2016 PROgram Magazine Year in Review

VOLUME 43 | ISSUE 1 | YEAR IN REVIEW

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PGA GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

MARK WILSON

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PGA

CONTENTS

07 WE HAVE A STRONG

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

PGA MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTED 19 ROLL AND WINN FEATURED IN

SUPPORT SYSTEM

08 WELCOME NEW

NEW MEMBERS

WOMEN’S SECTION CHAMPIONSHIP 20 VALIDATION FOR 2015 LPGA

MEMBERS

SECTION REPORT 09 WORKING FOR YOU...

TEACHER’S FORUM 21 LEARNING THE MOTOR SKILLS

ANNUAL MEETING 10 SPECIAL AWARDS & PINEHURST CHAMPIONSHIP

TEACHER OF THE YEAR

OF GOLF

LAWS IMPACTING GOLF 22 NEW LAWS IMPACTING

FOUNDATION CLASSIC 12 FIRST ANNUAL FOUNDATION

PGA MAGAZINE

BUSINESSES IN 2016

PGA MEMBER VENTURE 25 PICTURE PERFECT

CLASSIC AT RIVIERA C.C.

PGA PLAYER DEVELOPMENT 13 ENGAGEMENT = GROW YOUR

CHAPTER SPECIAL AWARDS 27 PGA PROFESSIONALS

BUSINESS = INCREASE YOUR VALUE

AWARDED AT THE CHAPTER LEVEL

AGGREGATE SERIES 14 THE SMOCK COAST SWING

CHAPTER CORNER 28 SCPGA CHAPTER UPDATES &

CALIFORNIA CUP 15 INAUGURAL CALIFORNIA CUP

UPCOMING EVENTS

CHAPTER CHALLENGE 29 SAN DIEGO CHAPTER

GOES TO NCPGA

LEADERSHIP COLUMN 16 YOU’RE AN INVESTMENT,

UNDEFEATED AGAIN

TOURNAMENT RECAP 30 SCPGA TOURNAMENT

NOT AN EXPENSE, SHOW YOU’RE DOUBLE YOUR WORTH

18 SCPGA WOMEN

WOMEN’S CUP MATCHES

SECTION NOTES 31 NOTES FROM THE SCPGA

PROFESSIONALS DOMINATE

OFFICE

SAVE

RESULTS

the DATE

NOTABLE UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SECTION

APPRENTICE ORIENTATION April 7 | SCPGA Headquarters

SCPGA TEACHING COMPETITION May 1 | Mission Hills Country Club

CALLAWAY SPRING TEACHING SUMMIT April 18 | Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club

PATRIOT PRO-AM May 9 | Toscana Country Club

SENIOR INDIVIDUAL STROKE PLAY April 19 | Rustic Canyon Golf Course

PRO-SCRATCH CHAMPIONSHIP May 16 | Annandale Golf Club

AAA INDUSTRY HILLS April 21 | Industry Hills Golf Club

TPS SERIES May 23 | Steele Canyon Golf Club

PROFESSIONAL-OFFICIAL CHAMPIONSHIP April 25 | Redlands Country Club

SUMMER MEETING & PRO-PRO SCRAMBLE June 6 | Saticoy Country Club

www.scpga.com

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

10Things TO K N OW. . .

1. THERE ARE THREE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR SECRETARY OF THE PGA OF AMERICA: RUSS LIBBY FROM NORTH FLORIDA, JIM RICHERSON FROM WISCONSIN AND RICK MURPHY FROM NORTH CAROLINA. 2. THANK YOU TODD YOSHITAKE AND THE VENERABLE RIVIERA COUNTRY CLUB FOR HOSTING OUR FIRST ANNUAL SCPGA FOUNDATION CLASSIC. 3. THE NICKELL FAMILY AND RIEHLE FAMILY BOTH HAD SETS OF TWINS. 4. SCOTT ASHWORTH, PGA, IS OUR NEW DISTRICT 11 DIRECTOR. SCOTT IS FROM THE ISLAND OF LANAI IN HAWAII. MAHALO. 5. 12 PAST PRESIDENTS ATTENDED OUR ANNUAL PAST PRESIDENTS MEETING LAST MONTH. 6. OUR GOLF IN SCHOOLS PROGRAM IS ACTIVE IN 40 FACILITIES. LET US KNOW IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE AN INSTRUCTOR. 7. THE SECTION HAS 1,724 MEMBERS AND APPRENTICES. THE PGA OF AMERICA HAS 24,000 MEMBERS AND 4,000 APPRENTICES. 8. THERE ARE CURRENTLY 19 PGM PROGRAMS IN THE COUNTRY. 9. PETE BEVACQUA, CEO OF THE PGA OF AMERICA, HAS SIGNED A CONTRACT EXTENSION THROUGH 2021.

10. THE ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL MEETING WILL TAKE PLACE IN NEW YORK CITY THIS NOVEMBER AS THE PGA OF AMERICA CELEBRATES IT’S 100TH ANNIVERSARY.

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ABOUT US THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PGA VOLUME 43, ISSUE 1 YEAR IN REVIEW ISSUE THE PROGRAM IS PRODUCED BY THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PGA PUBLISHER AND EDITOR

SCPGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS

PRESIDENT | JOHN MCNAIR, PGA JC RESORTS VICE PRESIDENT | TODD KEEFER, PGA WILSHIRE COUNTRY CLUB SECRETARY | TONY LETENDRE, PGA FIRST TEE OF ORANGE COUNTY HONORARY PRESIDENT | JASON TAYLOR, PGA LORENA OCHOA FOUNDATION

AT-LARGE DIRECTORS

RANDY CHANG, PGA JOURNEY AT PECHANGA & TALEGA GOLF CLUB

JOE GROHMAN, PGA NAVY GOLF COURSE

|

BREANNE MITCHELL

SCPGA SECTION STAFF

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/CEO | TOM ADDIS III, PGA TADDIS@PGAHQ.COM COO | JEFF JOHNSON, PGA JJOHNSON@PGAHQ.COM TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR | MAX DESPAIN MDESPAIN@PGAHQ.COM JUNIOR GOLF DIRECTOR | KEVIN SMITH KSMITH@PGAHQ.COM MEMBERSHIP MANAGER | SHARON CURFMAN SCURFMAN@PGAHQ.COM COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER | BREANNE MITCHELL BMITCHELL@PGAHQ.COM MEETING & PARTNER RELATIONS MANAGER | NICOLLE QUICK NQUICK@PGAHQ.COM

SCOTT HEYN, PGA OAKMONT COUNTRY CLUB

OFFICE MANAGER/ACCOUNTING | KRISTY CUSTER KCUSTER@PGAHQ.COM

ERIC LOHMAN, PGA MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT MANAGER | MATT GILSON MGILSON@PGAHQ.COM

ROB OOSTERHUIS, PGA SHERWOOD COUNTRY CLUB ROBIN SHELTON, PGA SEACLIFF COUNTRY CLUB

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS SUSAN ROLL, PGA CARLSBAD GOLF CENTER

STEVE PLUMMER, GCSAA CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF SERVICES

CHAPTER REPRESENTATIVES DESERT | KENDALL PALU, PGA CATHEDRAL CANYON COUNTRY CLUB

INLAND EMPIRE | STEVE ADAMIAK, PGA THE LEGENDS GOLF CLUB METROPOLITAN | MIKE VAN DER GOES, PGA TPC VALENCIA NORTHERN | MARK WILSON, PGA NORTH RANCH COUNTRY CLUB SAN DIEGO | BILL GOREE, PGA LIFE MEMBER ACTIVE

PGA OF AMERICA EXECUTIVES DISTRICT 11 DIRECTOR SCOTT ASHWORTH, PGA ALOHA SECTION

OFFICERS & CEO PRESIDENT | DEREK SPRAGUE, PGA MALONE GOLF CLUB VICE PRESIDENT | PAUL LEVY, PGA TOSCANA COUNTRY CLUB SECRETARY | SUZY WHALEY, PGA SUZY WHALEY GOLF CEO | PETE BEVACQUA PALM BEACH GARDENS

HUMAN RESOURCES ADMINISTRATOR | TAYLOR VERMILLION TVERMILLION@PGAHQ.COM MEETING & PARTNER RELATIONSHIPS ADMINISTRATOR | ARIANA GOMEZ AGOMEZ@PGAHQ.COM TOURNAMENT OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATOR | STEPHEN MONDAY SMONDAY@PGAHQ.COM TOURNAMENT OPERATIONS ADMINISTRATOR | MARSHALL GERLACH MGERLACH@PGAHQ.COM JUNIOR GOLF MANAGER | TRAVIS CUTLER TCUTLER@PGAHQ.COM JUNIOR GOLF MANAGER | EDDIE RODARTE, PGA ERODARTE@PGAHQ.COM JUNIOR GOLF MANAGER | JUSTIN SANDOVAL JSANDOVAL@PGAHQ.COM JUNIOR GOLF MANAGER | BRENT JOHNSTON BJOHNSTON@PGAHQ.COM JUNIOR GOLF COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR | BRYCE SEIVER BSEIVER@PGAHQ.COM GOLF IN SCHOOLS TERRITORY MANAGER | JUNKO SUZUKI, PGA JSUZUKI@PGAHQ.COM GOLF IN SCHOOLS TERRITORY MANAGER | ANTHONY LEONE ALEONE@PGAHQ.COM RECEPTIONIST/JR. GOLF ASSISTANT | MARGARET RAMIREZ MRAMIREZ@PGAHQ.COM

PGA OF AMERICA STAFF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT REGIONAL MANAGER NIKKI GATCH, PGA 760.534.1370 | NGATCH@PGAHQ.COM

EMPLOYMENT CONSULTANT

KEN FERRELL, PGA 951.894.5024 | KFERRELL@PGAHQ.COM

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PGA 3333 CONCOURS STREET BUILDING 2, SUITE 2100 ONTARIO, CA 91764 PHONE 951.845.4653 | FAX 951.769.6733 SCPGA.COM | SCPGAJRTOUR.COM

THE PROGRAM IS DISTRIBUTED FREE TO MEMBERS AND AFFILIATES OF THE SCPGA SEVEN TIMES A YEAR. THE ARTICLES AND OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED WITHIN THIS PUBLICATION ARE INFORMATIONAL AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE VIEWS OR OPINIONS OF THE SCPGA. THE SCPGA ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR CLAIMS MADE FOR OR BY ANY PRODUCT IN THIS PUBLICATION WHETHER REPORTED OR ADVERTISED. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE SCPGA IS PROHIBITED.

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PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

www.scpga.com

T HA N K YOU TO THE FO L LOWING COMPANIES FOR SUPPORTING T HE G OL F P R O F E SSIO N A LS OF THE SOUTHERN CALI FORNI A PGA !

PARTNERS

SECTION | PRESENTING PARTNERS

SECTION | SUPPORTING PARTNERS

SECTION | PARTNERS Official Radio of the Southern California PGA

速

NATIONAL | PARTNERS

JUNIOR GOLF | PRESENTING PARTNERS

JUNIOR GOLF | SUPPORTING PARTNERS

JUNIOR GOLF | PRODUCT PARTNERS 速

FOUNDATION | PARTNERS

www.scpga.com

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

05

AMAZING

LONG GAME 2 0 16

RAV4 HYBRID

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

WE HAVE A STRONG

SUPPORT SYSTEM

By Southern California PGA President, John McNair, PGA

As 2016 kicks off, it is always good to take the time to thank those that support us the most, our family and those around us.

During our President’s Dinner at the Westin Mission Hills, we honored our best of the best that evening and no one better than Mark Wilson, our Golf Professional of the Year. Mark shared the podium with our other 17 award winners during the evenings presentations. This year was a little different than in the past – we honored the award winner AND their spouse, significant other or family member and had each accompany the award winner to the podium to share the time together. Thank you all for your contribution to the PGA and to the success of your PGA professional.

The golf business is great business but it takes a great deal of our of time, effort and sacrifice, therefore we wanted to recognize those who support us the most and help us get through the day much easier. No one exemplifies this type of support more than Susan Addis. I am proud to announce this year’s President’s Award winner is Susan Addis. Susan has supported our section, and Tom, for over 40 years. She has represented our section on a national level with warmth, dignity, and class and has always welcomed the spouses, included everyone and made them feel a part of the PGA group. Thank you Susan for all you have done for our Section.

We also must thank Bill Hulbert, who served the past three years as our 07

District 11 Director for the PGA Board of Directors representing not only the SCPGA but the Aloha Section and the Northern California Section. Bill is, and was, a master communicator and kept our Section, our Board and our officers up-to-date with PGA matters and happenings within the large District. Bill also worked diligently to bring the District together and create a true family with the three Sections.

Thank you Bill.

The Annual Meeting at the Westin Mission Hills was Bill’s last as a member of the Section’s Board of Directors. Bill retired after 25 years as a board member and along with his service as District Director, served the Section in every office, including as President in 1998 and 1999. Bill was also the SCPGA’s Golf Professional of the Year in 1998 and awarded an Honorary Life Membership in 2009.

Thank you Bill and thank you to your wife, Sharon, for her years of support of your involvement with the PGA. We look forward to 2016 and another excellent year for your Southern California Section. We will continue with our very strong Player Development and Foundation Programs, Member Services and our fine member Tournament Program.

I hope to see you often during the upcoming year.

John McNair, PGA, is the Southern California PGA President, and Vice President at JC Resorts. John can be reached at jmcnair@jcresorts.com PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

www.scpga.com

NEW MEMBERS

NEW ELECTED MEMBER Troy Arfsten, PGA; Geoffrey Bisi, PGA; Patrick Bloom, PGA; Jacob Edwards, PGA; Jonathan Fleming, PGA; Eric Julian, PGA; Andrew Larkin, PGA; Kirk Matsumura, PGA; Eric Nelson, PGA; Pierre Peroz, PGA; Michael Pope, PGA; Ryan Prior, PGA; Rodney Silvagni, PGA; Brian Smock, PGA; Colin Tucker, PGA; Kevin Williams, PGA

WELCOME

NEW MEMBERS

Eric Julian, PGA Monarch Beach G. Links A-8 After working in a technical field for 12 years, I decided to pursue my membership to be able to promote and teach the game of golf, the game I love.

Southern California

HELLO AGAIN - Brian Creps, PGA NEWLY REGISTERED APPRENTICES Michael Baer, Travis Boerner, Justin Brown, Cory Canfield, Trevor Cassidy, Hyun Soo Chae, Eun Y Cho, Tyson Colarelli, Scott Davis, Daniel Duchene, Brad Ebberson, Luis Espinoza, Steve Han, Jared Hentila, Richard Hillman, Daniel Hoff, William Kang, Chadwick IJ Kim, Leonia Kim, Wade Morris, Michael Noyes, Scott Nugent, William O’Farrell, Jinyung Park, Matthew Parkovich, Steve Tanis, Mark Weitz, & Christopher Yoder NEW HALF CENTURY CLUB MEMBERS Manuel Quezada, PGA & Bruce Wyatt, PGA NEW QUARTER CENTURY MEMBERS David Jenkins, PGA; Michael Jick, PGA; John Klug, PGA; Bob Madsen, PGA; Sally Mahoney, PGA; Glenn Princic, PGA; Robert Rafkin, PGA; Patty Schram, PGA; Wendy Wisbon, PGA DECEASED Alexander Sandahl, PGA, John Diaz, PGA David Hunter, PGA, Steve Horrell, Honorary Life Member WELCOME WAGON Michael Murphy, PGA Illinois Lee Harlow, PGA Pacific Northwest Ann Loughlin, PGA Pacific Northwest Marc Solomon, PGA North Florida James Hackett, PGA Dixie Jason Brustad, PGA Northern California Gabriel Altshule, PGA

Illinois Tyler Martin, PGA Pacific Northwest Timothy King, PGA Mid Atlantic Todd Lynn, PGA Southwest Justin Freudenburg, PGA Carolinas Tyler Hadden, PGA Pacific Northwest Evan Mitchell, PGA Pacific Northwest Clayton Madden, PGA South Central Charles Stephenson, PGA Colorado MOVING UP Larry Atlas, PGA Braemar Country Club

A-4

Brook Bell, PGA River Course @ Alisal

A-1

Jason Brustad, PGA La Costa Resort & Spa

A-4

Joel Clay, PGA Morro Bay, Dairy Creek & Chalk Mountain

A-9

Michael Coleman, PGA Citrus Club @ La Quinta Resort

A-1

Francis Dagg, PGA Cathedral Canyon Country Club

A-4

Steve Donar Fullerton Golf Course

B-13

Michael Drake Canyon Crest Country Club

B-1

Brandon Fox, PGA The Links at Summerly

A-1

www.scpga.com

Jordan Alexander, PGA Robinson Ranch G. C. A-8 I wanted to further my career in the golf business helping people to become better players and to enjoy playing the game of golf.

Pierre Peroz, PGA Spanish Hills C.C. A-8 I want to pass on the traditions of the game to the next generation of golfers. I want to share my passion & love for the sport.

Troy Arfsten, PGA San Diego C.C. A-8 The PGA has a great brand and provides a high level of career security through being a member.

Brian Smock, PGA Coronado G.C. A-8 To inspire others to play this great game.

Blair Harkins, PGA Rolling Hills C.C. A-1 I discovered golf is the greatest game and I want to show it to others. It’s amusing, entertaining & educational to get lost in all the details.

Kevin Williams, PGA Alhambra G.C. A-1 My goal as a PGA Professional is to help everyone enjoy our great game of golf.

PLAYING ABILITY TEST CHANGES “AGAIN” At their recent meeting, the PGA Board of Directors modified the course yardage for men and women participating in the Playing Ability Test.

Beginning March 28, 2016, men will play from a minimum of 6,350 yards to a maximum of 6,700 yards while women will play from a minimum of 5,400 to a maximum of 5,700 yards. This change to 6,350 – 6,700 yards will be a more relevant test of ability, based on the improvements in golf club and golf ball technology over the past 40 years. The revision of the women’s yardage to 5,400 – 5,700 yards, based on prior data, will result in the most equitable opportunity for successful completion of the Playing Ability Test for women.

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

08

SECTION REPORT

WORKING FOR YOU...

By Southern California PGA CEO/Executive Director, Tom Addis III, PGA

The Southern California Section is proud of our great membership, facilities, programs and relationships throughout the industry. We have many to thank for giving us the opportunity to show and share our pride.

Let’s begin with the SCPGA staff including Jeff Johnson, PGA, our COO; Sharon Curfman, Membership; Breanne Mitchell, Communications and Media; Max DeSpain, Stephen Monday, Marshall Gerlach as our tournament staff; Taylor Vermillion, HR and Office Manager; Matt Gilson, Player Development; Kristy Custer, Finance; Nicolle Quick and Ariana Gomez, Business Development and Meetings; our receptionist Margaret Ramirez; our Junior Golf staff headed

by Kevin Smith and including Bryce Seiver, Brent Johnston, Eddie Rodarte, Travis Cutler, and Justin Sandoval, and our Golf in Schools leaders Junko Suzuki, PGA, and Anthony Leone. We also have our junior golf field staff and rules committee managing our Junior Tour events year in and year out. Although not in our HQ building in Ontario, Nikki Gatch and Ken Ferrell are a big part of our team who work for you. Thank you to each of our staff.

We are proud of our SCPGA Board of Directors and their interest and involvement led by president John McNair as they work very hard for you to ensure your successes at your facilities, golf instruction and on the golf course. The officer team is rounded by Todd Keefer and Tony Letendre and our Honorary President is Jason Taylor. Our directors are Eric Lohman, Scott Heyn, Robin Shelton, Randy Chang, Joe Grohman and newly elected Rob Oosterhuis. We have two Independent Directors as selected by our President and they are Susan Roll, PGA and Steve Plummer, GCSAA. Our Chapter Directors include Bill Goree of San Diego, Kendall Palu from the Desert Chapter, Steve Adamiak of the Inland Empire Chapter, Mike 09

van der Goes of the Metropolitan and Mark Wilson representing the Northern Chapter. Scott Ashworth is our District 11 representative serving on the PGA of America Board of Directors. We must share our pride in Bill Hulbert who retired from the Section board at the 2015 Annual Meeting after 25 years as a board member. Bill also served the past three years as the District 11 representative. Thank you everyone and thank you Bill for your service.

The SCPGA Committees are also working for you, just like your Board of Directors, in the trenches to make things better for all of us.

We are proud of our committees including Rules of Golf, Senior, Tournament, Women, Education, Employment, Junior Golf Advisory, Foundation Advisory, Past Presidents Council, Player Development, Communications, Apprentice, Disabled Golf, Budget & Finance, Investment, Government Relations, Sponsor Relations, Advisory, Patriot Pro-Am, Hall of Fame, Membership, Special Awards and Teaching. We have many dedicated members of these committees who work tirelessly for the benefit of all of us, the PGA and for the game of golf.

Also working for all of us is our great group of partners who provide us with product and dollars for our 150 – plus PGA Professional tournaments, our education programs and our nearly 300 junior events. Please take a look at our Sponsors and Partners on page 5 in this issue – as well as in the PGA Magazine. Please provide the time and opportunity to our sponsors and partners to offer their product and their service to work with you and make us better.

The best to everyone for a successful, happy and safe 2016.

Tom Addis, PGA, is the Southern California PGA CEO/Executive Director and Past President of the PGA of America. Tom can be reached at taddis@pgahq.com.

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

CONTINUED Blair Harkins, PGA Rolling Hills Country Club

A-1

Michael Hill, PGA Terranea Resort

A-4

Paul Holtby, PGA Golf Development Complex

A-2

Daniel Jones, PGA Apple Valley Country Club

A-14

Mark Kagaoan, PGA Robinson Ranch Golf Club

A-1

Michael Kelly, PGA Redhawk Golf Course

A-1

Ian Kindy PGA West Tournament Course

B-1

Justin Lake, PGA Ashwood Golf Course

A-13

Marc Marini, PGA SeaCliff Country Club

A-1

Ryan Martin, PGA Calabasas Country Club

A-1

Joshua McDonald Mountain Meadows Golf Course

B-13

Michael McFaul, PGA Valencia Country Club

A-1

Tyler Miller, PGA Bear Creek Golf Club

A-14

Michael Moran, PGA Sunset Hills Country Club

A-1

Kyle Oliver, PGA Sandpiper Golf Course

A-13

Robert Oosterhuis, PGA Sherwood Country Club

A-13

Kendall Palu, PGA Cathedral Canyon Country Club

A-1

Jennifer Parker Boulder Oaks Golf Club

B-4

Wesley Roberts, PGA Los Angeles Country Club

A-1

Joseph Roca PGA Learning Center, El Cariso G.C.

B-14

Robin Shelton, PGA SeaCliff Country Club

A-13

Scott Shiroma, PGA SeaCliff Country Club

A-14

Monta Sokolovska California Country Club

B-1

Eric Temena, PGA Brentwood Country Club

A-1

Scott Wasco, PGA Champions Club at the Retreat

A-4

Kevin Williams, PGA Alhambra Golf Course

A-1

Vicki Woodcock, PGA Roll-Chaiken, LLC

A-9

www.scpga.com

FIRST PLACE IS SHARED IN THE FINAL SECTION EVENT OF THE YEAR

The SCPGA finished off the 2015 calendar year with one of its flagship events; the Pinehurst Championship at the beautiful Westin Mission Hills Resort. The field, comprised of Southern California section golf professionals and apprentices, was once again stacked full of great players.

Some of the players in this year’s field included: the 2015 SCPGA Section Champion Chad Sorenson, PGA, 2015 SCPGA Senior Section Champion Tim Parun, PGA, and defending Pinehurst Champions Michael Block, PGA/Kenny Pigman, PGA. The fun, but challenging format proved to be quite the test for many of the teams. However, the teams of Al Valentine, PGA/Michael Stocking, PGA, and Chris Lempa, PGA/Petra Cole, PGA, were able to “ham and egg it” to post impressive rounds of 66. Both teams were able to pencil in seven birdies on the tricky Gary Player layout, and be declared co-champions of the event.

Congratulations to both teams on their stellar play!

A big thanks to all the sponsors of the event: Club Car, Golf Buddy, Garia, US Foods, Golf Energy Bar, Crystal Plus, Golf Scorecards Incorporated, Kenwood, First Tee Promotions, E-Z-UP, and Pepsi.

A special thank you to the PGA director of golf at Westin Mission Hills, Anthony Holder, and his staff for their gracious hospitality.

SCPGA PINEHURST CHAMPIONSHIP T1 Al Valentine, Travel Leaders, Michael Stocking, Encinitas Ranch G.C., -6, $2650 T1 Petra Cole & Chris Lempa, Torrey Pines G.C., -6, $2650 10

ANNUAL MEETING

2015 SCPGA CLUB CAR

ANNUAL MEETING

The 2015 Southern California PGA Club Car Annual Meeting took place at the beautiful Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort and had a strong attendance of over 250 members and apprentices.

Also in attendance was the 2015 PGA Junior League National Champions! Thank you to John Mason for speaking on the experience you have gained from not only coaching a team, but also taking a team to Nationals! We are very proud to have your team from Southern California as the 2015 National Champions!

The meeting included an election for the Southern California PGA Board of Directors. With four present candidates running, two At-Large Board of Director spots were filled

2015 SCPGA Annual Meeting

2015 SCPGA Annual Meeting

Tony Manzoni, PGA Half Century Member

by Eric Lohman of Monarch Beach Golf Links and Rob Oosterhuis of Sherwood Country Club.

During the Annual Meeting, Tony Manzoni was honored as a Half Century Member. Congratulations!

Thank you to the following sponsors for your support of the meeting & championship - Club Car, SCNS Sports Foods, Golf Buddy, Pepsi, Crystal Plus, Golf ScoreCards, Garia, Kenwood, US Foods, E-Z UP, and First Tee Promotions.

The night before, the Southern California PGA honored members, apprentices and those with an impact in the golf industry at the annual SCPGA President’s Dinner.

Congratulations to the 2015 Special Award Winners!

®

Official Radio of the Southern California PGA

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

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Mark Wilson, PGA Golf Professional of the Year

Jim Vernon Honorary Life Member

Brady Riggs, PGA Teacher of the Year

Randy Chang, PGA Youth Player Development Award

Chris Eikenberg, PGA Ast. Professional of the Year

Don Gatch, PGA Club Fitter of the Year

Michael Goodcase, PGA Merchandiser of the Year-Private

Holly Kennedy, PGA Player Development Award

Michael Block, PGA Player of the Year

Billy McKinney, PGA Horton Smith Award

Robin Shelton, PGA Bill Strausbaugh Award

John Kulow, PGA Anthony Holder, PGA Merchandiser of the Year-Public Merchandiser of the Year-Resort

Chris Starkjohann, PGA Senior Player of the Year

Fred Wood, PGA Super Senior Player of the Year

2015 CHAPTER SPECIAL AWARDS: PAGE 26-27 Julie Wells, PGA Women’s Player of the Year www.scpga.com

Kenny Pigman, PGA Apprentice Player of the Year

Jackie Kazarian

Women’s Apprentice Player of the Year

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

Susan Addis President’s Award 11

THE DYNAMIC DUO

FOUNDATION CLASSIC

FIRST ANNUAL

FOUNDATION CLASSIC AT THE BEAUTIFUL RIVIERA COUNTRY CLUB

The SCPGA, and 78 of its members, headed north to Woodland Hills Country Club for the prestigious 2016 Four–Ball Championship. On paper, the course at 6,360 yards, looked like it was going to be an easy test for all the PGA Professionals. However, golf is not played on paper, and Woodland Hills C.C., with an assist from Mother Nature, proved to be a challenge for all involved.

The teams of Ryan Kennedy, PGA and Steve Holmes, PGA & Paul Holtby, PGA and Roger Gunn, PGA were able to steer their golf ball around, and at times knock it under the wind, to post an impressive score of 64. Both teams had their sights set on being crowned champion, and neither would budge in a highly competitive playoff. After Kennedy chipped in from just off the green on the first playoff hole, Holtby poured in a 10 foot birdie putt to keep the playoff going. The teams matched each other with pars on the next two holes, and it seemed like this playoff was going to go on forever.

Eventually, Steve Holmes’ par on the 4th playoff hole would earn them the title of 2016 Four-Ball Champions. Congratulations to the champions: Ryan Kennedy, PGA and Steve Holmes, PGA. Thank you to Rick Stegall, PGA, and his staff at Woodland Hills Country Club. The golf course was in great shape, and the hospitality the staff offered was superb.

SCPGA FOUR-BALL CHAMPIONSHIP 1 Ryan Kennedy, Oakmont C.C., Steve Holmes, Westlake G.C., -6, $1,000 2 Paul Holtby, Golf Development Complex, Roger Gunn, Tierra Rejada G.C., -6, $800 12

The Southern California PGA Foundation hosted its first Foundation Classic at Riviera Country Club, just a week after completion of the PGA TOUR Northern Trust Open. The SCPGA Foundation will benefit from this event and aid in providing scholarships and grants to youth golfers throughout Southern California. Competing in the Classic included professionals and amateurs from their respective clubs. PGA professionals representing each facility include Devin Gee of Oakmont Country Club, Jason Ballard of Oak Hill Country Club, Kirk Karasawa and Todd Yoshitake of Riviera Country Club, Mike Demakos of Nantucket Golf Club,

Casey Reamer of Cypress Point Club, Michael Hunt of Bayonne Golf Club, Ric Rhoads of San Francisco Golf Club, Shawn Cox of The Grand Golf Club, John Guyton of Chicago Golf Club, and Marty DeAngelo of Medinah Country Club.

Congratulations to the team from Oak Hill Country Club for capturing the first annual Southern California PGA Foundation Classic!

A special thanks to Golf Buddy, Cleveland Golf/Srixon, US Foods, Maui Jim, Titleist, Stance, AG Green label and Hopkins Golf for supporting this event. A big thank you to Riviera Country Club, especially Todd Yoshitake, PGA and Michael Yamaki, for their support in making this event truly remarkable.

SUPPORTED BY:

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

www.scpga.com

ENGAGEMENT = GROW YOUR BUSINESS = INCREASE YOUR VALUE

PGA PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

By PGA Player Development Regional Manager, Nikki Gatch, PGA As we reflect on a great 2015 that saw increases in rounds and revenue and creative player development programming, it is time to look ahead to 2016 and lay out the plan that will set us up for even more success in the coming year.

Our player development team across the country has found the common theme with the most successful professionals and facilities is their incredible engagement with their customers.

PROVE YOUR VALUE TO THE BOTTOM LINE

The most effective way to prove your value is to show you are committed to engaging with your customers/members. Engagement is a means to an end in the golf business, because more engaged customers/ members leads to: • More frequent golfers (as much as 20% more rounds in next 12 months) • Better food and beverage customers (as much as 65% more spending) • Better golf shop customers (as much as 79% more) • More loyal customers, more loyal members (and advocates for our facilities) We have to think about how we are communicating with our customers. Are we starting with the “WHAT” first? – we sell tee times, lessons, equipment, etc. Or, are we starting with the “WHY” first? – we can help you hit better shots more often, by improving and matching your swing to the technology that will make the game easier; enjoy the game more by having fun with your family and friends. Taking the “WHY” approach will resonate more with people... anytime you can share stories with your customers, do so! Share the story of your student who broke 90 for the www.scpga.com

first time after receiving lessons from you. Share the story of your student who no longer fears being in a bunker after getting fit for a custom sand wedge!

Validating your success is just as important as creating your successes. This month, the PGA Player Development team is unveiling an updated, simplified version of the PGA Revenue Scorecard. This new version has been completely reformatted for you to be able to complete via your mobile device quickly and easily. Once you input your numbers (separate versions for public and private facilities available) into this tool, it will complete a strong, clear report for you to present to your employer, your Board, etc. (I’m here to help too!). I strongly encourage you to take advantage of this great tool. This is the perfect time of the year to do so, you can have a clear picture of the impact your programs had to the bottom line of your facility in 2015. It will also help you in planning for growth of programs in 2016.

Congratulations on a great 2015, and please let me know if there is anything I can do to assist you or your staff in creating your Player Development/Customer Engagement plan for 2016!

Nikki Gatch, PGA, is the PGA Player Development Regional Manager for Southern California. Nikki can be reached at ngatch@pgahq.com.

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

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13

RULES OF GOLF

AGGREGATE SERIES

THE SMOCK COAST SWING

CHANGES FOR 2016

By Dave Podas, PGA With the 2016 golf season in full swing most of you are probably aware of the ban on anchoring is also in effect.

There has been a fair amount of discussion about the change; and being on our Rules Committee I would like to offer a few thoughts as to how this affects us as PGA Professionals.

First, I would encourage all of you to read Rule 14-1b. It is very short. Then read the seven decisions that follow. This five minutes of reading (and that’s at the most) will give you a very complete understanding of the change. You will then be able to answer most questions effectively.

Second, I would suggest if you have players at your facility who are still anchoring you should do your best to get them into a putting style that conforms to the Rules of Golf. I have heard some say that they will “look the other way” to players that continue to anchor.

By doing this we are doing a great disservice to both the player and the game. Is Rule 14 any less important than Rule 27 (Ball Lost or Out of Bounds)?

No. How about a player that anchors when he turns scores in for his handicap (Not Allowed) but can’t use that method during competition. Hard to be the same player.

The list of reasons to not overlook this Rule change are many. And while we are all free to form our opinions on whether we agree or not with the change, we do have an obligation to promote the proper playing of the game.

All of us will make it through this change like we have many others. Take the time to help players to abide by it. The game will be better for it.

14

FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN

NORTHERN TRUST OPEN

CLUB CAR AGGREGATE SERIES FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN 1 Brian Smock, Coronado G.C., -2, $1,100 2 Jason Timlin, Colina Park G.C., -1, $850 3 Ron Skayhan, Hillcrest C.C., E, $650

CLUB CAR AGGREGATE SERIES NORTHERN TRUST OPEN 1 Brian Smock, Coronado G.C., -2, $1,050 2 Chad Sorensen, Buena Vista G.C., -2, $825 3 Gregory Casagranda, The Hodges L. Center, -1, $650

The SCPGA opened up its 2016 tournament calendar at Bear Creek G.C. on for the Club Car Aggregate Series- Farmers Insurance Open. Up for grabs at this event was not only a pay check and OMEGA Player of the Year points, but also a spot into the 2016 Farmers Insurance Open.

The dream to play in a PGA TOUR event became a reality for newly elected PGA member Brian Smock of Coronado Golf Course. The event was the first competitive tournament for Brian after being elected to membership just days prior. His first event will be one he will not forget, after posting a score of 70 (-2) which included three birdies and a bogey to win the Club Car Aggregate Farmers Insurance Open.

The event also awarded two exemptions, Jason Timlin, PGA & Ron Skayhan, PGA, into the Monday Qualifier for the Farmers Insurance Open.

Special thanks to Bear Creek G.C. General Manager Tim Gardner, PGA, Head Professional Kim Schilling, PGA, & superintendent Paul Brown.

The yearly PGA TOUR stop to the West Coast should be named the “Smock Coast Swing” as Brian Smock, PGA, of Coronado G.C. also represented the SCPGA at the Northern Trust Open.

Smock stamped his ticket to the Northern Trust Open with a solid round of 70 at Seacliff C.C., but it was not easy. After posting the impressive score he waited and dreamt of what it would be like to compete at Riviera Country Club.

However his dreaming came to a halt when reigning SCPGA Section Champion Chad Sorensen came in with the same score.

2015 SCPGA Section Champion and one of the hottest players in the section battled it out in a playoff.

However, all Smock needed was one hole to outlast Sorensen, and with a par, his dream of walking the Riviera fairways became a reality.

Congratulations Brian Smock, PGA! Thanks to PGA General Manager Robin Shelton, and the staff at SeaCliff C.C. for their gracious hospitality.

Overall winner of the 2016 series was Brian Smock with a total of 140, earning him a $500 bonus. In second, Chad Sorensen, 143, $400 bonus, third place, Jon Fiedler, 145, $300 bonus, fourth place, Kenny Pigman, $200, fifth place, 147, Michael Block, Steve Holmes, and Vinnie Poncino, $33.33 bonus.

Thank you to the Aggregate Series sponsor Club Car, for their support in these events.

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

www.scpga.com

CALIFORNIA CUP

INAUGURAL CALIFORNIA CUP GOES TO NCPGA Northern California

The inaugural California PGA Cup matches took place at the beautiful and ever challenging Bayonet Golf Club in Seaside, CA. The two Sections that make up the great state of California came together, and the SCPGA's most skilled players took on the NCPGA's in friendly matches where teams were filled from each Section’s Player of the Year Point race. The matches were conducted over two days with the day one as Four-Ball Matches followed by Single Matches on the second day. After two hard fought days of matches and many coming down to the final holes, the NCPGA defeated the SCPGA 7 1/2 to 4 1/2.

SCPGA TEAM: Ron Skayhan, PGA; Gary Sowinski, PGA; Chad Sorensen, PGA; Grant Strobel, PGA; Mike Fergin, PGA; Don Littrell, PGA; Jon Fiedler, PGA; Chris Starkjohann,PGA; Captain Jim Gormley, PGA.

ANNUAL AAA NORTH/ SOUTH CUP MATCHES HELD AT HUNTER RANCH GOLF COURSE

At the end of 2015, the 12 best Southern California PGA AAA players in points for the year went toe to toe with the 12 best that the Northern Section had to offer at the beautiful Hunter Ranch Golf Course in Paso Robles. After the first day of the matches, which included both foursome and fourball formats, the South team trailed by one point (6.5 to 5.5).

However, even after an inspirational speech by Captain Tony Letendre, PGA, the South team struggled on day two in single matches, only posting 2.5 points for the day. When it was all said and done, the North team had 16 points on the board which doubled the point total of the South, 8.

Thank you to the following sponsors for supporting the 2015 South Team - Antigua, Golf Pride Grips and Under Armour.

Congratulations to the players that made the South Team and represented our section proudly!

SCPGA TEAM: Kenny Pigman, PGA, Bobby Nickell, Raj Samra, Cavin McCall, Travis Gerrish, Kyle Mendoza, Vinnie Bertagna, Michael Nimtz, Michael Finney, James Schacht, Donald Pawloski, and Joshua Rider. www.scpga.com

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

15

LEADERSHIP COLUMN

YOU’RE AN INVESTMENT, NOT AN EXPENSE

SHOW YOU’RE DOUBLE YOUR WORTH

By Russell Sylte, PGA Master Professional, General Manager at Hacienda Golf Club

Let’s take a different approach to appraising our value to our employer.

Your position shows up in financial statements under LABOR, and depending on your job title, in the department of Golf Operations or General and Administration. It’s seen as a necessary expense. From the employer’s point of view, in most cases, your job description is clear, and you are expected to perform to it at the minimum. If you meet these expectations you will be a valued employee, and will likely maintain your position as long as you’d like with very little change to your income over the years. In theory you are a necessary expense that could be replaced with a like-minded individual.

However, is this really the case?

Beyond this surface-level thinking, does your employer truly know your worth? How many decisions, ideas, and initiatives have you made that have resulted in revenue growth or reduced costs of operating? Do you have anything to show for it besides income statement results? Perhaps there was revenue growth, however, what role did you have in that growth? Have costs of operating improved under your watch?

What role did you or someone you coached play in this savings?

Ponder this idea with me. What if you could say, “Mr. Employer, this year your total cost of my place on your payroll was $100,000 including benefits?” (dollar amounts in this article are for reference only) You would then continue, “I’d like to show you what this investment has brought you in return.”

So, how good is this! Your employer invested $100,000 in your positon and you returned $311,000 to the company.

These are flow- through dollars that hit the bottom line that wouldn’t have happened without your ideas, decisions, and inspiration to others. Does this help your position in negotiating next year’s compensation package? How many of these flow-through dollars will carry on right into subsequent years budgets? You are truly an investment who provides a return if you have the documentation to show for it.

Here’s the problem. Not many of you keep a journal of your contributions that you and your employer can refer to. It wouldn’t be hard, just a new habit.

But after understanding your return on investment potential and how to use it as a negotiating tool, how can you not catalogue your fiscal contributions?

You and your employer will soon come to realize that YOU may be the best investment the company can count on annually. After all, what other capital improvements will return 311%?

Let’s even take this a step further.

Become a teacher of this philosophy.

What if you inspire your Starter to squeeze in an extra foursome of guest rounds on a daily basis? How many total flow-through dollars will this sum be at the end of a year? How will it make you feel when, at the end of the day, you hear, “Boss, today I cost you $100, but I’ll have you know I made you $400!” What about the server who moves a table of four from happy hour to dinner by mere mention of tonight’s dinner special? Not

EXPENSE: You (Annual wages including benefits) $100,000

TOTAL: $100,000 INCOME: (Your personal ideas that generated flow through dollars) Two New Membership Products $221,800 (Full year of annual dues) H.S Golf Tournament(s) $17,000 H.S. End of Season Banquet(s) $7,300 College End of Season Banquet(s) $5,000 30-Day Junior Golf Membership Plan $25,000 Labor Reduction in Outside Services $13,000 New Food Vendor Savings $21,900

TOTAL: $311,000

Return on Investment 311% 16

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

only did the server just add 15% or more of the upcoming evening’s bill into their own pocket, but this action also brought another 15% of the same dining table’s tab to your bottom line.

Here’s another example. An Assistant Professional overhears a member talking about a cocktail party they attended last evening in support of a favorite charity.

Once the member is alone, the Assistant Professional approaches him, states he overheard his conversation, and suggests a charity type golf tournament at the club to raise additional funds for the charity. The assistant professional even volunteers to help the member form a committee to assure the event’s success.

This initiative can then lead to a major revenue building event this year and possibly annually.

Don’t overlook your Controller. Take this for example. They receive a call from a member who is upset that their bill continues to have charging errors.

As a result, they want to submit their resignation. However, your Controller calmly visits with the member and reminds them that their son recently had dinner at the club. The member had forgotten. The Controller then proceeds to ask how the family enjoyed the evening’s dining experience. By the time the conversation is done, the controller assures the member that the previous billing errors won’t happen again, and that this was a legitimate charge. As a result, the member retains their membership and is thankful for the Controller’s assurance.

You see, these examples are all very real. They can happen if your team is thinking like you. Doubling your employer’s investment on YOU must become part of company culture that is discussed regularly among key staff.

Remember, everyone can fulfill a job description and be “good enough.” By seeing yourself as an investment that guarantees at least double return, “good enough” will never be ENOUGH and others on the team will follow along to grow their worth too!

Russell Sylte, PGA, is a PGA Master Professional. Russell is the General Manager at Hacienda Golf Club. He can be reached at russell@pga.com

www.scpga.com

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PGA MEMBER

Spotlight

WOMEN’S CUP MATCHES

JEREMY CLEVENGER, PGA INDIAN HILLS G.C., JURUPA HILLS C.C.

The Inland Empire Chapter would like to recognize Jeremy Clevenger as this issue’s PGA Member Spotlight. Jeremy has been a member of the Southern California Section since 1996 and a member of the Inland Empire Chapter since 2004. He was awarded the 2015 SCPGA Inland Empire Chapter Golf Professional of the Year.

Jeremy and his family reside in Murrieta. His wife Bonnie works in the medical field as an employee of Amgen. Ilyssa, the oldest daughter, recently received her master’s from San Jose State University. She is now a Professor teaching at the school. Aaron, the middle son, is currently a senior at Azusa Pacific majoring in Biblical Studies and minoring in Music. Olivia, youngest daughter, is in 7th grade.

Jeremy started his career in the Metro Chapter at Yorba Linda Country Club. He worked there from 1986 to 1997 as an outside service employee and assistant.

He moved to Mesa Verde C.C. where he worked until 2002 as an assistant. He accepted his first Head Golf Professional position at Marbella C.C. where he served until 2004. He moved to the Inland Empire Chapter when he took over as Director of Golf of Bear Creek Golf Club until 2010. He now serves as General Manager of both Indian Hills Golf Club and Jurupa Hills Country Club.

Congratulations Jeremy on your award. The Chapter would like to wish you and your family continued success and good health.

18

25

SCPGA WOMEN PROFESSIONALS DOMINATE The SCPGA Women Professionals came away victorious in the 4th Annual Southern California Women’s Cup Matches held at Mission Hills Country Club on the Dinah Shore Course. This is the fourth year in a row women of the SCPGA won in dominating fashion. Each year, the matches are contested between the professionals of the SCPGA and the amateurs from the Women’s Southern California Golf Council.

The SCPGA team came out ready to show the women amateurs that not even the cold and rain could slow them down in their quest to retain the cup. After the morning four ball matches, the women of the SCPGA led 4 to 0. The SCPGA teams of Wells/Ilagan, Falcone/Curdt, Bunker/Brandwynne, and Cole/ Spalding all captured a point in their matches, and put the pressure on the WSCGC team for the afternoon singles matches. The SCPGA kept the momentum going in the afternoon, and only yielded a point

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

and a half to the WSCGC team to close out the year end event in style winning 10.5 to 1.5.

The SCPGA would like to send a special thanks to Mission Hills Country Club and Head Golf Professional, Jim Robinson, PGA for hosting the matches. Events like this are possible in large part to our wonderful sponsors, and the SCPGA would like to thank Michael Bustamante of Antigua for supplying the team uniforms. The SCPGA would like to thank all of its women professionals for their support of the constantly growing women’s division, and everyone is looking forward to an even better 2016 season, and defending the cup again next December.

SCPGA TEAM: Petra Cole, Julie Wells, PGA, Erika Ilagan, Meggan Bunker, Kim Falcone, PGA, Leslie Spalding, PGA, Alison Curdt, PGA, Bari Brandwynne, PGA and Captains Nikki Gatch, PGA, Melissa Meka, PGA and Junko Suzuki, PGA

www.scpga.com

ROLL & WINN

FEATURED IN PGA MAGAZINE Susan Roll, the 2011 PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Public Facilities, 2011 SCPGA Section Golf Professional of the Year and three-time Section Merchandiser of the Year for Public Facilities, is the PGA owner of Carlsbad Golf Center.

OFFER DROP-IN CLASSES FOR WOMEN Susan Roll on the importance of offering drop-in classes for women: At Carlsbad Golf Center, we offer a variety of instructional programs, but one of the most popular is the Women’s Drop-In Class every Tuesday from 6-7 p.m. (we also offer a separate men’s only drop-in at the same time). Advance registration is not required, making the classes flexible and convenient. Each class is only $20 per person and includes a large range bucket (a $10 value) and loaner clubs, if needed. The balls are included as a way to encourage the students to participate during class and to stay after to practice. Each class focuses a half-hour on short game and a half-hour on full swing, which helps golfers of all skill levels learn something new each week. The sessions are like organized practice, as our instructors spend individual time working on specific skills with each student. This also allows the classes to be inclusive for women of any skill level, although the classes mostly attract beginner to intermediate players. In addition to the instruction, the ladies very much enjoy the social aspect of the classes, such as making new friends, and perhaps finding new playing partners.

Susan Roll on the business impact of offering drop-in classes for women: The Women’s Drop-In Class has been popular for years, and the consistency of offering the class every week has helped produce “regulars” for our facility.

Each class averages between six and eight attendees, which accounts for thousands of dollars in revenue over the course of the year. In addition to the instruction revenue, many of the women have purchased golf clubs and other gear from our shop. It is not uncommon that the women enjoy their experience so much that they refer their friends and families to join some of our other classes. www.scpga.com

Nathan Winn, PGA, is the group golf sales and revenue manager at the Omni Resorts' Rancho Las Palmas C.C. in Rancho Mirage.

PGA MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTED

OFFER AN ALL-INCLUSIVE GOLF EXPERIENCE Nathan Winn on the importance of offering an all-inclusive golf experience: This past summer, during our golf off-season, we began offering free golf to any registered guest at our resort.

Greens fees, golf cars and range balls are all free, with rental clubs costing $19 for anyone staying at our hotel facility. Food & beverage and retail are not free but sometimes have their own discounts. This program runs from June 1 through September 30 and is available to all registered resort guests that pay the full resort fee which gives them access to various hotel amenities. We looked at our typical summer customers, which primarily consisted of younger families who may not otherwise consider playing golf on a vacation, and wanted a program that would entice them to try our course, and the game of golf in general. It caught the attention of our customers as it provided a great offer at a great price, while adding perceived value for the high room rates that they pay to stay at our resort.

Nathan Winn on the business impact of offering an all-inclusive golf experience: We started the program on June 1st and in our first month we saw the number of transient resort guest rounds increase almost 300 percent in a time period (desert summer) where we had no compaction issues on the tee sheet. Club rental revenues went up 100 percent while merchandise sales went up 150 percent. Snack bar revenues also rose by 50 percent and tip positions throughout the golf facility all saw a significant increase in personal revenues.

Additionally, instruction program revenues went up 50 percent. We've also seen an increase in soft good sales. By working with our resort management, we were able to guarantee budgeted greens fee revenue for the summer months by internally shifting one dollar from each stay to the golf budget; the rooms product makes up that cost via additional guests utilizing the allinclusive golf package. Our guests have had a more satisfactory resort experience and are more likely to return in-season to stay and play golf here. And because it's the offseason, aside from minimal supply costs, we haven't had to add labor or major expenses in any area. Everyone is just a little busier and more active, and are all benefitting from increased gratuities.

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

Live Refined

Kerry Walker,

PGA Sales Representative

760-861-3700 25 19

A COUPLE OF WORTHY CHAMPIONS

WOMEN’S SECTION CHAMPIONSHIP

VALIDATION FOR 2015 LPGA NATIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR

The SCPGA Professional-Lady Championship was hosted at the serene Glendora Country Club.

Competitors couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful afternoon.

Glendora was in tremendous shape, especially their greens, which would present a formidable challenge for the 42 player field.

Presenting sponsor, National Car Rental, gave the SCPGA’s Pro-Am series a real boost by providing custom tee markers, flags, and signage, helping to create a wonderful tournament atmosphere.

Couple that with an $8,000 purse contribution, and there was plenty to play for!

When it was all said and done, there was a tie for first place at one-under par, 71. Host representative Jeff Templeton, PGA, and Ryoko Toyama showed that a little course knowledge can go along way! They had four birdies on the day in route to their 71. Coming in to break up Jeff and Ryo’s hopes of an outright victory were Joe Grohman, PGA, and Sue Ewart. Their round was a bit more adventurous, carding seven birdies, to overcome a triple and three bogeys.

Thank you to Glendora C.C. for being gracious hosts, presenting sponsor National Car Rental, and supporting sponsors Cleveland Golf/Srixon, Pepsi, Fit Fix Studio, & Golf Buddy!

SCPGA PROFESSIONAL-LADY CHAMPIONSHIP T1 Jeff Templeton, Glendora C.C., Ryoko Toyama, -1, $1,800 T1 Joe Grohman, Navy G.C., Sue Ewart, -1, $1,800 3 Michael Diette, Palos Verdes G.C., Mafi George, E, $1,225 20

The Women’s Section Championship recently concluded at the stunning La Jolla Country Club with PGA Professional Alison Curdt claiming the title. Curdt of Wood Ranch Golf Club posted rounds of 72-75 for a four shot victory over the field.

Curdt went wire to wire and maintained her four shot lead from round one over her nearest competitor Julie Wells, PGA. During the two days, Curdt tallied eight birdies on her scorecard, three more than any player in the field. Alison adds to her success from earlier in the season who was a participant in the 2015 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship.

La Jolla Country Club, established in 1927, is positioned on top of the hills of La Jolla providing Pacific Ocean views throughout the round.

It would be difficult to mention the William Bell design without mentioning the spectacular playing conditions, due in large part to Superintendent Dennis Fowler. From lush fairways to speedy greens, this was a perfect Championship setup.

The kikuyu grass throughout the par 72 course made it play exceptionally long, but Curdt passed all tests that LJCC threw her way. The Southern California PGA and its Women’s division were thrilled to have the PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

opportunity to spend two days at one of California’s premier facilities.

A very big thank you goes to La Jolla Country Club for hosting and supporting the Women’s Section Championship. Thank you to the entire staff and members for allowing the opportunity to conduct the women’s premier Championship at your course. Thank you to General Manager Michael Moohey, and PGA Professionals Clint Whitehill and Kim Falcone for their gracious support.

Kudos to Chef Matt Moyer and his entire team, for serving some amazing dishes throughout the week.

Also a big thank you to the sponsors who supported our Women’s Section Championship - PGA TOUR, Callaway, OGIO and Pepsi.

SCPGA WOMEN’S SECTION CHAMPIONSHIP 1 Alison Curdt, Wood Ranch G.C., +3, 147, $,1000 2 Kitty Robyn, +7, 151, $675 T3 Petra Cole, Torrey Pines G.C., +10, $475 T3 Julie Wells, Julie Wells Golf, +10, $475

www.scpga.com

TEACHER’S FORUM

LEARNING THE MOTOR SKILLS OF GOLF

By SCPGA Teaching Committee Chairman, Billy McKinney, PGA

As the Chairman of the SCPGA Teaching Committee, I make it a point to be privy to most things new and exciting in the world of golf improvement so that I may filter through it all to find out what should be presented both at our seminars and in writing both in the Teacher’s Forum and The SCPGA Teachers Huddle on Facebook. Some of the good stuff falls under the category of ‘Tried and True’, and some is ‘New and Exciting.’ I’ll do my best to not allow any ‘Cliché and Boring’ to reach your discerning professional minds. I once read a great and simple sentence: “If you don’t understand how learning works, you can’t teach anything.”

Motor learning science is one of the new frontiers in which many teachers are developing an interest. The science of “how we learn” and optimizing learning environments/processes is becoming an increasingly important part of our education. It is vital that we improve the practices of our players, if we wish them to become the best they can possibly be.

If this is an area that interests you, Adam Young is someone you should check out. Adam is a leader in the relatively new field of applied motor learning research & a published author.

He has devoted his career to creating a better learning environment for his students and to promoting more effective learning protocols to teachers worldwide. His book The Practice Manual – The Ultimate Guide for Golfers explains the relatively new motor learning principles in ways that even the average weekend golfer can understand and implement immediately and is a great read for all coaches as well.

An example of better motor learning, according to Young, would be creating a variety-rich learning environment where students are encouraged to explore and even to FAIL on purpose. This is a massive deviation from the old school method of repetitive, practice-makesperfect beating of balls. The new

research suggests that the learning environment should also mimic the actual testing atmosphere, depending on the level of the performers.

“IF YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND HOW LEARNING WORKS, YOU CAN’T TEACH ANYTHING.”

www.scpga.com

Another example of the Motor Learning methodology is the idea behind locus of attention. Subtle changes in where a player places their attention during practice can have profound implications for the retention of learning, as well as the ability to transfer these new skills to the golf course, where it matters. This is one of the more cutting edge areas in this field, with a lot of scientific support behind it growing every year. Young is a leader in applying this research to the golfing population, and his book outlines many new concepts which are being adopted by coaches and tour players worldwide. For more ideas to become better learning guides for your students, visit adamyounggolf. com and have a read through his blog.

That will be a wonderful start and then some.

In our last few teaching summits, we have had experts in the science of the swing, club physics, how the body works, and the mental game. The Spring Summit will bring it all together with a mind-share of ideas about Motor Learning. While Physics has yet to find a Unified Theory of Everything, Motor Learning seems to be the great unifier of golf coaching. At least you’ll learn more about how learning works.

Billy McKinney, PGA, is the SCPGA Teaching Committee Chairman and a Teaching Professional at Marbella Golf and Country Club. Bill can be reached at billmckinneygolf@cox.net PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

KBS EDUCATION CENTER KBS EDUCATION CENTER

EARN MSR CREDIT EARN MSR THROUGH CREDITKBS THROUGH KBS

Susan Roll, PGA KBS Advisory Board Member 2014 Bill Strausbaugh AwardRoll, Recipient Susan PGA Ray Cutright, PGA KBS Advisory Board Member KBS Advisory Board Member 2014 Bill Strausbaugh 2014 PGA Golf Professional Award Recipient of the Year

Ray Cutright, PGA

KBS Advisory Board Member 2014 PGA Golf Professional of the Year

PGA professionals who complete the updated KBS PGA professionals whoearn educational seminar will complete theThis updated KBS 1 MSR credit. condensed, educational seminar will earn online tutorial is designed to 1educate MSR credit.

This condensed, industry professionals online tutorial is designed on the KBS product line. to educate industry professionals on the KBS product line.

Begin the course here: kbsgolfshafts.com/education-center

Begin the course here:

kbsgolfshafts.com/education-center WWW.KBSGOLFSHAFTS.COM WWW.KBSGOLFSHAFTS.COM 21

LAWS IMPACTING GOLF

NEW LAWS The California Governor and legislature have been busy passing 808 pieces of legislation this past year that have become effective, or will become effective, during the 2016 calendar year. This article attempts to provide a brief overview of some of the key new laws, most all of which relate to employer-employee obligations, that could potentially impact business operations in California. Unless otherwise noted, the new laws are effective as of January 1, 2016.

LEAVE FOR SCHOOL ACTIVITIES EXPANDED Existing law prohibits an employer with 25 or more employees from discharging or discriminating against an employee who is a “parent” for missing work to participate in certain child-related activities, up to a maximum of 40 hours annually.

Additionally, existing law requires employers who provide sick leave to permit the use of accrued sick leave to attend to the illness of specified “family members.” SB 579 (1) expands the definition of “parent” to include stepparents and foster parents, (2) expands the list of applicable child-related activities, and (3) refines the definition of “family member” to be consistent with the definition used in the Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Family Act of 2014, which is (a) a child (i.e, biological, adopted or foster child, step-child or legal ward, or child to who the employee stands in loco parentis), (b) a biological, adoptive or foster parent, step-parent or legal guardian of an employee or employee’s spouse or registered domestic partner, or a person who stood in loco parentis when the employee was a minor child, (c) a spouse, (d) a registered domestic partner, (e) a grandparent, (f) a grandchild or (g) a sibling.

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IMPACTING BUSINESSES IN 2016

By Richard G. Rasmussen of Anglin Flewelling Rasmussen

MANDATORY PAID SICK LEAVE CLARIFIED The Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Family Act of 2014 (AB 1522) requires that employers provide paid sick leave to California employees who work at least 30 days during a 12-month period, at an accrual rate of one hour per 30 hours worked. AB 304 clarifies certain ambiguities and uncertainties in this Act, including: clarifying that a covered employee must work for the same employer to satisfy the 30-day requirement; allowing for alternative accrual methods; providing a “grandfather clause” for employers that already provided paid sick leave; and providing alternative payment methods for employees who use paid sick leave. This law went into effect immediately upon the Governor’s execution on July 13, 2015.

DISCRIMINATION BASED UPON CITIZENSHIP, PRIMARY LANGUAGE OR IMMIGRATION STATUS PROHIBITED Existing law prohibits business establishments providing accommodations and services from discriminating based upon a person’s sex, race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status or sexual orientation. SB 600 expands these protections to cover discrimination based upon a person’s citizenship, primary language or immigration status; provided, however, this expansion does not require the provision of services or documents in a language other than English, beyond that which is already required pursuant to existing federal, state and local laws.

DISCRIMINATION AGAINST CHILDREN’S IMMIGRATION STATUS PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

PROHIBITED Existing law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees or applicants based upon the person’s immigration status and making inquiry into a person’s immigration status unless the employer has shown by clear and convincing evidence that the inquiry is necessary to comply with federal immigration law. AB 560 makes it explicit that these protections extend to minor children (i.e., workers under the age of 18).

EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION BASED UPON REQUEST FOR ACCOMMODATION PROHIBITED Existing law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees, or those seeking or training to be employees, based upon, among other things, a person’s religious creed or physical or mental disability. Existing law further requires an employer to provide reasonable accommodation of a person’s disability and religious beliefs. AB 987 extends these protections such that, regardless of whether the request was granted, the mere act of making the request is now protected.

FAMILY MEMBERS OF WHISTLEBLOWERS PROTECTED Existing law prohibits an “employer” from discharging or discriminating against any employee or applicant who engages in legally protected conduct. AB 1509 (1) extends these protections to employees who are family members of a person engaged in, or perceived to be engaged in, such legally protected conduct and (2) expands potential joint employer liability by changing the definition of “employer” to include “client employers” (i.e., businesses who are provided workers to perform labor www.scpga.com

from a labor contractor).

GENDER NEUTRAL PAY CLARIFIED Existing law prohibits payment to employees at wage rates less than the rates paid to employees of the opposite sex “in the same establishment for equal work on jobs the performance of which requires equal skill, effort, and responsibility,” except under specific conditions, i.e., a seniority system, a merit system or a bona fide factor other than sex. SB 358 (1) expands the grounds for an alleged violation by amending this prohibition to cover “substantially similar work, when viewed as a composite of skill, effort, and responsibility” and (2) places an affirmative burden on the employer to show that the specific conditions apply in instances of disparate wage rates.

E-VERIFY USE LIMITED Existing law prohibits state or local regulation requiring employers to use the federal E-Verify system to verify a person’s employment authorization with the federal government unless under specific instances. AB 622 (1) makes it unlawful to use the E-Verify system for existing employees or applicants who have not received an offer of employment, except as required by federal law, and (2) requires employers to comply with notification procedures under any memorandum of understanding governing use of the E-Verify system upon using the system and receiving a non-confirmation letter regarding the applicant’s information submitted for verification.

EMPLOYER ALLOWED OPPORTUNITY TO CURE VIOLATION OF FAILURE TO PROVIDE REQUIRED WAGE INFORMATION Previously the law required that employers provide itemized wage statements, including inclusive dates of applicable pay periods and the name and address of the employer, with no opportunity to cure violations. AB 1506 amended the law to allow for a 33-day period to cure violations related to failure to provide this information. This law www.scpga.com

went into effect immediately upon the Governor’s execution on October 2, 2015.

PROTECTED PERSONAL INFORMATION EXPANDED Existing law requires businesses that own or license computerized “personal information” to provide reasonable security for that information. AB 1541 expands the applicability of this requirement (1) to include businesses that maintain “personal information” and (2) expands the definition of “personal information” to include (a) “health insurance information” in combination with a person’s first name or initial and the person’s last name and either the name or information is not encrypted or redacted and (b) a username or email address combined with a password or security question/ answer that allows online account access.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR NOTICE OF DATA BREACH Existing law requires businesses that own or license computerized data that includes personal information to disclose a breach in the security of the data related to unencrypted personal information in the most expedient time possible, without unreasonable delay and in plain language. SB 570 expands the requirements for the notice, requiring the notification to be titled “Notice of Data Breach” and usage of specified headings for the information conveyed by the notice.

A model security breach notification form is provided.

MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE Although technically not a new law, AB 10, which passed in 2013, requires that the minimum wage increase to $10 per hour on January 1, 2016.

Businesses are encouraged to update their employee handbooks and company policies to reflect the above legislation. If you have any questions or concerns about the contents of this article, or would like to engage in a more thorough review and analysis, we would be pleased to assist you.

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

DONATED ROUNDS OF GOLF NEEDED TO SUPPORT TURFGRASS RESEARCH IN CALIFORNIA The annual Rounds 4 Research auction presented by the Environmental Institute for Golf (EIFG) has moved from its annual June timeframe to April 1-10, 2016.

Rounds 4 Research is a fundraising program conducted

by EIFG whereby a round of golf (defined as a tee time with green fees for two or four players) is made available to be bid on by the public through an online auction.

The EIFG will collect all proceeds from the auction and grant the monies to participating GCSAA chapters or turfgrass foundations to support the areas of research grants, education programs, scholarships and awareness of golf’s environmental efforts within their local or regional areas.

Golfers and golf facilities are the ultimate beneficiaries from the investment of these funds. Operators have already benefited from increased efficiencies through new golf course management programs; new turfgrasses that fight disease pressures, wear and tear and extreme weather conditions; and products that are more effective and safer for the environment.

Increasing regulation, rising costs and environmental concerns must be addressed if golf is to sustain itself as a viable industry and recreational activity for people to enjoy.

The Hi-Lo Desert, San Diego and Southern California GCSA chapters are active participants in the program and are seeking out donations of rounds. The program has raised more than $400,000 since launching in 2012.

Anyone interested in donating can contact Jeff Jensen at jjensen@ gcsaa.org or simply donate online at www.rounds4research.com.

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PROGRAM MAGAZINE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016

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Picture Perfect

S H AY B L E C H Y N D E N , P G A

|

S H AY A R T

If you know Shay Blechynden of The Bridges, you probably don't think of him as a runner. But still, on one particular day in late 2015 he broke into an all out sprint.

"The light was just so perfect and I wanted to get every shot I could before the sun crested down over the hill." Yet, Shay wasn't golfing, he was capturing photos at Vista Valley Country Club in Fallbrook.

That was the defining moment, when Shay realized that he needed to make his photography more than just a

As a primarily landscape and nature photographer, he just couldn't quite figure out how to make the transition into photography without needing to do a lot of portrait and wedding type work.

"I enjoy doing occasional family photos and the like, but that's not what I want to spend the bulk of my time doing." And it's hard to turn down the requests. "It's similar to owning a big pickup truck" Shay says, "everyone wants you to help them move something!"

It started towards golf when Shay got a call from Craig Plumley, PGA Head

little side-business and move towards a serious career direction. "I was truly enjoying my work at that moment. It was pure passion." This decision was reinforced when Philip Rodriguez, Vista Valley's General Manager, decided to purchase 27 photos even though he only contracted for 10. "After reviewing Shay's unique perspective from behind the lens, it created for me a whole new appreciation for the course where I set foot on a daily basis. He's got game!"

Over the past several years Shay has been developing his skills and reputation as a photographer. He caught the photo bug around 2002 and hasn't looked back since. For several years now, his fan base and customers have been hinting that he may be in the wrong business.

Professional at El Niguel Country Club.

"We had just remodeled our course and needed a whole new portfolio of images.

I'd been following Shay's photography on Facebook and figured that with his quality of work, coupled with the fact that he is a golf professional, he would be the perfect fit to photograph our golf course." It turned out to be a match made in heaven for both parties as the marriage of photography and PGA experience is a strong one for this type of project. "But seriously," said Shay, "who could do a better job of golf course photography than a PGA Professional?"

Armed with these new images, El Niguel is currently remodeling their website and clubhouse. Shay's images will play a prominent role in the decor of both.

www.scpga.com

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

Sean McCune, El Niguel's PGA MEMBER General Manager, looks VENTURE forward to showcasing the photos for their membership.

"Not only will we feature the golf course images, but we will be emphasizing our coastal charm with some of Shay's amazing seascapes from our local area as well."

Shay then became involved with the fresh operation at Emerald Isle Golf Course with new PGA Owners John and Holly Kennedy paired with Don and Nikki Gatch. Shay's artwork now adorns the clubhouse areas at Emerald Isle. Holly says, “Shay has always been my go-to photographer and when we took over Emerald Isle I asked him to come up and take a few head shots and team pictures of us (Kennedys and Gatchs). During the shoot he snapped a few pictures of the golf course for fun, and they were so great that we immediately knew we wanted to have him back for a real shoot. His pictures on our walls helped us give our little shop the classy, professional look that we were looking for and our customers love them!"

Almost on cue, Shay received another call, this time from Scott "Big Tuna" Heyn, PGA General Manager at Oakmont Country Club. The club had recently completed a turf reduction program and needed fresh photos of the revised look.

"Shay was like a ghost," Scott says, "he was around for a few days, but seemingly invisible as he shot our course. He's a great photographer and a great guy.

Our membership is really happy with what he produced."

With the many hours involved in shooting golf courses and his personal landscape work, it was time to make a change. With the full support and encouragement of The Bridges Club, Shay has now changed the way that he interacts with his membership. After 10 years as a fulltime Assistant Golf Professional, he has now stepped back into a position as PGA Teaching Professional. This will enable him the time and flexibility to travel and concentrate on his photography business, ShayArt. He has the particular goal of becoming on of the premier golf course photographers in the nation.

"It's a scary proposition for me, leaving the security and benefits of my job, but I'm also grateful and overjoyed at the prospect of doing something new while still being integrated with the fine team of PGA Professionals at our club."

You can see more of Shay's portfolio at www.shayart.com 25

CHAPTER SPECIAL AWARDS

PGA PROFESSIONALS

AWARDED AT THE CHAPTER LEVEL DESERT

YOUTH PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AWARD Dustin Smith, PGA The First Tee of the Coachella Valley

YOUTH PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AWARD Steve Adamiak, PGA The Legends Golf Club

ASSISTANT GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF YEAR Eric Solander, PGA Indian Wells Golf Resort

TRACY LANE AWARD Kent Hanson, PGA Thunderbird Country Club Justin Stelzer, PGA Rancho La Quinta Country Club

CLUB FITTER OF THE YEAR Scott Bridges, PGA Goose Creek Golf Club

TEACHER OF THE YEAR Barry Clayton, PGA Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort

SALES PERSON OF THE YEAR Laura Saunders Adidas/Ashworth

HORTON SMITH AWARD Jon Vesper, PGA Silverado Golf Country Club & Resort

MEDIA LEADER OF THE YEAR Larry Bohannon Desert Sun

BILL STRAUSBAUGH AWARD Kendall Palu, PGA Cathedral Canyon Country Club

SENIOR PLAYER OF THE YEAR Barry Clayton, PGA Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort

MERCHANDISER OF THE YEARPUBLIC Drury Blair, PGA Classic Club

PLAYER OF THE YEAR Brent Smith, PGA Ivey Ranch Country Club

GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF YEAR Rob Blackburn, PGA Stone Eagle Golf Club

MERCHANDISER OF THE YEARPRIVATE David Craig, PGA Toscana Country Club

INLAND EMPIRE GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF YEAR Jeremy Clevenger, PGA Jurupa Hills C.C. & Indian Hills G.C.

PLAYER OF THE YEAR Kenny Pigman, PGA Goose Creek Golf Club

METROPOLITAN GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR Mike van der Goes, PGA TPC Valencia PLAYER OF THE YEAR Chi Choi, PGA Monterey Park Golf Course APPRENTICE PLAYER OF THE YEAR Kyle Mendoza South Hills Country Club MERCHANDISER OF THE YEARRESORT John McMullen, PGA Hillcrest Country Club

MERCHANDISER OF THE YEARRESORT Darrell Souza, PGA Desert Willow Golf Resort

ASSISTANT GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF YEAR Bryon Smith, PGA Shadow Hills Golf Club

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AWARD Tony Manzoni, PGA Life Member

TEACHER OF THE YEAR Jerry Crowell, PGA Goose Creek Golf Club

JUNIOR GOLF LEADER Matt Johnson, PGA DeBell Golf Club

CLUB FITTER AWARD Steve Creps, PGA Cathedral Canyon Country Club

MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR Bill Crist, PGA Journey at Pechanga

BILL STRAUSBAUGH AWARD Joe Grohman, PGA Navy Golf Course

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PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

CLUB FITTER OF THE YEAR Jonathon Goglia, PGA Oakmont Country Club

www.scpga.com

TEACHER OF THE YEAR Ryan Kennedy, PGA Oakmont Country Club

SAN DIEGO CASS COLBOURNE MEDIA PERSON OF THE YEAR Julia Pine SCGA FORE Magazine GIOVANNI VILLANI AWARD Abby Schlehuber High School Student MERCHANDISER OF THE YEARRESORT Johnny Walker, PGA Aviara Golf Club MERCHANDISER OF THE YEARPUBLIC Gerald Dremel, PGA Admiral Baker Golf Course MERCHANDISER OF THE YEARPRIVATE Andrew Warren, PGA The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe HONORARY LIFE MEMBER Ron Riess, PGA Stadium Golf Center BILL STRAUSBAUGH AWARD Gerald Dremel, PGA Admiral Baker Golf Course HORTON SMITH AWARD Shawn Cox, PGA The Grand Golf Club JUNIOR GOLF LEADER Matthew Clay, PGA Del Mar Golf Center BILL ENGELHARD-AST. GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR Sheldon Callahan, PGA Lomas Santa Fe Country Club TEACHER OF THE YEAR Donald Rasmussen, PGA Del Mar Golf Center GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR Johnny Walker, PGA Aviara Golf Club

www.scpga.com

NORTHERN GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR Susan Olson-Sipes, PGA River Ridge Golf Club ASSISTANT GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR Phil Horwith Buenaventura Golf Course

SPRING 2016

MERCHANDISER OF THE YEARPRIVATE Tom Szwedzinski, PGA Saticoy Country Club

Annika Collection

MERCHANDISER OF THE YEARRESORT Mark Greenslit, PGA Ojai Valley Inn & Country Club BILL STRAUSBAUGH AWARD Tom Szwedzinski, PGA Saticoy Country Club SALES REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR Maxine Harris Nike Golf PATRICK CASEY AWARD DJ Limardi, PGA Travis Mathew CLUB FITTER OF THE YEAR Doug Ragan River Ridge Golf Club TEACHER OF THE YEAR Alison Curdt, PGA Wood Ranch Golf Club JUNIOR GOLF LEADER Mark Wipf, PGA VCJGA

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE AWARD WINNERS FOR YOUR HARD WORK, PERSEVERANCE & DEDICATION! PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

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CHAPTER CHALLENGE

SAN DIEGO CHAPTER UNDEFEATED AGAIN In January, sixty of Southern California’s best PGA professionals gathered at Pelican Hill Golf Club for the 8th Annual Chapter Challenge.

Each Chapter team was comprised of 12 players, 6 Four-ball teams, consisting of one apprentice, one lady, three seniors, and seven junior division players. These players earned their spot on their Chapters Teams based on their accumulated player of the year points. As players began to arrive, they knew they’d need their A-game to knock off the 3-time reigning champions…the San Diego Chapter.

It was just another, typical but none the less beautiful day at Pelican Hill in Newport Beach. By the 9:00 am shotgun, the marine layer had lifted and there was nothing but wispy white clouds scattered across a blue sky. 75 degrees in January is hard to argue with, just ask those in the Northeast dealing with the winter storms. Some players like/ need to warm up in the morning to prepare for their round… but not the Sorensens! Traveling from Ventura during the weekly morning commute proved to be a challenge and they arrived just in time to tee off. That however didn’t stop them from firing a 64, the lowest four-ball score of the afternoon to beat out 6 others at 65. www.scpga.com

It was extremely tight coming down to the final few four-ball scores. The San Diego Chapter just proved to be too solid and consistent from top to bottom to dethrone this year. All six teams shot under par, led by a pair of 65’s shot by Nakamura/Nokes & Griffin/ Parun. Their overall 333 score bested the Metro Chapter by 4 strokes.

Congratulations to the San Diego Chapter for their fourth straight Chapter Challenge victory as well as all participants who earned a spot on their Chapter’s Teams.

Thank you to Linksoul for sponsoring this event and outfitting each team with some stylish shirts.

Thank you as well to the Pelican Hill Golf Club staff for their help in the preparation and execution of this event as well as Rules Committee Member Ron Robinson, PGA for his help in officiating the event.

SCPGA CHAPTER CHALLENGE 1 San Diego, 333 2 Metropolitan Chapter, 337 3 Northern Chapter, 340 4 Inland Empire Chapter, 345 5 Desert Chapter, 350 PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

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BECOME A PREFERRED FACILITY TODAY! SCPGA SUPERINTENDENTPROFESSIONAL-MANAGER CHAMPIONSHIP November 2, 2015 | Golf Club at Glen Ivy 1 Indian Hills Country Club, -23, 121, $1400 2 Bernardo Heights Country Club, -17, 127, $1100 T3 Canyon Crest Country Club, -11, $850 T3 Hacienda Golf Club, -11, $850

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SENIOR JOE ROBINSON MEMORIAL November 30, 2015 | Jurupa Hills Country Club 1 Ron Riess, Stadium G.C., Andy Thuney, GolfTEC Brea, Jerry Wisz, Alhambra G.C., -18, 122 T2 Ron O’Connor, Life Member, Jim Petralia, Los Angeles C.C., Tom Sargent, Mesa Verde C.C., 124 T2 Paul Marchewka, Life Member, Ron Skayhan, Hillcrest C.C., Roger Teel, Laguna Woods G.C., 124 T2 Michael Wagner, Yorba Linda C.C., Fred Wood, Oceanside G.C., Roger Teel, Laguna Woods G.C., 124 T2 Mark Elliott, Hawk’s Landing G.C., Jerry Herrera, Azusa Greens G.C., Jimmy Powell, Life Member, 124 SENIOR KICK-OFF CLASSIC January 18, 2016 | Mission Lakes C.C. T1 Tower Chang, GTS Golf, Robert Dacey, Tierra del Sol G.C., Charles Craven, California Oaks G.C., +62, 133 T1 Randy Chang, Journey at Pechanga, Allen Merryman, Torrey Pines G.C., Tim Parun, Barona Creek G.C., +62, 133 3 Craig Clark, San Juan Hills G.C., Dale Shaw, Eric Evans, Royal Vista G.C., +66, 137

SCPGA SHORT COURSE SHOOTOUT November 4, 2015 | Emerald Isle Golf Course 1 Chris Starkjohann, Life Member, Gary Sowinski, The Hodges Golf L. Center, -4, $450 2 Jim Petralia, Los Angeles C.C., Paul Wise, Hillcrest C.C., -4, $250 3 Grant Strobel, Woods Valley G.C., Chris Smeal, Stadium Golf Center, -3, $150

SENIOR 2-DAY SAN DIEGO February 15-16, 2016 | Vista Valley Country Club & Pala Mesa Resort 1 Ron Skayhan, Hillcrest C.C., E, 143 2 Chris Starkjohann, Life Member, +3, 146 T3 Mark Fernando, Coronado G.C., +4, 147 T3 William Feil, Ivey Ranch C.C., +4, 147

SENIOR PLAYER’S DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP November 18-19, 2015 | Golf Club at Glen Ivy T1 Gary Sowinski, The Hodges Golf L. Center, -5, 139 T1 Jerry Wisz, Alhambra G.C., -5, 139 T1 Paul Dietsche, Redlands C.C., -5, 139

WOMEN’S STROKE PLAY SERIES February 18, 2016 | Canyon Crest Country Club 1 Alison Curdt, Wood Ranch G.C., +5, 77, $120 2 Reina Rogers, River Ridge G.C., +6, 78, $80 3 Petra Cole, Torrey Pines G.C., +7, 79, $40

PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

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ROSS FISHER HONORED

BY WSCGA AS 2015 GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

BENCHES PLACED TO HONOR PGA PROFESSIONALS AT RECREATION PARK G.C.

Benches recognizing PGA Members George Lake and Richard "Dick" Linares were just installed on the Driving Range at Recreation Park Golf Course!

HAWAII’S SCOTT ASHWORTH ELECTED TO PGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Scott Ashworth, PGA Director of Golf at Four Seasons Resorts Lanai in Hawaii, has joined the PGA Board of Directors as District 11 Director. He was elected at the 99th PGA Annual Meeting, and will serve a threeyear term, representing the Aloha, Northern California and Southern California PGA Sections.

A PGA member since 1997, Ashworth has more than 25 years of experience in the golf industry.

He has received several accolades, including 2008 Aloha PGA Section www.scpga.com

Golf Professional of the Year. In addition, he has been honored with the Section's Bill Strausbaugh Award in 2009 and 2012; Horton Smith Award in 2007; and Resort Merchandiser of the Year in 2012.

Ashworth was honored by previous employers as both Head Golf Professional of the Year for Billy Casper Golf in 2005, & Marriott Golf Professional of the Year in 2009.

"It's an honor to represent the Northern and Southern California PGA Sections as well as the Aloha Section at the National level” said Ashworth. “The PGA of America has given me a career in golf that I really could never have dreamed of. I feel so fortunate to be a part of such an amazing organization and extremely humbled to represent my fellow members and apprentices at the National level on the Board of Directors."

A native of Washington, Ashworth discovered his passion for golf at a young age through his father, who served as a superintendent for 30 years. A graduate of Univ. of Washington, he began working at the UW driving range as their youngest golf instructor. In 1993, Ashworth accepted the position of Assistant Golf Professional at McCormick Woods G.C., and was promoted to Head Golf Professional in 1997. Ashworth came to Hawaii in 2001, as the PGA Head Golf Professional at Ko Olina Golf Club.

Ashworth and his wife, Tanya, reside in Lanai City. Their daughter, Taylor, is in her final year at the Univ. of Hawaii.

GOLF RANGE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA RECOGNIZES SCPGA PROFESSIONALS

Congratulations to the following Southern California PGA facilities and professionals recognized by Golf Range Association of America!

2015 TOP 50 PRIVATE FACILITIES The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe Fairmont Grand Del Mar 2015 TOP 50 PUBLIC FACILITIES Black Gold Golf Club Desert Willow Golf Resort Oak Creek Golf Club Trump National Golf Club Tustin Ranch Golf Club PROGRAM MAGAZINE YEAR IN REVIEW

SECTION 2015 TOP 50 STAND NOTES ALONE FACILITIES Carlsbad Golf Center Del Mar Golf Center Stadium Golf Center & Batting Cages Tom Barber Golf Center 2015 TOP 50 GROWTH OF THE GAME TEACHING PROFESSIONALS Dale Abraham, PGA, of Big Horn Country Club Chris Smeal, PGA, of Future Champions Golf

STAFF HIGHLIGHT JUSTIN SANDOVAL Justin Sandoval was born and raised in Southern California and currently resides in the city of San Bernardino.

He graduated from Cajon High School where he earned 1st team All-League honors three times helping lead his team to three consecutive San Andreas League Golf Championships. Justin then attended Riverside City College, where he earned his Associates of Arts in Communications, Associates of Science in Social and Behavioral Sciences, and an Associates of Science in Kinesiology. In his time at RCC, he helped the golf team reach the California Community College Athletic Association State Championships for the first time in school history, taking third place in competition. Following his tenure at RCC, Justin continued his education at California State University San Bernardino earning his Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a concentration in Public Relations.

He also played Men’s Varsity Golf for CSUSB at the NCAA Division II level. An avid golfer Justin’s passion for sports mirrors that of a true Californian, he is a huge Lakers, Dodgers, and San Jose Sharks fan. Justin is very proud to say that he is a part of the SCPGA Junior Golf program and enjoys the opportunity he has to help grow the game within the Southern California region.

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