Mountain State of Golf, Summer 2023

The Mountain State of Golf

Volume 3, Issue 3, Summer 2023

WV Golf Association sees milestones in 2023

In some respects, 2023 to date has been a year of milestones for the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA). Not only has it been a time of transition following the departure of our now former executive director, Brad Ullman, who we lost to elevate his career in the golf industry and become an important cog in the LIV Golf Tour, but other milestones have also been reached. The 100th anniversary of the WV Women’s Amateur we conducted this summer is yet another milestone. Arguably, the WVGA and Berry Hills Country Club surpassed all expectations with this year’s WV Open Championship. However, with this article, we want to share something about an effort that has left an enduring impact on the game of golf in the Mountain State that has and will continue to serve to grow the game in our state.

Just this past week, our social media noted the 40th Anniversary of the heralded Callaway Junior Tour, which has not only spawned some of the best golfers in our state but also produced any number of collegiate level golfers, male and female, at both NCAA Division

I and Division II levels. Moreover, a long list of WV Amateur Champions received their start in competitive golf by participating in the Callaway (formerly Top-Flite) Junior Tour. Perhaps of greater consequence is the fact that the Junior Tour introduced competitive golf to and encouraged females to be a part of the sport of golf.

It would be remiss to address the topic of the Callaway Junior Tour without noting the amazing contribution of time and talent by its founder, a dedicated servant and departed friend of West Virginia golf, Larry Martin, a former club pro at Parkersburg County Club and an award-winning representative for Callaway Golf prior to his passing. It was 15 years ago that Larry made sure there was some perpetuity to junior golf in our state when he proposed and, with help from others like-minded, created a very successful celebration of the first 25 years of the Junior Tour at Stonewall Resort. At that time, Larry’s fiscal management of Junior Tour allowed him and a group of others to establish the Larry Martin Junior Golf Development Fund and the WVGA then assumed operations of the Junior Tour and West Virginia’s junior golf community is still receiving the benefit of the work of our dear friend, Larry Martin.

It is inescapable that the growth of the game and preservation of its value to the West Virginia community is greatly dependent on multiple ways of introducing the game to population segments, but none has the impact of the Callaway Junior Tour, along with its Rookie League, the Callaway High School Series and First Tee of West Virginia, all of which are administered by the WVGA.

19-year-old Cameron Jarvis takes West Virginia Amateur Championship

With chilly, rainy weather more typical of March than late May, The Greenbrier saw 120 players tee off on the Meadows Course during Round One of the 104th WV Amateur Championship, presented by Astorg Motor Company and Mercedes-Benz of Charleston, sponsored by United Bank and conducted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA).

Over 400 golfers, including six past champions, competed to qualify for 120 spots in this year’s Amateur Championship during seven events.

Extending his lead by two strokes on the final day, 19-year-old Cameron Jarvis of Barboursville scored (-2) today to take the overall lead at (-3) 277 to win the 104th West Virginia Amateur Championship at The Greenbrier.

The only other 19-year-old to win the WV Amateur Championship was Mason Williams in 2019.

Davey Jude of Kermit remained in second place with a (+2) 282, while Ryan Bilby of Follansbee rose to third with a (+3) 283 for the tournament.

“My play didn’t change all week. It’s slow back, fast forward and keep it level in the head. I came out here knowing every shot was important. It was good to come out and play this well at this place,” said Jarvis. “I had no idea what the score was. I didn’t know anything. When that last putt fell, I didn’t know if I won until people started celebrating, so that was really cool.”

“The Old White Course is a good test of patience and skill. This is a long event, and most people don’t play 72-hole events during the summer. It becomes a mental grind,” said The Greenbrier’s Head Golf Professional Hill Herrick. “We certainly congratulate our young champion, Cameron Jarvis, on the win.”

“This has been another great year for golf in West Virginia. The WVGA staff did a great job of making this special for the players. With-

out the golfers, we wouldn’t be here and we’re happy to be part of it,” said Astorg Auto General Manager Tyler Astorg. “Mercedes-Benz is proud to be a continuing sponsor, along with Astorg Auto, and the support from United Bank has further elevated this event. We’re pleased to see so many young golfers like Cameron Jarvis. It’s speaks well to the future of the game.”

“This is a wonderful venue and they even arranged for the weather to improve each day,” said WVGA Interim Executive Director Chris Slack. “We are very grateful for our partners in Astorg Auto, Mercedes-Benz and United Bank who have helped us elevate this championship tremendously over the last eight years. This championship could not be done without the great support of The Greenbrier Resort.”

TOP TEN FINISHERS (with ties):

1 - Cameron Jarvis of Barboursville, (-3) 277;

2 - Davey Jude of Kermit, (+2) 282;

3 – Ryan Bilby of Follansbee, (+3) 283;

4 – Christian Brand of Scott Depot, (+4) 284;

5 – Cory Hoshor of Scott Depot, (+5) 285;

6 – Jack Michael of Huntington, (+7) 287;

7 – Tommy Evans of Charles Town and Christian Boyd of Charles Town, (+8) 288;

9 – Cam Roam of Huntington, (+9) 289;

10 – Woody Woodward of Bridgeport, Mason Kidwell of Charles Town and Sam O’Dell of Hurricane, (+10) 290.

Although the lead changed on the third day of the 104th WV Amateur Championship, the young still led the way. After three rounds of play, Jarvis scored (-3) to take the overall lead at (-1) 209, thanks to six birdies on the third day.

Jack Michael of Huntington, the 16-year-old who led the first two rounds, fell to third with a (+1) 71 and a three-day total of (+2) 212. He is behind Davey Jude of Kermit who scored a (-3) 67 on the day, leaving him at even par 210 for the three days.

Christian Brand and Cory Hoshor, both of Scott Depot, tied for fourth with a three-day total of (+3) 213 as the final round moved back to the Old White Course on Wednesday.

“Every single shot matters and I have a lot of golf still to play,” said Jarvis. “I’m a Type I diabetic and the most important thing to me is that I’m healthy. This is the first time in five years I’ve been healthy heading into this tournament. If I’m healthy, the golf will be there.”

Jude said, “I played pretty solid today. Being one back is an ideal position for tomorrow. I feel fine and I’m hitting the ball well.”

“It wasn’t my best day and I put myself out of position sometimes,” said Michael. “I was disappointed to lose the lead, but other people played great.”

“We are getting more and more junior golfers, as Tuesday’s leader board showed,” said The Greenbrier’s Head Golf Professional Hill Herrick. “The WVGA with their First Tee program and Callaway Junior Tour is getting more young people interested and involved in the lifelong game of golf. It’s certainly showed this week, with the first two rounds topped by a 16-yearold and final two rounds topped by a 19-yearold.”

“Astorg Auto, Mercedes-Benz and United Bank are all pleased to support not only the West Virginia Golf Association and its members, but we’re especially pleased to recognize the young golfers taking part in and leading this event,” said Astorg Auto General Manager Tyler Astorg.

Jack Michael of Huntington maintained a onestroke lead at (+1) 73 on the second day as play moved to the Old White Course.

Following Michael, the next 28 players were within five strokes of each other. Four players tied for second at even par 70, three players tied for sixth at (+1) 71, two tied for eighth at (+2) 72, five players tied for 13th at (+3) 73 and 14 players tied for 18th at (+4) 74.

Additionally on Hole #1 on the Old White Round 2, players enjoyed “Elevating the Player Experience,” presented by United Bank with the use of TracMan Technology with The Greenbrier’s Director of Instruction Steven Cox. The TracMan 4 launch monitor technology captures club head speed, ball speed, spin rate, carry distance and total distance, information valuable to players throughout the remainder of the Championship.

Teenager Jack Michael of Huntington topped the first day’s leader board with a (-2) 68. Following Michael, the next 29 players were within five strokes of each other. Four players tied for second at even par 70, two tied for sixth at (+1) 71, five tied for eighth at (+2) 72 and five more players tied for 13th at (+3) 73.

The opening round concluded with a player dinner and reception at The Schoolhouse Hotel sponsored by United Bank. Over 150 attended the opening dinner ceremonies of the 104th West Virginia Amateur Championship.

Click here for the final leaderboard.

Susan Glasby repeats as 100th West Virginia Women’s Amateur Champion

The 100thth playing of the West Virginia Women’s Amateur Championship, presented by PSIMed and conducted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), saw Susan Glasby of Chesapeake, Ohio, defend her 2022 championship at Edgewood Country Club in Charleston. Glasby scored four birdies on Monday and seven birdies today to finish at five under par 137 for the two-day tournament. She finished with five straight birdies to win by one as Emily McLatchey failed to birdie on hole 18 for the tie.

This championship featured 36 of the best female golfers from West Virginia from teenagers to seniors.

Other top finishers in the Championship Flight included:

• Emily McLatchey of Huntington, (-4) 138;

• Stormy Randazzo of Charles Town, (+1) 143;

• Savannah Hawkins of Hurricane, (+1) 143;

• Emily Holzopfel of Rayland, Ohio, (+3) 145;

• Taylor Sargent of Milton, (+9) 151;

• Hanna Shrout of Proctorville, (+9) 151; and

• Cathleen Wong of Parkersburg, (+11) 153. Other competition winners were:

• Overall Net: Scarlett Albertson of Charleston, (-3) 139;

• First Flight Gross: Kerri-Anne Cook of Oceana, (+10) 152;

• Second Flight Gross: Emma Nicol of Charleston, (+21) 163; and

• Third Flight Gross: (Lauren Ramsey of Bridgeport, (+32) 174.

In addition to Glasby’s 11 birdies for the tournament, Emily Holzophel of Rayland, Ohio, scored six birdies and an eagle, Emily McLatchey of Huntington scores seven birdies and Savannah Hawkins of Hurricane and Stormy Randazzo of Charles Town each scored four birdies.

The first round of play saw Emily McLatchey of Huntington secure the lead in the Championship Flight with a three under par 68. Leading the First Flight is Kimberly Eaton of Charles Town, while Emma Nicol of Charleston leads Second Flight and Lauren Ramsey of Bridgeport leads Third Flight.

“I want to especially thank Edgewood Country Club for hosting this great event. They had the golf course in championship shape for the ladies,” said WVGA Interim Executive Director Chris Slack. “I’d also like to thank PSIMed for being the title sponsor for the 100th WV Women’s Amateur Championship and for all their support in other areas of golf in West Virginia.”

“It was our honor and pleasure to host the 100th Women’s Amateur Championship,” said Edgewood’s Head Golf Pro Craig Berner. “We hope the women enjoyed their time with us.”

2023 marked the first year with PSIMed as the title sponsor of this event.

Click here for the final leaderboard; 100th WV Women’s Amateur – Championship.

Beaver and Vest repeat as winners of WV Four-Ball Championship

The final round of the 2023 West Virginia Four-Ball Championship, conducted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), was filled with outstanding golf from the state’s best amateur golfers. Tied for first going into round two, with a two-stroke lead, were the reigning FourBall Champions Bryson Beaver of Elkview and Tanner Vest of Shady Spring and two-time West Virginia Four-Ball Champions Sam O’Dell of Hurricane and Pat Carter of Huntington. At the conclusion of the Championship, Beaver and Vest had a six-stroke lead over the field. The 2022 Champions became the 2023 Champions with a final score of 17 under par 127.

“The weather cooperated today and we were excited to crown these repeating champions,” said Glade Springs Resort’s Head Golf Professional Kyle Long.

“This is an historic day at the Four-Ball Championship. Tanner is 17 and Bryson is 19 and these two golfers, our youngest winners ever – two years in a row, defended their title against some amazing competitors,” said WVGA Interim Executive Director Chris Slack. “Tanner and Bryson put together one of the most impressive rounds of golf in West Virginia Four-Ball history to increase their lead by 15 strokes.”

Other winners were:

• First Flight: Jared Taylor and Case Tolliver, both of Bluefield, (-8) 136;

• Second Flight: Zach Chapman of Culloden and Noah Mullens of Milton, (+1) 145; and

• Third Flight: Christopher Neighbors of Charles Town and Dylan Carroll of Kearneysville, (+3) 147.

Individual highlights of the first day, which contributed to team scores, were two birdies and two eagles by Carter, two birdies and an eagle for Thomas, five birdies for Mason Weese of Charleston and one birdie and two eagles each for Brandon Tinney of Shady Spring and Nathan Daniels of Beckley.

Individual highlights of the final day, which contributed to team scores, were seven birdies and an eagle for Vest and eight birdies and an eagle for Beaver.

“It was a perfect two days to play golf in West Virginia today at The Resort at Glade Springs,” said WVGA Interim Executive Director Chris Slack. “We have a sold-out field of 56 teams this weekend.”

Kyle Long, head golf professional at Glade Springs Resort, said, “We are extremely excited to host this tournament again. Our course is in wonderful shape and it’s great to see some of the best amateur golfers in the state paired up.”

Click here for the final leaderboard

Michael holds lead, Cook comes back in WV Junior Amateur Championship

The West Virginia Junior Amateur Championship, for players under 18 and conducted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), finished June 27 at Guyan Golf and Country Club in Huntington.

Jack Michael of Huntington took the Boys Championship with a total of three under par 139 thanks, in part, to five birdies the second day and leaving him with a five-stroke advantage over the field. Carson Higginbotham of Clarksburg finished second with a two over par 144. Michael said of his Championship, “I’m happy to come out on top. Thanks go to the WVGA for a great event and to Guyan for being great hosts.”

Kerri-Anne Cook of Oceana came from a twostroke deficit Monday to win the Girls Championship with a four-stroke lead over Taylor Sargent of Milton, Monday’s leader. Cook finished with a five over par 147. Cook said, “The weather held off and the course was beautiful.”

Parker O’Dell of Hurricane held onto his firstday lead to win the boys 13-14 division at eight over par 150. Audrey Kerr of Bridgeport won the girls 10-14 division with a 29 over par 171. Bentley Shirkey of Barboursville defeated Jude Walker of Mount Zion in the boys 12 and under division after a two-hole playoff; both finished at 21 over par 163.

“It’s nice to see one of our hometown boys win this event,” said Guyan’s General Manager Allan Thacker. “In addition to Cameron Jarvis winning the 2023 WVGA West Virginia Amateur, we have had some good young players the last few years. Congratulations to Kerri-Anne Cook, as well.”

“Great hosts and a great venue at Guyan Golf and Country Club provided an amazing championship experience for our junior golfers this week” said WVGA Tournament Manager –Youth Operations Lucas Ware. “Thanks to Head PGA Professional Rick Ellison and General Manager Allan Thacker for allowing us to host

one of my favorite events at their Club.”

Click here for a complete list of final scores

Above, Jack Michael of Huntington and KerriAnne Cook of Oceans claim the Boys and Girls Championships in the 2023 West Virginia Junior Amateur Championship at Guyan Golf and Country Club.

2023 WV Senior Open sees Pat Carter take fourth consecutive title, this one at Oglebay Resort

The West Virginia Senior Open, hosted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), spent hours undergoing rain delays and battling inclement weather during the two-day event at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling in late June.

Pat Carter, of Huntington, held on to Monday’s lead to win the Championship Division with a four-stroke lead, finishing at three under par 139. Chris Daniels of Beckley finished in second with a one over par 143.

Richard Carder of Fort Ashby, Monday’s co-leader, won the Senior Division with a six over par 148, two strokes ahead of Neil Christiansen of Parkersburg.

“Mother Nature wasn’t in our corner, but the course played nicely and the guys have enjoyed it,” said Oglebay’s General Manager Danny Ackerman. “Thanks go to Brad McCombs and his agronomy team for having such a great product for the Senior Open Championship.”

“While we haven’t been able to control the weather, we thank Oglebay Resort for their hospitality and course conditions,” said WVGA Interim Executive Director Chris Slack.

Pat Carter, of Huntington, led the field after the first day with a two under par 69, scoring four birdies along the way. Jay Davis of St. Clairsville, Ohio, was three strokes behind Carter, followed by Cal Wood of Athens, Ohio in third and John Kingora of Morgantown in fourth.

David Shaffer of Wheeling and Richard Carder of Fort Ashby were leading the Senior Division after the first round with a two over par 73.

Other highlights of the event included six birdies for Chris Daniels of Beckley and five birdies for Gary Arntz of Inwood.

“We were elated to have this event at Oglebay Resort. It’s the first time in my six years here, although we’ve hosted other championships,” said Oglebay’s General Manager Danny Ackerman. “While the course is in great shape, thanks to Brad McCombs and his agronomy team,

Mother Nature was not helpful with causing all the rain delays. We were hoping for more cooperation.”

“We were thrilled to host this championship at Oglebay Resort on the course designed by Arnold Palmer,” said WVGA Interim Executive Director Chris Slack. “The course conditions were incredible.”

Click here to see the final leaderboard.

2023 West Virginia Senior Open Champion (top) Pat Carter of Huntington and Senior Division Champion Rich Carder of Fort Ashby.

The Club at Cress Creek women take 2023 WVGA Women’s Intra-State Matches

The Club at Cress Creek’s Team 1 took Thursday’s win and bragging rights over 15 other teams during the 2023 West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA) 2023 Women’s Intra State Matches at Moundsville Country Club.

Members of The Club at Cress Creek Team 1, finishing at four over par 146 and winning the Championship Division, were Kimberly Keaton, Karen Kinnett, Lisa Younis and Sylka Knuppel.

“We’re very proud to have the women here to play,” said Moundsville’s Head Golf Professional Kyle Hill. “It lets folks know we’re still here and taking great care of the course.”

Other division-winning teams were:

• Platinum: Bridgeport Country Club with Caroline Ramsey, Debbie Chrubino, Haeley Harman and Robin Ward;

• Gold: Nicholas Memorial with Jackie Hayslette, Esther Joo, Lenora Thomas and Kathy Thompson;

• Silver: The Village at Glade Springs with Janice Allen, Anna Kinker, Kimberly Mann and Mary Fulbright;

• Bronze Gross: Clarksburg Country Club with Christy Stahl, Anna Walsh, Becky Moots and Lois Gilmore; and

• Bronze Net: Big Bend #2 with Cynthia Maret, Janice Tomblin, Kimberly Mallory and Becky Brogan.

Click here for the leaderboard.

Champions from The Club at Cress Creek: Kimberly Keaton, Karen Kinnett, Lisa Younis and Sylka Knuppel.

Platinum: Bridgeport Country Club

Gold: Nicholas Memorial Golf Club

Silver: The Village at Glade Springs

Bronze Gross: Clarksburg CC

Bronze Net: Big Bend Golf Course

34th WVGA Parent-Child Tournament winners top field by one stroke

The 34th WV Parent-Child Championship, conducted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), concluded Sunday at The Resort at Glade Springs. Saturday’s four-way tie after Round One saw the father-son team of Jim and Adam Cyrus of Huntington take the championship with a 21 under par 123. They finished one stroke ahead of Jackson and Jake Woodburn of Scott Depot. The team of Hunter and John O’Neal of Bluefield, Va., finished two strokes off the lead and one stroke ahead of a five-way tie for fourth.

Linda and Jared Taylor of Bluefield held onto their first-round lead to finish at 10 under par 134.

“The course was in good shape for this event and the greens were rolling well,” said Glade Springs’ Head Golf Professional Kyle Long. Other top flight winners were:

• First Flight: Keith and Keith Morgan of Morgantown, (-18) 126;

• Second Flight: Andrew and Jay Miller of Scott Depot, (-13) 131;

• Third Flight: Ed and Josh Littlehales of Milton, (-6) 138;

• Fourth Flight: Joel and Stephen McDavid of Scott Depot, (-5) 139;

• Fifth Flight: Rich and Drew DeHart of Barboursville, (-1) 143; and

• Sixth Flight: Terry and AJ Warne of Bridgeport, (+9) 153.

The Extended Family champions, Luke and Clayton Thomas of Proctorville, Ohio, extended their first-round lead to finish at 13 under par 131.

Other highlights of the tournament’s play include 20 birdies for the team of Ben and Bob Ramsey, 19 birdies each for the teams of Tony and Jared Bryant and Ben and Bob Ramsey, 18 birdies and an eagle for the team of Hunter and John O’Neal and 17 birdies and two eagles for the team of Jackson and Jake Woodburn.

Click here for the Championship leader board.

Maroney claims 50th West Virginia Women’s Senior Amateur Championship at Canaan Valley

The 50th playing of the West Virginia Women’s Senior Amateur Championship, conducted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA) and presented by PSIMED, took place July 31 and August 1 at Canaan Valley Resort.

Three-time Champion Karen Kinnett of Shepherdstown fired a four over par 76 to tie with Patti Maroney of Glen Dale and Lynn Roth of Charleston for the in the Championship division to lead the field of 46 golfers to end day one.

On day two, Maroney left Monday’s threeway tie for the lead behind and claimed the 50th Championship with a two over par 146, leading her closest competitor by six strokes.

“We had a great field of women playing at Canaan this week. It was a pleasure to see them in action,” said WVGA Interim Executive Director Chris Slack. “It’s been a while since we’ve been here at Canaan, but we’re glad to be back.”

Canaan’s Sherri Harold said, “The women enjoyed our course and we’re glad we could get the weather to cooperate.”

Winners in other divisions were:

• Championship Net: Kathy Thompson of Summersville;

• First Flight Gross: Lisa Younis of Shepherdstown;

• First Flight Net: Jackie Hayslette of Summersville;

• Second Flight Gross: Melissa Hall of Shepherdstown,

• Second Flight Net: Terri Egress of Buckhannon;

• Third Flight Gross: Judy Hutchins of Winfield;

• Third Flight Net: Carol August of Pittsburgh, Pa.;

• Fourth Flight Gross: Kimberly Mann of Hernando, Fla.;

• Fourth Flight Net: Susan Thompson of South Charleston;

• Silver Gross and Net: Kathy Thompson of Summersville;

• Gold Gross: Janie Webber of Daniels; and

• Gold Net: Drema Watts of St. Albans.

Other highlights of the Championship included eight birdies for Maroney, four birdies and an eagle for Daneen Shears of Elizabeth, four birdies for Kathy Thompson of Summersville, two birdies and an eagle for Sylke Knuppel of Shepherdstown and three birdies for Karen Rainey of Daniels.

Click here to see the full leaderboard: 2023 WV Women’s Senior Amateur.

2023

West Virginia Mixed Championship crowns father-daughter champs at Cacapon State Park

The 2023 West Virginia Mixed Championship, hosted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), finished Sunday at Cacapon State Park in Berkeley Springs.

At the end of the first of two days of competition, the team of Karen Rainey and Andrew Thymius, both of Daniels, had a one stroke lead with a five under par 67.

The team of Matthew Moore and Cimmie Shahan, both of Morgantown, finished one stroke behind at four under par 68. Rounding out the top five were the teams of Jared Shank and Kiara Shank, both of Charles Town, and Lisa Younis and Tom Downey, both of Shepherdstown, at three under par 69 and John Stroud and Linda Stroud, both of Daniels, at even par 72. There were 11 teams in the competition.

two days. Matthew Moore and Cimmie Shahan of Morgantown were runners-up at nine under par 135, thanks to nine birdies and an eagle.

The First Flight was won by the team of Linda and John Stroud of Daniels with a two under par 142, thanks to six birdies. The Second Flight was won by the team of John and Jennifer Bledsoe of Barboursville with a six over par 150, including four birdies and an eagle.

“It’s great that we got to host a WVGA event for the first time in a while. Players got to see our terrific course and our beautiful lodge,” said Cacapon’s Head Golf Professional Monty Goff.

The format featured shamble rules, where players select the best tee shot of the two and play their own ball from that point until the ball is holed. The ball may be placed within one club-length, but no closer to the hole, and must stay in the same cut of turf. The lowest score of the two is the team score for the hole. Scramble, where both golfers hit each shot, then select the best shot until the ball is holed was the remainder of the tournament. Front and back nine holes switched each day.

The father-daughter team of Jared and Kiara Shank of Charles Town took Championship honors at the end of the second day with a 10 under par 134, with the help of 14 birdies over

“We have a new course superintendent, Tyler Brunk, who has come in and changed everything,” said Cacapon’s Head Golf Professional Monty Goff. “The course is in the best shape it’s seen in the last few years.”

Click here to see the final leaderboard.

WVGA welcomes new staff member, Sarah Cole, to the golf family

Sarah Cole, born and raised in Princeton, West Virginia, is the newest member of the West Virginia Golf Association staff.

Cole has a long history of involvement in the sport of golf. “My mom signed me up for golf lessons when I was 10 years old because she heard that girl golf scholarships go unused,” Cole recalled. “I hated it at first but grew to love the game quickly! I love being outside and golf is a creative sport and I felt like I can express myself through my game.” She said no one else in her family played golf, so she would get dropped off at the Princeton Elks or Pipestem State Park and get picked up when it was time for dinner.

Cole is a graduate of Concord University where she played college golf and soccer. She graduated in 2020 with a degree in Sports Management.

After graduation, Cole moved to Columbia, South Carolina where she was an intern for the Women’s South Carolina Golf Association. Two weeks before her internship was over, Cole became the Assistant Golf Professional at the Forest Lake Club in Columbia. During her time at Forest Lake, she led the Ladies and Junior Golf Programs. Cole managed a busy lesson schedule and aided in club tournaments. She also volunteered for the Columbia First Tee and South Carolina Junior Golf Association.

Cole is an avid soccer fan and enjoys going to college matches around the state. When she isn’t playing golf, you can find Sarah hiking around the state. I hope to visit all the State Parks in West Virginia and hike the Appalachian Trail in a few years!

Cole is excited to be back home and working for the Association that encouraged her love of the game. Cole is currently in the PGA PGM Program.

“I knew Sarah when she played on the Callaway Junior Tour and I worked with those young players,” said Interim Executive Director Chris Slack. “Sarah has a great work ethic, is very well liked and could jump into the job quickly. She’s been able to should the load of our events like she was a veteran. We’re delighted to have her on board.”

Right now, Slack said, she’s involved in all of our events. Next year may see greater responsibility for Senior Series and Women’s events.

Sarah Cole Tournament Manager, WVGA

USGA P.J. Boatwright Internship Program benefits WVGA and interns

In 1991, the USGA established the P.J. Boatwright Jr. Internship Program, in which the WVGA has been participating for many years. This program is designed to give experience to individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in golf administration, while assisting state and regional golf associations in the promotion of amateur golf, on a short-term, entry-level basis.

Each internship is different, since the needs vary from association to association. An intern may help conduct tournaments, junior golf programs, membership services and other general activities that promote the best interests of golf.

The common thread running through the internship is exposure to tournament preparations, administration and post-tournament business. The nature of tournament administration will test one’s patience, initiative and decision-making abilities, as well as one’s ability to endure long hours and hard work.

A prospective intern should demonstrate strong managerial potential and a sufficient interest in golf. The WVGA provided an appropriate level of orientation and ongoing training and attention. Each intern becomes an employee of the golf association, which will have primary responsibility for recruitment, and sole responsibility for compensation and supervision. Upon completion of the program, the USGA receives evaluations from both the association and the intern.

We asked our 2023 interns to share their insights into their internships and we learned a great deal from these outstanding young people. Our three-month interns were Devin Collins and Caden Moore.

Devin is a graduate of Chapmanville Regional High School and is studying for his masters in business at Glenville State University. “I applied for this internship because I love golf and wanted to get some good work experience before my last year of college,” he said. Collins said he heard about the internship opportunity from Jeff Preast, then read and researched it online. When asked the best part of the internship experience, he said, “I love traveling and getting to see some of the most beautiful courses and in the, and sometimes getting to play these courses.” He said his least favorite part was setting up the tent. He said he learned work skills and “how it is to be held accountable in the workplace to get these tournaments run in an organized way.” When asked what advice he would give the next intern, Collins said, “My advice is to listen when you first start the job and learn how to do stuff so it makes it way easier towards the end of the internship. Now I’m comfortable doing many, many thing I wasn’t able to do at first.”

Caden Moore, a Grafton High School graduate, is a finance and management major at Fairmont State University. Moore saw the internship application on the WVGA web site and heard about it from Lucas Ware. Moore said he was looking for experience in the golf industry and his favorite part of the experience was all the traveling and seeing different golf courses. As other interns have said, his least favorite aspect of the internship was “a lot of early mornings.” Moore said the biggest lesson he learned was to “always pack your rain gear.” His two pieces of advice to future interns would be to enjoy the grind, since the internship will go by quickly. He also advised future interns to make connections that will last a lifetime.

Each of the interns said it was an unbelievable experience and wanted to thank each of the staff members and committee volunteers for the opportunity and for helping them along the way.

Back to school with The First Tee: Are

we in YOUR school?

It’s been a great year for growth so far with First Tee-West Virginia, according to First TeeWV Excutive Director Jeff Preast.

“In 2022-2023, our program was in 185 schools in 29 counties. We added eight schools over the summer, adding four in Harrison County and opening four in Taylor County, so we’re now in 193 schools in 30 counties,” Preast explained. “We have seven more in the pipeline, with more coming based on funding.”

site at The Woods in Hedgesville.”

Preast said the organization has several upcoming charity events, including the 15th annual “The” Ben McGraw First Tee Classic in October at Glade Springs Resort, the Par-Tee Gala in Charleston in November at Embassy Suites Hotel and the ongoing Clubs in Hands campaign.

Some of county Boards of Education, like Marion and Taylor Counties, pay for the program. The remainder are funded by grants.

“We’ve received new grants from Your Community Foundation of North Central West Virginia, the Encova Foundation of West Virginia, the USGA-Toro Grant and Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation,” he said. “We always appreciate our largest sponsor, the Haughey Family Foundation based in Indiana.”

“Our school programs aren’t the only ones growing,” Preast added. “We had 673 individual kids in the green grass programs in 2023, our highest number ever, and added a new

“In addition to our outreach to schools and green grass course locations, we hosted a golf clinic for employees, primarily women, of Huntington Bank,” he said. “The event benefited First Tee and we taught clinic participants about all facets of the game the day prior to the Women’s Amateur at Edgewood Country Club. This is allowing us to develop an ongoing relationship with the bank.”

First Tee - West Virginia would not be possible without the continued support of our sponsors, coaches, host courses, schools and PE teachers, Preast concluded.

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!

EVENT REGISTRATION

Please return completed form no later than Friday, September 22, 2023.

Friday, October 6, 2023 | Cobb Course at The Resort at Glade Springs

.

10:00am Registration | 12:00pm Shotgun | 4-Person Scramble | After Party With Live Music

Golf Cart Sponsor: $1,100

Foursome in event | Logo placement on each golf cart sign | Logo on

Tournament Sponsor signage

Entertainment Sponsor: $1,100

Foursome in event | Logo on Tournament Sponsor signage | Recognition as the Entertainment Sponsor of the tournament after party

Contributing Partner: $800

Foursome in event, Tee Gift, Food, Logo on Tournament Sponsor signage

Hospitality Sponsor: $750

Logo on Tournament Sponsor signage | Logo placement at dinner

a

Pay by Check

Pay by Invoice

Foursome: $640

Foursome in Event, Tee Gift, Food

On-Course Contest Sponsor: $500

Logo placement at contest location | Logo on Tournament Sponsor signage | Recognition on rules sheet

Tournament Sponsor: $200

Logo on Tournament Sponsor signage at prominent locations

Raffle Partner: $ value

Raffle prizes can be in the form of Gift Certificates or Products & can be arranged to be picked-up by a committee member if unable to be mailed

i o n : Having this information in advance will speed-up the registration process

(an invoice will be generated and sent for the amount selected above - term net 30 days)

Pay by Credit Card

Visa / Mastercard

Name on Card: Billing Address: VISA/MC #: Exp Date: CVV Code: Signature:

West Virginia Golf Association

1 Frances P. Jordon Way Charleston, WV 25302 office (304) 391-5000 | fax (304) 391-5050

(please make checks out to: First Tee - West Virginia) Presented By: Jeff

Preast Executive Director JPreast@wvga org

Thanks to our sponsors and partners

There’s still time to get your VIP Card and play some great golf around West Virginia

The West Virginia VIP Card makes a great gift for birthdays, anniversaries...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 65 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.

2023 WV VIP Card

Rules & Regulations:

• 2023 West Virginia VIP Cardholder is entitled to the round(s) of golf listed from 1/1/2023 through 12/31/2023.

• 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 65 West Virginia private, public and resort courses at discounted rates.

Click here for more details or to purchase a card.

2023 WV Golf Association Newsletter Advertising Contract

Advertising is available to member s of the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA) in our quarterly newsletter issues. Please see below for details regarding ad sizes and rates.

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

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

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

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 D anielle 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 W VGA News letter, WVGA, 1 Frances P. Jordon Way, Charleston, WV 25302 . Ads must be paid in full by check or credit card prior t o publication. Please c ontact D anielle Monk at (304) 391 -5000 or dmonk@wvga.org to discuss these options.

C ompany Name:_______________________________________________________________________

Contact Person:______________________________________

Run my ad as follows: Winter Spring _____ Summer _____ Fall _____ Full Year _____ My ad size (Check One):

2023 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, 1 Frances P. Jordon Way, Charleston, WV 25302. Email a high resolution (300-dpi minimum) version of your company’s color logo to dmonk@wvga.org

1

Charleston, WV 25302

Phone (304) 391-5000

President

Philip Reale

Edgewood County Club

Vice President

Tim McNeely

Pete Dye Golf Club

Secretary

Dave McCormick

Lakeview Resort

Treasurer

Andrew Jordon

Edgewood Country Club

Directors

Kimberly Mann Glade Springs

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

Staff

Chris Slack Interim Executive Director

Danielle Monk Director of Membership and Outreach

Jeff Preast

Director, First Tee

Sarah Cole

Tournament Manager

Lucas Ware

Tournament Manager, Youth

Frances P. Jordon Way

WV Golf Association Staff and Executive Committee