Colorado PGA Staff
Looking into 2023
Fellow Colorado Section Professionals,
Thank you to all of my fellow professionals that attended our Spring Membership meeting. Thank you for making the effort to attend in person and to those who were unable to attend, the recording is now available on the member side of the Section website. It is so crucial to the Section’s success to have your feedback on our Section programming and initiatives so that your Officers, Board, Committee Members and Staff can make informed decisions on your behalf to enhance our section offerings. A huge thank you to Corona Premier, Colorado Golf & Turf, Tag Marshal, PURE Grips, Signs by the Sea and Hole In One USA for their sponsorship and support making the meeting a success!
In 2023, we enhanced the governance structure of the Colorado PGA Section to improve efficiency and ensure that our PGA Members voices are well represented. The request to join a committee was sent out to all 850 Members and we had 35 raise their hands to volunteer! We have implemented new goals and objectives that we are excited to work on your behalf over the next 2 years. Some of these goals include creating new employment and operations resources for our members, creating a mentorship program for our Assistants and Associates, continuing to grow new areas of partnership that directly affect our members, and growing the PGA HOPE commitment to veterans in Colorado. We look forward to reviewing the progress in these areas year over year,
Deferred compensation is now open for registration. Thank you to all of our members that took a few minutes at the Spring Meeting to register. Colorado PGA Members in good standing can now potentially receive a contribution of up to $1,500/year in deferred compensation funds by participating in a combination of 16 activities across all three career tracks. The aim is that over the years these investments will grow and provide a supplemental income for the member upon reaching the age of 65. If you have yet to sign up, please do so HERE.
As the Section staff head into 2023, they are set to host over 200 tournaments, events, meetings and fundraisers. Please THANK our great staff for all of their tireless efforts when you see them at an event near you. I want to personally thank all those PGA Member facilities that have raised their hand to host
events and activities. Without you, we are unable to serve the member and grow the game As always, please reach out with any questions or to say hello.
Cheers,
Cathy Matthews-Kane, PGA Colorado Section President Incoming District IX DirectorREACH-ing and Growing into 2023
Team Colorado PGA,
As we move into the spring and summer seasons, I am excited to share some of the remarkable accomplishments and upcoming initiatives that highlight the ongoing positive impacts our PGA REACH Colorado Foundation continues to have an impact on the lives of our Members and local communities! Our three REACH pillars remain the priority:
Youth Development Pillar - improving and advancing opportunities for our youth in the areas of education, health and wellbeing, and character. Primary support program(s): PGA Junior League, Golf in Schools, Player Pathways
Military Pillar - supporting physical, mental, and social rehabilitation. Primary support program(s): PGA
H O P E (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere)
Inclusion Pillar - driving awareness that golf is affordable welcoming and fun for all individuals regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, ability, background or lifestyle Primary support program(s): Pillar Grants, College Scholarships, USOC F L A M E (Finding Leaders Among Minorities Everywhere), Women’s Leadership Summit
We made great headway in 2022! Let's take a moment to reflect on our 2022 accomplishments:
Colorado PGA Professionals and their facilities generated over 1 million dollars in revenue through PGA Junior League
PGA HOPE certified Professionals generated over $35,000 in revenue
Our COPGA facilities generated $200,000 through our junior golf tour
Demand for these programs continues to grow, and we anticipate these numbers to increase again in 2023! Take a look at what we're bringing into 2023 with our Section initiatives:
Pillar Grants are back. PGA Members have the opportunity to apply for grants up to $3,000 that can help fund operations, staffing, and/or equipment for programming that is directly in line with our three pillars. A new fundraiser, “Play Yellow Birdie Bash,” will be offered in which PGA Professionals will be able to team up and play golf to help raise funds for both PGA REACH Colorado and the Children's Hospital of Colorado Pros that sign up (no fee) will be treated to a first-class event
The new Player Pathway is already live, providing kids ages 6-18 close to 90 tournament opportunities throughout Colorado, Wyoming, and South Dakota The Pathway also provides junior tour graduates and any amateur golfers over age 18 to play on a new Amateur Tour at some of the best clubs around the Section
PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) recently completed a NEW indoor pilot opportunity thanks to our PGA Professionals at GOLFTEC The vision will be to continue to find year-round opportunities for our veterans even when courses are closed
PGA HOPE is anticipated to grow from 7 chapters to 16 as we look to service double our military community compared to past years.
As we continue to look onward into the year, please be aware of the following important dates to mark in your calendar:
July 10th: Hiwan GC will team up with PGA REACH Colorado to run a, “Game For Life” tournament to raise funds for Golf in Schools and financial aid for youth to participate in our COPGA Junior Pathway.
July 13th: will be the annual IVY Pro-Am at Fort Carson where our PGA Professionals have the opportunity to support our Military by playing in a pro-am with active-duty military duty service members.
July 18th: Bear Dance will host the Annual PGA REACH Invitational, our biggest fundraiser for PGA REACH Colorado.
Also noteworthy, our Executive Director, Steven Bartkowski, and our legal counsel, Thor Lundgren, worked this offseason diligently to re-organize and clean up our governance model Re-establishing the governing board, creating a new set of By-Laws, establishing the DBA (doing business as) PGA REACH Colorado with the State of Colorado, and establishing a new administrative agreement between our Section and Foundation will collectively enhance the long-term success and stewardship of PGA REACH Colorado
To our outstanding Trustees, whose commitment to generating funds and advocating for support to PGA REACH Colorado can’t be overstated, thank you! Our Trustees are a vital component in our ongoing success, and we would not be able to deliver such positive impacts to the lives of our local communities without their dedication and support I encourage you all to get to know your Trustees and take the time to thank them personally whenever and wherever the opportunity arises.
Finally, to you, our Members, Associates and Students, I thank you all for your continued support to PGA REACH Colorado and our three pillars, for everything you do on a daily basis in support of your fellow PGA Professionals and our golfing communities, and I look forward to sharing more success stories throughout the course of 2023 and beyond!
Very respectfully,
Michael J O'Donnell, PGA Colorado Section Vice PresidentHaving the Tools for Success in 2023
Dear Colorado PGA Section,
PGA REACH Colorado is such a tremendous vehicle to deliver on the passion of everyone in the Colorado PGA Section I’ve stated many times how proud I am to be associated with Colorado PGA Reach, and how proud I am of the good works done by our member professionals I can also state with confidence that my fellow members of our PGA REACH board of trustees feel equally as passionate I am so grateful to all the section professionals and trustees that are so crucial to our mission in PGA REACH Colorado
Despite numerous challenges we’ve faced in the last couple of years, I believe the foundation is stronger now than ever. REACH trustees believe this year will see us raise more contributions than ever in support of our section members and to build on each of our pillars. Whether in Youth Development, Inclusion, or Supporting our Military, we’ve got exciting progress across each of the pillars of the foundation.
To share one recent highlight within PGA REACH Colorado, we are excited to report that the El Pomar foundation committed to supporting our Golf in Schools model with a grant of $50,000 over the next two years, with $25,000 coming in each of 2023 and 2024 We believe that El Pomar’s support will open doors to numerous other opportunities with large Colorado based charitable foundations Our longtime trustee Theo Gregory’s expertise and network were crucial in securing El Pomar as a partner This demonstrates how valuable the networks of our trustees and section professionals are to our success As always, we are looking to build on our board of trustees If you know of someone with the passion and resources to support our mission, please contact me or our venerable Executive Director, Steve Bartkowski
For a full list of PGA REACH Colorado Trustees, Click Here
Again, I thank you all for everything you do!
Spencer Zinn, P Colorado PGA REACH Chairm Cheif Commercial Off West EABOUT PGA HOPE COLORADO ABOUT PGA HOPE COLORADO
PGA HOPE Colorado (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is the flagship military program of PGA REACH Colorado, the charitable foundation of PGA Colorado. PGA HOPE introduces golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional wellbeing.
The program introduces the game of golf through a developmental 6-8 week curriculum, taught and led by PGA Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. All programs are funded by PGA REACH National and supplemented by PGA Section Foundations, so the cost of programming is free to all Veterans.
PGA HOPE has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which enables VA Doctors and Staff to refer Veterans to the PGA HOPE program as a form of therapy. Through a robust program strategy, PGA HOPE aspires to create a physically and emotionally healthier Veteran and Active Duty community through the game of golf.
PGA HOPE teaches Veterans and Active Duty Military all golf techniques from grip to 9 holes
Shared Veteran experience: classes are restricted to just those Veterans and Active Duty members
Hosted at golf facilities ranging from TopGolf, Municipal and Military Golf Courses, to high-end private clubs across the United States Grassroots continuing golf opportunities with leagues, local and national tournaments, and more
Moving Forward Together to Make the Game Better
Colorado PGA Members and Associates,
Henry Ford was once quoted saying, “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” I couldn’t agree more with that statement It certainly has been the theme of our team and leadership this offseason And now we just need you, the Colorado PGA Member, to move together with us as well and we can truly benefit all COPGA Members and our community Remember, we are all humans and we need to assume that intentions are good as decisions are being made on the leadership level
I hope that everyone truly enjoyed the spring membership meeting this week as much as I did Your Section team and leadership have worked extremely hard this offseason to put together goals and objectives that directly relate to the feedback we have received from you in 2022. We have put together a junior golf program that we hope you can be proud of, we have continued to enhance partnerships to grow tournament purses, we solidified one of the leading instructors in the country for the teaching and coaching summit, we put a new focus on PGA Member employment, and found it extremely important to create an Assistant Professional and Recruiting Committee to try and tackle finding that next PGA Professional We are so fortunate to have the support from PGA National on many of these items, but at the end of the day the needle will only move if we make it move at the local level And to be honest, I have been and am ready for that challenge
As I travel around, many have asked me about relationships with our allied associations such as the CGA, CMAA, GCSAA and others I believe that I said this at our first membership meeting a year ago that we are all better when we work together, and that still holds true As we move forward in 2023 and 2024 you will continue to see many collaborative efforts by these organizations and others to find ways to benefit the PGA Member and the Colorado golf industry in general
Finally, as the golf season comes in with a bang, remember to continue to focus on “Work-Life Harmony” for you and your team. When you’re home be present with your family and yourself, when you’re at work be the best golf professional you can be. And find that harmony in both spaces. If one side is wearing you down, then be sure to create a new balance that better works for both sides. We are so fortunate to be involved in an industry that is surrounded by a game that we all love. We are not doctors, meaning we are not in the business to save lives just to create smiles on other peoples faces. Have fun with it! Don’t take it too seriously and certainly don’t take it for granted. Every industry has their challenges but the only way that they get them solved is “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself ”
If myself, or any of your talented Colorado PGA Section Team can ever be of assistance please do not hesitate to reach out
Steven Bartkowski CEO/Executive Director Colorado PGA sbartkowski@pgahq com P (303) 996-1593A Message From Our District 9 Director
Wow, what a long winter it has been in District 9 Just today we are getting the golf course open for the season I know the ski resorts have had a great winter, now let’s hope for another great golf season It has been a busy few months on the National Level at the PGA of America The delegations met in November in Scottsdale for the PGA Annual Meeting At that meeting we celebrated the presidency of Jim Richerson, elected John Lindert as our new president, Don Rea as the vice-president, and Nathan Charnes as the secretary
After some highly moving and passionate comments of support from PGA Members in attendance an historic resolution was passed unanimously by the delegation 115-0 This was the addition of an Inclusion Statement to the PGA CONSTITUTION The new language added to Article 1, Section 3 of the PGA CONSTITUTION states:
“The Association affirms its love for golf by promoting the game and inviting everyone, embracing all dimensions of diversity. This includes individuals with diversity of thought, culture, race and ethnic background, gender, age, religion, politics, sexual orientation, physical abilities, national origin, and other differences.”
Also, at the Annual Meeting President Lindert rolled out his new committee structure We will now have fewer committees with several sub-committees underneath the overarching committee For example, the committee now called Member Engagement will have the following sub committees, Membership, Employment, and Education This ensures that the committees are working together in a more effective manner We recently returned from our first committee meeting since this change and I believe it will be a positive one for the association
Championship season will soon be upon us This year’s PGA of America major championships will begin at Oak Hill in May for the PGA Championship The Kitchen Aid Senior PGA Champions will be the following week at the new home of the PGA of America in Frisco, Texas The KPMG Women’s PGA Championship will be played at Baltusrol in New Jersey.
It is hard to believe I am in my final year as a District Director. Congratulations to Cathy-Mathews Kane on being selected by the Colorado Section to represent District 9. She has already attended many meetings and I very confident she will a great voice in the boardroom for our District. As I conclude my
term and she begins hers please reach out to either of us at any time.
I wish you all a great season of full tee sheets and many birdies. #playmoregolf
Jared Barnes, PGA District 9 Director PGA of America Head ProfessionalCedar Ridge Golf Course
jbarnes@pga com
A Message from the Mountains
Spring is around the corner, and the Golf Season is upon us. On behalf of the West Chapter Board, and as the WC Board President, it’s my pleasure to welcome you to the West Chapter Season, with several great events:
April 14th: Colorado Golf & Turf WC- Doubles Golf & Spring Meeting Bookcliff, CC Grand Junction
June 15th: WC Pro-Pro Championship Club at Cordillera, Edwards, CO
July 25th: WC Stroke Play Championship Eagle Ranch CC, Eagle,. CO
August 28th: Corona Premier Pro-Am Series @ Aspen Glen
August 29th: Corona Premier Pro-Am Series @ RVR Carbondale, CO
October 2-3: Colorado Golf & Turf WC Championship & Fall Meeting
Western Colorado Golf Foundation Cup Matches, Mid-October, TBA Grand Junction, CO
Don’t miss out on these great opportunities to build camaraderie and have some fun. The addition of the Corona Premier partnership will be a great addition to the event this year for both Professionals and Amateurs.
Lastly, as a board, we have discussed with the Western Colorado Golf Foundation over the offseason how we can effectively infuse some energy into this great event and potentially incentivize our Professional players to a greater extent that qualify for this great event. We hope to share some details on this effort at the Spring West Chapter Meeting next month.
Finally, there is great excitement and energy in the PGA today with the move to Frisco, Texas, and the great opportunities this presents for us all. Now is the time to capitalize on taking advantage of all that PGA.coach has to offer, particularly in light of the upcoming PGA Championships. I encourage you all to take time to complete the PGA.coach registration process & ADM certification if you have not done so already. This is a great opportunity to make the most out of the platform as we roll into the Season.
I look forward to seeing you all in Grand Junction in April!
Luke Brosterhous, PGA West Chapter President Director of Instruction M3 Golf Performance LabsTheColoradoPGAAmateurTourisan opportunityforamateurgolferstoplay aseriesoforganizedgolftournaments atsomeofthefinestprivateclubsin theColoradoPGASection.
MEMBERSHIPINCLUDES
AccessallCOPGA
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atTheSwingBays
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A Message From Our Player Engagement Director
We are very excited for the 2023 Colorado PGA Junior Golf season to kick off in April! It has been a busy offseason at the Colorado PGA, with the expansion of the junior golf department to four full-time staff members and the introduction of the new Player Pathway. The Player Pathway will allow us to run more junior golf tournaments in 2023, expand our Golf in Schools program and create an Amateur Tour for adults With the addition of new programs and expansion of previous programs, the Colorado PGA’s goal is to become a better resource to guide families and PGA Professionals through the world of player development
Peter Weisel, PGAPlayer Engagement Director
Colorado PGAPWeisel@pgahq.com
TWO COLORADO NATIVES HEAD TO DRIVE, CHIP AND PUTT IN APRIL
DRIVE CHIP AND PUTT FINALS
APRIL 2ND, 2023
AUGUSTA NATIONAL GOLF CLUB
BRADY SHAW
Pueblo, CO I Boys 10-11
NAMEOFSCHOOL:
JACOB EAGAN
Castle Rock, CO I Boys 7-9
NAMEOFSCHOOL:
HOMEGOLFCOURSE
Pueblo Country Club
AGESTARTEDPLAYINGGOLF: 3 Years Old
MEMORABLE MOMENTS FROM
DCP
Hitting my 3rd drive over 230 yards and feeling confident on all the events. The biggest memorable moment was when I realized I won the regional qualifier.
HOMEGOLFCOURSE
Plum Creek Golf Club
AGESTARTEDPLAYINGGOLF: 10 Months Old
MEMORABLE
MOMENTS FROM
DCP
After hitting all three of my chips inside 2ft at regional qualifying I was so happy. Knowing that I made it this year, and I get to play on the 18th green where so many champions have played!
Don Graham and Don Allen Win 2022 PGA Jr. League #GameChanger Award
WHEN DID YOU GET STARTED WITH PGA JUNIOR LEAGUE AND WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO GET INVOLVED?
I have been involved with PGA Jr League since 2019 It looked like a great alternative to trying to run a our own competitive league It has been a home run! I think that Junior League is the key program for creating then next generation of golfers!
HOW DID YOU GROW YOUR PROGRAM?
Under-promise and over-deliver We came up with some value adds and didn’t promise these For example, we have a family golf day at the end of the season, the program purchased food and prizes, the course donated the 9-hole tee times and the parents paid cart fees All kinds of family groups came out to play People were so appreciative! In addition, keep organized and communicate often with the parents, because they have the final say over the kids activity schedule and budget.
WHAT ARE THE FINANCIAL BENEFITS FOR YOU, YOUR TEAM AND RACCOON CREEK?
More revenue We make sure to send the beverage cart out to the matches since the parents like to enjoy a beverage while spectating We also have some food specials on match days We are turning a number of these families into avid golfers so we generate additional (and future) green fee and range revenue. When the kids want to play, the parents frequently learn to play as well to generate more family time. Golf Staff also appreciates the additional income from coaching fees.
WHAT IS A FAVORITE MOMENT FROM THE 2022 SEASON?
Too many to count! Seeing players graduate from 13u to 17u and sometimes becoming High School golfers is very rewarding. It is also amazing each year to go from coaching new players on where to stand, how to mark a ball for a scramble etc to hearing them debate whether to select the longer uphill put or the downhill breaking slider during a match
DON GRAHAM, PGA
SENIOR PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
JUL. 31 - AUG. 1ST, 2023
TRISTEN FAY, PGA
WHAT DOES HOSTING THE SENIOR PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP MEAN TO YOU?
We are extremely proud to host the Colorado Section Senior Professional Championship This marquee event draws some of the most talented players in the section and with the success that Matt Schalk had last year at national, we can't wait for the competition this year!
WHAT WILL MAKE FORT COLLINS CC A CHALLENGING BUT ENJOYABLE TEST FOR OUR SECTION PROFESSIONALS?
Fort Collins Country Club is a classic, parkland style golf course that has five sets of tees for our members and guests to enjoy Our agronomy team does an amazing job with our course conditions and our greens are some of the best in the state. Our holes wind through a variety of terrain with many corridors defined by beautiful cottonwood trees. FCCC will test all aspects of a players game but is a very true test of golf.
WHAT BENEFITS DOES HOSTING A TOURNAMENT LIKE THIS PROVIDE? WHY DO IT?
Our club prides itself in finding opportunities to give back to the community and game of golf in Colorado. Hosting this event allows us to continue to be a partner for the Colorado Section as well showcasing the caliber of players that call the Colorado Section home.
ASSISTANT PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
AUGUST 7-8, 2023
RON DEJACIMO, PGA
Director of Golf
WHAT DOES HOSTING THE ASSISTANT PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP MEAN TO YOU?
BeforeacceptingthepositionastheHeadGolfProfessionalatRed Rocks,IspentmyentirelifeinNortheastOhiowhereateach PrivateCountryClubthatIworked,supportingProfessional, AmateurandJuniorgolfwasacornerstoneoftheclub’sfoundation
OneofmydecidingfactorsinmakingthemovetoRedRockswas theirunderstandingandcommitmenttomyrequesttobedeeply involvedinsupportingJunior,AmateurandProfessionalGolfinthe greaterDenverarea Beinginvolvedatsuchayoungage,Igaineda tremendousamountofrespectfortheProfessionalsateachcluband allthattheydidinprovidinganexceptionalexperience OnceI becameaClubProfessional,Itookgreatprideinprovidinga “home”foreacheventthatourclubwouldhost.Tosaythatthis pridehasgrownovertheyearswouldbeatremendous understatement
WhileservingastheHeadGolfProfessionalatFirestoneCountry Club,Ihadthefortunateexperienceinallthatgoesintosettingup MajorChampionshipGolf.Fromthatexperience,ourplanforthe 2023ColoradoAssistantProfessionalChampionshipistoprovide totheAssistantsandtheirguestsanexperiencethattheywillnot forget.ThisistheirMajorandwillbetreatedassuch.Fromthe momentthateachplayerandtheirguestsarriveattheclub,thiswill betheirhome
WHAT WILL MAKE RED ROCKS A CHALLENGING BUT ENJOYABLE TEST FOR OUR SECTION PROFESSIONALS?
We are just coming out of a 3 8 Million Dollar Greens Renovation Project that was completed by Kevin Atkinson who is also a member of Red Rocks For those who have gone through a renovation project... having the architect be a member of the club and live on property, you can only imagine the pride that was put into this project
We are not the “old” Red Rocks Country Club! The greens complexes are extremely challenging but in the same breath, very fair and rewarding of a good shot Newly formed bunkers are strategically placed with native grasses and railroad ties surrounding many of them A 40,000 square foot Putting Green/Course that ties into the 2nd Green will be one of the first sights seen when arriving to the club...it is a show stopper! Stretched out, our course will reach 7000 yards which isn’t overly long in modern day golf however the ability to place a drive and an approach shot in the right position is key It is truly an enjoyable walk along the foothills!
Now let’s talk about the views...breathtaking! Standing on hole #17, you have a vast view of the front-range, downtown Denver and further east! Turning home on #18, you look to the north to again take in amazing views to the east and into Red Rocks Amphitheater! It is truly a special property with great history that reaches back to the Gold Rush days...all that means so much to our membership.
WOMEN'S PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
AUGUST 13-14, 2023
ALICE PLAIN, PGA
Director of Golf
WHAT DOES HOSTING THE WOMENS PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP MEAN TO YOU?
We are thrilled to be hosting the Championship for a second year at the Vail Golf Club. We had positive feedback from many of the participants last year about the golf course conditions, the facilities and staff. We have changed the days of the event this year to a Sunday, Monday in hopes of having additional participants and appealing to our golf professional’s schedules
WHAT BENEFITS DOES HOSTING A TOURNAMENT LIKE THIS PROVIDE? WHY DO IT?
WHAT WILL MAKE VAIL GOLF CLUB A CHALLENGING BUT ENJOYABLE TEST FOR OUR SECTION PROFESSIONALS?
Our golf course is in the Vail Valley and is a fun, straight forward layout. The Vail golf course was the first golf course built in the Eagle Valley in 1964. We now have 15 golf courses. The most challenging part of our golf course are the greens The greens have subtle breaks and some of our greens have severe slopes Although our golf course is on the shorter side in todays standards and located at 8,000 feet, the course is suited for a women’s professional championship. The Vail Golf Course hosted PGA Professionals in the 70’s and 80’s for the historic Ford Golf Tournament. (Former President Ford).
Hosting a women’s championship at the Vail Golf Course is an honor The tournament gives our facility positive exposure to the Section and to our women golf professionals Even though our golf course is in a mountain setting, the course is in the valley and is playable for all levels of golfers
SEPT. 18-20, 2023
COLORADO PGA SECTION CHAMPIONSHIP
WHAT DOES HOSTING THE SECTION CHAMPIONSHIP MEAN TO YOU?
We are honored to get to host the Section Championship this year We have hosted a Pro-Am the last (4) years that gets great participation from Colorado Pros, but to get to host the Section allows us to showcase our golf course to even more of our Section's Members.
WHAT BENEFITS DOES HOSTING A TOURNAMENT LIKE THIS PROVIDE? WHY DO IT?
It's a benefit for RVR to get more Pros from all over the state to get to experience our golf course and ideally expand our brand to more of the influencers of the Colorado golf industry.
WHAT WILL MAKE RIVER VALLEY RANCH A CHALLENGING BUT ENJOYABLE TEST FOR OUR SECTION PROFESSIONALS?
River Valley Ranch will be a fair and adequate test for our Section professionals While it's not the longest track by today's standards you must drive the ball well to put yourself in good position to attack well guarded large green complexes Regardless of the score our professionals will enjoy the scenery with Mt Sopris in the background on every hole and the Crystal River coming into play on numerous holes
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO OTHER MEMBERS THAT HAVE HESITATIONS ABOUT HOSTING EVENTS AT THEIR FACILITIES?
We can't just look at the financials to see the benefit that hosting events like this can have. Yes we would probably net more money if we just had the tee sheet open to the public, but by hosting events like the Section Champ, Pro Ams and COPGA Jr events we are able to expand our reach to golfers that might not realize how good the golf course is or that it is open to the public At the end of the day it's just the right thing to do
The Pro Official at the beautiful TPC Colorado is back! Grab the top officials at your respective facility and join us for world-class golf and education. In addition to golf and education, each player will receive a COPGA piece from Under Armour, breakfast, lunch, prizes, and a reception post-round of golf. Space is limited, so sign your team up today!
Click here for Education & Golf Registration
Can't join us for golf (or it sold out)? We are offering all COPGA Members, GCSAA Members, and CMAA Members the opportunity to join us for the education portion.
Click here for Education Registration Only
Schedule of Events:
9:00am - 11:00am: Breakfast & Education 11:00am -11:30am: Boxed Lunches
11:30am: Practice Facilities Open
12:30pm: Golf Shotgun Start 5:30pm: Heavy Appetizers & Cocktails
Matt Schalk, PGA Among Others Head to Frisco for the 83rd KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship
MattSchalk GeneralManagerandPGADirectorofGolfatColoradoNationalGolf Clubandwinnerofthe2022SeniorPGAProfessionalChampionshipwilllead35 SeniorPGAProfessionalstothe2023KitchenAidSeniorPGAChampionshipat FieldsRanchEastatPGAFriscoinFrisco,Texas Thefirstmajorchampionshiptobe contestedatthenewhomeofthePGAofAmericawilltakeplaceMay25-28,2023
Lastyear,Schalkfinishedwitha10-overpar278andwinhisfirst2022SeniorPGA ProfessionalChampionshiptitle,andtheLeoFraserTrophy
Additional Colorado PGA Professionals Competing
Deferred Compensation Overview
WHAT IS DEFERRED COMPENSATION?
For many years the PGA of America has searched for a way to develop some kind of retirement plan for members As we all know, there are tax rules that prevent the Association from directly giving money to members But the basic principle is that we can reasonably compensate a member for performing services that advance our exempt purpose; specifically for growing the game of golf. Therefore we created a plan whereby members that participate in programs that meet specified performance objectives can earn a contribution towards a deferred compensation fund
WHY DID WE DO THIS?
The aim is that over the years these investments will grow and provide a supplemental income for the member upon reaching the age of 65 Because of the power of compounding over time, clearly younger members will benefit most from the program, but everyone can par ticipate
In addition to all our programs and other benefits this is now a very real and accessible vehicle to accumulate wealth towards a more comfortable retirement. We further hope that this can serve as a truly significant lure and recruiting tool to attract new talent to our great and growing industry
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
All PGA Members in good standing that are working in the United States Class F Members will not be eligible to earn points while in Class F status
HOW MUCH MONEY CAN AN ELIGIBLE PGA MEMBER RECEIVE?
The maximum amount an eligible member may receive in a program year is up to $1500 The actual amount received will depend on the number of points earned, total participation and overall contribution by the PGA that year as set at the beginning of each program year
WHAT IS THE CURRENT TIMELINE?
NOVEMBER 2022 - Updates provided to Delegates at Annual Meeting
JANUARY 2023 - The goal is to start registration at the PGA Show. Registration will occur digitally with a link connected from PGA org
APRIL 2023 - The goal is that one will start to be able to earn points starting April 1, 2023 with the annual calendar going April 1 to March 31 every year consistent with the PGA’s fiscal year
JULY 2024 - We are continuing to work on this schedule, but we expect that eligible members will receive contributions to their respective accounts around 90 days following the conclusion of that program year (e.g., in the first year participants would receive contributions in July 2024) This time-frame will allow for any needed auditing and applicable reconciliations and processing
WHAT ACTIVITIES EARN POINTS?
A list of eligible activities can be found later in this document.
The initial development of the points system was worked on internally with outside counsel and reviewed by the Officers and the Board at the time It was then submitted to the IRS for review Based on review there were a number of changes that were required The revised points document was shared with a working group that included a cross-section of PGA Members including those who worked in coaching, operations and executive management, as well as representation by Section Executive Directors. This working group provided further feedback which we reviewed with outside counsel and made adjustments to the extent allowable by the IRS
DOES THIS MEAN GOLF RETIREMENT PLUS IS GOING AWAY?
No, Golf Retirement Plus will continue as is. Deferred Compensation is a separate and new program PGA Members may also participate in.HalfandQuarter CenturyMembers JasonYoung,PGA
1.WhatdoesitmeantoyoutobeaPGAMemberfor25years?
Iamproudtohavereached25yearsasamemberofanassociationthatimpacts peopleinsomanypositivewaysthroughagamethat’sbeenpartofmyentire life Professionally,beingamemberofthePGAandthesupportourorganization provideshasallowedmetostayrelevantandadapttotheebbsandflowsofthe golfindustryoverthepastthreedecades
2.Whathavebeenthegreatestpartsofbeingamember?
TheopportunitiesthePGAoffersit’smemberstocontinuetolearnandhelpshapeour individualclubs/golfingcommunitiesissomethingI’vealwaysappreciated Diverse educationofferingsonthenationalandsectionlevel,programssuchasPGAREACH,
HOPE,Tournaments,andsupportfromPGAstaffarejustafewexamplesofhowmymembershipinthePGAofAmericaprovidestoolsto improvemyselfandtomakepositiveimpactsonpeopleandtheirlivesthroughthegameofgolf.
3.WhatwouldyousaytosomeonewhoisconsideringbecomingaMember?
ThePGAofAmericaisanorganizationof30,000individualsthatarenotonlycommittedtogrowingthegreatgameofgolfbutalso committedtoeachother ThePGAhelpsfosteraculturethatallowsallofustolearnfromoneanotherandpassonideas,provideadvice, andsupport AstheindividualPGAProfessionalsucceedsprofessionallyandpersonally,thePGAofAmericabecomesstrongerasawhole
AdditionalQuarterCenturyMembers
HalfCentury
Spring Meeting Recap
Helpful tips to benefit you, your Section and your fellow professionals in 2023
It was great to see so many of you at the spring meeting. For those who were unable to attend, I look forward to seeing you at your facility or a Section event in the near future
As I presented at the meeting, compensation growth is a major focus for the PGA Career Services team We saw success in 2022 through compensation reporting and negotiation assistance as well as through our involvement in both complimentary and paid search services. Historically, when PGA Career Services is able to work directly with an employer regarding compensation during talent searches, we have seen a 15% increase in the compensation eventually offered to the PGA Member The data from the completely confidential compensation survey is a critical tool for us in those discussions.
Completion of the Compensation Survey is also critical for the Section to meet its strategic funding goals Simply put, the more Members who complete the compensation survey, the more funding the Section receives. Only those surveys completed in the calendar year 2023 will count towards this funding Even if your compensation hasn't changed since you last completed the survey, please take a moment to review and click "SUBMIT" to confirm your information and for your survey to count towards the Section's funding.
Please scan the QR code below to complete or update your Compensation Profile. The survey will take less than five minutes and will earn you 1 PDR per year and up to 3 PDR per cycle Once you've completed the profile, if you'd like a custom report, please contact me via email.
As your Regional Director and Career Consultant, I can help provide vital information to help you during compensation negotiations, your annual review, or if you're trying to attract talent for your team. Whether it's creating a custom compensation report or compensation based on your current job role(s), I have several useful resources to assist you. I thank you for the opportunity to serve as you and I wish you the best of luck in the 2023 golf season
Keith Soriano, PGA | Regional Directorksoriano@pgahq.com | 720.841.1006
2022 Major Impacts
Almost $7 Million dollars to PGA Members through negotiation & executive search powered by data from the compensation survey
Impact happens in several ways:
-Negotiation
-Complimentary Search
-Executive/Advanced Search
But all ways need your data to succeed!
Nearly 8,500 positions posted for PGA Members and Associates on the PGA.org Job Board. We have an opportunity to positively impact all of them with the right data
SCAN HERE TO COMPLETE, CONFIRM, OR UPDATE YOUR COMPENSATION PROFILE.
Cathy MatthewsKaneElected AsNewCOPGA President
CathyMatthews-Kane,PGAGeneralManagerofTheCountryClubof Colorado,isjustthesecondfemalePresidenttoservetheColoradoPGA sinceitsinceptionin1957.AnativeofCanada,CathyhasbeenaPGAMember forover15yearsandactivememberoftheAssociationservingvolunteerroles asaTrusteeforthecharitablearmoftheCOPGA,FinanceCommittee,Employment Committee,andnumerousotherNationalPGACommitteesontopofherdutiesas GMatTheCountryClubofColorado.
“Iamhumbledandhonoredtoservethecloseto850ColoradoPGAMembers andAssociatesinourSectionIalsolookforwardtoworkinghandinhandwith ourPGAMemberstomakeanimpactonourcommunitythroughourinitiativesof ourcharitablearm,PGAREACHColoradoThegameofgolfhasgivensomuchto methroughoutmyentirelifeandIamexcitedtogivebacktoitandthePGA Professionalswhomakeittick,”saidCathyMatthews-Kaneofherpresidency.
TheColoradoSectionofthePGA,foundedasthe31stSectionnationwide,promotesthe gameofgolfforthegolfersofColorado,EasternWyoming,andasmallpartofSouth Dakota.ThepurposeoftheSectionistopromotetheenjoymentandinvolvementinthe gameofgolf,andtocontributetoitsgrowthbyprovidingservicestogolfprofessionals andthegolfindustrywithintheSection.Itsmissionissimple-GrowtheGameand ServetheColoradoPGAProfessional.
WeareexcitedtoseethecontinuedgrowthoftheColoradoPGAunderPresident Matthews-Kane.
MARCH 13, 2023
THANK YOU TO ALL THE COLORADO PGA PROFESSIONALS
WHO ARE NOW HOPE INSTRUCTOR CERTIFIED
Mark Franz, PGA of Saddle Rock Golf Course
Ryan Gager of GOLFTEC Headquarters
Robert Grall, PGA of Colorado National Golf Club
Ernie Hamby, PGA of GOLFTEC - Denver Tech Center
Bill Hancock, PGA of Meadow Hills Golf Course
Katie Milstead, PGA of Valley Country Club
Nathan Morris, PGA of GOLFTEC - Westminster
Bryan Schulte of Golf Club at Red Rock
CJ Perry, PGA of GOLFTEC Headquarters
Brad Skupaka, PGA of GOLFTEC Headquarters
Geoffrey Strasser, PGA of Wellshire Golf Course
Craig Vollmar. PGA of Golf Galaxy - Westminster
Seth Watkins of Black Bear Golf Club
Jason Young, PGA of Golf Club at Red Rock
Corey Zoller, PGA of Colorado Golf Club
Chad Rush, PGA of Beaver Creek Eagle Vail GC
Mark Kelbel, PGA Eisenhower Golf Club
Patrick Kilbride, PGA - Murphy Creek Golf Course
Ken Krieger, PGA - Cheyenne Country Club
Mike Lepore, PGA - Airport Golf Club
Philip Linares, PGA - PEAK Golf Academy
Brandon Martinez - Optimum Golf
Apply for Grants and Scholarships Through PGA REACH Colorado
2023 PGA REACH COLORADO PILLAR GRANT
Programs will more strongly be considered if they have a Colorado PGA Member or Associate involved in some capacity
Programs must target ages 18 and under, individuals with disabilities, military or diverse populations Grant applications must include a budget and explanation of how the grant funds are to be used Grants will be limited to (1) per facility/individual/organization at a maximum of $3,000 each. Additional grant requests will be considered if there is funding available and if the additional request is for a different program targeting different demographics, program goals, etc
Consideration will be given to span and benefit the community
Grant recipients will be asked to provide a follow-up report outlining the results of the program and the perceived impact on growing the game All 2023 Grant recipients must provide a follow-up report to be eligible to receive a grant in 2024
Along with the follow-up report, documentation and explanation of how the grant money was used must be provided
2023 WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY
ApplicationDeadline-March31,2023
Evaluation Criteria
Be a female high school senior progressing toward or enrolled in a four-year undergraduate program or PGM program
Display an interest in a Business or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) academic track
Proven track record of academic excellence and leadership potential by submitting SAT or ACT Score or GPA
Active in the community – List areas of involvement
Personal or Teacher Letter of Recommendation
Submit Scholarship Essay
Previous recipients of a Women's Leadership Scholarship are not eligible to apply
2023 PGA FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FUND SCHOLARSHIP
ApplicationDeadline-April10,2023
Evaluation Criteria
Be a female high school senior progressing toward or enrolled in a four-year undergraduate program or PGM program
Display an interest in a Business or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) academic track
Proven track record of academic excellence and leadership potential by submitting SAT or ACT Score or GPA
Active in the community – List areas of involvement
Personal or Teacher Letter of Recommendation
Submit Scholarship Essay
Previous recipients of a Women's Leadership Scholarship are not eligible to apply.