MEMBER MEMBER
MIKE PAPSON, PGA
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
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.
MIKEPAPSON,PGA
Head Golf Professional, Valley Brook Country Club Vice President, Tri-State Section PGA
What is your GO-TO?
Music?
Dave Matthews Band
Type of Movie?
Spielberg Movies
Food?
Sheetz MTO
Club in your Bag?
Mini Driver
TRI-STATE
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
MIKE PAPSON, PGA
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.
I am a train collector.
What is the best part of your game?
What is the best round of Golf you have shot?
During a rainstorm, I shot a 74 at Shawnee on the Delaware to win the 1996 Pennsylvania Junior Invitational.
Can you name two of your favorite golf courses that you've played and what makes them unique to you?
Figuring a way to get the ball in the hole. Where did you grow up?
Valley Brook Country Club - It’s made everything possible for my family.
The Ocean Course - It’s amazing
Washington, PA
Tell us a liitle bit about your family.
I am married to Melissa, my wife of 23 years, and we have two children, Benjamin Hogan (19) and Abigail Rose (15).
TRI-STATE
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
MIKE PAPSON, PGA
What initially drew you to the game of Golf, and how did you get started?
The 1987 US Open and TC Chen. My dad was a good player, and we would putt it into a cup on the front porch.
Please give us some insight into your prior positions. I started at Valley Brook Country Club in 1997 in the bag room. My friends got me the job, and the rest is history. I’ve done every job along the way. I also had a two-year apprenticeship at Shannopin, which was great. I really am the luckiest PGA professional around.
What made you decide to pursue a career in the PGA of America?
I’ve wanted to be a PGA professional since I was a freshman in high school and played Valley Brook CC for the first time. I started to play at age 10 and always loved to help players with their game, and I instantly fell in love with Valley Brook. My love of helping other golfers started at age 19 with my first instructor, PGA Professional Tom Gunther.
TRI-STATE
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
MIKE PAPSON, PGA
Talk about being a PGA of America member, what it means, and having PGA after your name.
Having that logo next to my name is a tremendous honor. It is such a huge part of my identity and brings me great pride to be a part of such a storied association.
What wisdom can you offer about golf careers and the importance of becoming a PGA member/achieving membership status?
A PGA Professional is an expert in the game and business of golf. To truly leave the game better than you found it, you will need the association to help you along the way.
If you could play one round of golf with any three people (alive or deceased), who would it be with?
My wife Melissa, son Ben, and daughter Abby. They don’t play, but they are my biggest fans.