The SUMMIT - Summer '23

Page 1

What's Inside?

2023 Season is in Full Swing

Colorado PGA Summer 2023
2023 Strackaline Myran Craig ProPro Championship Champions: Chris Hyten, PGA of Castle Pines Golf Club & Graham Cliff, PGA of Colorado Golf Club

Colorado PGA Staff

Scott Minta Tournament Director 303-996-1590 Annie O'Donnell Finance Manager 303-996-1595 Erinn Lopez Business Development & Special Events Director 303-996-1594 Justin Limon, PGA Senior Operations & Membership Director 303-996-1588 Holly Champion, PGA Education & Membership Director 303-996-1591 Steven Bartkowski CEO/Executive Director 303-996-1593 Samantha Crawford Junior Golf ManagerCup Series 303-996-1597 Davyon Collins Junior Golf ManagerDevelopmental Series 303-996-1592 Administrative Assistant 303-681-0742 Sara Brown Zach Kinmartin Junior Golf ManagerPlayer Series 303-996-9423 Peter Weisel, PGA Player Engagement Director 303-996-9429 PGA WORKS Fellow Cameron Jones
The
Official Magazine
The SUMMIT is distributed free to members and affiliates of the Colorado PGA four 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 the written permission of the Colorado PGA is prohibited Colorado PGA 6630 Bear Dance Drive Larkspur, CO 80118 P | (303) 681-0742 www coloradopga com www reach coloradopga com 3 Section President Mid-Season Update 5-6 Foundation Growth from Board Chairman 8 CEO and Executive Director's Message 9 PGA Regional Director's Message 10 Player Engagement Director's Message 12 Financial Aid Available for Junior Golfers 13 Mizuno Aurora Junior Major Recap 14-15 Upcoming COPGA Tournament Schedule 21 Flamm Earns Master Professional Status 30 The COPGA Elevation Podcast is Back 34 Rethlake Highlights Quarter Century Class 41 2023 Pillar Grant Recipients 45-46 PGA HOPE Continues Path to Growth 47 GOLFTEC Partners with High School Students 17 Meet 2023 PGA WORKS Fellow Cameron Jones 19-20 Remembering PGA Member Mike Steiner 42 West Chapter Award Winners 27
Curry and Heyen Step Up Big for Junior Golf New Player Pathway Replaces JGAC Join the NEW COPGA Amateur Tour 22 24 25 Colorado Golf & Turf Enhances Purses 26 Hyten & Cliff Capture Pro-Pro Championship Gillmore-Fischer-Troyer Win Pro-Pro-Pro 28 Lakewood CC Victorious at Pro-Official 31-33 37-38 39-40 9th Mortgage Free Home with Trustee Chair 44 Section Partners Foundation Partners Foundation Updates Partner Highlights Tournament News PGA Member Spotlight Junior Golf/Player Engagement Updates Welcome
SUMMIT is the
of the Colorado PGA - produced by the Colorado PGA
What's Inside?

A Mid-Season Update

Fellow PGA Professionals,

Congratulations to Michael Block, PGA; what an inspiring performance highlighting what it means to be a PGA Professional at Oak Hill in May This year’s PGA Championship was truly one for the ages I am not sure we could have scripted a better finish.

Thank you to our section PGA Members who have kindly opened their doors and tee times to the new junior golf model allowing for ninety-one junior tournaments, one hundred thirty tournament days, and over 1,000 junior tour members I would also like to thank the 77 Colorado PGA Professionals who signed up as PGA Junior League Coaches who are providing playing and programming to over 3,000 youth in the PGA Junior League Program Best of luck to our Colorado teams as the Junior League Championship season begins next month

Our team is excited to develop a new section mentorship program that will pave the way for the next Section leaders by helping facilitate getting our Associates through our education program The need is clear and acute for recruiting and retaining talent in our industry. There is no better way to accomplish this than at the grassroots level, walking beside our associates as they progress through the program. I recall fondly back to days when I served on the Assistant’s Committee and played in Assistant-only events. A huge thank you to Steve David (Denver CC) and Ron DeJacimo (Red Rocks CC), who were one of the first professionals to raise their hands to lead these mentorship events Chris Williamson (Rain Dance National), Bob Doyle (Life Member), Ben Tremayne (Willis Case GC), and Jeramy Curry (Pinehurst GC) should also be commended for giving their time at these round tables Next up, Bill Hughes will offer an exciting networking day for Assistants with special guest David Leadbetter This is the way to help lead the future of our profession Please let us know if you would like to host a future event!

We are currently at a 52% completion rate as a section for both the local and national compensation surveys. Please find 10 minutes to complete these important tools. The section will receive $19,500 to fund our section operations if we get to 65% by Fall. More importantly, this data is crucial to professionals who may be negotiating a salary increase or a new job The information you provide is confidential We have seen professionals in the Mountain and Midwest Region able to increase compensation by $724,381 by leveraging customized compensation data reports during their annual reviews and meetings with their Boards

A big THANK YOU to our new and returning Section partners It has been so wonderful to see an increase in all tournament purses and programming experiences If you have the opportunity and are seeking new partners at your facility, please give them a chance to earn your business

Cheers to a great Summer!

President's Message 3 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT

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Trey Mullinax Wilson Advisory Member

Colorado PGA Members Continue to be on the Front Line of Growing the Game

Colorado PGA Members, Associates, and Friends,

The Colorado Section and its charitable arm PGA REACH Colorado are off and running for the 2023 season The focus this offseason was all about the PGA Member. Every decision and conversation included questions such as, “How do we staff the junior golf programs appropriately and still at the same time enhance our PGA Member focused staff?” and “What additional programs and initiatives can we provide to add value to the PGA Members?” and “how do we continue to grow our partnerships for the good of the PGA Members?”

The concern for me, when you go through the above process is that, of course, we can provide all the services, programming, and initiatives in the world, but it doesn’t matter if our Colorado PGA Members don’t find them useful So, I was excited to see the initiative that the Board of Directors took under the leadership of President Cathy Matthews-Kane The new governance model created six main committees and twelve sub-committees, which added over 30 new Colorado PGA Members to the governance process At the end of the day, we can’t be everything for everyone and I know that However, we are much closer to achieving this now, with more voices coming directly from our PGA members on the direction of the Section and Foundation Our Section is and always only will be as good as the engagement rate of our Members

Engagement is such a powerful word in our industry It can be beneficial to both a person’s career and life The team at the Section office has really taken that word to heart this year We have engaged our PGA Members through committees, we have engaged new and returning Section partners to enhance playing and education programming, we have engaged our PGA REACH Colorado Trustees to focus on the growth and enhancement of community initiatives, and we have re-engaged our junior golf members through the new pathway that should have lasting effects on our game. We are excited to see the “Return on Investment” with these engagement tactics, both tangible and intangible that we can bring to all PGA Members throughout this season.

Finally, for the past few weeks, I have been fully engrained in listening to “The Fire Pit Podcast” with Matt Ginella More specifically, I have been glued to the series “The Club Pro Crisis,” which brings in many guests such as Seth Waugh, Suzy Whaley, Brian Soule, and many PGA Members across the country to get their take on the situation we have at hand in our business - more demand than supply. A few takeaways that I have had is that number one, PGA Members are true givers and this hurt us during the times of COVID. We woke up and realized that in a time of chaos, we could be that beacon of hope and still show up to work every day with short staffing just to put smiles on others' faces This, unfortunately, then became the norm Number two, we are the only ones that can change this situation and should work on it together, collectively, to change the culture But it doesn’t have to be done with a negative connotation Focus on the positives And number three, we are so fortunate to be in the golf industry and teach others the game we love But, at the same time, we are humans

CEO Message
5 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT

CEO Message Continued...

that need to be able to have relationships and raise a family away from the golf course. We need to work in partnership with our clubs and allied associations to find that balance so we can continue to succeed both at work and at home. I am proud to continue to wake up daily and work on your behalf and I am honored to be able to work alongside a team of such talented individuals in our office.

I wish all of our PGA Professionals nothing but success this 2023 season, and I look forward to seeing and engaging with you all at events and meetings

Please reach out to me or any of our talented COPGA Staff if we can ever be of assistance

Sincerely,

sbartkowski@pgahq com

P (303) 996-1593

Message
CEO
6 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT

You Are Here.

My mentor, Eric Jensen, PGA, warned me this would happen. When I was a 26-year-old Head Professional, he warned me that I wouldn’t always be so young. That one day, I’d be one of the older guys in the room One of the guys with hopefully more wisdom than willfulness, more patience than impatience, and more faith than fear He said I would begin to tell stories that start with “I remember when ” So here I am, at an age when I’m more likely to injure myself getting out of bed too fast than I am from running too fast, and I’ve got a story to tell

I remember when my mom used to drop off Brian Chase, Aaron Fuchs, and myself at the mall in Springfield, Virginia It was a chance to roam unsupervised, eat Auntie Annie’s pretzels, check out the posters at Spencer’s, catch a movie, and make excuses about why we didn’t go talk to girls we saw at the food court Each visit started in the same place As soon as we walked into the mall, even though we’d been there dozens of times before, we would walk up to the directory map to plan where we wanted to go But the first thing we had to do was find that star on the map the one that said: “You Are Here.”

That’s the way it goes with journeys, whether you’re trying to find the fastest way to get to Foot Locker to see the newest Air Jordan drop that you can’t afford (that 1989 Jordan IV release was fire), or trying to chart your path to a career that is both personally and professionally fulfilling, you have to know where you are before you can figure out how to get to where you want to be.

So where are you?

In the grand scheme of your journey through your career, are you at the beginning, the middle, or towards the end, or are you lost and in desperate need of starting all over again?

What places will you need to visit along the way to get to your destination?

What skills do you need to close the gap between your starting point and the next step on your journey?

How many stops will there be along the way, and do you have the patience to make those stops?

Do you have the support you need to make it to the end?

Are those walking with you best served by your chosen destination?

What’s your Air Jordan IV? Does it align with what you value the most?

As the full weight of the golf season is upon us in Colorado, please take advantage of the brief moments between the hustle and bustle of the season to assess if this is the right stop on your path Like the path to finding those Jordan IVs, your career goals may be fluid and ever-changing; surrounding yourself with mentors and support can help hold you accountable and accelerate growth I promise you that wherever your “You Are Here” star may be, I will meet you there and won’t leave you where I find you. When you’re ready, and if you let me, I’d be honored to be part of your journey.

8 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Regional Director's Message
Regional Director | Member & Section Operations Career Consultant serving the Colorado Section ksoriano@pgahq com 720 841 1006 Denver, CO Keith Soriano, PGA

A Message From Our Player Engagement Director

The summer golf season is well underway and it has been wonderful watching so many people enjoying the game of golf this summer. The Colorado PGA Junior Tour is in full swing, with staff members running tournaments every week for over 1000 junior golf members 9 Drive, Chip & Putt Local Qualifiers are being held this summer, with junior golfers from around the Colorado PGA Section competing for the opportunity to compete in the finals at Augusta National next April

We are also very excited to announce that PGA REACH Colorado has teamed with the Colorado Golf Association, Game For Life event at Hiwan Golf Club, and Wilson Golf to create a financial assistance program for junior golfers in the Colorado PGA Section This fund will provide sets of clubs to junior golfers and help them pay entry fees into Colorado PGA Junior Tour events If any professionals have questions about this new program, please reach out so we can help more families enjoy the game we all love.

9 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Junior Golf
pweisel@pgahq
com

April-JuneQuarter CenturyMembers

1.WhatdoesitmeantoyoutobeaPGAMemberfor25years?

"It flies by I haven't really thought of it as a job or work, going up through the ranks from an Assistant to a Head Golf Pro to a General Manager to a Director of Golf It's been just a blast the whole time I really can't believe it's been 25 years to be honest "

2.WhatisyourproudestaccomplishmentasaPGAProsofar?

"Taking over the Denver courses in 2006 and really focusing on course conditions and customer service, really being able to raise the level of the course conditions and customer service to a point where we're a great value for the price that we charge in

the Denver metro area Also taking the first tee program to the second largest in the nation We serve over 11,000 kids each year, it's giving back to the community through kids and I think as a municipal facility that's what we're supposed to do "

3.WhatadvicewouldyougivetoayoungPGAProlookingtohavealongsuccessfulcareerlikeyourself?

"I think it'd be the same advice I'd give anybody, anybody looking to try and figure out what they want to do for either the rest of their lives or the next chapter of their lives or whatever it might be, make sure you love it Make sure it's something that you think is fun, you enjoy doing every day because if that's true then you're going to be able to do it for the long haul and you're going to do it really well because you enjoy it."

AdditionalQuarterCenturyMembers

10 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Membership Matters
ScottRethlake,PGA
DirectorofGolf|CityofDenver,GolfDivision
CurtisStarkey,PGA HeadProfessionalatDouglas CommunityClub GregGortsema,PGA LifeMember AmyStubblefield,PGA TeachingProfessional OldBaldyClub JeffNova,PGA ReserveMember RichardCook,PGA LifeMember MichaelWine,PGA RetiredMember

Jeramy Curry, PGA Raises $11,600 to Support Junior Golf

On Friday, June 23rd, Colorado PGA Professional and Director of Instruction at Pinehurst Country Club, Jeramy Curry, stepped up big for his community. Jeramy created an initiative called "Golf Lessons Fore Charity." He had a vision in which Colorado PGA Instructors could spend a day giving lessons, with all proceeds going to junior golf programming in the Colorado Section So, that Friday, he donated all his lesson income to junior programming through PGA REACH Colorado And through his vision, passion, and support of his students, he raised $11,600 to support junior golf programming!

"Continuing to enhance the junior golf experience in the Colorado PGA Section is a priority for the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation and its PGA Professionals It is so inspiring to see such a talented PGA Coach and Professional like Jeramy Curry take this initiative to heart Through Jeramy's Inaugural Golf Lessons FORE Charity, he, his students, and the Pinehurst Country Club members helped raise $11,600 to help ensure that cost will never inhibit one’s involvement and enjoyment of the game of golf The monies raised will be going to financial aid packages and scholarships for junior golfers in the Colorado PGA Section programming. Thank you, Jeramy, for your selfless contribution to the future of the game." - Steven Bartkowski, PGA REACH Colorado CEO/Executive Director.

Kyle Heyen, PGA, Partners with PGA REACH Colorado to Raise $14,000 for Junior Golf

Kyle Heyen, PGA, Director of Golf at Hiwan Golf Club, has used his platform as a PGA Professional to support his community for many years Most notably known for his willingness to raise his hand and run the New York City Marathon on behalf of PGA REACH, this time, Kyle has partnered with PGA REACH Colorado with his Game For Life event at his club to support junior golf initiatives

On July 10th, PGA REACH Colorado and Game for Life teamed up to conduct the annual fundraiser event at beautiful Hiwan GC. In memory of Dr. Dennis Clifford, this tournament's proceeds will benefit local youth. Some of the monies raised from this initiative have already provided all new equipment for the Golf in Schools Program at Evergreen Middle School. The funds will also help to support the new PGA REACH Colorado Financial Aid Grant Program, in which kids will be given Wilson Golf Clubs and entries paid for on the Colorado PGA Junior Golf Tours

"Kyle Heyen is a consummate PGA Professional, and the Colorado Section is fortunate to have him in our family Kyle is a Board Member, past PGA of America Board Member, and Hall of Fame Member Despite his success in his career, he always seeks ways to give back, whether to his community, members at Hiwan GC, or his fellow PGA Professionals We thank Kyle and Hiwan GC for helping PGA REACH Colorado to continue to enhance its mission in the youth space " - Steven Bartkowski, PGA REACH Colorado CEO/Executive Director

Junior Golf 12 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Membership Matters

COLORADO PGA PROFESSIONALS COMMIT TO JUNIOR GOLF THROUGH THE NEW PLAYER PATHWAY AFTER JGAC DISSOLVED

At the end of 2021, the Junior Golf Alliance (JGAC) was dissolved The JGAC was a joint alliance between the Colorado PGA (COPGA) and the Colorado Golf Association (CGA) to grow the game of golf concurrently across Colorado, Wyoming, and South Dakota Both organizations are extremely proud of the work the JGAC was able to do in the youth space However, like many programs and initiatives, the JGAC hit its limit after 2021 and could not be sustainable anymore in the model created

After the dissolution of the JGAC, the 850 PGA Professionals across the Colorado PGA Section prioritized providing a new avenue for kids who want to compete both non-competitively and competitively. Also, they wanted to provide a mix of free programming and pay-to-play programming.

Through the 2022 season, due to the timing of the dissolution of the JGAC, the Colorado PGA and its team (short-handed to meet the demand at the time) were able to provide 54 competitive tournaments for juniors but, more importantly, take in feedback from juniors and parents alike Thus, in 2023, the Colorado PGA took the feedback to heart and developed a new "Player Development Pathway" for all levels of junior golfers in Colorado, Wyoming, and South Dakota The COPGA wants to ensure that juniors are given the correct avenue to succeed through non-competitive playing opportunities and various levels of tournament play While the Player Pathway can't be everything for everyone, it focuses on the American Developmental Model (ADM) that the Olympic Committee uses to create new athletes and ensure that burnout does not occur. Through the pathway (seen on the right), kids progress through levels of tours, from the Developmental Tour all the way through the Amateur Tour. Each level has a certain purpose for junior development. For example, unlike US Kids, which is a great tour to play in, the Developmental Series is made for learning. The Colorado PGA Staff teaches a "rule of the day" and etiquette, and the kids play in a co-ed fashion If they enjoy the game, they can continue to progress and someday play in the Cup Series - the highest tour level The new pathway has over 1,000 members and still has room to grow!

Junior Golf 13 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT

PGA REACH COLORADO TEAMS WITH THE CGA, GAME FOR LIFE EVENT AT HIWAN GC, AND WILSON GOLF TO MAKE JUNIOR GOLF ACCESSIBLE TO ALL

FinancialAidAvailableforGolf EquipmentandJuniorTournament

EntryFees

Larkspur, Colo. - PGA REACH Colorado (the charitable arm of the Colorado PGA Section) is proud to release a new collaboration that will hopefully provide access to the game of golf for kids who can’t otherwise afford it. With the help of the Colorado Golf Association (CGA), Game For Life, and Wilson Golf, kids within the geographical boundaries of the Colorado PGA (COPGA) will now be able to apply for financial aid to play in tournaments on the COPGA Junior Tour and apply for a new set of clubs from Wilson Golf

The COPGA Junior Tour is a part of the newly released junior golf pathway created by the 850 PGA Professionals who call the COPGA Section home The concept was created with the American Development Model (ADM) in mind and utilized by the US Olympic Committee This model focuses on getting kids involved in the game at the right level and at the right age to prevent burnout The junior tour, which houses over 1,000 junior golfers and growing, has three different levels of competition for kids ages 6-18 Starting with the Developmental Series, to the Player Series, and up to the top level of competition at the Cup Series, the tour is open to kids of any skill level and now any financial level

Junior Golf 14 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Grants, Scholarships and Financial Aid

Grants, Scholarships and Financial Aid

Financial Aid for Juniors Article Continued

PGA REACH Colorado was created by PGA Members in 1996 with the goal of positively impacting lives through the game of golf The 501c3 tries to ensure that no matter your financial situation, you should not be deterred from being involved in a game that teaches so many life lessons With the creation of this Financial Aid program, alongside our other free programs such as Golf in Schools and Drive, Chip & Putt, the Foundation is heading in the right direction, despite many other challenges ahead

“Thank you to our partners on this initiative Without them, it would not be possible to afford all kids the opportunity to play in our amazing junior programs This is a huge step forward in our foundation's priorities I would encourage all Colorado PGA Professionals and Allied Associations to identify families within their network who may benefit from this program ” said Mike O’Donnell, PGA, Vice President and Board Chairman of PGA REACH Colorado

To learn more about PGA REACH Colorado, the COPGA Player Pathway, or the 850 PGA Professionals who teach the game of golf, please Click Here.

For more information on the PGA REACH Colorado Junior Programs or the Financial Aid Initiative, please contact Peter Weisel, PGA Player Engagement Director.

Junior Golf
REACH Colorado
SupportPGA
Supportthe ColoradoGolf Association
15 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT
Supportthe GameforLife Foundation

KLEIN, LEE WIN MIZUNO AURORA JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP

Aurora, Co. – The Colorado PGA Junior Golf (COPGAJR) held its first Major event of the summer Tuesday through Thursday at Murphy Creek Golf Course in Aurora, Colorado. Both boys and girls competed these three days to battle it out for first place. Tuesday provided beautiful blue skies and great course conditions for the juniors Day two weather was certainly a concern, as the forecast suggested storms rolling in, but thankfully the storms held off and the juniors were able to finish their rounds with no weather delays! Unfortunately, those storms did end up providing a substantial amount of rain for the Aurora area overnight, and the final day of the tournament had to be cut down to an 8 hole event for our players Unfortunately, fairways, bunkers and even bridges in between holes were completely flooded, which led to the decision of only playing eight on the final day The course staff did an amazing job at keeping the course in the best condition it could possibly be, thanks to the hard work of golf course superintendent Eric

The field started with 82 juniors in total, with 63 boys and 19 girls teeing it up on Tuesday After play on day two, a cut was made that advanced 31 boys and ten girls to the final round. Our boys' champion for our first major was Sawyer Klein shooting 70-72-33 totaling 175 for the three days. Murphy Creek is a tough golf course if you do not keep it in the fairways," stated the champion, and luckily he did just exactly that Going into the third day, every player had the expectation of playing 18 holes, but finding out right before the round that it was now going to be shortened to an 8-hole tournament can really change your game plan for the day "My goal was to make as many pars as possible whether it is an 8-hole tournament or 18," Sawyer commented He proceeded to discuss how the first round was very "scorable," but the next two days were "a bit tougher with the wind and course conditions."

Junior Golf 16 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT
Patrick Kilbride, PGA, and their entire golf staff

KLEIN, LEE WIN MIZUNO AURORA JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP

Our girls' champion was Sophia Lee, shooting 76-78-38, totaling 192. Sophia's driver was on point for her all three days of play. "I was relieved!" Lee shared when learning that Wednesday's round would only be eight holes. "I struggled with the back nine on Tuesday and Wednesday, so to know we only were playing 8; it took a big weight off my shoulders."

The COPGA Junior Golf team would like to send a huge thank you to all of our partners for this event. Mizuno Golf provided the slickest tee gifts with hats, custom towels, and golf balls Thank you to Pure Grips for gifting the two Champions with new Pure Grips, and a huge thank you to UCCS PGM Program for providing lunch for all the players on Wednesday! Thank you to BioSteel for continued healthy hydration on the course and Junior Golf Hub for creating a recruiting space for our Junior go

We woul again for having Murphy Creek Golf Course in great shape for a great championship event The Colorado PGA Junior Major tournament schedule will resume July 10-12 for the next junior championship at

Junior Golf 17 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT
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GOLFTEC, SKYTRAK & DRIVE FORE THE FUTURE TEAM UP TO LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD FOR HIGH SCHOOL GOLFERS

APRIL 23, 2023 | DENVER

FIRSTACTIVATIONWILLREVITALIZEGOLFPROGRAMAT DENVERWESTHIGHSCHOOL

Denver, CO - GOLFTEC, the world leader in golf improvement, and SkyTrak, the #1 selling consumer launch monitor, have announced a partnership with Drive Fore The Future, a charitable foundation committed to making golf more accessible to individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds This partnership aims to fund underprivileged high school golf teams across the United States, enabling them to enjoy the game of golf and the valuable life skills it teaches.

As part of this commitment, GOLFTEC, SkyTrak and Drive Fore The Future will provide golf equipment, golf simulators, and other resources to underprivileged high school golf programs, helping to level the playing field and provide opportunities for young athletes to develop valuable life skills.

19 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT
Membership Matters

The first collaboration between GOLFTEC, SkyTrak and Drive Fore The Future took place this week at West High School in Denver, CO, where the organizations donated sets of golf clubs and a simulator setup from SkyTrak that includes course play from TruGolf E6 Connect In addition, apparel will be donated to the entire boys and girls golf teams

“We are thrilled to partner with Drive Fore The Future and to provide young athletes with greater access to play the game we all love,” said Joe Assell, PGA and CEO of GOLFTEC "We know just how big of an impact golf can have on a young person’s life, and we’re proud to take the first step with our support of Denver West High School ”

Ryan French and Chris Gallagher are the co-founders of Drive Fore The Future “This collaboration is truly special, as it will help to ensure that high school students from all backgrounds have the resources they need to participate in the game and experience the benefits of golf," said French

The support at Denver West represents the beginning of a long-term, shared commitment to expanding access to the game of golf and its benefits. Over the course of the next year, GOLFTEC and Drive Fore The Future aim to support several high school golf programs across the country. High schools interested in applying for support can visit golftec.com/driveforethefuture for more information.

About GOLFTEC

Since 1995, GOLFTEC’s mission has remained the same to help people play better golf. The GOLFTEC experience is designed for golfers of all ages and abilities to work with a highly-skilled, professional Coach and to build a game improvement plan customized to their specific needs and goals. GOLFTEC’s cutting-edge training systems, including proprietary swing motion capture technology, OptiMotion, gives Students and Coaches instant and data-driven feedback With millions of lessons given and more than 250 locations across the world, GOLFTEC is the world leader in golf improvement

About SkyTrak Golf

SkyTrak is golf’s most popular consumer launch monitor and golf simulator SkyTrak provides accurate, real-time feedback making it a complete practice, play and entertainment system for golfers of all skill levels A great solution for consumers, teachers, club fitters and PGA Professionals, SkyTrak is a high quality simulator that captures and displays precise data to reflect a golfer’s actual performance.

About Drive Fore The Future

At Drive Fore The Future, we believe golf teaches important life skills and we want to make the game more accessible to people from all socioeconomic backgrounds. We will help fund underprivileged high school golf teams across the country while creating relationships between the schools and equipment manufacturers to make sure the teams have what they need.

20 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Junior Golf
Amateur Tour 21 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT

PGA MEMBER RYAN FLAMM EARNS PGA MASTER PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATION

FRISCO, Texas (April 27, 2023) – The PGA of America has announced that Ryan Flamm, PGA, Director of Golf at EagleVail Golf Club in Avon, Colorado, has earned PGA Master Professional status, the highest educational designation a PGA Member can obtain Flamm, a Member of the Colorado PGA Section, joins a special group of 435 PGA Members who have earned PGA Master Professional status He achieved his designation in Executive Management

The PGA Master Professional program was established in 1969 to recognize PGA Members who make a significant effort to improve as golf professionals and maintain the highest degree of excellence for themselves and their operations. The program is designed to ensure PGA Professionals are prepared to meet the growing demands of the the marketplace within the Executive Management, Golf Operations, and Teaching and Coaching Designations

“It feels surreal to be a part of the group of PGA Master Professionals who have given so much to the game, it means a lot to me,” said Flamm “I’m very humbled and honored to say that I accomplished it; to reach this milestone in my life is a great feeling I would like to thank my mentor, Matt Jordan, the EagleVail staff, and my family, who have encouraged me along the way ”

After graduating from the New Mexico State University PGA Golf Management program in 2005, Flamm started his career in the Sun Country Section before moving to the Colorado Section as the Director of Golf at EagleVail Golf Club in Avon, Colorado, in 2017

Flamm's most recent achievements include winning the 2022 Colorado PGA Section’s Patriot Award, which honors a PGA Professional who personifies patriotism through the game of golf, as well as demonstrates unwavering commitment and dedication to the men and women who have valiantly served and protected the United States of America. Flamm also currently serves on the PGA HOPE Sub-Commitee for the Colorado Section.

He was also awarded the 2022 Colorado PGA West Chapter Bill Strausbaugh Award, designed to recognize PGA Professionals who, by their day-to-day efforts, have distinguished themselves by mentoring their fellow PGA Professionals in improving their employment situations and through service to the community The PGA Master Professional Program is available to any PGA Professional with at least ten years of PGA Membership and has achieved advanced certification through the PGA Certified Professional Program The curriculum includes an extensive project based on the specific certification previously acquired by the PGA Professional PGA Master Professional status is earned upon successful completion of the presentation.

Junior Golf 22 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Membership Matters
24 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT

LONG-TIME PARTNER COLORADO GOLF & TURF ENHANCES SUPPORT FOR 2023 TO FOCUS ON CHAMPIONSHIP PURSES

In 2022, the Colorado PGA Section (COPGA) saw its largest purse in the history of the Section Championship - the Section's largest major of the year for the 850 Colorado PGA Professionals to compete in annually The purse reached a total of $70,000, with $12,000 going to the champion Micah Rudosky, PGA of Conquistador Golf Course This took a joint effort of all tournament sponsors, but none bigger than longtime Section Partner Tom Bauerle and his team at Colorado Golf & Turf. Despite the generous support given in 2022, Colorado Golf & Turf is returning in an even bigger fashion in 2023! They have enhanced their give to create "The Colorado PGA Majors Presented by Colorado Golf & Turf." This initiative will enhance all Major Championship purses in 2023, including making the largest Women's Championship Purse to date. Thank you to Tom and the Colorado Golf & Turf team for continuing to see the value in Colorado PGA Professionals. Click on the graphics below to register for one of the major championships.

Junior Golf 25 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Partner Highlights

TEAM OF GILLMOR, FISCHER AND TROYER WIN FIRST PRO-ONLY EVENT OF 2023

Windsor, CO – Bright sunshine and 70-degree temperatures greeted Colorado PGA Professionals on Monday morning for the annual Pro-Pro-Pro Championship RainDance National Golf Course was the perfect backdrop for the 3-player scramble event and received rave reviews from all participants, many of whom were seeing the property for the first time, having just opened in July of 2022

Birdies and eagles were flowing in the 3-person scramble, with 18 of the 44 teams finishing at double digits under par. Four teams finished in a tie for fourth place at 12-under-par, Holmes/Gore/Campbell, O’Shaughnessy/Shehee/Nosewicz, Connell/Hunter/Fay, and Sniffin/Ough/Bakken. Two teams finished in a tie for second at 13-under par, Cliff/Murzyn/Meyer and Stilwell/Bajaj/Purcell

The team of Marcus Gillmor (Fort Collins CC), David Fischer (Blackstone CC), and Josh Troyer (GolfTec HQ) finished the day at 14-under-par and alone in first place Their stellar day consisted of 10 birdies and two eagles, which led them to a one-shot victory and a $2,700 team check

Monday’s event would not have been possible without our presenting partners, Masek Rocky Mountain Golf Cars and Jason Masek. Their continued support of the Colorado PGA is greatly appreciated. The Pro-Pro-Pro Championship was also supported by AndersonOrd, who supplied golf shirts to all participants, PTE Golf, and TaylorMade. We thank them all for their partnership with this event and continued support of the Colorado PGA.

A huge thank you to our host PGA Staff at RainDance National and Head Professional Chris Williamson, PGA We look forward to returning to the club later this summer for the COPGA Corona ProAm Series

To view the final leaderboard, CLICK HERE

To view the full photo album, CLICK HERE

Junior Golf 26 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Tournament News

TEAM OF HYTEN AND CLIFF CONQUER LAKEWOOD AT STRACKALINE MYRAN CRAIG PRO-PRO

Lakewood, Colo – The Colorado PGA (COPGA) held the 2023 Strackaline Myran Craig Pro-Pro Championship Monday at Lakewood Country Club in Lakewood, Colorado A big thank you is in order for Ben Honaman, PGA, Director of Golf, and Jeffery Corona, PGA, Head Professional, for the hospitality provided to our professionals at Lakewood CC Temperatures were comfortable in the low 70s and despite the layer of haze seen throughout much of Colorado currently, it was a perfect day for golf

The event had a slightly different scoring system, as a modified Stableford format was in place. 114 players and 57 teams competed over 36-holes playing Four-Ball Stroke Play in the morning, followed by Foursomes Stroke Play in the afternoon. Players were assigned points based on the outcome of the hole, with an eagle or better earning 8 points, a birdie earning 4 points, a par earning 2 points, a bogey earning 1 point, and a double bogey or worse earning no points

Throughout the day, players attested to how good the course played, with pure greens and healthy fairways making it a great track for the event However, one commonality from the professionals throughout the day was how thick the rough was playing Almost resembling the difficulty out of the rough at Oak Hill for the 2023 PGA Championship, one team overcame the challenging conditions of Lakewood Country Club Scoring 41 points in the morning and 43 points in the afternoon for a total of 84, the team of Chris Hyten, PGA, Assistant Professional at Castle Pines Golf Club, and Graham Cliff, PGA, Director of Golf at Colorado Golf Club, played an impressive couple rounds claiming the Championship title

Also playing two fine rounds of golf and finishing in a close second with a total score of 83 points was the team of Ben Honaman, PGA, Director of Golf at Lakewood Country Club, and Geoff Keffer, PGA, Assistant Professional at Lakewood Country Club Finishing in solo third with a score of 82 points was the team of Tyler Parsloe, PGA, and Doug Wherry, PGA, both of Jake’s Academy clearly a tight race down the stretch, to say the least

The Strackaline Myran Craig Pro-Pro Championship also featured many of the Colorado PGA’s incredible partners, whom we cannot thank enough for supporting this event and many more throughout the year. In attendance Monday were Masek Rocky Mountain Golf Cars, Wilson, Under Armour, EvolveGolf, and Tagmarshal.

The Colorado PGA’s Section event schedule will resume in one week as the section hosts Professionals and Club Officials alike as we head to TPC Colorado in Berthoud, Colorado, on May 30th for the resurgent 2023 Pro-Official Championship.

To view the final leaderboard, CLICK HERE

To view the full photo album, CLICK HERE

Junior Golf 27 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Tournament News

THE PRO-OFFICIAL CHAMPIONSHIP IS BACK AND RETURNS TO TPC COLORADO FOR A DAY OF EDUCATION AND GOLF

Berthoud, Colo - The Colorado PGA Section (COPGA) partnered with TPC Colorado on Tuesday, May 30th, to bring back the Pro-Official Championship This event brought together all the leading associations and golf constituents for a day of golf, education, and networking The host - the Colorado PGA Section, was in attendance along with the Colorado Golf Association, the Mile High Chapter of the CMAA, the Rocky Mountain Golf Course Superintendents Association, and the National Golf Course Owners Association were included in the crowd The panel was led by PGA of America Regional Director Keith Soriano, PGA The panel included Cathy Matthews-Kane, PGA Colorado Section President; Kate Drimel, PGA of America Recruiter; Jason Murphy, PGA Club Manager at Columbine Country Club; and Rachel Carter, Membership Director of the National Golf Course Owners Association The panel discussion was based on the “Club Pro Crisis” article that came out from Golf Digest this past year

Following the education session in the morning came an afternoon full of golf at a venue unlike any other. As the day grew older and the light on the mountains in the distance slowly changed shades, it was the perfect backdrop for a dramatic photo finish to the championship, with six groups tying for second place. Playing an 18-hole four-person scramble format, the scores were low, and the number to beat at 16-under-par (56). That’s just what the team led by COPGA Professional and Director of Golf of Lakewood Country Club, Ben Honaman, PGA, did. Honaman, along with his team of Jon Clay, Joe Kunzie, and Brandon Ideker, carded 13 birdies and two eagles on the round for a total score of 17-under-par (55), narrowly beating out the large pack tied for second

Of course, a newly rejuvenated tournament like the Pro-Official only deserves to have some of our best partners on site! Setup throughout the course, we were so thankful to have UnderArmour, Tagmarshal, and Membersports on board and to get to know our members as they navigated TPC Colorado The Pro-Official Championship was also supported by some of our other fantastic partners, including Colorado Golf and Turf, Strackaline, VIBE Tumblers, and PGA Career Services

To view the full photo album, CLICK HERE To view the final leaderboard, CLICK HERE

Junior Golf 28 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Tournament News

GEAR UP FOR THIS YEAR'S ASSISTANTS CHAMPIONSHIP AT RED ROCKS CC!

PLAYERHOUSING,BOURBONTASTING,ANDLARGEST PURSEINRECENTHISTORY

Director of Golf Ron DeJacimo, PGA, and the membership of Red Rocks Country Club welcome Assistant Professionals and Associates to join them for the 2023 Colorado PGA Assistants Championship to be held on August 7th & 8th This season marks a tremendous threshold for their club as we they come out of a 4 2-million-dollar renovation project to our greens and surrounds They could not be prouder of our course's transformation over the past year

The Red Rocks CC membership is extremely excited to host the Colorado PGA Section Assistants They even have asked for those members who may be interested in being Host Families for Assistants who would like to stay on property to please let them know and the response has been overwhelming!

TO RESERVE YOUR PLAYER HOUSING FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP - CLICK HERE

*Housing requests will be on a first come-first-serve basis based on supply*

2023 CHAMPIONSHIP ENHANCEMENTS

Housing for players to help save on travel costs (see above)

No cart or greens fees which we anticipate can help raise the purse to the highest purse we have ever seen for this championship at close to $9k or $10k

Breakfast and lunch will be provided on both days this year.

There will be a bourbon tasting, putting contest, and closest to the pin for additional cash prizes the evening after round one.

Just like the Section Championship, the top golf club manufacturers will be on-site on Day One to handle the equipment needs of players. And more!

"This is YOUR Major, and our goal is to treat it as such Once on the property, you will be our guest, and we look forward to sharing this fantastic event with you! Be ready for something special!" said Director of Golf Ron DeJacimo, PGA

Junior Golf 29 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Assistants Championship

In Loving Memory

H COLORADO PILLAR ENTS ANNOUNCED

Mike Steiner, PGA

12.4.60 - 5.22.23

It is with a heavy heart to pass along that one of our own, PGA Professional Mike Steiner, passed away in May. Mike came to the Colorado Section from PGA National Golf Club to work at The Country Club of the Rockies under Tom Apple in 1985. He progressed to becoming the Head Professional at Singletree, now Sonnenalp Golf Club He then went to Eagle Springs Golf Club as its initial Head Professional, then General Manager, and ultimately CEO and Club President Mike had been in that role since 2005.

He will be remembered as the kindest, most attentive, loving husband, son, brother, friend, and colleague. He exuded integrity, honesty, and excellence throughout his marriage, career, and life. He will be missed by all involved in the game of golf around Colorado

Mike is survived by his wife Judy, who was quoted saying, "From garbage collectors to CEOs, “he treated everyone the same."

Tom Apple, PGA, as his former boss at The CC of the Rockies, said, "Our Section, the membership at Eagle Springs, the Vail Valley, and the world of golf has lost one of the finest gentlemen I’ve met and worked with in my 50 years in the golf industry "

Mike was 62 when he passed in a boating accident in Northern Wisconsin.

Read about the life and legacy of Mike HERE

Junior Golf
30 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Membership Matters

2022 WEST CHAPTER AWARD WINNERS

The West Chapter Awards Program is an annual initiative in which PGA Professionals in the Colorado PGA West Chapter are nominated by their colleagues in all different areas of expertise - celebrating the best of the best in the Chapter Not noted or pictured below are both Camille Enright (Women's Player of the Year) and Mike Bryant (Salesperson of the Year) due to their recent moves out of the Section.

Congratulations to the West Chapter Professionals who continue to do incredible work for the game of golf at their respected facilities and communities! View each individual award winner video by clicking on the pictures below.

WARRENSMITHAWARD

The Warren Smith Award is awarded to a PGA Professional for special contributions to the game of golf, the Colorado Section, junior golf, and to their facility The successful candidate will bestow special recognition for outstanding contributions to the game and the Section Contributions to community charities, junior golf, and facility are some of the criteria considered The honor should be awarded based on a professional’s entire career as a PGA Member Due to the special circumstances of this award, the Committee reserves the right only to recognize an individual for this award when warranted

BILLSTRAUSBAUGHAWARD

Established in 1979, the Bill Strausbaugh Award is presented to a PGA Professional who, by their day-to-day efforts, has distinguished themselves by mentoring their fellow PGA Professionals in improving their employment situations and through service to the community The award reflects the characteristics and qualities of Strausbaugh, a Middle Atlantic PGA Master Professional who died in 1999 Award candidates should demonstrate a record of service to their Section or Association, leadership ability, involvement in civic activities and local charitable causes within their community, and be recognized as someone of outstanding character

Junior Golf 31 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT West Chapter Awards

PRIVATEMERCHANDISEROFTHEYEAR

The Merchandiser of the Year award recognizes Colorado PGA Members who have demonstrated superior skills as merchandisers in the promotion of golf Awarded in three categories (Private, Resort, and Public/Municipal/Military/Semi-Private), credit rating, community involvement, staffing, inventory, displays, and merchandising techniques are some of the criteria considered for this award.

TEACHEROFTHEYEAR

This award bestows special recognition on a Colorado PGA Professional for excellence in golf instruction, along with overall performance While the candidate's entire record should be taken into consideration, emphasis should be placed on a member's performance over the past three years. Promotion of golf, use of teaching aids, involvement in junior golf activities, teaching techniques, service to the Section as a volunteer instructor at Section clinics, and articles published are some of the criteria considered for this award

ASSISTANTPROFESSIONALOFTHEYEAR

This award is designed to recognize a Colorado PGA Professional 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

YOUTHPLAYERDEVELOPMENTAWARD

The Colorado PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year is awarded to a PGA Member or Associate for Overall Performance, including leadership and service, and promotion of the game of golf Overall Performance at the member's facility, level of service to the PGA Section and to the Association, Colorado PGA Assistant Professional Association, and image as a golf professional are some of the criteria considered for this award. Finally, active participation in programs such as tournaments, education, and volunteer service to the Section is considered

Junior Golf
32 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT West Chapter
Continued
Awards

PATRIOTAWARD

The Patriot Award is presented to a Colorado PGA Professional 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

GOLFPROFESSIONALOFTHEYEAR

The Colorado PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award is determined annually by The Colorado PGA to honor the working PGA Professional whose total contributions to the game best exemplify the complete PGA Professional Originally suggested by Richard S Tufts of Pinehurst, N C , former president of the United States Golf Association, the award embraces a wide range of services executed by the PGA Professional The highest annual honor bestowed upon a PGA Professional, the award is based on the candidate’s entire record, with special emphasis placed on performance andachievement over the past five years in the following criteria: overall performance as a PGA Professional at his/her facility; service to the Colorado PGA Section; leadership ability; image and ability to inspire fellow PGA Professionals; and promotion of golf.

PLAYEROFTHEYEAR&SENIORPLAYEROFTHEYEAR

Awarded to the individual with the highest cumulative total from the Senior playing performance points list. Individuals must be Class A members, Master Professionals or Life Members over the age of 50 (as of the start of an event) to be awarded playing performance points in this division

Junior Golf 33 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT West Chapter Awards Continued

The Colorado PGA's Elevation Podcast is Back in 2023!

In 2020, the Colorado PGA began The Elevation Podcast with the intention of bringing educational content of all kinds to our PGA Members. We are back with a new look and ready to take on our fourth year with new guests, topics, and a new logo. Look for new episode drops twice a month, and make sure to subscribe on your favorite Podcast platform so you don't miss any future episodes. The Elevation Podcast is available on Apple, iHeart Radio, SoundCloud, and Spotify

Check out our latest episodes!

Junior Golf 34 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT Elevation Podcast
Guest Dr. Rick Sessinghaus, PGA Co-founder, FlowCode Golf Academy Guest Ian Crick, PGA Director of Golf, StrackaLine

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.
Questions on Deferred Compensation can be submitted HERE 1
DISCLAIMER Please note that the PGA of America’s Member Deferred Compensation Program (the “Program”) will be governed by plan documents that are still under development This communication provides general information about the Program Further details and clarifications will be provided when the applicable plan documents are shared in early 2023

Spring Numbers Show Incredible Growth

Team Colorado PGA -

With Summer upon us, I’m excited to provide your PGA REACH Colorado update, highlighting our Section's tremendous programs and initiatives through our charitable arm. Thank you to all involved for your time, dedication, and passion in driving the positive impact golf continues to have across our communities!

Golf In Schools:

42% increase in children impacted in schools and a 93% increase in children attending field trips this spring compared to fall of 2022.

PGA HOPE:

We have 440 veterans/military personnel signed up for our programming in 2023, double the number we served in 2022

PGA HOPE Ambassador:

Due to our growth and strategic plan, we have been approved for a third Ambassador! Our new Ambassador, Jay Millar, was nominated by our PGA HOPE Instructor and PGA Professional, Visanu Tongwarin (Coach V), and this additional position will give us a broader presence across our Section Millar will receive training at Congressional later this year as part of the 2023 National Golf & Wellness Week

PGA Junior League:

78 total engaged facilities, 77 coaches, and 2,304 players.

Junior Golf Pathway Tours

Over 1,000 junior tour members and growing! This is over 400 more than in 2022

Our Section team is conducting 91 junior tour events this year, 36 more than in 2022 2023 PGA REACH

Women's Leadership Scholarships

Colorado Women’s Leadership Scholarships – Congratulations to Sari Schrock and Abbie Nelson, both UCCS Golf Management Students We wish them all the best in their education and career aspirations in the future!

Financial Aid Grants - We also have been able to roll out a grant program to get equipment in kids' hands and money to afford to play in our junior golf events PGA REACH Colorado is proud to announce a new collaboration intended to provide access to the game of golf for kids who may not be able to afford it otherwise.

Thanks to all those involved in this remarkable initiative for their commitment to this collaborative effort to make a positive difference in the lives of our youth. Please spread the word around your communities and encourage those who may benefit from this opportunity to participate.

PGA REACH Board Chairman's Message
37 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT

Thanks to new and existing partnerships, we have also been able to bring back the Growth of the Game grants that directly benefit PGA Members through enhanced programming: Pillar Grants - PGA Members and allied associations can receive grants up to $3,000 that can help fund operations, staffing, and equipment for programming that is directly in line with our three pillars. On the next page, you can find all the deserving Pillar Grant Recipients Congratulations to all of them for their outstanding programs and initiatives and their positive impacts on our communities!

Please help us spread the word and encourage participation in our Junior Golf Tour as we continue to invest time and resources in this critical growth of the game component! The new junior golf has the opportunity to change the future of the game and our industry for the better We still have room in our junior tournaments and continue to encourage our PGA Members to promote

Finally, to you, our Members, Associates, Students, Trustees, and Partners - thank you for your continued support to PGA REACH Colorado and our three pillars, and for everything you do daily in support of your fellow PGA Professionals and our golfing communities - let’s keep driving awareness for continued long-term growth!

Very Respectfully,

PGA REACH Board Chairman's Message 38 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT

2023 PGA REACH COLORADO PILLAR GRANT RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED

In 2023, the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation provided over $30,000 in grants to programming throughout the Colorado Section to support youth, military, and/or diverse populations. We encourage all Colorado PGA Members and Associates to offer growth of the game programs at their facilities or within their communities and this grant program will help recipients initiate the process or to enhance and strengthen an existing program

Junior Golf 39 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT
Grants, Scholarships and Financial Aid

2023 PGA REACH COLORADO PILLAR GRANT RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED

Junior Golf 40 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT
Grants, Scholarships and Financial Aid

9th Mortgage Free Home to be Donated

Dear Colorado PGA Section,

PGA REACH Colorado has been a growing force for delivering on pillars we’ve committed ourselves to. Through the good work and generosity of our section leadership, our section professionals, our REACH trustees, and our donors, our tangible progress has been tremendous

PGA REACH Colorado will soon host our annual Invitational tournament The annual event will be hosted over two days We kick off on the evening of July 17 at Bear Dance with entertainment, camaraderie, and some fundraising activities Most importantly, we will celebrate our tenth year partnering with Military Warriors Support Foundation and 9th home awarded to a combat-wounded veteran that evening We will follow that on July 18 with our golf event for even more fun and camaraderie

Our ability to positively impact the lives of military veterans has been a keystone for our organization As mentioned above, we will award a ninth mortgage-free home to a combat-wounded veteran this year through our partnerships with the Military Warriors Support Foundation and Wells Fargo. As I think back on the amazing heroes we’ve been able to assist, my heart is humbled, and my gratitude is multiplied.

This year, PGA REACH Colorado is awarding a home to Zachary Ruttman of Tulsa, OK (pictured to the right) He enlisted in the US Air Force immediately after the 9/11 attacks. He served in the Tactical Forces Group, Team II of the 506th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron. Zac has been awarded the Purple Heart, the Air Force Combat Action Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal with Valor, the Iraq Campaign Medal, and as well as other commendations. Zac is a Mentor in the Air Force Wounded Warriors Program and is competing in adaptive sports Zac is a father of two young boys who receive much of his time and energy

We thank all of you for your continued support of PGA REACH Colorado as we look forward to this milestone award

All the best,

PGA REACH Trustee Chair Message 41 Spring 2023 The SUMMIT

GRADUATIONS GALORE!

JUNE 30, 2023

THANKYOUTOALLTHECOLORADOPGAPROFESSIONALS WHOHAVEHOSTEDPGAHOPESESSIONSSOFARTHISYEAR!

CONGRATULATIONSTOTHECOPGAMEMBERSWHO BECAMECERTIFIEDATHOPETRAINING#2!

Stefanie Ferguson, PGA, Experience Golf

Gilbert Garcia, Cheyenne Shadows at Fort Carson

Miles Haines, PGA, Experience Golf

Maggie Hartman, PGA, Experience Golf

Jon Husby, PGA, UCCS - PGM

Jaime Michas, PGA, Experience Golf

Chad Miller, PGA, GOLFTEC - Chapel Hills

Jim Miller, PGA, Sonnenalp Golf Club

Jeff Perkins, PGA, Four Mile Ranch Golf Club

Leighton Smith, PGA, Tribe Golf

Ty Thompson, PGA, Two Tees Strategies

42 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT PGA HOPE Training and Graduations

ABOUT 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

Justin Limon,
PGA HOPE Colorado Lead jlimon@pgahq.com | 303-996-1588
PGA
44 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT
Premier
Thank you to our Section Partners 45 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT
Title Presenting
Supporting Thank you to our Section Partners 46 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT

Thank you to our Foundation Partners

PGA REACH Colorado Partners

47 Summer 2023 The SUMMIT

Articles inside

GRADUATIONS GALORE!

1min
pages 44-49

9th Mortgage Free Home to be Donated

1min
pages 42-43

Spring Numbers Show Incredible Growth

2min
pages 38-39

Deferred Compensation Overview

2min
pages 36-37

PATRIOTAWARD

1min
page 34

TEACHEROFTHEYEAR

1min
page 33

2022 WEST CHAPTER AWARD WINNERS

1min
pages 32-33

In Loving Memory H COLORADO PILLAR ENTS ANNOUNCED

1min
page 31

GEAR UP FOR THIS YEAR'S ASSISTANTS CHAMPIONSHIP AT RED ROCKS CC!

1min
page 30

THE PRO-OFFICIAL CHAMPIONSHIP IS BACK AND RETURNS TO TPC COLORADO FOR A DAY OF EDUCATION AND GOLF

1min
page 29

TEAM OF HYTEN AND CLIFF CONQUER LAKEWOOD AT STRACKALINE MYRAN CRAIG PRO-PRO

1min
page 28

TEAM OF GILLMOR, FISCHER AND TROYER WIN FIRST PRO-ONLY EVENT OF 2023

1min
page 27

LONG-TIME PARTNER COLORADO GOLF & TURF ENHANCES SUPPORT FOR 2023 TO FOCUS ON CHAMPIONSHIP PURSES

1min
page 26

PGA MEMBER RYAN FLAMM EARNS PGA MASTER PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATION

1min
pages 23-25

FIRSTACTIVATIONWILLREVITALIZEGOLFPROGRAMAT DENVERWESTHIGHSCHOOL

2min
pages 20-22

KLEIN, LEE WIN MIZUNO AURORA JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP

1min
pages 18-19

KLEIN, LEE WIN MIZUNO AURORA JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP

1min
page 17

Financial Aid for Juniors Article Continued

1min
page 16

FinancialAidAvailableforGolf EquipmentandJuniorTournament

1min
page 15

COLORADO PGA PROFESSIONALS COMMIT TO JUNIOR GOLF THROUGH THE NEW PLAYER PATHWAY AFTER JGAC DISSOLVED

1min
page 14

Jeramy Curry, PGA Raises $11,600 to Support Junior Golf

2min
page 13

April-JuneQuarter CenturyMembers

1min
pages 11-12

A Message From Our Player Engagement Director

1min
page 10

You Are Here.

2min
page 9

CEO Message Continued...

1min
pages 7-8

Colorado PGA Members Continue to be on the Front Line of Growing the Game

2min
page 6

A Mid-Season Update

2min
page 4
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