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
DISTRICT 8 DIRECTOR
Phil Anderson, 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
Director of Foundation Programs—Amber Bogle
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
The Nebraska Section PGA was on its way leaving the days of a mom-and-pop operation when it hired Bruce Lubach as its third executive director in less than two years. Lubach navigated choppy waters, especially with finances, early in his two-decade tenure from 1989 to 2009.
But by the time Lubach stepped down to join the national PGA office as a regional career consultant, the Nebraska PGA had new-found stature in the state and in the nation. It stemmed most notably from the now-Korn Ferry Tour bringing tournaments to Sioux City and Omaha, the Nebraska Open restarting and the Professional Golf Management program launching at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Prior to his hiring, Lubach said the Nebraska PGA had good leadership from his predecessors, Rich Williams, who had a long career with the PGA of America, and Kirk Stanzel, whom the Iowa Golf Association hired away after only one season to be its executive director.
With that being said, things were “just barely moving along.” Marc Cruse, then the pro at Mahoney Golf Course in Lincoln and the Section President, had to sign a bank note to guarantee the section could pay its bills.
Cruse was in a new generation of Nebraska PGA leaders, following stalwarts such as Bob Popp at Omaha Country Club, John Frillman at Happy Hollow Club in Omaha and Bob Schuchart at Holmes Golf Course in Lincoln. Continue Reading…...
The Nebraska Section PGA has announced Doris Zhao, PGA the recipient of the Wilson Sporting Goods Monthly Game Ball recipient for the month of June
The Wilson Game Ball honors PGA Professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to the game of golf. The Nebraska Section PGA is proud to recognize Doris Zhao, PGA, as the Wilson Sporting Goods Game Ball recipient for June.
The Wilson Game Ball honors PGA Professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to the game of golf. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Lecturer with the UNL PGM program embodies these qualities through her dedication and passions she shows in leading our future PGA Professionals in the classroom and beyond.
“Being honored for the Wilson Game Ball is truly meaningful and the recognition from my peers means so much to me,” Zhao said. “It’s humbling and it also reminds me how important it is to continue to give back, whether that’s mentoring our PGM students, supporting my colleagues, or growing the game in new ways.” Zhao’s passion for the game has been evident ever since she walked into the University doors as a freshman. As a student, she always demonstrated professionalism and a true desire to learn how to be the best PGA Professional that she could be. After graduating, she has returned to the program but this time, in a much different role.
“Taking on this new role with the UNL PGM has been both exciting and extremely rewarding. It’s given me a chance to translate both the years of industry experience and what I learned throughout my years as a student into lectures that will help shape the the next generation of PGA Golf Professionals,” Zhao said.
Continue Reading,,,,
Navigating the 'Collective Stuck': A Path to Career Fulfillment
As PGA professionals, we dedicate ourselves to nurturing the game we love, yet it's not unusual to encounter phases where we feel "stuck." Recently, I've coined this pervasive feeling the "collective stuck" a scenario where many individuals find themselves waiting for an external catalyst, that magical moment to jolt them back into life. This is not about waiting for a fairy godmother but a broader societal phenomenon of anticipation and inertia.
Burnout is prevalent, manifesting in reduced enthusiasm and a sense of inertia among many of us in the PGA community. This "stuck" feeling isn't inherently tied to clinical depression or anxiety though there's often overlap but rather a distinct state where enthusiasm and motivation diminish.
For many professionals, career dissatisfaction is a significant contributor to this state. In my role as a PGA Career Consultant, I encounter this widely, with reports indicating that over 70% feel trapped in their careers. This represents a crisis of purpose, as many struggle to align their career paths with personal fulfillment, uncertain of the steps required to break free of this stagnation.
The solution isn't a singular breakthrough event. Instead, it's the accumulation of small, consistent actions. The journey out of the "collective stuck" starts with embracing daily progress through minor but meaningful tasks. Initially, these may seem trivial, lacking that immediate dopamine boost we're seeking. Yet, in time, they compound to create tangible change, fulfilling results, and unexpected sparks of excitement.
Breaking Free: Practical Steps for PGA Professionals
If you identify with the "collective stuck," especially regarding your career, consider this simple, powerful strategy: dedicate five minutes each day to learning something new. This brief daily activity whether it's watching a video, reading an insightful article, or listening to a podcast gradually builds knowledge and momentum.
While five minutes seems nominal at first glance, over days and weeks, it adds up to significant growth and eventual transformation. You'll find yourself getting "unstuck," equipped with new perspectives and renewed aspirations.
Excellence in our careers isn't merely a goal; it becomes the standard when we commit to these small but impactful steps. Let's reshuffle the cards every small move counts toward a thriving career and a fulfilling life.
Kevin Drew, PGA,ARWC
PGA Career Consultant Iowa & Nebraska
402-670-2973
kdrew@pgahq.com
Book a Meeting: Kevin Drew's Meeting Calendar
Bent Tree Golf Club welcomed 27 rounds.
In the Professional-only division, only three players managed to finish under par. Topping the leaderboard were Ryan Vermeer, PGA of Happy Hollow Club, and Brady Schnell of Firethorn Golf Club, who each carded rounds of 3 -under to share first place. Mark Foelbaek of Country Club of Lincoln continued his strong play with a solo third-place finish at 2-under.
Four players tied for fourth at 1-over: Justin Herron, Tom Hearn, Alex Carper, and Santiago Garcia. Schnell led the field with six birdies, while Vermeer added five birdies and an eagle to his scorecard.
In the team competition, Justin Herron, PGA of Oak Hills Country Club, teamed up with Mike Marsh, Jim Atkinson, and Mike Humphrey to post a stellar 13-under, cruising to a four-stroke victory. Runners-up were Matt Eilrich of The Fairways at Lincoln and his team of Tyler Wessel, Jeff Wessel, and Bob Klopnieski, who finished at 9-under. Rounding out the top three was Brad Bailey, PGA of Wilderness Ridge Country Club, alongside Shelly Bailey, Tandy Bailey, and Jim Holmes. Continue Reading…..
Wild Horse Golf Club welcomed 25 Nebraska PGA Professionals and their amateur teams for the 2025 308 Cup Pro-Am, presented by Chesterman Co. Coca-Cola. This year’s event featured a notable change for the first time, Nebraska PGA Professionals from outside the 308 area code were eligible to compete, though only 308based players were eligible for the trophy finishes.
In the Professional-only division, competitors played a Stableford format, where points were awarded based on performance double eagle (10 points), eagle (7), birdie (4), par (2), and bogey (1). The team competition followed a similar structure, with two-net best balls counting toward the team score. The event began at 10:00 a.m. with a shotgun start under windy, challenging conditions.
In the Professional-only division, Caleb Badura of Jackrabbit Run Golf Course delivered a steady performance, carding three birdies and four bogeys to post 38 points. Among the 308-eligible players, Badura topped the leaderboard to earn Professional honors. Close behind, Trevor Chesnut, PGA of Scotts Bluff Country Club, secured runner-up honors with 37 points. Continue Reading...
NEBRASKA PGA TEAM MEMBERS:
Brad Bailey, Judd Cornell, Jay Cottam, Ted DiGiacomo, Justin Herron, Brad Neunaber, Jon Petersen, Carson Schaake, Brady Schnell, Ryan Vermeer, Jim White, Shane Zywiec
NEBRASKA GOLF ASSOCIATION TEAM MEMBERS:
Bill Amundsen, Glenn Bills, Brian Csipkes, David Easley, Clavin Freeman, Luke Gutschewski, Matt Haynes, Hamish Murray, Beau Petersen, Johnny Spellerberg, Kevin Sullivan, Ed Wyatt
View Results and Full Leaderboard
Overall Record:
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.
Wilderness Ridge Country Club hosted 33 teams for the 19th Annual Golf Fore The Troops Pro-Am, presented by Nelnet. Since the inception of the event, its raised more than $220,000 for military families which have been given out in college scholarships to military personnel and/or their children. Co-chairmen Jim White, PGA MP and Dave Breetzke started the event with a vision to make a positive impact, but they never could’ve imagined the success it has had over the years.
“This is a very small thing we can do to give back to those who make tremendous sacrifices for us,” said White.
White’s father served during World War ll and was involved with D-Day, influencing his decision and motivation to begin the tournament alongside Breetzke.
“Mostly all of us have had some part of our family play a role in the military and even a few of our Nebraska PGA Professionals are Veterans themselves and I think that’s why this event has resonated with so many,” said White.
Along with the fundraising aspect of Golf Fore The Troops, the competition has always been a strong part of the event and a piece that White has enjoyed on top of the positive impact. With that being said, the 33 teams competed in a 2-net format while each of the Nebraska PGA Professionals played in a Professional-only event on top. Continue Reading
Save the Date: PGA Buying Summit
The PGA Buying Summit - Frisco returns to the Omni PGA Frisco Resort on July 28-30, 2025. Don't miss the opportunity to connect with fellow PGA of America Golf Professionals at the Home of the PGA of America. Register Today
Play Next to the Home of the PGA - Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa
Enjoy exclusive PGA of America Golf Professional perks with room rates from $149/night and 50% off resort guest green fees, now through Labor Day - designed for personal use. Offer not valid June 19-21 or July 28-30. Additional blackout dates may apply. Not applicable to groups on the books or future group bookings. Promotional offer may end anytime.
Book Today
Help Fellow PGA of America MembersUpdate Your Compensation Profile
Do you have a few minutes to help out your fellow PGA of America Golf Professionals? Fill out or update your Compensation Profile today! This information assists the Career Services Team in helping our Members and Associates with compensation negotiations.
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With over 80 participants and 22 teams, this year’s tournament was one to remember and we hope to grow the game even more! Thank you to all who came out—and again a special thank you to our incredible sponsors PenFed, Duncan Aviation and Green Line Nutrition & Warrior Wellness for making it all possible!
We can’t thank each Veteran enough for giving this program a chance. We hope you enjoyed it and as a reminder, this is just the beginning!
Thank you to all of the Nebraska PGA Professionals that assisted with the coaching.
In 2021, PGA REACH Nebraska, the charitable arm of the Nebraska Section PGA introduced ‘Clubs FORE Youth’, the newest of their programs with a mission to positively impact lives through the game of golf.
PGA REACH Nebraska worked with the Nebraska Schools Activities Association to conduct a study covering more than 70 High School Girls Golf programs across the state to identify barriers to golf for girls. The results were staggering. The study found that 56% of the girls in Nebraska competing in high school golf do not use their own clubs and 43% of the equipment used was outdated, broken, or borderline unusable.
In an effort to fix this glaring problem, PGA REACH Nebraska created Clubs
FORE Youth with the goal of fully equipping High School Girl’s Golf programs in need of resources and equipment assistance. In four years since the inception of the program, PGA REACH Nebraska has donated more than 200 sets of brand new Callaway clubs and push carts to 40 High School Girls Golf programs across the Nebraska Section. In addition to the equipment, the players and coaches receive PGA instruction during the summer.
PGA REACH Nebraska is proud to announce the 10 high school girls golf programs selected in 2025. This program is designed to break down barriers to participation and empower high school students especially those who may not otherwise have access with the tools they need to learn and enjoy the game of golf.
• Cozad High School
• Wood River High School
• Lincoln North Star High School
• South Sioux City High School
• Fullerton High School
• Wahoo High School
• Kearney Catholic High School
• Eustis-Farnam Public Schools
• St. Paul High School
• Holdrege High School
The club drop-off presentations have kicked off and they’ve nearly been completed over the course of the past two weeks.
This initiative is more than just about providing equipment it’s about fostering opportunity, confidence, and community through golf.
Nebraska PGA’s Executive Director David Honnens, PGA has had the pleasure to be a part of several club presentations this month.
“We’re incredibly excited to continue expanding Clubs FORE Youth across the Section,” said Honnens. “Each year, we see the real impact this program has not just on the students, but on their schools, coaches, and communities. It’s opening doors and growing the game where it matters most.”
Once all club drop-offs are completed, the PGA REACH Nebraska team will work with Nebraska PGA Professionals to complete golf camps with each of the recipients, adding to the value of the program.
PGA REACH Nebraska is committed to this program for years to come and we look forward to the continued support from donors and communities as we continue to make a positive impact on people’s lives through the game of golf. Stay tuned on our social media channels at @pgareachneb for updates as the program continues to make a dramatic impact.
Meadowlark Hills Golf Course was the setting for the 2025 PGA REACH Impact Event in Kearney, NE. We would like to thank them for their wonderful hospitality and excellent golf course conditions. We also want to extend a special thank you to the event's supporting sponsors: Chesterman Coca-Cola, Yellow Van Cleaning & Restoration, Golf Fit USA, Pansing Hogan Ernst & Buser LLP, and Beebout Veterinary Medical Center.
Also, thank you to all of the hole sponsors! Without your support, this event would not be possible!
Congratulations to the Beebout Veterinary Medical Center Team and Golf Fit USA Teams, who both shot 54 (-17 under par). See the full results HERE.
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)
Gary Gabrielson, PGA 7/1
Brian Fauss, PGA 7/1
Michael Coatman 7/2
Matthew Means 7/5
Joseph Canny, PGA 7/6
Zachary Podraza 7/7
Brent McGrew, PGA 7/8
Keaton Fletcher 7/8
Rich Skinner, PGA 7/9
Brandon Brion, PGA 7/10
Mark Foelbaek, PGA 7/11
Derek Carlson, PGA 7/11
Robert Spomer, PGA 7/13
Reggie Reyes, PGA 7/16
Mark Nygaard, PGA 7/16
Maxwell Hadenfeldt, PGA 7/17
Riley Rohling 7/17
Jay Cottam, PGA 7/17
Carson Tatro, PGA 7/19
Tyler Kingston, PGA 7/19
Justin Wagner, PGA 7/19
Scott Murphy, PGA 7/20
Gene Johnson, PGA 7/21
Bruce Smith, PGA 7/21
Shane McClure, PGA 7/24
Taytom Timbers 7/24
Mark Ruhga, PGA 7/25
Andrew Soper 7/26
Mitchell Klooz 7/26
David Honnens, PGA 7/27
James Sieckmann, PGA 7/29
Scott Bruha, PGA 7/29
Thomas McAndrew, PGA 7/30
Phillip Palmer, PGA 7/30
Don Germer, PGA 7/31
