy and I were able to purchase The Links Golf Club in Highlands Ranch where I was owner operator. We built Highlands Ranch Golf Club in 1998, which is now owned by Denver University. We recently sold the Links to our two PGA Professionals Jason Brandt and Rob Hunt. What do you feel is the most meaningful contribution to the game of golf you have made? I would say owning the Links Golf Club was very meaningful. Through that little business, we were able to teach the game to beginners and juniors and provide a venue that was enjoyable to many in the community. What hobbies do you have outside of golf? My hobbies mostly include outdoor activities. Hiking and exploring our mountains, fishing, reading and spending time with my dogs! If you could have a dream foursome, who would it be and why? My dream foursome might be a little different than expected. It would be, while they were in their prime, Jack Nicklaus, Ben Hogan, and Tiger Woods.

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West Chapter News

West Chapter Spring Meeting and Tournament Season M

uch of the West Chapter has been enjoying the snowy winter as it helps to drive our mountain economy and fill the rivers, in addition to being fun to ski! However, I am anxious for the grass to show through and for golf season to get started. Our Spring Meeting is always a great way to kick off our season. We are very thankful to Bookcliff Country Club in Grand Junction for hosting this event for us every year. I believe I went to my first “Function in the Junction,” at Bookcliff in 1995, and I have no idea how long it had been happening before then. In addition to the meeting this year, the Colorado Golf Association will be giving a presentation on the New Rules of Golf. After lunch, our traditional blind draw, Pro-Pro Competition will take place. It is always a great way to get to know each other a little better while having a chance to compete. Especially for our West Chapter Pros, I encourage you to attend for the day to stay informed, as well as to stay connected within our PGA network. It is such a valuable way to spend your time!

Jeff Boyer, PGA

President West Chapter General Manager Eagle Ranch Golf Course

We are excited to add a couple Pro-Ams to our Tournaments on the Western Slope this season. We have a fantastic line-up of courses that offer some great opportunities to get away, challenge yourself and enjoy some time getting to know your colleagues and members. 2019 West Chapter Tournament Schedule: •

April 18 - Spring Meeting, Bookcliff Country Club - Blind Draw Pro-Pro

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May 24 – The Club at Cordillera - Pro-Pro Championship

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June 25 - Eagle Ranch Golf Club - Pros Only Stroke Play

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August 1 - River Valley Ranch - Pro-Am

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August 19 – The Club at Crested Butte - Pro-Am

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August 27 - Aspen Glen - Pro-Am

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October 1-2 - West Chapter Championship - Aspen Glen

We are also working on putting together a Teaching Workshop for some time this summer. Stay tuned as we are hoping to offer something VERY special!

Morris Finishes T15 at PGA’s Women’s Stroke Play Championship T

he 2019 PGA of America’s Women’s Stroke Play Championship concluded this week with Tara Morris, PGA, Country Club of Castle Pine Assistant, making the Colorado Section proud with her T15 finish. Her final scores were 80-74-72-226. “It was fun to meet a different group of ladies,” comments Morris. “At the same time, they were all in prime-golf shape this time of year and I just made too many mistakes; although I was able to pull out 5 birdies in the final round. My thanks to Colorado PGA REACH for the opportunity to enjoy this experience.”

March 2019

“So proud of Terra and how well she represented the section. She helped to show how talented our Colorado PGA female professionals are.”

Meanwhile, on the Wanamaker Course, Seul-Ki Park navigated an early-morning 70, good for a one-shot lead in the PGA Women’s Stroke Play Championship. Both Championships are being played at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, Florida, and are 54-hole events played on both the Wanamaker and Ryder Courses.

West Chapter News

VanDyke, Vendegna Highlight West Chapter Awards as Golf Professional and Teacher of the Year

Award Winners to be Reconized at Upcoming Spring Meeting Spring in the Rockies brings with it melting snow, warming temperatures and budding flowers. Of equal prominence at this time of year is the announcement of the 2018 West Chapter Award recipients.

As in year past, this year is no exception in that there were a tremendous number of qualified candidates for West Chapter Awards, making the selection process a difficult one. This year’s slate of award recipients are a true example of individuals who are the epidemy of preserving and strengthening the Colorado Sections reputation as being “The Experts in the Game and Business of Golf.” West Chapter President, Jeff Boyer, PGA, expresses his delight in this year’s slate of West Chapter Awards winners when he states, "It is an honor to go through the process of selecting our 2018 Colorado PGA West Chapter Award Winners. It is impressive to learn more about what our PGA Members are doing to grow the game and make their facilities successful. Each of the honorees, as well as the others who were nominated, has done a tremendous job emulating what it means to be a great golf professional. I look forward to being able to recognize all of these members when we come together for our Chapter Spring Meeting at Bookcliff Country Club in a few short weeks.” To honor this achievement, West Chapter award recipients were announced during the Section Spring Membership Meeting on Monday, March 25, at Pinehurst Country Club. They will be further recognized during the West Chapter Spring Membership Meeting on April 18, 2019, at Bookclilff Country Club in Grand Junction, Colo. Also, the names of these award winners will be submitted as finalists to be considered a recipient of the Colorado Section Special Award.

Golf Professional of the Year Stephen VanDyke, PGA

Teacher of the Year Eloy Vendegna, PGA

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West Chapter News

Player Development Award Nathan Mead, PGA

Youth Player Development Award Nathan Corsbie, PGA

Warren Smith Award Tom Buzbee, PGA

Private Merchandiser of the Year Greg Bryan, PGA

Resort Merchandiser of the Year Kenny Thayer, PGA

Public Merchandiser of the Year Nathan Corsbie, PGA

Assistant Golf Professional of the Year Trey Johnson, PGA

Bill Strausbaugh Award Eric Feely, PGA

Horton Smith Award Ed Marzec, PGA

March 2019

Colorado PGA REACH News

Davis and Talaga Add Expertise as Trustees for Colorado PGA REACH Foundation T

he Colorado PGA Reach Foundation is pleased to announce the addition of two new trustees to its Board: Dr. Stephen Davis and Mike Talaga. The Board, which is made up of diverse business professionals, provides the leadership to carry out the Foundation’s mission of furthering the scope of the game of golf and fostering the growth of the mission of the Colorado PGA REACH Foundation. “It is with great excitement that we introduce these new trustees,” states Jim Hajek, PGA, Colorado PGA Vice President. “These individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise in their fields and understand the power the game of golf can have on others. They will be tremendous assets to our Foundation as we further our mission of supporting our PGA Professionals as they continue to make a difference in their local communities.” Davis has always had a passion for serving his community, which is what inspired him to earn his Eagle Scout rank while growing up in the South Bay of Los Angeles. He was awarded the University of Southern California School of Dentistry's highest award for community outreach for his work around the world. Davis is part of the Cheyenne Mountain Dental Group in Colorado Springs.

taught the game at an early age by his dad, who was a collegiate golfer, and it has been the basis of many of the friendships he has made over his lifetime. Just as his dad shared the game with him, he has enjoyed sharing it with countless others and none more so than with his four sons. Talaga joined Janus Henderson Investors as a Credit Analyst in 2015. Prior to this, he served as a Vice President for Bank of America Merrill Lynch’s Global Investment Bank where he helped corporate and private equity clients originate and execute capital markets and merger and acquisition transactions. Talaga began his career in 2001 as a consultant for Arthur Andersen in Chicago. Mike Talaga, a member at Valley

Dr. Stephen Davis recently joined the

"I am honored to have Colorado PGA REACH Foundation Board of Trustees. the opportunity to serve as a member of the Board of Trustees for Colorado PGA REACH” said Davis. “As a young boy, I was in love with the game of golf, but my family lacked access to play. I believe deeply in the purpose of PGA REACH and am excited to help in any way I can in helping it to fulfill its mission."

“From driving the golf Country Club, joined the Colorado cart as a young boy PGA REACH Foundation Board of Trustees in late 2018. for my grandfather to carrying a bag for my daughters today, golf has provided me with decades of enjoyment and memories,” comments Talaga. “I’m incredibly excited to join the Colorado PGA REACH Board of Trustees and see this as a chance to give back to the community through a game which I love. It is an unbelievable opportunity and an honor, and I look forward to being a part of a such a great group of people coming together for an amazing cause.” Talaga received his Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Miami University and his MBA, with concentrations in accounting and finance, from the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business. He lives in Englewood with his wife and four daughters.

Outside of dentistry, one of Davis' biggest passions is golf and the grounds on which it is played. He was

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Colorado PGA REACH News

Colorado PGA REACH Pillar Grants Awarded R

ecipients of the Colorado PGA REACH Foundation’s Pillar Grants were announced during the 2019 Spring Business Meeting on Monday, March 25, 2019. The mission of the Pillar Grant Program is to provide financial assistance to facilities within the geographic boundaries of the Colorado Section to develop and/or significantly enhance growth of the game programs that align with the Three Pillars of our Foundation to attract and retain new golfers. “Following the direction of our Board of Directors and our Colorado PGA REACH Foundation Trustees, we updated the grant program this year to support programs that directly align with the three Pillars of our Foundation – Youth, Military and Diversity & Inclusion,” comments Ben Welsh, PGA, President of the Colorado Section. “We couldn’t be more proud of the programs that were selected and to support our PGA Members in using the resources raised by our Trustees to further grow the game of golf here in Colorado and make a direct impact on the communities they serve.” Grant awards and Foundation Pillars align as follows: •

Youth Development Programs – Golf in Schools and PGA Junior League

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Supporting Our Military Programs – PGA HOPE

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Diversity & Inclusion Programs – Specifically reaching, benefits and involving Women and Minorities

Colorado PGA REACH Trustee Chair, Spencer Zinn, continues by saying, “I believe I speak for the entire Board of Trustees for Colorado PGA REACH when I say that we are very pleased to be able to support all of these programs through our grant program. It’s programs like these, and the many outstanding Colorado PGA Professionals that run and facilitate them, that are the driving force behind the Colorado PGA REACH Foundation being responsible for moving the needle in growing the game of golf in Colorado.” The Colorado PGA REACH Grant and Scholarship Committee recommended to the Board of Directors the approval of the following Pillar Grants: •

Leighton Smith Golf – Leighton Smith, PGA - “Swingin’ Teens” High School Mentor Program

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Legacy Ridge Golf Course – Joseph Carlton, PGA – Golf Westminster Youth Player Development

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Flatirons Golf Course – Tom Buzbee, PGA – Tuesday Morning Youths

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River Valley Ranch/ Youth Golf Colorado – Stephen VanDyke, PGA – Golf in the Park

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Eagle Vail Golf Club – Ryan Flamm, PGA – Ladies on the Links

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The Golf Club at Bear Dance – Cyrus Twete, PGA – PGA HOPE Larkspur

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Buffalo Run Golf Course – Paul Hebinck, PGA – PGA HOPE Commerce City

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Fossil Trace Golf Club – Jim Hajek, PGA – PGA HOPE Golden

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Plum Creek Golf Course – Bo Heidrick, PGA – PGA HOPE Castle Rock

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Vail Valley – Ryan Flamm, PGA – PGA HOPE Vail Valley

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First Tee of Pikes Peak – Maggie Hartman, PGA

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First Tee of Denver – Scott Rethlake, PGA

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First Tee of Green Valley Ranch – Matt Byrant, PGA

“It has always been the goal of the Foundation and our Trustees to increase the level of financial support we are able to provide to our Colorado PGA Members. Through recent growth of our Colorado PGA REACH Foundation, we’re now able to give back to our Colorado PGA Members and their families more than ever. We couldn’t be more delighted to share this growth and we will continue to look for additional ways to support our membership,” said Jim Hajek, PGA, Vice-President of the Colorado Section and Board Liaison to the Colorado PGA REACH Board.

March 2019

Junior Golf News

Colorado’s First-Ever Regional Drive, Chip & Putt Qualifier Will be Hosted by Colorado GC

Colorado Section now hosts every step of the competition to get to the National Finals at Augusta

he 2019 Colorado Drive, Chip and Putt schedule is finalized and it brings with it great news for competitors in Colorado! For the first time ever, Colorado will host every step of the competition in a participant’s quest to advance to the National finals at Augusta National Golf Club as the Junior Golf Alliance of Colorado was selected to host one of just eight or ten Regional Qualifiers across the country. This season, Colorado will host 10 local qualifiers, two sub-regional qualifiers and a regional qualifier. The states first Regional Qualifier will be hosted by the critically acclaimed Colorado Golf Club on September 8, 2019, just days before this prestigious venue plays host to the 2019 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship. Colorado Golf Club has served as host for top competitions having previously held the 2010 Senior PGA Championship and the 2013 Solheim Cup. “It’s an absolute honor to be chosen as the host site for the Drive, Chip and Putt Colorado Regional Qualifier,” comments Graham Cliff, PGA, Director of Golf at Colorado Golf Club. “For our membership to have the opportunity to witness these young players qualify at Colorado Golf Club and then watch them compete at Augusta National is going to be extremely memorable.” Drive, Chip and Putt is a free event for boys and girls ages 7 to 15 centered around the three fundamental skills of golf – driving, chipping and putting. In 2018, approximately 50,000 youngsters at 290 sites throughout all 50 states competed at local qualifiers for the opportunity to move forward.

invitation to compete in the National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club on Sunday, April 5, the eve of the 2020 Masters Tournament. Colorado qualifiers begin Saturday, May 29, 2019, at The Golf Club at Bear Dance in Larkspur, Colo. The Junior Golf Alliance of Colorado’s Drive, Chip and Putt 2019 schedule is as follows: Local Qualifiers • • • • • • • • • •

The Golf Club at Bear Dance – May 29, 2019 The Ridge at Castle Pines North – June 3, 2019 The Club at Flying Horse – June 11, 2019 Fort Collins Country Club – June 17, 2019 Walnut Creek Golf Preserve – June 24, 2019 Cherry Creek Country Club – July 1, 2019 CommonGround Golf Course – July 9, 2019 University of Denver Golf Club – July 15, 2019 Eagle Ranch Golf Course – July 22, 2019 West Woods Golf Club – July 29, 2019

Sub-regional Qualifiers • •

Murphy Creek Golf Course – August 3, 2019 Thorncreek Golf Course – August 24, 2019

Regional Qualifier •

Colorado Golf Club – September 8, 2019

Online registration will open on March 5, 2019. For more information about the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship, including official rules, qualifying sites or to register, please visit www.DriveChipandPutt.com.

Top performers at the local level will advance through sub-regional and regional qualifiers. The top 80 performers – 40 boys and 40 girls – will earn an

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Junior Golf News

New features for PGAJL Captains in Captain Resource Center The 2019 PGA Jr. League Season is shaping up to be the best yet. If you have already registered to be a Captain, THANK YOU for being a junior golf leader in your community! PGA Jr. League is a great way to not only grow junior golf at your facility but to cultivate a culture of togetherness in your community and grow your facility’s bottom line. Along with unprecedented growth projections, 2019 comes with many new features to assist captains in managing their teams. One of the best new features for Captains is the long-awaited Captain Resource Center. This is the one-stop-shop for Captains to do everything needed to successfully plan and run your season, from marketing materials and helpful toolkits, to game day materials and revenue tracking. Need to find those last few players to round out your team? Head to the Finding Kids & Families section for tools to use in recruiting kids for your program and reaching families in your community. Some additional features found in the Captain Resource Center Include:

• Updated Team Kit ordering form • Registration Editing tool, which allows information such as max players, close dates and price to be changed at any time

• Details and applications for Military and Financial Need Based Scholarships

• Customizable communication collaterals such as emails, texts and the ability to manage RSVPs

• Digital Copies of the Conditions of Play and Key Rules Changes • Updated player rostering tool • Printable and fully tailorable game materials, such as scorecards and score sheets

• Detailed Revenue Tracking tool to help you and your facility better un-

derstand the positive financial impact of hosting a PGA Jr. League Team

• Marketing toolkit with press release templates, social media posts and

more resources that you can quickly customize and share to spread the word about your program.

• PGA Jr. League animation designed, which explains the program for kids • New 30-second PSA featuring Ambassadors Steph Curry and Alex Morgan

In addition to the resources provided on the Captain Resource Center, we highly suggest downloading the SportsEngine Team Management App from the App Store or Google Play Store. PGA Jr. League is now fully supported within the main Sports Engine App, which offers many more features and the ability to do everything from your Smart Phone. The previous PGA Jr. League App did not have the ability to be updated moving forward so we highly encourage you to download the official Sports Engine App. With all the additional support being rolled out, there has never been a better time to be a PGA Jr. League Captain and by hosting a team, you are making an impact in so many ways. As always, please contact your local and regional support staff with any questions or concerns. Good luck with your 2019 season and HAVE FUN!

March 2019

Major Role

Junior Golf News

JGAC Set to Host 2020 U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship By Gary Baines – 2/11/2019

The opportunity presented itself basically out of the wild blue yonder, which seems only appropriate given that those words come straight out of the official song of the U.S. Air Force. Last summer during the U.S. Senior Open at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, USGA staffer Mark Hill approached CGA executive director Ed Mate, asking if the golf powers that be in Colorado would be interested in hosting the U.S. Girls’ Junior, arguably the top golf championship in the world for female amateurs 18 and under. “I said, ‘Of course we’d be interested,'” Mate recalled on Monday. And after having some discussions with Colorado PGA executive director Eddie Ainsworth, it didn’t take long for a plan to take shape. “There were a few bumps in the road and a few conversations, but overall it was that simple,” Mate said. Fast forward to Monday, and the USGA was at Eisenhower Golf Club announcing that the 2020 U.S. Girls’ Junior was headed to the Blue Course at the Air Force Academy. And the main reason everything came together was the Junior Golf Alliance of Colorado, an organization founded by the CGA and the Colorado PGA and launched in 2016. “How can you not talk about the reason why we’re here?” Ainsworth said on Monday. “The reason why we’re here is because of the Junior Golf Alliance of Colorado.” In its press release announcing the site for the 2020 U.S. Girls’ Junior — which will be held July 13-18 — the USGA said the Junior Golf Alliance will be the “host group for the championship.” It’s a big responsibility, with the potential for a big payoff in terms of major exposure — the event is expected to be televised nationally by the family of Fox networks — and helping grow the game. “It’s an honor to be part of a national championship,” said Mike Schultz, president of the Junior Golf Alliance of Colorado. “I have a soft spot in my heart for junior golf. I have a soft spot in my heart for girls junior golf. “This is the next logical step for the Junior Golf Alliance of Colorado. We’ve hosted many championships (including) AJGA championships. Now we have the opportunity with the USGA and the Air Force Academy to host the 2020 U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship.

It’s a phenomenal opportunity. “The exposure is a big deal, but our mission is to grow the game — for junior boys and for junior girls — so it’s all part of our core mission and all part of the process. I can’t think of a better way to do it.” Monday’s announcement was particularly special to Ainsworth, given his background. His dad served in the U.S. Air Force for 30 years, reaching the rank of chief master sergeant. Ainsworth himself was the PGA general manager at Eisenhower Golf Club for 10 years (1998-2008) before being hired as the Colorado PGA’s executive director. And obviously now he heads one of the organizations that runs the Junior Golf Alliance. Add it all up, and the fact that Eisenhower will be the first U.S. military-affiliated course to host a USGA championship, and it was easy to see why Ainsworth had a smile on his face on Monday. “I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a special moment,” he said. “For me, I still bleed Air Force blue. I’m the son of a retired Air Force chief master sergeant for 30 years. I managed this place for 10 years. When we were looking at sites, I was adamant that this should be where we do this. I’ve known the golf course superintendent here for 20-plus years, so I know what product he and the PGA head professional here will put together. To do it here, in my hometown, at the foot of America’s mountain — all those things give me special pride.” Make no mistake: The JGAC has not only played a large role in making the 2020 U.S. Girls’ Junior at Eisenhower a reality, but it has a considerable vested interest in seeing the national championship be a success. Specifically, the Alliance will be responsible for raising $400,000 for the event. “The USGA’s business model for all their amateur championships is they depend on the local community to raise the money needed to put on a one-of-a-kind, world-class championship,” Mate said. “A lot of people scratch their heads and say, ‘What does that money go to?’ The short answer is, it makes the experience really special for the players.

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“Things like having to close both golf courses (at Eisenhower) for five days, having a players’ dinner that’s really special, making sure every detail is taken care of — the practice range setup, the way the golf course is conditioned … Anyone who has played in a USGA championship will tell you it’s the highlight of their golf career. Even PGA Tour players, you’ll ask them what was the best event you ever played in, it’s often a USGA championship, maybe because they’re so young and impressionable (at the time. “So we have to raise the money to make sure that experience is delivered. The USGA is doing the heavy lifting. They’re staffing it and they’re managing the event, then we help out locally. That’s actually a positive because it makes the local community have skin in the game. We have to raise $400,000. That number is intentionally ambitious because we want to make sure we don’t leave any stone unturned.” Already, the Alliance has announced “partnership opportunities” for the event ranging from $100 each to $25,000 each. And, so sponsors get a sense of what their money will buy, specifics are assigned at each level. For example, under the $25,000 platinum sponsorship, the needs listed are “welcome party sponsor, transportation sponsor and food and beverage sponsor.” “The donors start to connect the dots (when you do that), so it’s not just throwing blank checks at a

tournament; you’re really connecting with one of the elements of the tournament that make it special that you’re supporting,” Mate said. Despite the fundraising challenges ahead, Mate and Ainsworth see this U.S. Girls’ Junior “host group” status for the Junior Golf Alliance as a major big-picture win for the organization. “I loved today’s announcement because every speaker touched on the common denominator of the missions of the Air Force Academy, the USGA and the Junior Golf Alliance all being to intill values in young people and create leaders,” Mate said. “It’s a great way to show how golf is used as extension to build stronger community and stronger leaders. “If this (opportunity) had come along three or four years ago, we weren’t ready. The Junior Golf Alliance is ready now. It’s an inflection point for us to take it to new heights.” Added Ainsworth: “When we started down this path several months ago, we looked at this as an opportunity to really solidify what we’re doing through the Junior Golf Alliance in hosting a major championship. So it’s extremely important. Once again, it shows how committed we are — the Colorado Golf Association, the Colorado PGA — through the Junior Golf Alliance to make it everything junior golf in Colorado.”

Section Intern Kerlek Understands Impact Golf Can Have on Young Golfers C

hase Kerlek has joined the Colorado Section of the PGA as a nine-month intern in the Junior Golf department. His focus will be to support the management and execution of Junior Golf tournaments. “After spending the summer of 2018 interning with the Section, I am excited to return to Colorado and continue to help grow the game with the younger golfers,” comments Kerlek.

At a young age, Kerlek discovered his passion for the game while taking lessons with his father and has continued to play ever since. He knows the impact golf can have in a young person’s life, and truly believes that the game brings out a creative and competitive spirit that inspires junior golfers to achieve for the rest of their lives. Originally from Florida, Kerlek graduated from the University of Florida with a B.S. in Telecommunications Production. Join us in welcoming Chase Kerlek to the Colorado Section. He will be supporting the activities of the Section through Thanksgiving.

March 2019

Tournament News

Exciting Changes Announced for Upcoming Tournament Season

pring is here and that means tournament season is right around the corner. To get you ready for the Colorado PGA 2019 Tournament Season, take a moment to catch up on what’s new! Register for multiple events at once with reduced relationships with fellow members. deposit! • June 12 | CC of Colorado Tournament Registration has been modified to reduce • July 24 | Legacy Ridge GC the deposit fee to secure your spot in events. Moving • August 21 | Fossil Trace GC forward, a $25 deposit is required at registration, allowing a player to register for more events without costIncreased Payouts ing more initially. The balance fee due will be charged Our Board of Directors, Committee and staff are within 72 hours before the event. committed to adding value to our PGA Professionals Want to get paid quicker? and our Tournament Program. In a continued effort to recognize and award our Champions during the SecDirect Deposit for tournament winnings is safe, secure tion’s Premier Tournaments, the first-place payout will and easy to sign up. Please follow the link below and increase in the following events: submit the form. Instead of having to check the mail 2-3 weeks after an event, you could be checking your • Myran Craig Pro-Pro Championship bank account 2-3 days following event! – Champions split $1,500 https://signnow.com/s/VcQOmABi

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Colorado PGA Professional Championship – Champion receives a minimum $10,000

Player of the Year

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OMEGA Dow Finsterwald Player of the Year – Champion receives $5,000

In 2019, to be eligible for Dow Finsterwald Player of the Year points, male PGA Professionals MUST play the Colorado PGA White Tees. You must state your intentions before you start play on an event-by-event basis. A few other modifications to the Points Distribution Schedule were made as well:

• Women’s Player of the Year was added to

Match Play Championships For all Match Play Championships, male Professionals and Associates will play the same tee (recommendation of 6,800-7,100 yards) and all female Professional and Associates will play 80-85 percent of the men’s yardage.

Tournament Rules and Regulations

• Colorado Open Championships moved to an 800-point distribution schedule

• TPC Colorado Web.com Championship was

added to the 1600-point distribution schedule, as well as bonus points for qualifying and/or making cut

Past President’s Fund (non-awarded skins) The Colorado PGA has officially terminated the Past President’s Fund to assist our fellow PGA Professionals in a time of need. Going forward, any non-awarded skins will be added to the skins purse and split between the first two rounds of the Section Championship. Assistant/Associate Tournaments Three events have been added to the schedule to allow A-8’s and Associates an avenue to network and build

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Tournament News

March 2019