Colorado PGA Special Awards SUMMIT - '22

2022 Colorado PGA Staff

Steven Bartkowski

Christian Lovallo

Samantha Crawford

Davyon Collins

Sara Brown

Zach Kinmartin

In late October, the Colorado PGA was proud to honor some very deserving PGA Professionals in our Section at the Special Awards Gala hosted I would like to thank Colorado Golf Club and Graham Cliff for hosting a fabulous evening celebrating these wonderful accomplishments highlighted by our highest honor of Golf Professional of the Year Jim Hajek, PGA of Fossil Trace Golf Course I would also like to thank Karen Francis DeGolia of Limerick Lane Wines, Kevin Laura of The Colorado Open Golf Foundation, and Allen Walters of Colorado Avid Golfer for their sponsorship of the dinner and continued support of the Section. Additionally I would like to thank the Country Club of Colorado, Southwest Greens Management, Fossil Trace Golf Course, Colorado National Golf Club, GOLFTEC, The PGA of America, Fort Collins Country Club and Columbine Country Club who supported their professionals in sponsoring a table for the evening

As you read the success stories in this SUMMIT edition, please reflect on your network and the great things happening in our region. Colorado PGA Professionals, I ask that you please take the time to nominate a peer for future special awards The selection process is now open and the Awards Committee would love to see more nominations. The Board recently moved the nomination up to begin at the Fall Meeting each year to give PGA Professionals more time to nominate In addition, you will also see some exciting new awards added for 2023 that honor Superintendents and Sponsors of our Section as we continue to work in collaboration and honor all those who make the Colorado PGA Section the best Section in the country. Thank you again to everyone in attendance to honor these deserving professionals and congratulations to all honorees for a job well done!

Finally, at the 2022 Awards Gala we honored an outstanding young gentleman named Jackson Zinn with a Colorado PGA Honorary Membership. Jackson is the nephew of our PGA REACH Colorado Board of Trustee Chair, Spencer Zinn Jackson had an aspiration to become a PGA Member before tragically passing away in the University of Southwest Men’s Golf Team car crash this past year. Welcome to the PGA Family Jackson!

I am honored and delighted to serve as the next President of the Colorado Section and look forward to seeing all of the wonderful stories from 2022 and beyond. Please do not hesitate to reach out at any time if you have questions about happenings in our Section I hope all of you take time over the Holiday Cheers,

season to relax, recharge and most importantly spend time with loved ones.

Matthews-Kane, PGA

Colorado Section President Incoming District IX Director

Cathy

Colorado PGA Members and Friends,

Message from Keith Stilwell, PGA

Hello,

At the 27th Annual Colorado PGA Awards Gala, we have the privilege of honoring the 2022 Colorado PGA award winners for their outstanding performance and superior achievements.

These amazing men and women have separated themselves as this year's top professionals in our esteemed Section, given their dedication to the game, the players, service to their community, and fellow PGA Professionals. These individuals were nominated by their peers to be considered, and after careful deliberation and much discussion, the Awards Committee selected this slate of 2022 award winners.

I'd like to acknowledge the members of the Awards Committee and thank them for the time they dedicated to this year's selection process. The committee members are: PGA Professionals, Joe Carlton, Jeremy Beck, Rick Cole, Tristen Fay, Stefanie Ferguson, Cody Hasten, Ethan Malzahn, Jim Miller, Alice Plain, Brad Skupaka, Leighton Smith, Paul Surniak, and Jason Witczak.

This committee is special in that it is comprised of the previous year's award winners and, therefore, changes on an annual basis.

The Gala was a night of celebration and recognition, thank you for celebrating with us.

Keith Stilwell, PGA Director of Golf

Perry Park Country Club

2022 Colorado PGA Special Awards Committee Chair

As We Grow, the Colorado PGA Grows With Us

PGA Professionals and Friends of the Colorado Section, PGA,

Welcome to the 2022 Special Awards Edition of The SUMMIT Magazine As I read through the stories of these talented Colorado PGA Professionals, I couldn’t help but get inspired I still remember being 8 years old and heading to the driving range for the first time in my life where I ended up meeting “Uncle” Jack Henrich, PGA who first helped me to swing a club alongside my father. Fast forward to today, that inspiration from a PGA Professional has led me on a pathway in my career that still carries that same love for playing the game of golf I hope you enjoy this edition of The SUMMIT Magazine as much as I did

So it now has been officially eight months since the Colorado PGA Membership selected me to be their next CEO/Executive Director Since that time, I have had the opportunity to evaluate, re-organize, restructure and re-build for an exciting 2023 and beyond for the COPGA and PGA REACH Colorado This week the Board of Directors will meet to hopefully approve a budget that brings a new junior golf developmental model, an exciting education circuit, enhanced tournament purses, and new ways to support the community through PGA REACH in 2023 However, the vision of 2023 will not be possible without the support of our PGA Members and Facilities The only way that we can successfully execute a Professional and Junior Golf Tournament season is if our Colorado PGA Members host our tournaments Your fellow PGA Professionals and junior golfers at your clubs will be very appreciative of your support!

Finally, as our list of partnerships continues to grow, please don’t forget to reach out to them to thank and do business with them They are investing heavily in our Section and in PGA Members and we hope you all consider doing the same as we hope to continue to grow these long term Here is our list of Section and Foundation Partners.

Sincerely

Steven Bartkowski

CEO/Executive Director

Colorado PGA sbartkowski@pgahq.com P (303) 996-1593

PGA Specialized Executive Management Education Seminar at The Ranch CC

Feb. 15th and 16th Mar. 20th

Teaching and Coaching Summit feat. Michael Breed, PGA at TBD Mar. 27th

COPGA Spring Business Meeting at Todd Creek GC

ROLEX SENIOR PLAYER OF THE YEAR

GIVEN ANNUALLY TO A PGA PROFESSIONAL FOR OUTSTANDING PLAY THROUGHOUT THE PAST YEAR AND IN REPRESENTING PGA PROFESSIONALS WITH DISTINCTION IN COMPETITION

Doug Rohrbaugh, PGA Instructor from The Snowmass Club, has earned the ROLEX Senior Player of the Year title! This is awarded to the PGA Member, over the age of 50, with the highest cumulative total from the Senior Playing Performance List

Rohrbaugh had a strong 2022 season, playing in 20 Colorado PGA events, not including the US Senior Open Sectional Qualifier, INSPIRATO Colorado Open, INSPIRATO Colorado Senior Open and PGA Senior Professional National Championship

His Colorado PGA wins include the Fort Collins CC Pro-Am, West Chapter Pro-Pro Championship, West Chapter Aspen Glen Pro-Am, and West Chapter Championship Rohrbaugh tied for first in the following events, West Chapter Stroke Play Championship and West Chapter River Valley Ranch Pro-Am Objectively, Rohrbaugh's largest win of the season came on October 3-4 when he lift d th W t Ch t Championship trophy for the second year in a row at Sonnenalp Club

Also placing third in the season-long Senior Match Play Championship, other notable rounds came from the West Chapter Spring Meeting, April 15, where he claimed second, and the Colorado Senior PGA Professional Championship at Flying Horse on August 1-2 where Rohrbaugh took home third. This earned him a qualifying spot in the Senior PGA Professional Championship at the PGA Golf Club in Albuquerque, New Mexico, October 13-16

Finishing T4 at the Colorado PGA Professional Championship qualified Rohrbaugh to compete in the 56th PGA Professional Championship held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in April 2023

Rohrbaugh is the most decorated ROLEX Senior Player of the Year, setting a record for the number of times claiming this title This is Rohrbaugh's eighth time winning the 2019, 2020 and 2021. He also won the earned it in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2018, Dow Finsterwald Player of the Year in 2018

ROLEX Senior Player of the Year having

DOUG

ROHRBAUGH, PGA Instructor | River Valley Ranch Golf Course

Doug Rohrbaugh Doug Rohrbaugh Doug Rohrbaugh

ASSOCIATE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

GIVEN ANNUALLY TO AN ASSOCIATE BASED ON THEIR PERFORMANCE IN SELECT COLORADO PGA SANCTIONED AND APPROVED GOLF EVENTS

The recipient of the 2022 Associate Player of the Year goes to Andrew Connell, Assistant Professional at The Ridge at Castle Pines North for the second year in a row!

Connell had a hot season playing in 24 COPGA sanctioned events, finishing first in the season long Assistants Match Play and The Club at Ravenna Stroke Play. Connell posted 15 Top 10 finishes and 9 finishes inside the top 5. He boasted a scoring average of 73.67 over his 18 solo tournament rounds with his low round being a 3-under par 68 leading him to victory at the Ravenna Stroke Play

Thanks to his dad, Tom Connell, PGA Life Member, who served as the Colorado PGA Section President in 1985, Andy has been playing golf since he could walk He played two years at the University of Arizona before turning pro in 2003 With his experience playing around the country as a longtime mini-tour player and state player, Connell quickly worked his way up the points leaderboard.

Andrew Connell Andrew Connell Andrew Connell

ANDREW CONNELL Assistant Golf Professional | The Ridge at Castle Pines North

GIVEN

ROLEX WOMEN'S PLAYER OF THE YEAR

ANNUALLY TO A FEMALE PGA PROFESSIONAL FOR OUTSTANDING PLAY THROUGHOUT THE PAST YEAR AND IN REPRESENTING PROFESSIONALS WITH DISTINCTION IN COMPETITION

With her 11th year with the Section officially under her belt, Sherry Andonian, PGA Instructor at Valley Country Club, has earned the Colorado PGA Women's Player of the Year for the fifth consecutive year!

This summer was full of exciting achievements for Andonian, as she had the opportunity to play in her second consecutive U.S. Senior Women's Open at NCR Country Club in Kettering, Ohio, this past July. Where she finished in a tie for 25th. Sherry has competed in this championship all four times since its inception

Andonian will spend the winter months gearing up for the 2023 PGA Professional Championship, which is set to be held in Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico, next April Her Women’s PGA Cup Team selection earned her an exemption into the Championship, which will be at played at Twin Warriors and Santa Ana Golf Clubs.

Sherry Sherry Sherry Andonian Andonian Andonian

SHERRY ANDONIAN, PGA Instructor | Valley Country Club

ROLEX DOW FINSTERWALD PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Ben Lanting, PGA Assistant Professional from Bear Creek Golf Club, is recognized as the 2022 ROLEX Dow Finsterwald Player of the Year The award goes to the player with the highest cumulative total from the regular playing performance points list

The road to Player of the Year included 27 Colorado PGA Section events, in addition to the PGA Professional Championship at Omni Barton Creek in April and the Inspirato Colorado Open at Green Valley Ranch this past summer.

His sixth-place finish at the National Car Rental Colorado Assistant PGA Professional Championship at Thorncreek Golf Course, held this past August, earned him an alternate spot for the Assistant PGA Professional Championship at the PGA Golf Club in November

Additionally, his solo second-place finish at the Colorado PGA Professional Championship at Todd Creek Golf Club qualified him for the 56th PGA Professional Championship held at Twin Warriors and Santa Ana Golf Clubs in Santa Ana Pueblo New Mexico in April 2023

This is the first time he has claimed the Dow Finsterwald Player of the Year title, a goal of his before the start of the season

GIVEN ANNUALLY TO A PGA PROFESSIONAL FOR OUTSTANDING PLAY THROUGHOUT THE PAST YEAR AND IN REPRESENTING PGA PROFESSIONALS WITH DISTINCTION IN COMPETITION

BEN LANTING, PGA Assistant Professional | Bear Creek Golf Club

www.cologolfandturf.net 11757 S. Wadsworth Blvd. • Littleton, CO 80125 303-761-3332

COLORADO’S MATT SCHALK WINS 2022 SENIOR PGA PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

SANTA ANA PUEBLO, New Mexico (Oct. 16, 2022) - Matt Schalk PGA Director of Golf at Colorado National Golf Club knew nasty weather would play a factor in Sunday’s final round at the 2022 Senior PGA Professional Championship After his Saturday round, he said he’d assess the conditions Sunday morning and come up with a number to aim for “I thought 76 would be my number,” Schalk said “I thought if I could shoot a couple over on each side, maybe battle to that, that would be the number ” Schalk, representing the Colorado Section, did one stroke better His three-over-par 75 put him at 10-over par 278, good enough to claim his first 2022 Senior PGA Championship title and the Leo Fraser Trophy

Steve Schneiter, an Assistant PGA Professional at Schneiter’s Pebblebrook in Sandy, Utah, placed second at 8-under par 280 after firing a 5-over par 77 in the final round. A four-way tie f 7-under par led to a playoff to determine The playoff featured Alan Morin, an Assis at The Club at Ibis in West Palm Beach, Fl a final round 2-over-par 72; Cameron Doa of Golf at Preston

Trail Golf Club in Dallas, Texas, also with a 2-over-par 72; Alan Sorensen, the General Manager at Buena Vista Golf Course in Taft, California (7-over-par 79); and Todd Bailey, the Head Professional at Lake Forest Yacht & Country Club in Daphne, Alabama (even par 72). Bailey was the first eliminated from the playoff.

After calm conditions and scores in the 60s during the first three rounds of the championship, Sunday’s final round featured gusty winds and rain at Twin Warriors Golf Club.

“It definitely felt like it was a good 25-30 mph steady with gusts going,” Schalk said “I had my ball blowing around on a green when I was walking up to it You never could quite get comfortable out there, but everybody had it I went into it trying to not make doubles Pars were like birdies I just tried to make bogeys and understand that it wasn’t the end of the world if you made one, because you knew everyone was going to be making them, too ”

MATT SCHALK, PGA General Manager | Colorado National Golf Club

Schalk opened slowly, bogeying four of his first six holes He picked up a birdie on No 7 then settled in on the back nine, adding a birdie on No 12 and saving par six times

“It was definitely the most difficult conditions I’ve ever played in,” he said “No 1 was our downward hole right off the bat Then you have two back-to-back holes which are really tough Those were a challenge to get through I had a couple good birdie opportunities on the front nine, 4 especially, and just didn nine, I had some great birdie c I definitely settled in ”

The top eight finishers ー Schalk, Schneiter, Bailey, Morin, Doan, Sorensen, Mitchum, Gaffney ー also automatically qualified for next year’s Senior PGA Professional Championship at PGA Golf Club in Port St Lucie, Florida, October 2429, 2023

“I’m ecstatic,” Schalk said of what lies ahead “Coming into the week, getting into the Senior PGA Championship in Frisco was my goal Even going to try to make sure I could get into the Senior PGA. I didn’t think about winning the tournament until I got to the 17 tee and was able to see the scoreboard. I knew I had some shots to play with coming in. Just needed to be smart. Now I’m so excited to be the Senior PGA Professional champion and everything that comes with it ”

into today, even though I was in a good spot (tied for second), I wanted e in order for the three Senior PGA Colorado who are also in the field for the 2023 PGA Championship is below:

Carbondale, Colo , Golf At River Valley Ranch rtez, Colo , Conquistador Golf Course lorado Springs, Colo , Life Member

our players in the 2023 KitchenAid Senior PGA elds Ranch East at PGA Frisco in Frisco, Texas!

Matt Schalk Matt Schalk Matt Schalk

PRIVATE MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR

THIS

A first-time Section award recipient, Bryan Heim, PGA Director of Golf at Columbine Country Club, is the recipient of the 2022 Private Merchandiser of the Year! His philosophy regarding merchandising relies on offering what his customer wants, "plus a little more We call it the +1% " Stroll through Columbine Country Club, and you'll find unique and special gifts you wouldn't find at your average shop From 5lb heirloom throw blankets and remote control coolers to leader footballs, Heim has "clubs, clothes, and more "

Bryan goes above and beyond when new members join the facility, as he schedules appointments with each new member to learn more about their retail preferences Complete with brand preferences, sizes, and colors, Heim also inquires about other influences, hobbies, and shopping habits This "information helps us buy better and allows others to give them the right gift." Heim also credits his success to his staff. "We take great pride in not only hiring passionate golf peo ranges from product knowledg representatives, to sales conte

courses and stores "Each of these activities enhance our product offering and engagement with other people "

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO RECEIVE THIS AWARD?

"The award is a culmination of staff over the years, who continue to adopt and implement best practices in the golf shop Our teams have been very talented, and they compliment each other very well -- I am very proud of each of them and their contributions."

AWARD RECOGNIZES A COLORADO PGA MEMBER WHO HAS DEMONSTRATED SUPERIOR SKILLS AS A PRIVATE MERCHANDISER IN THE PROMOTION FOR GOLF

BRYAN HEIM, PGA Director of Golf | Columbine Country Club

PUBLIC MERCHANDISER OF

THE

YEAR

THIS AWARD RECOGNIZES A COLORADO PGA MEMBER WHO HAS DEMONSTRATED SUPERIOR SKILLS AS A PUBLIC MERCHANDISER IN THE PROMOTION FOR GOLF

Head Professional at Plum Creek Golf Club, Cy Twete, PGA, is the recipient of the 2022 Public Merchandiser of the Year!

As Mr Twete has spent the last two years operating out of temporary trailer facilities, it hasn't stopped him and his team from nearly tripling their gross merchandise sales from their previous best year, and already exceeding their 2022 lofty goal "I wanted our merchandise focus to shift to small items that we can display vertically, such as headwear, golf balls, metals, accessories, shoes, and golf clubs My team and I have shifted our focus in the right direction and have had very successful fitting days as well as purchases out of the golf shop " With an expected open date of late fall 2022, Twete is excited to move into a location with nearly 1,500 square feet of space "We are very excited to unveil it to our members and guests." His philosophy is simple yet effective "I believe the golf shop should not only be used as a pr customers and exceed their exp factor to ensure loyalty and ret

coming back Changing merchandise displays every two weeks allows fresh looks for their members and returning guests It also allows the shop to look different and avoid becoming stagnant "It amazes me how the simple task of moving displays, even with the same product at times, members who visit the club daily comment that we have new merchandise all the time, even though it was just in a different area of the shop last week " Rotating mannequin displays enhances the look and feel of the golf shop on a consistent basis.

Twete has a very team-focused mentality and credits his success to those alongside him in the shop "Our team is involved in nearly every aspect of the process This allows them to learn and grow as young professionals, and is also a direct correlation to the success we have had "

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO RECEIVE THIS AWARD?

"I am very honored to receive this award. We have some amazing professionals in our section and to be chosen as the recipient is amazing."

CY TWETE, PGA

Head Professional |

Plum Creek Golf Club

Cy Twete Cy Twete Cy Twete

RESORT MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR

THIS AWARD RECOGNIZES A COLORADO PGA MEMBER WHO HAS DEMONSTRATED SUPERIOR SKILLS AS A RESORT MERCHANDISER IN THE PROMOTION FOR GOLF

As previous General Manager at Country Club of Colorado, Nate Erickson, PGA, is the recipient of the 2022 Resort Merchandiser of the Year!

Keen on anticipating Members' needs and effective communication, Erickson aims to keep his members happy by putting himself in their shoes and learning from their feedback "I always relish feedback each season on what Members like and do not like My emails are essential to this communication, when we receive new product, I use these email blasts to share with the membership about the newest drops in the golf shop "

Erickson also relies on his outside service and starter staff to help move the needle "I ask them to remind the Members to take a peek at what we have inside, as many times, they often go straight to the first tee without stepping inside. The quick interaction they may have with outside service staff may be as simple as, "did you see the new Penguin line that just came into the shop?" has helped generate sales

inside He feels that this additional training is also critical to merchandising

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO RECEIVE THIS AWARD?

"I am extremely honored. I have worked hard for the past 6 years to get the merchandise side of the operation to the next level at The Country Club of Colorado. It feels fantastic to be recognized for that. I truly love this side of the business."

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AWARD

THIS AWARD RECOGNIZES A COLORADO PGA MEMBER WHO HAS DISPLAYED EXTRAORDINARY AND EXEMPLARY CONTRIBUTION AND ACHIEVEMENT IN THE AREA OF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

The 2022 Colorado Player Development Award is being presented to Jason Witczak, PGA, Director of Instruction at The Club at Pradera and The Pinery Country Club

Receiving the Youth Player Development Award in 2021, Witczak is honored to win backto-back awards "This award motivates me even more " He believes that it starts with the juniors, which speaks to his core passion for growing the game Witczak challenges himself with the goal of creating lifelong players

This past year, Witczak officially launched The Sahuaro Junior Golf Academy at Arrowhead Country Club across state lines in Arizona Each week, Witczak makes the trip from Colorado to Arizona in order to personally work with Arrowhead's junior golfers and to train their instruction team in the tried and true practices of his Elevation Junior Golf Academy at his Colorado courses. With hopes to see these flagship programs all across the country.

He believes the key is offering programs that are tailored to each age group; that way, they always have a pathway through the club programming "If you are able to peak the interest of golf in junior players at a young age, their excitement and enthusiasm for the sport will resonate throughout their entire family. The core of successful growth of the game's programming at each course is rooted in a strong junior program." Witczak has influenced 44 new members to date to join the clubs.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WIN THIS AWARD?

"It means that my instincts and the road that has led to today is the right path It is a great validation of all the work I do daily and all I still want to do All of us in the green grass industry put in an extreme amount of hours and time at our courses This puts stress daily on us away from things we sometimes wish we were doing from family life to personal, with this being said it makes it worth it in the end to be recognized for all of the hard work that you sometimes feel goes unnoticed by many. This award motivates me even more as to win a Colorado Section PGA award back to back years is truly an honor! I definitely could not do it without the support of the strong staff that we have in place at The Club at Pradera and Pinery CC along with Arcis Golf for trusting in me to do what I do daily!"

JASON WITCZAK, PGA

Director of Instruction | The Club at Pradera + The Pinery Country Club

Jason Jason Jason Witczak Witczak Witczak

YOUTH PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AWARD

THIS AWARD RECOGNIZES A COLORADO PGA MEMBER WHO IS A LEADER IN JUNIOR GOLF, REFLECTS THE IMAGE AND QUALITIES THAT JUNIORS CAN EMULATE, AND PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES AND EXPERIENCES FOR JUNIORS TO LEARN AND PLAY GOLF

The 2022 Colorado Youth Player Development Award is being presented to Leighton Smith, PGA, Owner, Tribe Golf

In 2017 Leighton Smith Golf was established, and his coaching program, The Tribe, started to grow "The goal is to meet the golfers where they are in the game, learn where they want to go with it, and create a plan to take them there." The most important thing he provides for his junior golfers is a sense of belonging. "That's why it's called The Tribe! We are in this journey together." Rather than daydreaming about ways to get kids excited about golf, Smith sees it as a challenge and an opportunity to leave a footprint in the community he loves.

Leighton has a genuine desire to get to know people and be a part of their stories. There is no better place to be involved than the life of a young person, regardless of their skill Golf gives Leighton the platform to lead and inspire others Integrity is one of Leighton's core values He holds his junior golfers accountable to their goals and being

good people, but they also hold Leighton himself accountable "No one is exempt to accountability, regardless of success, fame or fortune "

Leighton has served on the COPGA Education Committee for three years and recently became the co-chair of the Junior Golf Committee. In 2018, he co-founded the UCCS Mentorships Program for the students in the UCCS PGA Golf Management Program. When he is in a position to positively influence others, that is where Leighton thrives.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WIN THIS AWARD?

"It means a lot - last year winning Teacher of the Year, in 2017 Player Development, so much what I do is for juniors and for kids, this is an honor. There are so many deserving people, but for me this is really cool, because of where I’ve gotten now, from the junior pipeline, it’s 6 years in the making. It’s working, it’s making a difference, it means a lot to see the growth and be rewarded for that "

SMITH, PGA

Leighton Leighton Leighton Smith Smith Smith

LEIGHTON

Owner | Leighton Smith Golf + Tribe Golf

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AWARD

THIS AWARD RECOGNIZES A COLORADO PGA MEMBER FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING AND CONTINUING CONTRIBUTIONS IN DEVELOPING AND IMPROVING EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE PGA PROFESSIONAL

Through his distinguished contributions to the development and education of fellow PGA Members, Zach Lambeck, PGA, is awarded the 2022 Colorado PGA Professional Development Award!

Recognized by Golf Digest as a 'Best Teacher in Your State: Colorado, 2019-2020 and 20222023', Lambeck is no stranger to professional development Zach creates and delivers continuing education for 800 Coaches, manages and delivers the onboarding curriculum for 200 new hires annually, and supports quality assurance procedures for 200 managers This education directly influences the lesson quality and student experience

Lambeck has dedicated ample opportunity for those outside of GOLFTEC towards career development as well In 2018 and 2019, Zach hosted three half-day seminars for UCCS PGM Students In these seminars, students system, and learn how to measure a swing, organize a teaching system that separates high-handicap players from low-handicap players. Lambeck has also worked alongside PGA Career Consultants.

Hosted at GOLFTEC Headquarters, Zach welcomed each consultant for a day-and-a-half shadowing experience This allowed the consultants to develop a better understanding of additional employment opportunities within their respective sections Lambeck volunteered his time with both UCCS Students and PGA Career Consultants, as he enjoys exemplifying and representing the Membership and credibility of the PGA of America.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WIN THIS AWARD?

"Our section is full of passionate PGA Members that do great work helping other golf professionals. It is an honor to be recognized by the Colorado PGA for the work I get to do along with the GOLFTEC team educating and supporting the professional development of golf professionals throughout the country and the world "

ZACH LAMBECK, PGA Director of Teaching Quality | GOLFTEC Headquarters

Zach Zach Zach Lambeck Lambeck Lambeck

PATRIOT AWARD

THIS AWARD RECOGNIZES A COLORADO PGA MEMBER WHO PERSONIFIES PATRIOTISM THROUGH THE GAME OF GOLF AND DEMONSTRATES UNWAVERING COMMITMENT AND DEDICATION TO THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE VALIANTLY SERVED AND PROTECTED THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Director of Golf at EagleVail Golf Club, Ryan Flamm, PGA, is the recipient of the 2022 Patriot Award!

After becoming a PGA HOPE Certified Instructor in 2018, Flamm worked to also have EagleVail Golf Club recognized as a facility to host HOPE clinics and additional programs to help support the mission of PGA HOPE Additionally, Flamm and EagleVail Golf Club collaborate with the Vail Veterans Program and work together each year to organize a week of golf, lodging, dining, and other activities for a group of wounded veterans On top of this, each year EagleVail Golf Club hosts a "Never Forget" 9/11 golf tournament in conjunction with the local VFW that raises money to donate funds to local charities Flamm hopes that through these programs, stronger support and involvement throughout the local military community will ensue "We believe in giving back as much as possible, as we know what they have already given us," Flamm comments, "all of the golf professionals at my facility know how important this group of individuals are to me " Which is why EagleVail Golf Club

offers free range balls to m and purchases at the club O up the tab at the grill once site "This philosophy filters professionals, and the appr guests We hope that these way in their lives "

As a veteran himself, having he is aware of the big differ military "It's important to r servicemen and women end else's rights and liberties I acknowledge these patriots support for the military " Be the challenges veterans face life, he makes it a point to s who have come through his have naturally grown into fr know that I have touched th which is all worth it to me "

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WIN THIS AWARD?

"I am extremely humbled to have been chosen for this award My only wish is to keep giving back to the military community as I know how much they have already given me "

RYAN FLAMM, PGA Director of Golf |

EagleVail Golf Club

Ryan Ryan FRyan Flamm Flamm lamm

ASSISTANT PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

THIS AWARD IS PRESENTED TO A PGA MEMBER OR ASSOCIATE FOR OVERALL PERFORMANCE INCLUDING LEADERSHIP, SERVICE AND PROMOTION OF THE GAME OF GOLF

Through her love and dedication to the game of golf, congratulations are in order to the 2022 Colorado PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year: Meghan Hunter, PGA, Assistant Professional at Fort Collins Country Club

Meghan plays a vital role in the success of every aspect of Fort Collins Country Club, specifically in ladies' and couples' golf, youth golf programming, and merchandising operations Meghan fosters collaboration with the women's golf advisory committee and implements strategies for accomplishing their goals, which has doubled the participation in women's programming in her tenure Since Meghan came on board, there has been record growth with activities Described as "phenomenal" by participants, Meghan's planning for tournaments and special golf days has made an impact amongst the FCCC Members, as nothing is overlooked She involves the participants in thinking about what works and what could be better, so the next event is even more special Creating opportunities for seasoned golfers and new beginners to learn and gain confidence is one of Meghan's priorities

Hunter has been a coach in the PGA junior program for the past three years She leads as a coach by not only teaching but encouraging and challenging students; going out of her way to motivate and inspire a love of the sport is what Meghan does best Growth of the game, and in ladies' golf, in particular, is a big passion of Meghan's Hunter has been coaching a local middle school's girl's golf team when their coach quit unexpectedly earlier this year Teaching the core values of the game and how they can translate into everyday experiences is one of her priorities She hopes to one day inspire one of her junior golfers to someday become a PGA Member

Additionally, Meghan oversees the merchandising operation from top to bottom After a record year in sales, she and her team won Merchandiser of the Year in 2021 Hunter is able to balance her passion for merchandising while being able to connect with people on the lesson tee and while planning and using her organizational skills to run events effectively

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WIN THIS AWARD?

"The Colorado PGA Section has given me an amazing community of peers, friends, family, and endless growth opportunities since becoming a member in 2011 Although being a Golf Professional can be tough at times, working long hours and putting on a smile for others, even if you aren’t feeling your best Winning this award makes those moments worthwhile There is no price for being recognized as an inspiring leader, who has passion for growing the game To be recognized as an individual by the section is undoubtedly the greatest accomplishment of my career "

MEGHAN HUNTER, PGA Assistant

Meghan Meghan Meghan Hunter Hunter Hunter

Professional |

Fort Collins Country Club

BILL STRAUSBAUGH AWARD

THIS AWARD IS PRESENTED

Former Assistant Executive Director of the Colorado PGA and current PGA Regional Director of the Mountain and Midwest Regions, Keith Soriano, PGA is named the Bill Strausbaugh award winner!

Often regarded as the "un-employment consultant", Keith spends his time supporting individuals through developing plans that will help them be successful in their current roles or prepare them for future roles "Success is defined by the individual, not by me - I simply help plan the work and hold them accountable for working on the plan we created " During his time in this position, Soriano has had over 7,000 individuals, and more than 30% of those interactions have centered around career planning and development Additionally, Soriano has had the opportunity to execute 24 Executive Searches in the territory, with 22 of those searches occurring within the Colorado Section borders "Those relationships have led to a feeling of trust and confidence that has allowed me to advocate for better working conditions and compensation for PGA Members and Associates where the business allows "

In his time with the PGA of America, Keith has been able to leverage his time in this position, along with the relationships he has built over the course of his career to positively influence the employment situations of PGA Members in his care In the past 5 years, 24 facilities or positions within his territory have been "converted" to PGA facilities or roles

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WIN THIS AWARD?

"Of course most of us have heard of Bill Strausbaugh, the legendary professional at Columbia, but I hadn't really spent much time researching "Coach " I'm fortunate to have a colleague who grew up taking lessons from Coach and spent some time with her recently Seeing the look in her eyes and hearing the way her voice cracked when she recounted her stories about him it was clear how important his influence was in her life Her stories are not one-offs, anyone in Coach's tree will tell similar stories of a man who genuinely cared for others, for their well-being, not just professional, but more importantly, personally To receive an award that honors someone like Coach is a reminder of the incredible opportunity we have to make a positive impact on those around us, and by extension, the world at large. It's humbling, exciting, and daunting all at once."

KeithSoriano KeithSoriano KeithSoriano

TO A COLORADO PGA MEMBER WHO HAS SHOWN OUTSTANDING INTEGRITY, COMMITMENT AND MENTORSHIP TOWARDS PGA PROFESSIONALS AND HAS MADE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE CAREERS OF PGA PROFESSIONALS

KEITH SORIANO, PGA

PGA Regional Director, Mountain & Midwest Regions | PGA of America

TEACHER OF THE YEAR

THIS AWARD IS PRESENTED TO A COLORADO PGA PROFESSIONAL FOR EXCELLENCE IN GOLF INSTRUCTION, ALONG WITH OVERALL PERFORMANCE

Nick Clearwater, PGA Vice President of Instruction from GOLFTEC Headquarters in CO, has earned Colorado PGA Teacher of the Year! This award is given to a PGA Member who has proven to be exceptional in golf instruction and overall success in performance

At GOLFTEC, Nick works to teach and manage GOLFTEC's Teaching and Club Fitting System, benefiting over 800 GOLFTEC coaches worldwide.

2022 isn't the first year Nick has won this distinguished award. Nick previously won Teacher of the Year back in 2020, continuing to show effective and impactful teaching methods lasting years. Nick has also won the 2019 Golf Digest Best Teachers Colorado Award.

In his time teaching with GOLFTEC, he has created, trained, and managed the teaching systems and methods for over 900 GOLFTEC Coaches by producing content, annually touching the golf public as well as coaches around the world In addition, Clearwater contributes a monthly piece, "Data- Driven" to Golf Magazine, inspiring golfers to improve their game He is also a Golf

Magazine Top 100 teacher, conducting digital interviews Clearwater stays busy by directing, starring, and producing videos for Golf Channel, Golf Digest, and GOLFTEC channels, receiving views of over 250 million annually and growing every year. "Growing the game with those less served" is a role Clearwater plays in the role of recruiting and training of future GOLFTEC professionals. Nick is looking to help create job opportunities and to recruit people for future teaching roles at GOLFTEC. Participating in Begay's annual Junior Golf National Championship, which connects thousands of junior golfers with an opportunity to be recognized for their golf skills, Nick looks to create opportunities in teaching roles Having the job of educating 900+ GOLFTEC Coaches, Clearwater provides expert coaches on how to deliver the "experience" any golfer would want

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WIN THIS AWARD?

"Growing the game is often talked about Any PGA member knows how important that is for the game's future Having a unique position in golf where I not only impact students that I teach from beginners to PGA Tour players, as well as influence how over 1 3 million lesso taught each year is extrem rewarding Recognition for hard work that goes into t many different ways that I to grow the game everyda is a nice hat tip "

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NICK CLEARWATER, PGA Vice President of Instruction | GOLFTEC Headquarters

GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

THIS AWARD IS PRESENTED TO A COLORADO PGA PROFESSIONAL FOR OVERALL PERFORMANCE INCLUDING LEADERSHIP, SERVICE AND PROMOTION OF THE GAME OF GOLF

Jim Hajek, PGA 19-year Head Golf Professional at Fossil Trace Golf Club, has earned the title of 2022 Golf Professional of the Year!

Jim began his career in 1990 with a PGA Membership attained in 1995, becoming the PGA Head Golf Professional at Foothills Golf Course-a 36 hole, high-volume facility It was here where he crafted his love for merchandise sales. With Jim's leadership, Foothills took a lead in club fitting, working with Ping, Dimension, Z and Lange Equipment to service their guests-one of the first facilities to enter that arena at that level. During his stint with Foothills, the facility saw its greatest increase in players and greatest net facility revenues with robust instruction and player development programs which included: 10 corporate leagues, six club leagues, numerous junior programs, camps and clinics, women-only classes and adult classes

In his 8-year Head Pro career at Foothills, Jim mentored 5 PGA Professionals into Director of Golf or Head Golf Professional positions, working with a dozen others in and out of the golf business to positively influence their careers

In late 2002, Jim was invited to be the first PGA Head Golf Professional at Fossil Trace Golf Club, opening the property for play on July 31, 2003 The City of Golden asked Jim to run Fossil Trace like it was his "own business " This was all that was needed for his team to embark on an extraordinary journey into success Through Jim's leadership, Fossil Trace has won countless local and national awards and had helped set a standard in Colorado for excellence. Jim's entrepreneurial spirit has helped shape policies and practices for other professionals and golf courses and is sought out by dozens of properties for advice on tee sheet and revenue management and policy concepts, as well as merchandise operations During his tenure at Fossil Trace, Jim has mentored an additional four PGA Professionals into General Manager, Director of Golf and Head Professional Positions

Jim has been fortunate to start his service on the Colorado PGA Board of Directors in 2005 with a single term, then asked to take the place of a member who left the section shortly thereafter This was then followed by a 2-term stint cumulating with selection in 2016 as the CPGA Secretary (membership chair), 2018 as CPGA Vice President (finance chair), and 2020 CPGA President (executive chair) During his board career and prior to service in the capacity as an Officer, he served three years as Chair and Co-Chair of the awards committee, served on the Tee Time Coalition Task Force, and served as an industry insider for any/all technology or section entrepreneurial discussions

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JIM HAJEK, PGA Head Professional | Fossil Trace Golf Club

Jim also served as PGA Magazine Merchandiser of the Year Conference, facilitating 3 sessions at three separate conferences in Florida Hajek addressed the panel assistants on two different occasions at the PGA Magazine Assistants Breakfast at the PGA show in Orlando

Without question, the greatest service to the COPGA and its membership has come to the last 24 months as an instrumental leader in addressing the Colorado Golf Association contract discussions, negotiations, and eventual separation navigating discussions, and eventual dissolution of the Junior Golf Alliance, Marshall fire efforts, and Executive search process and search selection of the new CEO/ED, Steven Bartkowski

Jim rarely says "I," preferring to say "we" as he is fully aware that the team philosophy will serve the greater good of the section, golf course guests, and the staff alike. It may be the belief that Jim would say has made all the difference. He has stated, "The org chart is a flat line with a little bump on it because someone has to answer for it-that someone is me. However, we are here for the same purpose, and all of us are responsible for everything, every day " It is this "we" approach, as well as involving everyone in the room in decision making, that perhaps exemplifies Jim's "leadership" the most His staff is aware that they have a say and have input; they not only speak up here but are expected to, especially if they feel something can be improved This creates an environment that allows for the free flow of information and ideas and grows ownership by each staff member improving the quality of the product

Given what the Colorado PGA Section has worked through in the last 24 months, successfully navigating the murky waters with an intense focus on the tasks at hand is a testament to Jim's ability to drive toward the future, keeping eyes on the goals at hand Jim never set up to influence other golf professionals, but he has always had thoughts on how things could be managed better, how one could generate additional revenue, improve the product, and better involve technology in service to golfers and the business of golf

Jim has stated that he is "not exceptionally smart or charismatic and doesn't fit the chiseled mold of a perfect-looking golf Pro" However, he has one key trait that perhaps inspires others- a never-ending energetic drive toward perfection The "can do" energy and sharing the sheer possibilities have created an open network of free-flowing ideas and the "what if" concept. This has spurred changessome drastic-in professionals' beliefs and policies/procedures of numerous golf courses around the section. In all cases, the professional and golf courses have been able to create additional revenues and /or improve the golf experience for their guests -everyone wins. Hajek has stated, "Our playbook is available to anyone who wants it. You don't need to reinvent the wheel-we are happy to help, and perhaps it can spur ideas for your course " This helpful attitude and energy can be seen and felt by his fellow professionals, and if it has any positive effect on them-that only creates more of a desire in Jim to reach out

Fossil Trace has spearheaded the concept of dynamic pricing or capacity pricing, where guests are charged a premium to book further in advance, generating tremendous additional revenues This concept has been shared with dozens of other golf properties and is now becoming more mainstream for golf courses throughout Colorado, thanks to Jim's lead Fossil Trace is the first golf course to offer tee times for the entire summer golf season, allowing guests from around the world to book what they want, when they want, exclusively online

This concept is also being spread throughout Colorado as a "best practice' which positively affects golf course revenues for each of those that implemented the concept In 2019, Fossil Trace started a women's development league known as "Ready for," or "RF," which encompasses RF6, or "Ready to play 6 Holes", as well as RF9 (Ready to play nine holes) and RF More (Ready for More Structure) The program allows anyone who has taken lessons or a class to start playing in a team-oriented, noncompetitive environment at a level that works for them. After four seasons, the team is capped and simply cannot accommodate more players.

Fossil Trace is a leader for the PGA Junior Golf League, junior camps, women's only classes, and the other player development programs which feed the "Ready for" league As the practice areas are kid and adult-friendly, guests drive past other golf courses to enjoy the experience created by Jim and his extraordinary staff at Fossil Trace Jim is more than willing to share the concept, structure, and success of these programs with anyone who desires to generate more revenue for their professionals and facilities

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO RECEIVE THIS AWARD?

"Receiving this award is first and foremost a tremendous honor and something I never strived to attain As with all who have been selected for the POY will share, it is the culmination of efforts by everyone who I have been blessed to work with and for during my career including our (past & present) Board of Directors, Trustees and extraordinary staff. A special thank you to my "smoking hot wife" of 34 years and counting - Lisa for always pushing me out of my comfort zone."

IMPORTANT 2023 AWARDS INFORMATION

The nomination period is now open! Nominate a deserving member or associate for a Special Award!

New for 2023, the Professional Development Award has been renamed to the Ed Kelbel Award to highlight his contributions to the Colorado PGA in Professional Development.

We are excited to announce that two new awards have been added to the list. Please note that you do not have to be a PGA member to be eligible for both of these awards

Salespersonof theYear

Superintendentof theYear

The Salesperson of the Year was established to honor a Sales Representative who partners with the professionals of the Colorado PGA Section in order to enhance the golf professional's business.

The Superintendent of the Year recognizes golf course superintendents who have demonstrated professional skills and knowledge in the maintenance and development of their facilities.

The deadline to nominate a deserving member or associate for the Colorado PGA West Chapter Special Awards is January 4, 2023. Don’t wait; nominate now!

To begin the West Chapter nomination process visit www.coloradopga.com/west-chapter/awards

The deadline to nominate a deserving member or associate for the Colorado PGA Special Awards is Febraury 15, 2023. Don’t wait and nominate now!

To begin the Section Nomination Process visit www.coloradopga.com/special-awards

PGA REACH Colorado