Discover Enhanced Support with Member Assistance Resources
OFFICERS/BOARD
President Mike Schuchart, PGA
Vice President Phil Palmer, PGA
Secretary— Bobby O’Keefe, PGA
Honorary President—Dawn Neujahr, PGA
Board Member Tony Baranowski, PGA
Board Member Joe Wiegand, PGA
NEBRASKA PGA STAFF
Executive Director/CEO David Honnens, PGA
Assist. Executive Director Seth Scollard, PGA
Managing Director—Renee Tyson
Tournament Director—Derek Carlson, PGA
Junior Golf Director Kurt Karcher, PGA
Digital Media Director Brett Renner
PGA Works Fellow—Amber Bogle
DISTRICT 8 DIRECTOR
Phil Anderson, PGA
Administrative Assistant—Tiffany White
Development Officer Bob Danenhauer
Community Relations Coord. Margie Smith
INTRODUCING OUR NEW LOGOS HONORING OUR SECTION’S 100 YEAR HISTORY:
Written by Stu Pospisil | Omaha World Herald Reporter & Lead Writer
Eight Omaha golf professionals met together Monday night at the Conant hotel to organize a Professional Golfers Association of Nebraska. And now the association exists. The birthdate of the Nebraska Section, April 13, 1925.
The parents, Stanley Davies and Charley Johnston. Siblings, missing.
There, that might be the reason that Stanley Davies of the Field Club of Omaha and Charley Johnston evidently grew impatient with the snail’s pace of professional growth – and access to the national PGA Championship – for Nebraska.
The national PGA started with seven sections in 1916. A reorganization of sections in 1921 grouped Nebraska with Colorado and Utah.
Four years of inactivity ensued. That changed with the 1925 meeting in Omaha. Davies was elected president by the eight charter members. Norman Summers of the Country Club of Lincoln became vice president and John Caldwell of Council Bluffs Country Club the secretary-treasurer.
Summers was not at the meeting, “but was to be notified immediately of his election.” He had been an assistant to Davies at the Field Club.
Continue Reading…..
Life Insurance can help ensure the financial health of those who depend on you, should the unthinkable happen. That is why PGA of America has teamed up with The Prudential Insurance Company of America (Prudential) to offer members in-dues life insurance and optional term life insurance so you can get the coverage you need.
Check this off your list today:
• Does your policy reflect the correct beneficiary?
• Do your loved ones have access to your policy when they need it?
• Do you have the right amount of coverage?
Update your beneficiary and explore additional coverage.
Group Insurance coverage is issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, a Prudential Financial company, Newark, NJ.
Prudential, the Prudential logo, and the Rock Symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc., and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide.
Gallagher Affinity Insurance Services, Inc., provides administrative support services to insurance plans sponsored by associations and fulfilled by insurance carriers. Our support includes certificate issuance, and facilitation of information in support of applications and claims for benefits provided by the insurance carrier. The carrier fulfills the benefit determination and any payments on claims associated with those benefits.
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For PGA Members interested in being a Mentor:
The Nebraska PGA Membership Committee recently launched their “Mentor Initiative” to help support our PGA Associates. Included in the initiative is the new Associate Support & PGA Mentorship website and model. It's designed to provide valuable insights on best practices for progressing through coursework, facilitate connections with fellow associates and PGA mentors, and offer resources to effectively plan required materials for completing each level.
To learn more about the program and to get involved today, click HERE. All PGA Associates received an email to get a gauge on interest and numbers of potential participants. They all received a link to a new mentorship website which is catered to the Associates and their program. To view their website, click HERE. To find this website at any time, login into the Pro-Only side of our main Nebraska PGA Website and find the link under 'Member Documents'.
In addition, this initiative helps you achieve points that go towards the PGA of America’s Deferred Compensation Program. All PGA Members that choose to participate will earn points towards the program. The main goals of this new program are to promote our community and brand while fostering new professional relationships within our Membership and to enhance networking opportunities.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to our PGA Career Consultant Kevin Drew! Get involved today and help us push forward our Associates to PGA Membership.
For PGA Associate Support:
The Nebraska Section PGA Membership Committee is excited to launch their new Associate Support & PGA Mentorship website and model.
The Nebraska PGA Associate Support and Mentorship Site serves as a comprehensive hub for PGA Associates. It's designed to provide valuable insights on best practices for progressing through coursework, facilitate connections with fellow associates and PGA mentors, and offer resources to effectively plan required materials for completing each level. Additionally, the site supports PGA members who are interested in mentoring associates and assisting them both personally and professionally as they navigate their associate coursework journey.
Click HERE to view the new website. To find this website at any time, login into the Pro-Only side of our main Nebraska PGA Website and find the link under 'Member Documents'.
As you dive into the Associate Support & PGA Mentorship website, be sure to check out the 'Mentee Support' section where you can fill out a request form. This is your opportunity to tap into the wisdom and experience of those committed to your success. After submitting your form, a PGA Professional will connect with you to start your mentorship journey.
The Nebraska Section PGA has announced Tom Erlandson, PGA the recipient of the Wilson Sporting Goods Monthly Game Ball recipient for the month of April.
The Wilson Sporting Goods Game Ball recognizes PGA Professionals who demonstrate extraordinary dedication to their facilities, their players, and the game of golf. Few embody that spirit more than Tom Erlandson, who has spent over two decades as the Head PGA Professional at Woodland Hills Golf Course.
Erlandson recently stepped back from his leadership role, opening the door for the next generation of professionals to grow in the very environment he helped shape. Yet, his commitment hasn’t wavered he continues to assist in the pro shop, mentor staff, and lead instruction for Nebraska Section PGA HOPE classes serving area Veterans.
“It’s always nice to be recognized for your hard work, dedication to our facility, the industry and our players,” said Erlandson. “Going through the ins and outs of managing the golf course you don’t always get that. Things like the Wilson Game Ball let us know that we are appreciated and that people do notice.”
Erlandson’s path into the profession came from a lifetime in athletics, and a growing love for golf that turned into a career.
“After high school, golf became not only a hobby but a passion of mine. And I have been very fortunate to be able to make a career out of that passion,” Erlandson said. Continuing Reading….
Empowering Facilities, Elevating Experiences: The PGA Professional Advantage
Let’s be honest your golf facility is only as good as the people running it. And when it comes to excellence in golf operations, instruction, and member experience, there’s no substitute for a PGA Professional.
In my role as a PGA Career Consultant, I’ve seen firsthand how facilities thrive or stall based on the leadership and expertise they invest in. If you’re still viewing a PGA Professional as a “nice to have,” it’s time to reframe that mindset. This isn’t just a hire it’s a strategic partnership that can transform your club’s trajectory.
The Real Value of the PGA Badge Hiring a PGA Professional means bringing in someone who wears the credibility of the PGA brand like armor. These individuals are not just skilled they're battle-tested in the business of golf. With education grounded in the PGA Associate Program or accredited university curriculums, they bring unmatched knowledge in instruction, operations, merchandising, tech, and more. You're not just hiring a golf expert you're adding a Swiss Army knife of value to your team.
Service that Sells PGA Professionals know how to connect. From creating personalized member experiences to becoming the go-to person at community events, they are your club’s most visible and valuable asset. They understand how to make guests feel like members and members feel like family. And in our business, loyalty equals longevity and revenue.
Business Builders, Not Just Bag Taggers Let’s talk numbers. PGA Professionals aren’t just holding down the fort they're growing it. Whether they’re launching player development programs like PGA Jr. League, managing a milliondollar merchandising operation, or creating buzzworthy events, these pros are driving real, measurable growth. Their role isn’t a cost it’s an investment with a strong ROI.
Leadership That Raises All Ships In roles from Head Golf Professional to General Manager, PGA members bring leadership that boosts team morale, improves retention, and fosters accountability. They’re mentors, motivators, and managers all in one and their influence raises the game for everyone on staff.
Instruction That Inspires If your teaching program isn’t led by a PGA member, you’re leaving potential on the table literally. These professionals bring cutting-edge instruction, engaging junior camps, custom lesson plans, and proven retention strategies that convert first-timers into lifers. And let’s not ignore the added bonus: instruction drives equipment sales and overall shop revenue.
Continuous Improvement, Always PGA Professionals never stop learning. Thanks to the PGA's Life-Long Learning Journey, they stay sharp with evolving trends, tech, and techniques. Your facility reaps the benefits of their drive to grow and their reputation for professionalism and integrity ensures your brand stays as sharp as your fairways.
Bottom Line: Hiring a PGA Professional Isn’t Optional It’s Essential If you want to lead in this competitive market, you need people who know how to lead the game. PGA Professionals don’t just fill roles they elevate results, experiences, and reputations. So the next time you’re evaluating your team or your future ask yourself: Do I have a PGA Professional steering this ship? If not, let’s talk. Because in today’s golf economy, excellence isn’t a luxury it’s the standard.
NEW Hole-in-One Club. Entry into the club is only required one time until the next Hole-in-One is made. Entry fee is $20.00.
For those Nebraska Section PGA Professionals who are still in need of some PDRs, we have compiled a list of several opportunities that are available to you.
The deadline to have all PDR information submitted is June 15, 2025.
Be sure to check your status today!
2024 & 2025 PGA Show Videos
PGA members can receive one (1) PGA Education PDR by watching a video from the list and taking an assessment at the conclusion of the video.
PDR credit may be earned only one time for any online PDR course. In order to earn PDR credit, you must score a 70% or higher on the assessment. If you do not score 70% or higher, you will be allowed one (1) re-take opportunity. You will be directed to the assessment when the video concludes. Members must have the updated version of web browsers. Once video has started you must allow the video to run in its entirety without any interruptions such as stopping or pausing.
Watch Videos and Earn Credits Here
New to this cycle are Education PDRs. Any education from the following categories are eligible for Education/General PDRs:
• Allied Association Education
• New Product or Equipment Training
• Career Specific Education - including serving as a speaker/instructor on topics such as:
-Youth Safety
-Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
-Mental Health and Well Being
-CPR
• Participation in PGA Recognized Programs
-PGA HOPE Clinics, PGA Junior League, PGA Family Golf, PGA Junior Camps, Drive, Chip & Putt Hosts and Volunteers
Visit Online PDR Opportunities or click on “Earn Credits” within your pga.org dashboard.
If you have questions or would like to submit credits, please contact Renee Tyson at 402-4897760 or rtyson@pgahq.com
Complimentary Access to PGA of America Spectator Championships
PGA of America Golf Professionals can receive complimentary access to the PGA Championship, Senior PGA Championship, and the KPMG Women's Championship, as well as Member and Amateur PGA of America Championships. Discover how you can attend these events today!
Secure Your Access
Check Your Profile Before Annual Dues
Billing
The 2025-2026 Annual Dues Invoices will be available on May 1, 2025. Please review your PGA.org dashboard and submit any employment, class, Section, or personal contact information changes here, including reviewing your Term Life insurance beneficiary information. . Update
PGA Coach+ Is Here!
Subscribe to PGA Coach+ for personalized success and support, choice partner opportunities, and exclusive features and content. Learn about the future of the PGA Coach Platform from PGA of America President Don Rea Jr., PGA, in a special video message here.
Upgrade NOW
Update or Create Your Job Preference Profile Today!
Whether you are actively searching for a job today or not, it's a great time to go in and update or create your Job Preference Profile to ensure that you are not missing out on an opportunity that might interest you.
Complete Profile
Learn the Hydration & Nutrition Fundamentals for Golf
Don't underestimate the importance of hydration & nutrition for performance. Click below to download the Gatorade Sports Science Institute's guide to Foods & Fluids for Golf. Hear it directly from these sports scientists here and here.
Learn More
Download the PGA Member App
The PGA Member App brings you a world of opportunities! Enjoy the benefits of effortlessly managing your member details, tracking PDRs, and submitting deferred compensation points, all in one convenient place. Download the PGA Member App (Apple) (Google Play) and if an update is available, please click "Update" to ensure you have installed the latest version of the app.
Download Here
Each high school girls golf program will receive new clubs, push carts and PGA Instruction
Registration Open for 2025 PGA Family Golf Championship on Labor Day Weekend at Whistling Straits & Blackwolf Run
Amateur and Professional divisions offer PGA of America Golf Professionals and recreational golfers alike the opportunity to team up with family Aug. 30-31
Registration is open for the third annual PGA Family Golf Championship to be held on the acclaimed courses at Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run in Kohler, Wisconsin, Aug. 30-31, 2025. Families can register here.
The PGA Family Golf Championship welcomes teams of 2-4 players who are biologically or legally related to compete in one of two divisions. The Amateur division is open to golfers of all skill levels, while the Professional division includes teams with a PGA of America Golf Professional or LPGA Golf Professional. In alignment with the American Development Model (ADM), competitors must be at least 10 years of age on August 30, 2025.
“Golf brings people together, and PGA Family Golf brings families together; there is nothing better than spending time with the people you love, off the grid and on the grass,” said PGA of America President Don Rea Jr., PGA Master Professional and Owner/Operator of Augusta Ranch Golf Club (Arizona). “Our partners at Kohler Golf value family, and together we have created an unforgettable experience for families that blends fun and competition. Register your family now before the field is full.”
The event kicks off Friday, Aug. 29, with a round on the par-3 Baths Course, followed by an evening reception onsite. Two days of team scramble competition begins Saturday, Aug. 30, on the Meadow Valleys Course, followed by the final round on Sunday, Aug. 31, on the Irish Course.
A limited number of rounds are available exclusively for PGA Family Golf Championship participants on The Straits Course, host of the 43rd Ryder Cup (2021) and PGA Championship (2015, 2010, 2004), on Friday (Aug. 29) or Monday (Sept. 1). Registrants can secure a time on a first-come, first-serve basis during online registration at a special rate. Additionally, a limited number of rooms have been reserved at a special group rate at The American Club as well as the Inn on Woodlake; details will be provided with registration.
Important Dates to Remember
• February 28th: 2025 NJG Membership Registration opens
• March 6th at 9am: Spring Junior Series event registration opens
• April 7th at 9am: Regular Summer NJG Tour and Adult/Junior event registration opens
• April 8th at 9am: 1-Day Summit Series event registration opens
• April 9th at 9am: 2-Day event registration opens (Regular and Summit 2-Day events)
We strongly encourage all leagues to create and bring an All-Star team to the Section postseason (aka All-Star Season). Even if you feel that your team "wouldn't be competitive", it's more of a celebration of your local season play and gives you the opportunity to reward some of your players the chance to be named an "All-Star". Click HERE to learn more about the All-Star Season.
We will once again have a qualifier before the Section Championship this year. That qualifier event is on Monday, July 21st at Fremont Golf Club. This will be for the 13U All-Star teams and potentially for the 17U All-Star teams (depending on how many 17U teams there are). We plan to advance four 13U and four 17U teams from the qualifier to the Section Championship. The 13U All-Star teams will be eight players and NEW for 2025, the 17U All-Star teams will also be eight players (increase from six in prior years). All-Star players are determined by the coaches involved in each league. For the 13U teams, our plan is to have a morning wave of 9 holes and an afternoon wave of 9 holes at Fremont GC. The best two team scores from the front 9 flights (AM & PM combined) and best two team scores from the back 9 flights (AM & PM combined) will advance to the Section Championship. For the 17U teams, the format on how we will determine the four qualifying teams will be determined by how many total teams there are.
NOTE: If there are too many teams for one qualifier, there will be two qualifiers. The second location is Riverside GC in Grand Island on Wednesday, July 23rd. If we need this secondary event, teams will be split as evenly as possible based on geographic location as far as which qualifier they will compete in. The format to determine how teams would qualify at each site is TBD.
The Section Championship will be on August 9th at The Club at Indian Creek in Elkhorn (Red Feather Course). The championship will be 9 holes for both 13U and 17U divisions. Both the qualifier and championship will be 2-person stroke play scramble format, counting the 3 of the best 4 pair scores to make up the team total. We are very excited for the Section Championship event as it will once again be conducted in conjunction with the Pinnacle Bank Championship Korn Ferry Tour event on the third nine at their facility. More logistics on this will be released as they become available.
IMPORTANT: The top two teams at the Section Championship in both the 13U and 17U divisions will qualify for the regional event, which will be held at The Ridge GC in Sioux Center, IA on Sept. 12-14, 2025.
NEW for 2025: Our region has been adjusted and will be composed with the following Sections/teams:
13U Division
2 Nebraska Section qualifiers
2 Midwest Section qualifiers
4 Top Regional Leaderboard teams
* Top 13U team advances to the National Finals (date TBA)
17U Division
2 Nebraska Section qualifiers
2 Midwest Section qualifiers
4 Top Regional Leaderboard teams
* Top 17U team advances to the National Finals (date TBA)
Educating parents and caregivers about the benefits of PGA Jr. League and keeping them informed about your schedule and plans are vital to hosting a successful season. The 2025 Marketing Toolkit includes several tools to help you do just that!
Orientation Meeting Slide Templates
Family Welcome Email/Letter Template
Videos to Share with Families
Adding Guardians or Family Members
The MyPGA Mobile App is a powerful tool to help families stay up-to-date with their players’ PGA Jr. League schedules. Invite parents and caregivers to download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. If desired, parents and caregivers can also invite additional guardians or family members to join the app and follow along with all the fun. Share this help article with your
Create a Community Event
Looking for ways to offset the cost of a season for your players and their families? Host a community event at your facility and invite the community to participate. Get creative with the event, from hosting a mini-golf course on the practice green to a clinic. Charging a small entry fee helps raise money to engage more players and introduce them to
