The Mountain State of Golf

The Mountain State of Golf Volume 2, Issue 2, Spring 2022

89th WVOPEN Championship preview The 89th playing of the West Virginia Open Championship (WVOPEN) will take place June 22-24 at Stonewall Resort in Roanoke, West Virginia. The 6726-yard course will be the state’s ultimate test for the 120 professional and amateur golfers who have qualified for this year’s championship. Stonewall Resort is celebrating its 20th year in existence and the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA) is bringing its premiere championship to this venue this year for the very first time. This year‘s Pro-Am will kick-start the week on Monday, June 20, where our sponsors will have the chance to play and interact with the professionals in this year‘s field. Tuesday will feature player practice rounds and the annual Coke Shootout as part of the week’s festivities. Coca-Cola is one of the longest-standing WVOPEN partners. The Coke Shootout features the top five professionals and the top five amateurs from the 2021 WVOPEN

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Championship. Professionals will include David Bradshaw, Kenny Hess, Sam Berry, Thadd Obecny, Trevor Hedges and host golf professional Mike Rogers. Amateurs will include Nicholas Fleming, Christian Boyd, Ryan Bilby, Jess Ferrell and Joseph Kalaskey. The format for the Coke Shootout is that all 11 golfers will tee off from hole number one and will eliminate a golfer of the first hole and another golfer on each of the remaining eight holes, until there is one player left to claim the trophy. The Coke Shootout is open to the public and is a lot of fun to watch. The shoot out will begin at 3 PM. Wednesday the 132-player field will tee off in the first round of this year’s Championship.

Tee times will be a split wave with the morning wave starting at 7:30 and the afternoon wave beginning at 12:30. Thursday’s second round will feature the same 132 players with the same waves of starting times. After round two, the low 60 scores and ties will advance to Friday’s final round.

Past champions in the field include 12-time and defending champion David Bradshaw, 2020 Kenny Hess (2020), Christian Brand (2014-2015), Craig Berner (2005), Jonathan Clark (2001 and 2012) and John Ross (1997 and 1999). The field also contains 2022 West Virginia Mid-Amateur Champion Jess Ferrell, reigning West Virginia Senior Open Champion Pat Carter and 2022 Junior Match Play Champion Tanner Walls. The youngest player in the field is Tommy Evans at age 13 and our oldest competitor is John Ross at the age of 70. You can follow along with live scoring of the 89th West Virginia open by CLICKING HERE.

2022 WVGA season opens with sold-out event to crown first champions of the year A chilly start to the 2022 West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA) greeted the sold-out field of 112 golfers at the Two-Person Scramble event on the Palmer Course at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling on Saturday.

“Temperatures dipped into the mid-30s all day, with a combination of rain, sleet and snow throughout the day,” said WVGA Executive Director Brad Ullman.

Leaders on the men’s side at the end of day one play were Cam Roam and Sam O’Dell, both of Huntington, with a nine under par 62. “Conditions were brutal. Cam hit the ball great and came through with a couple of his best shots when I needed him the most,” O’Dell said. “I putted the ball well today. We feel like we left a few out there but, all things considered, we were happy with our start.”

Behind them, tied for second, were the teams of Nick Alex of Bridgeport/Ian Hogue of Clarksburg and Seth Kinder of Daniels/Mark Wilcox of Huntington.

In the Senior Division, Jay Kaufmann of Mineral Wells and Patrick Allen of Pennsboro have a one-shot lead with a four under par 67 over defending Senior Division champions Tim Mount of Huntington and Van Stemple of Shepherdstown. “It was brutally hard today with the weather,” Kaufmann said. “We had rain, sleet, snow and sunshine.”

“We are excited to host the first WVGA event of the 2022 season,” said Oglebay’s General Manager of Golf Operations Danny Ackerman.

“There are excellent conditions on both the Palmer and Jones courses, but they’re a little soft because of recent rains.”

Other highlights of the day included Susan Glasby of Huntington and Cathleen Wong of Parkersburg each scoring seven birdies and one eagle during the first day of play.

In addition, the leading team of Roam/O’Dell scored a combined 10 birdies, while the Kinker/Wilcox team scored nine birdies and Alex/

Hogue scored eight birdies.

After the final round of play, winners in the Championship Division were Jeremy Vallet of Logan and Cory Hoshor of Scott Depot, with a 17 under par 125 for the two-day tournament.

They overtook first-day leaders Cam Roam and Sam O’Dell, both of Huntington, for the win.

Leaders on the women’s side were Kathleen Wong of Parkersburg and Susan Glasby of Huntington, leading by eight after shooting a seven under par 64. “We played really well for the most part,” Wong said. “We ham and egged it good, missed in the right spots and didn’t make any big mistakes.”

“It was a very solid round of golf,” said Senior Division winner Stemple said. “Tim hit some great drives and I made a couple putts and it worked out in the end.” Mount added, “I hit some good iron shots and he can putt. He can putt really, really well, some of the best I’ve ever seen.”

“We always enjoy working with the WVGA and their golfers,” said Oglebay’s General Manager of Golf Operations Danny Ackerman. “We were hoping for better weather, but this is April in West Virginia.”

“We congratulate all of our winners today to kick off our 2022 season,” said WVGA Executive Director Brad Ullman.

Two-Ball Champtions Jeremy Vallet and Cory Hoshor.

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High school teammates Cook and Walls crowned Junior Match Play champions Two teammates from Westside High School in Oceana have earned the titles of 2022 Junior Match Play champions. The event, for players under 18 and conducted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), had two qualifiers and a two-day championship.

The first qualifier took place at Bel Meadow Golf Club in Mt. Clare. Girls qualifying for the Championship were: Savannah Hawkins; Brielle Milhoan; and Audrey Kerr. Boys qualifying for the Championship were: Cameron Jarvis; Zan Hill; Bryson Beaver; Gavin Goodrich; McCartney Hinkle; Andrew Pennybacker; Campbell Koegler; Mario Palumbo; and Drew Matlick.

“Our course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, is an enjoyable and playable course,” said Bel Meadow co-owner Randy Workman. “This is the third year we’ve hosted a Junior Match Play Qualifier, and we’re pleased to try to help these young kids, since they’re the future of our sport.”

The second qualifier took place at Edgewood Country Club in Sissonville. Eleven players qualified. Girls qualifying for the Championship were: Taylor Sargent; Kerri-Anne Cook; Maddie Erwin; Anna Earl; and Sidnea Belville.

Boys qualifying for the Championship were: Anderson Goldman; Jack Michael; Jackson Woodburn; Benjamin March; Austin Willard; and Tanner Walls.

“It is always a pleasure hosting any of the WVGA events. Brad and his staff are always prepared and very well organized which makes my job very easy,” said Edgewood’s PGA Head Golf Professional Craig Berner. “Kenny and his staff have the golf course in wonderful condition.”

The 2022 Junior Match Play Championship took place at Parkersburg Country Club. Eight girls and 16 boys started the tournament in the morning; their biggest battle of the day was a three and a half hour weather delay in the morning.

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The boys’ semifinals saw: Zan Hill v Tanner Walls and Argyle Downes v Gavin Goodrich.

The girls’ championship featured: Taylor Sargent of Milton and Kerri-Anne Cooke of Oceana.

“It’s fun to watch these kids get to experience match play in the season’s first state championship for junior golf,” said Parkersburg’s Head Golf Professional Scott Davidson.

Kerri-Anne Cook of Oceana defeated Milton’s Taylor Sargent 1 up to win the girls’ championship. “I want to thank Parkersburg Country Club for their hospitality,” Cook said. “I was happy to finally win the Match Play Championship after winning the 2021 WVGA Junior Amateur Championship.”

On the boys’ side, Tanner Walls of Matheny defeated Zan Hill of Daniels in 22 holes for the first semi-final match, while Gavin Goodrich of Wheeling topped Argyle Downes of Charles Town 4 & 2 in the second semi-final.

Walls went on to win 1 up over Goodrich for the title. “It’s a good start to the summer before I begin college golf this fall,” Walls said. “I appreciate everything the Parkersburg Country Club people did to make this a great event.”

Parkersburg’s Head Golf Professional Scott Davidson said, “It’s always special to crown the champions on Mother’s Day.” Click here for the complete leaderboard.

Jess Ferrell wins 2022 WV Mid-Amateur Championship in Weirton The first day of play in the 2022 Mid-Amateur Championship, presented by Pikewood Energy and conducted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), took place at Williams Country Club in Weirton. The field of 54 started the day with stroke play, then a round of match play between 32 players to reduce the second day of play to 16 golfers.

Woody Woodward of Bridgeport fired a six under par 66 to lead the field after stroke play.

There was a four-way playoff to determine the 31st and 32nd seeds.

“We are excited to be here in the Northern Panhandle to conduct this championship,” said WVGA Executive Director Brad Ullman.

“We’re very thankful for Williams Country Club being this year’s host as well as Pikewood Energy for once again being our presenting sponsor.”

Williams’ Head Golf Pro Brian Grogan said, “Today was cool and breezy, even windy, but the course is in good shape and the greens are firm and fast.”

The following players made up the Sweet 16: (1) Woody Woodward v. (16) Nick Alex; (8) Cam Roam v. (24) Ben Ramsey; (4) Ryan Crabtree v. (13) Jess Ferrell; (5) Philip Reale v. (12) Cory Hoshor; (2) Sam O’Dell v. (15) Jonathan Clark; (26) Andrew Strope v. (10) Davey Jude; (3) Josh Arbaugh v. (19) Trenton Roush; and (6) Ryan Mason v. (22) Ryan Bashour.

The round of 16 featured some of the best amateur golfers in West Virginia, including twotime West Virginia Open Champion Jonathan Clark, four-time West Virginia Amateur Champion and five-time West Virginia Mid-Amateur Champion Sam O’Dell, as well as Philip Reale, the reigning West Virginia Amateur Champion and past Mid-Amateur Champion, plus past Mid-Amateur Champion Cam Roam.

In the morning action, top seed Woody Woodward won four & three over Nick Alex. Other results were: Cam Roam won 3 & 2 over Ben

Ramsey; Jess Ferrell won 2 up over Ryan Crabtree; Philip A. Reale won 2 up over Cory Hoshor; Sam O’Dell won 3 & 2 over Jonathan Clark; Davey Jude won 7 & 5 over Aaron Strobe; Josh Arbaugh defeated Trent Roush in 19 holes; and Ryan Bashour defeated Ryan Mason 1 up.

As the final match of the quarterfinals teed off in the afternoon, there was 30-minute delay for inclement weather as lightning surrounded the area. After play resumed, the quarterfinals saw the final match between Josh Arbaugh and Ryan Bashour extend to 21 holes, with Arbaugh emerging victorious. Quarterfinal winners were: Roam defeats Woodward 2&1; Ferrell defeats Reale 2&1; Odell defeats Jude 2&1; and Arbaugh defeats Bashour in 21 holes.

Williams’ Head Golf Pro Brian Grogan said, “Even with the challenging weather, we are thrilled to have the West Virginia Golf Association and these outstanding golfers here in the Northern Panhandle.”

On the final day of competition, Jess Ferrell won 2 up over four-time West Virginia Amateur Champion and five-time West Virginia Mid-Amateur Champion Sam O’Dell following the morning matches.

Williams’ Head Golf Pro Brian Grogan said, “Club selection was an issue, but the winners overcame the elements each day.”

Click here for a complete leaderboard.

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2022 West Virginia Senior Open closely contested; win goes to Pat Carter The West Virginia Senior Open, hosted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), had three players under par after the first day of play at the Parkersburg Country Club, but the second day saw Pat Carter of Hurricane take his third consecutive Senior Open title and his first win of the season at the Parkersburg Country Club.

Carter led the field on the first day with a three under par 70, scoring five birdies along the way.

Ty Roush of Mason was one behind, followed

by John Ross of Freeman in third place at the end of the first day’s play.

Scott Bibbee of Vienna was leading the Senior Division with a one under par 72.

“We’re excited to host this championship for this first time, and it adds to a long list of WVGA championships we’ve hosted,” said Parkersburg’s Head Golf Pro Scott Davidson.

“We’re glad for the golfers to see our layout and have an opportunity to test their skills.

“We’re thrilled to host this championship at Parkersburg Country Club,” said WVGA Director of Operations and Tournaments Chris Slack.

“The course conditions are incredible and we’re looking forward to the final round.”

Carter, who scored a total of 10 birdies over the two-day event, finished the Senior Open at five under par 141. Ty Roush of Mason finished four behind, followed by Michael Koreski of Parkersburg in third place at the end of the event.

“I enjoyed today with Ty (Roush) and John (Ross). These guys played goof and it was a great

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test of golf,” Carter said.

“Scott Davidson and Parkersburg Country Club deserve thanks for another great event.

The course was great.”

Scott Bibbee of Vienna took top honors in the Senior Division with a two over par 148, scoring nine birdies along the way, followed by Mike Chapman of Athens, Ohio and Hank Middlemas of Fairmont.

“Pat is the most decorated amateur golfer in our state,” said WVGA Executive Director Brad Ullman. “Three Senior Open titles in a row is certainly special.”

“We looked forward to getting the best professional and amateur players together and see who came out on top,” said Parkersburg’s Head Golf Pro Scott Davidson.

“On behalf of the WVGA, I’d just say congratulations to Pat Carter on his third consecutive Senior Open championship,” said WVGA Director of Operations and Tournaments Chris Slack. “This was a good mix of professionals and amateurs and Pat played great to take the title over two other past champions.”

Click here to see the final leaderboard.

49th West Virginia Women’s Senior Amateur Championship sees Daneen Shears win the 2022 title The 49th Playing of the West Virginia Women’s Senior Amateur Championship, conducted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), concluded June 14 at Pipestem Resort State Park, with Daneen Shears of Elizabeth winning with a six-stroke lead over three-time Champion Karen Kinnett of Shepherdstown.

All division winners were: • Championship Flight: Daneen Shears of Elizabeth; • Championship Runner-Up: Karen Kinnett of Shepherdstown; • Championship Low Net: Nancy Strine of Shepherdstown; • 1st Flight Gross Winners (tie): Kathy Thompson of Summersville and Karen Rainey of Daniels; • 1st Flight Net Winner: Rose Wayland of Shepherdstown; • 2nd Flight Gross Winner: Drema Watts of St. Albans; • 2nd Flight Net Winner: Kimberly Mann of Hernando, FL; • 3rd Flight Gross Winners (tie): Cynthia Maret of St. Albans and Susan Thompson of South Charleston; • 3rd Flight Net Winner: Donna Dugas of Warwood; • 4th Flight Gross Winner: Terri Donaldson of Bridgeport; • 4th Flight Net Winner: Kris Stanton of Clarksburg; • Silver Division Gross Winner: Kathy Thompson of Summersville; • Silver Division Net Winner: Nancy Strine of Shepherdstown; • Gold Division Gross Winner: Caroline Ramsey of Bridgeport; and • Gold Division Net Winner: Lenora Thomas of Fayetteville.

Click here to see today’s full leaderboard: 2022 WV Women’s Senior Amateur.

“We’re so glad the women were able to join us here for this great event,” said Pipestem’s Director of Golf Steve Robertson.

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WVGA offices on the move, bringing great opportunities for golf and the Association

The West Virginia Golf Association is on the move to Coonskin Park!

We looked at a retail/office spaces in downtown Charleston, and even looked at a couple of stately mansions overlooking the Kanawha River. Nothing made sense.

We always wanted to spend WVGA funds on the members and the game, not on fancy offices.

The decision was made to approach the Kanawha County Commission and other government agencies to research the feasibility of space at Coonskin Park, and the decision became a reality.

Coonskin Park will give us so many advantages moving forward. We’re in a public park, closer to golfers and at the home of the Kanawha Valley’s First Tee program. This location will allow us to look to the future for several decades to come.

We have more opportunities to reach families, to host special events and special activities.

These photos show the beginning of

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our new adventure, but we realize there is much to do in the coming weeks and months.

Now that we have a building, we are finalizing the installation of utilities, security and connectivity. Our furniture will be moved out of storage this week and be delivered to our new office. The interior of the new office is very spacious and I believe will be a great location for the WVGA to work and grow.

Once we are moved in and fully established, we will then begin the planning of the second phase of this move, involving exterior beautification, parking and aesthetics. Phase 2 will be a process handled over time in an organized way through planned budgeting.

The staff has been working from home for nearly three months, with tournament operations run out of my garage. The level of communication to our players and member clubs has been outstanding and seamless, thanks to the hard work of each of the staff members. Danielle Monk has handled every single phone call that has come to our office phone during this period of time and, with patience and organization, communicated those calls with the rest of the staff. Your outstanding staff hasn’t missed a beat.

We hope to be fully relocated by mid-July, and invite you to come see WVGA’s new home.

Brad Ullman Executive Director, WVGA

Nine-hole golf courses: The hidden gems of golf in West Virginia Editor’s note: In order to showcase our ninehole courses across West Virginia, we will be featuring four of them in each issue of this newsletter.

Course name: Minibel Golf Course Address: 2701 River Bend Road Vienna, WV 26105 General Manager: George C. Potter Ownership structure: Privately owned by the Potter family Year opened: July 4, 1964 Designer: Clair Parish and Randall Connolly Season dates: March 15-November 1 Rates: 9 holes: $12 M-F/$13 S-S 18 holes: $18 M-F/$20 S-S What’s a unique fact or feature about your course?

“Our course was named after the last Bell heir who owned the property,” Potter said.

“We have an honor system for payment during the off season and we have ‘nite glo golf’ from Memorial Day to Labor Day.” What separates your course from other nine-hole courses?

“We have a 1,000-yard course,” Potter said.”

What do you brag about?

“We have the bset greens in the Mid Ohio Valley. They’re fast,” he said. “We’re proud of being family-owned since we opened.”

How to book tee times: First come, first served.

Web site: http://www.minibelpar3.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/ top?q=minibel%20par%203%20golf%20 course Twitter: https://twitter.com/search?q=Minibel%20 Golf%20Course&src=typed_query Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minibelpar3golfcourse/

The aerial view of the Minibel Golf Course gives a good look at this lovely course.

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Course name: Beckley’s Historic Black Night Municipal Park Golf Course Address: 2400 South Kanawha Street Beckley, WV 25801 Director of Golf: Micah Davis Ownership structure: Former private country club now owned by the City of Beckley Year opened: Approximately 100 years ago Designer: Unknown Season dates: April 1 - October 31 Rates: 9 holes: $20 M-F/$22 S-S (plus tax) 18 holes: $28 M-F/$34 S-S (includes cart, plus tax) What’s a unique fact or feature about your course?

“Back in the heyday, our pro, Billy Capps, would play exhibitions against Sam Snead.”

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What separates your course from other nine-hole courses?

“Our conditions are better than most other 9-hole courses,” Davis said. “We have 60 acres in the middle of uptown Beckley and we’re only a couple hundred yards shorter than many 18-hole courses.”

What do you brag about?

“We brag about our long-standing history,” Davis said. “Certain politicians ad summers jobs here at the park in their youth.

Governor and Mrs. Justice had their wedding reception here.”

How to book tee times: Call the course at 304-2532661.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100057693390409

A First Tee - West Virginia session is underway at Black Knight Golf Course.

Course name: St. Mary’s Golf Club Address: 2840 North Pleasants Highway St. Mary’s, WV 26170 Manager: Macy Stephenson Superintendent: Don Adams Ownership structure: Public, non-profit Year opened: Approximately 1964 Designer: Unknown Season dates: April 1 - Octoober 31 Rates (with cart): 9-hole $18 18-hole $26.50 What’s a unique fact or feature about your course?

“We’re a non-profit and we’ve got all new staff this year, except our mowers,” Stephenson said.

What separates your course from other nine-hole courses?

“We/re a small town course and we’re the

friendliest one around. We have Night Glow Golf and other special events,” she said.

What do you brag about?

“We are the home course for both St. Mary’s High School and Frontier High School,” she said. “We have the best lunch specials every Monday.”

How to book tee times: First come - first served.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smgolfcourse

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Course name: Woodbrier Golf Course Address: 250 Top Flite Dr. Martinsburg, WV 25403 Owners: Bill & Sharon Lynne Whittington Superintendent: Bill Whittington Ownership structure: Private owners, public course Year opened: 1965 Designer: Walter Hoffman Season dates: Open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas Rates: 9-hole: $25 w/cart week; $27 weekend/holiday 18-hole: $28 w/cart week;

$30 w/cart weekend Thursday and Friday, $25 w/cart

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What’s a unique fact or feature about your course?

“In the Guinness Book of World Records at one time, the youngest boy to get a hole in one occurred here on hole 4, par 3, 13 yards.

Tommy Moore was six years old at the time,” Bill Whittington said.

What separates your course from other nine-hole courses?

“We’re a working man’s golf course. You can walk nine holes in an hour and a half and the boss or the wife never know you stopped,” he said. “We’re not fancy – we’re fun.”

What do you brag about?

“We have the neatest Halloween tournament going, with all manner of crazy things people have to do…tee off blind-folded, sit on a commode, hit opposite-handed, tee off with a putter. There’s something different on each tee and each green,” he said. “We also have night golf.”

How to book tee times: First come-first served Web site: www.woodbriergolfcourse.com

WVGA offices on the move, bringing great opportunities for golf and the Association The 2022 golf season is off and running. We are very excited to see the number of participants playing in each of our competitions.

The Two-Person Scramble was a sellout at Oglebay, the WVOPEN Championship received the most entries to date, and the Parent-Child event sold out with 230 players well over three months prior to the event. The Senior Series, presented by Little General Stores, continues to be the place to play for West Virginia seniors.

This year we have over 25 events state wide and I’m excited to see the number of new players come to this series and enjoy themselves.

The Callaway Junior Tour launched its 38th season the last week of May. Over 300 junior golfers have registered for membership this year and over 1500 competitive rounds of golf will be played on the Junior Tour this season! This is remarkable and we are so excited to have this many youngsters engaged in the game of golf through our Callaway Junior Tour. With the partnership and commitment from Tri-State Roofing and Sheet Metal, our Callaway Junior Tour Rookie League began its second season this year. Kids as young as five and beginning golfers as old as 18 have participated in this Rookie League, as well.

As you’ve seen, the West Virginia Amateur Tour has a brand new look. We’ve been excited about this new partnership with the official beer of the WVGA. The FLIGHT by Yuengling Amateur Series has doubled in size from 2021.

We’ve seen an increase in women’s participation in this Amateur Series and we are excited for the future that this Series brings to recreational golfers across our state. There are still plenty of events left the rest of the season, so please be sure to check the schedule and register today for the remainder of these FLIGHT

by Yuengling Amateur Series events.

The First Tee - West Virginia is continuing to thrive. Under the leadership of Jeff Preast, our statewide program director, this program will reach nearly 1,000 children at our green grass facilities across the state. Additionally, we are very excited to say that we are in over 170 elementary schools in West Virginia. This is significant. It is our goal to reach every third-, fourth- and fifth-grader in our state and perhaps put a golf club in their hands for the very first time. This program can impact generations of golfers and that is something that we are very proud of at the WVGA. As you’ve seen the WVGA is on the move.

It’s been a busy spring and early summer for us as we are now established at the Coonskin Park Frances P. Jordan Learning Center. The Town Center Mall was been a great home for us over the last eight years, but we could not pass up this opportunity to have our official back amongst the golfers. Coonskin Park is going through a wonderful golf transformation right now and we are excited to be a part of it.

Coonskin Park has always been the home of our First Tee program. We are looking forward to increasing our programs to provide exposure to the game of golf, as well as the opportunity for folks to be introduced to this great game. If you find yourself at the driving range, please be sure to stop in and say hello.

One item that I would like to make note of, is the WVGA Executive Committee. So many of you don’t see the incredible amount of work and dedication these 11 individuals put toward the game of golf in our state. This Executive Committee is led by our current president, Philip A. Reale, and is made up of individuals from across the state with varied backgrounds that bring a diverse look at the game of golf and how the WVGA can positively impact the game and its future across our state. I thank them for their dedication and support of the our staff. I thank you for being part of golf and the WVGA.

Brad Ullman Executive Director, WVGA

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New apparel and gifts are available for golfers of all ages - get what you need for 2022 As you see what new golf gear you need for this season, start by shopping First Tee-West Virginia’s online shop.

This shop features clothing and accessories for women, men, girls and boys. Other items will be exclusively in our new location at Coonskin Park in mid-July.

There are a variety of styles, colors and sizes in: blankets, casual tees, cinch packs, headwear, hoodies, outerwear, pants, performance tees, polos, pullovers, shorts, spectator scarves, stadium seats and more.

There are long-sleeved and short-sleeved tops. Depending on styles, you can find a rainbow of colors including black, light, navy or royal blue, light or dark gray, forest or kelly green, pink, purple, red, white or yellow.

Your purchases can benefit First Tee-West Virginia, which means you’ll be helping students throughout the state in both classroom-based and green-grass programs.

Let us make your shopping more convenient, while helping the children of our state!

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Click here to order now!

Practice golf injury prevention so you won’t miss a single day on the links Many people consider golf a low-level physical activity without much risk for injury. Many injuries can be caused by playing golf, however, including injuries to the ankle, elbow, spine, knee, hip and wrist.

According to a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, up to 40.9% of amateur golfers get injured each year while playing golf, and the lifetime risk of golf-related injury for amateurs is as high as 70%.

Types of Golf Injuries

Most golf injuries are the result of overuse. By repeating the same golf swing motion over and over again, significant stress is placed on the same muscles, tendons, and joints. Over time, this can cause injury.

Golfers most often experience hand tenderness or numbness, and may also have shoulder, back, and knee pain. Golfer's elbow and wrist injuries, such as tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome, may also occur.

• Low Back Pain Low back injuries are the most common complaint among golfers, according to a study by the Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, accounting for up to 34% of all golf injuries. Low back pain is often caused by a poor swing. The rotational stresses of the golf swing can place considerable pressure on the spine and muscles.

Also, poor flexibility and muscle strength can cause minor strains in the back that can easily become severe injuries.

Here are some simple exercises to help strengthen lower back muscles and prevent injuries.

Rowing. Firmly tie the ends of rubber tubing.

Place it around an object that is shoulder height (like the door knob on a closed door, or bed post). Standing with your arms straight out in front of you, grasp the tubing and slowly pull it toward your chest while squeezing your shoul-

der blades together. Release slowly. Perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions, at least 3 times a week.

Pull downs. For this exercise, the rubber tubing needs to be secured to an object that is higher than your head, like the top corner of an open door. Stand facing the door and hold the tubing over your head with both hands. Pull your arms down slowly toward your chest, bending your elbows as you lower your arms. Raise the tubing slowly over your head. Perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions, at least 3 times a week.

Yoga and Pilates. These exercise programs focus on trunk and abdomen strength, as well as flexibility.

• Golfer’s Elbow Medial epicondylitis, or “golfer’s elbow,” is the second most common golf-related injury.

Golfer’s elbow is an inflammation of the tendons that attach your forearm muscles to the inside of the bone at your elbow. The forearm muscles and tendons become damaged from overuse — repeating the same motions again and again. This leads to pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow.

One of the best ways to avoid elbow problems is to strengthen your forearm muscles and slow your golf swing so that there will be less shock in the arm when the ball is hit.

The following simple exercises can help build up your forearm muscles and help you avoid golfer’s elbow. For best results, do these exercises during the off-season as well.

Squeeze a tennis ball. Squeezing an old tennis ball for 5 minutes at a time is a simple, effective exercise that will strengthen your forearm muscles.

Wrist curls. Use a lightweight dumbbell.

Lower the weight to the end of your fingers, and then curl the weight back into your palm.

Follow this by curling up your wrist to lift the weight an inch or two higher. Perform 10 repInjury prevention Continued on page 5

Jocelyn Ross Witstein, MD, FAAOS American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

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Injury prevention

Continued from page 4

etitions with one arm, and then repeat with the other arm. Complete 4 sets of 10 on each side, 3 times a week.

Reverse wrist curls. Use a lightweight dumbbell. Place your hands in front of you, palm side down. Using your wrist, lift the weight up and down. Hold the arm that you are exercising at the mid-forearm with your other hand to limit the motion to your wrist. Perform 10 repetitions with one arm, and then repeat with the other arm. Complete 4 sets of 10 on each side, 3 times a week.

General Injury Prevention •

Warm Up Always warm up before a round of golf. A good warm up prepares your body for more intense activity by getting your blood flowing and raising your muscle temperature. Before you play golf, do some simple stretching exercises, focusing on your shoulders, back, and legs.

Then hit a few golf balls on the driving range, starting with your wedges and progressing up the bag to full swings with the driver. It will not only help your game, but will help prevent injury in the long run.

Although a good warm up is essential for all golfers, it is especially important if you have arthritis that is aggravated by playing golf. To help prevent arthritis pain while out on the course, some

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golfers may benefit from taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen or naproxen before or after playing. Your doctor can talk with you about whether this is appropriate in your case.

Additional Tips for Preventing Injury

Protect your skin by using sunscreen. Wear sunglasses to filter out UVA and UVB rays, and wear a hat with a visor to shade your eyes and face.

Avoid a lightning strike by seeking shelter at the first sign of a thunderstorm. If possible, head for a large, permanent building or fully enclosed metal vehicle, such as a car or van, when storms approach. Always avoid large, open areas, small rain and sun shelters, and tall objects such as trees and poles.

Make sure you are well hydrated before, during, and after your game. Replace your fluids, whether you feel thirsty or not. And remember: Alcohol contributes to dehydration, so stick to water and/or low-sugar sports drinks.

When riding in a golf cart, keep your feet inside the cart. Players have broken ankles when their feet have gotten caught under moving golf carts.

Always be aware of your environment and other players on the course. It is possible to sustain a soft-tissue injury by being hit by a golf ball.

There’s still time to get your VIP Card!

The West Virginia VIP Card makes a great gift for birthdays, aniversaries...or any day at all!

Plus, it’s one of the many benefits of becoming a member of the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA).

VIP Card Holders have access to 69 West Virginia private, public and resort courses at EXCLUSIVE VIP rates. They also receive an official Handicap Index for score posting and each golfer has a specific, private number assigned to them. When you purchase a $50 VIP Card, you are a member of the WVGA and are

eligible to participate in WVGA events.

2022 WV VIP Card Rules & Regulations: • 2022 West Virginia VIP Cardholder is entitled to the round(s) of golf listed from 1/1/2022 through 12/31/2022.

• Some clubs may limit daily VIP play at their discretion. Please call ahead for tee times.

• Fee includes motorized cart, unless otherwise noted.

• Please call 24 hours in advance of requesting a tee time, you must ID yourself as a West Virginia VIP cardholder.

• VIP Cards may not be used for tournaments or special events.

• Cardholder must present their VIP Card before playing. ID may be requested, VIP Cards are non-transferrable.

• Cardholder must abide by dress code and other regulations of the VIP course.

• Members 17 and younger must play with an adult.

• Replacement VIP Cards are $15, payable to the WVGA. • VIP Card holders have access to 69 West Virginia private, public and resort courses at discounted rates.

Click here for more details or to purchase a card.

Danielle Monk Membership, WVGA

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Nominations now being accepted for the 2022 class of the West Virginia Golf Hall of Fame The West Virginia Golf Foundation was formed in 1999, when the major associations of golf joined forces to create the West Virginia Golf Hall of Fame and William C. Campbell Scholarship Fund.

The West Virginia Golf Hall of Fame enshrined its first members in 2009 with William C. Campbell and Sam Snead. Since then, members have been added each year, and we will continue to recognized those who have made such a profound impact on the game of golf in the Mountain State.

Members (listed by year of induction): • William C. Campbell (2009) • Sam Snead (2009) • Ed Tutwiler, Jr. (2010) • Harold Payne (2011) • Denny Shute (2012) • Patrick D. Carter (2013) • Julius Pollock (2013) • Stuart Bloch (2014) • Fritzi Stifel Quarrier (2014) • Sally Carrol (2015) • Steve Fox (2015) • Larry Martin (2015) • Berridge Long Copen (2016) • Brad Westfall (2016) • Slugger White (2016) • Scott Davis (2017) • Barney Thompson (2017) • Barry Evans (2019) • Sue Vail (2019) There are a few criteria for nominations to the West Virginia Golf Hall of Fame: • Any person may be considered for nomination. The nominee does not have to presently be a resident of West Virginia, but must have established a relationship with the State of West Virginia by virtue of having been born in the state; or who distinguished himself or herself in some capacity associated with the game of golf in West Virginia; or whose golf-related accomplishments have generally

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been publicly noted to have brought acclaim to West Virginia’s golf community.

• A level of experience and/or acclaim in the game of golf as a consequence of any of the following: (a) golf playing ability and record from either amateur or professional competitions; (b) golf teaching or coaching ability and accomplishments; (c) dedication, commitment and service to the game of golf at either the local, state or national level; or (d) recognized impact and contributions to the game of golf in the State of West Virginia and the organizations that administer and promote the game in the state.

For more information on the selection process and the West Virginia Golf Hall of Fame, visit www.wvga.org and click on Foundation or call (304) 391-5000. The West Virginia Golf Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

Thanks to our sponsors and partners

Derby Day Partner

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Newsletter advertising opportunities

2022 WV Golf Association Newsletter Advertising Contract Advertising is available to members of the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA) in our quarterly newsletter issues.

Please see below for details regarding ad sizes and rates.

Ad Sizes

Frequency of Ad 1 – 3/issue

4/year

Full page 2 columns (7” wide x 9.5” deep)

$900.00/qtr.

$3,240/year

Half page (vertical) 1 column (4 5/8” wide x 9.5” deep)

$500.00/qtr.

$1,800/year

Half page (horizontal) 2 columns (7” wide x 4.5” deep)

$500.00/qtr.

$1,800/year

Quarter page 1 column (4 5/8” wide x 3” deep)

$250.00/qtr.

$ 900/year

Business card 1 column (4 5/8” wide x 2” deep)

$100.00/qtr.

$ 360/year

WVGA wants to assure that you get the best quality advertisement in the newsletter for your advertising dollar. To that end, we ask that you submit your color ad electronically in a 300 dpi (dots per inch) resolution JPG or PDF format. Ads saved as Word or Word Perfect documents or Excel spreadsheets will not give you a quality ad in the publication. If there are conversion issues with your file, our designer will contact you directly. Ads must be emailed directly to Danielle Monk: dmonk@wvga.org.

Ads can be run each quarter throughout the year or in any combination of quarters you choose. Please note there is a price break when you commit to a full-year contract. Changes to your ad copy or cancellations can be made during the duration of the contract, but must be submitted 30 days prior to the next publication. (i.e, February 1st for the March issue). Please complete the information requested below and return this page, with payment, to WVGA Newsletter, WVGA, 2115 Charleston Town Center, Charleston, WV 25389. Ads must be paid in full by check or credit card prior to publication. Please contact Danielle Monk at (304) 391-5000 or dmonk@wvga.org to discuss these options.

Company Name:_______________________________________________________________________ Contact Person:______________________________________ Phone:(_____)_____________________ Billing Address:________________________________________________________________________ City:____________________ State:_____ Zip:___________ Email:_______________________________ Run my ad as follows: Winter _____

Spring _____ Summer _____ Fall _____ Full Year _____

My ad size (Check One): Full Pg. ____

½ Pg. Vertical ____

½ Pg. Horizontal ____

¼ Pg. ____

Bus. Card Horizontal ____

Payment Amount Enclosed: $______________

Approved by: _________________________________________ Date: __________________________

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2022 sponosor and partner opportunities

2022 WVGA Sponsor and Partner Opportunities ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Company Name ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Contact Name __________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ City State Zip ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone

Email

Sponsorship opportunities: _____ Oakhurst Sponsor $50,000 (includes exclusive event sponsorship, “presented by” naming, event signage, mentions in all promotions) Contact Brad Ullman to select event. _____ Family Sponsor $20,000 (includes exclusive event sponsorship and “presented by” naming of Parent/Child Championship, event signage, mentions in all promotions) _____ Baffie Sponsor $7,500 (includes event sponsorship, signage, mentions in all promotions) _____ Two-person Scramble Championship _____ Mid-Amateur Championship _____ Senior Open Championship _____ Four-ball Championship _____ Womens Amateur Championship _____ Mashie Sponsor $5,000 (includes event sponsorship, signage, mentions in all promotions) _____ Junior March Play Championship _____ Womens Senior Amateur Championship _____ Junior Amateur Championship _____ Senior Amateur Championship _____ Senior Four-ball Championship _____ Women’s Tourneys (EXCLUDING Amateur Championship) _____ Junior Tour Events (EXCLUDING Amateur Championship and Finale) _____ First Tee Sponsor $3,250 (includes event sponsorship, signage, mentions in all promotions) _____ First Tee Sponsorship at specific school (includes name on banner, promotional mentions) _____ Niblick Sponsor $3,000 (includes event sponsorship, signage, mentions in all promotions) _____ Womens Intra-state Matches _____ Club Team Championship _____ The Mixed Championship _____ Cleek Sponsor

$1,000 (signage at certain events, mentions in newsletter, web site)

_____ Spoon Sponsor $500 (includes mention in newsletter, on web site) Please return this form to Danielle Monk at WVGA, 2115 Charleston Town Center, Charleston, WV 25389.

Email a high resolution (300-dpi minimum) version of your company’s color logo to dmonk@wvga.org.

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2115 Charleston Town Center Charleston, WV 25389 Phone (304) 391-5000

WV Golf Association Staff and Executive Committee President Philip Reale Edgewood County Club Vice President David McCormick Pete Dye Golf Club Secretary Kirk Waldeck The Club at Cress Creek Treasurer Kimberly Mann The Village at Glade Springs

Directors

Staff

Andrew Jordan The Greenbrier Sporting Club

Brad Ullman Executive Director

Tim McNeely Pete Dye Golf Club

Danielle Monk Director of Membership and Outreach

Brian McPherson Parkersburg Country Club Sam O’Dell Sleepy Hollow Golf Club Dave Pope Edgewood County Club Lance Woodford Glenville Golf Club Lisa Younis The Club at Cress Creek

Jeff Preast Director, First Tee Chris Slack Director of Rules and Competitions Chance Hindbaugh Tournament Manager Lucas Ware Tournament Manager, Youth Rachel Stump Tournament Intern