Welcome to the TSPGA's Member Spotlight, where we shine a light on the exceptional PGA of America Tri-State Section professionals elevating the game of golf. This feature delves into our members' stories, achievements, and dedication to golf, their families, and life. Join us in learning more and celebrating the outstanding individuals who embody the spirit and excellence of the PGA of America Tri-State Section.
Head Golf Professional at St. Clair Country Club
What is your go-to Music?
I listen to both kinds of music: Country and Western. �� I’ve always been a country fan.
What is your go-to type of Movie?
I like all sorts of movies, but my favorite is Forrest Gump. If I’m flipping and it’s on, my wife gives me the death stare.
What is your go-to Food?
Italian
What is your go-to type of Snack?
Lays Potato Chips
What is your go-to Club in your bag?
My Putter
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.
I sang in a country band back in the day and was pretty sure on a trip to Nashville that I would be the next Hank Williams Jr. It’s still a work in progress.
What is the best part of your game?
I am a good putter and driver of the ball. Apparently, there is more to it than that. It’s another work in progress, but I still love playing as much as possible.
What is your best round of Golf?
I fired -8 on a par 70 when I was growing up.
Can you describe your two favorite golf courses that you’ve played and what makes them unique to you?
Man, that’s a tough question. I have been so lucky to play some great spots. I have played Augusta a few times, and that was really special. There are some pretty cool stories about how both invitations came about. But the history, being on the grounds, and being behind the scenes of my favorite Major of the year was really cool.
Old Head might be another one I would add to my list. Not necessarily the second-best course, but my trips overseas and the members and buddies I was with made all those overseas trips really special. Playing a good golf course with great people is more important to me than playing a great course with a group that is no fun.
Where did you grow up?
Weirton, West Virginia
Tell us a little bit about your family. I have been married to Kim for 23 years and have two children, Brody, 21, and Davis, 18.
What initially drew you to the game of Golf, and how did you get started?
My dad introduced us to Golf when we were 4 years old. He was a really good player with an awesome short game. We spent all of our spare time playing Golf or hitting balls. Then, you find all the other kids who used the golf course as a daycare, and we all just played Golf and became golf junkies. Those are some of the best memories of growing up; those guys are still my best friends, and we still get together and tee it up.
Please give us some insight into your prior positions. Ned Weaver was my mentor early on and gave me some opportunities to start caddying at Williams CC, work outside at Montour CC, and then at Southpointe GC and Diamond Run GC. I got my first opportunity to be a Head Professional in Charlotte, NC, at The Point Lake & Golf Club; the Trump family purchased the Club in 2009. I stayed there for 20 years and then was lucky enough to earn the opportunity to come back home and finish my career at St. Clair CC. I have really had an awesome career so far. Very lucky!
What made you decide to pursue a career in the PGA of America?
Ned Weaver really was the guy who instilled the desire to become a PGA member. Ned was 28 and in his first role as a Head Professional at Williams back in the 80s. I always admired how the members looked up to the pro, and always wanted a bit of his time, and I thought that was really cool. Luckily for you guys, I did not inherit his style. Nobody can rock the pleated pants like my man Steady!! I love that guy like a big brother to this day. We still talk all the time.
Discuss what it means to be a PGA of America member and the significance of having PGA after your name.
PLAY, GROW, ADMIRE. I am very proud of my PGA badgeearning membership. It’s almost like being in a 30,000person fraternity in which we all share this same passion. It’s hard to explain, but there have not been too many days in my 30+ year career where I was driving to work and thought, I just don’t want to go to work today. The old saying, find something you love to do, and you’ll never work a day in your life, is a true statement.
Golf careers within the PGA are vast; what wisdom can you offer about golf careers and the importance of becoming a PGA member/achieving membership status?
Find a path within the PGA that you genuinely enjoy and strive to become the best at it. Surround yourself with many talented professionals, as their influence is invaluable. Remember, you’re never too old to learn! Make it a goal to improve yourself every day.
If you could play one round of Golf with any three people (alive or deceased), who would it be with?
I would play with my dad and my two boys.
Accolades/Recognition:
PGA Professional of the Year (TSPGA)
Presidents Plaque Recipient (CPGA)
Bill Strausbaugh Award Nominee (CPGA)