Becoming the All-Around Golf Professional

The Alabama – NW Florida Golf Foundation created the Assistants’ Summit to connect PGA Professionals and Associates in Assistant-level positions to encourage collaboration, networking, and mentoring. The Alabama – NW Florida Golf Foundation recognizes that this next generation of PGA Professionals is the future of the golf industry. Because of this, the Assistants’ Summit is free of charge for the attendees. The event has evolved, but the thesis remains the same, empowering these individuals to be a light at their facilities.

This year’s overarching theme was “Becoming the All-Around Golf Professional.” It featured nine speakers focused on all aspects of the industry, ranging from teaching and coaching, golf operations, executive management, and more. The programming, designed by Assistants for Assistants, offered a unique perspective as it was more of a peer-to-peer exchange of ideas. 

The day began with an optional round of golf at the host site, Hoover Country Club. This was a new addition to the Assistans’ Summit, enjoyed by all who participated. Later, a social hour before dinner allowed attendees to catch up with friends and meet others with similar career paths. 

Dinner and programming began shortly after. Trivia questions were dispersed throughout the evening between speakers. Questions ranged from, “Can you draw the new PGA of America logo?” to “Can you name all three of our Section officers?” Those who answered correctly won various prizes provided by Allison Blazich from FootJoy.

Topics of discussion included:

  • Outside Staff Management – Greg Gilder
  • Teaching and Coaching – Patrick Patterson
  • Merchandise – Dominic Diaz, PGA
  • Playing Ability & Playing with Members – Christian Bosso
  • PGA Education – Adam Burkett, PGA
  • Tournament Operations – Matthew Sallade, PGA
  • Junior Golf – Glenn Garnett, PGA
  • Membership Relationship – Elizabeth Moultrie
  • Work-Life Balance – Jake Spott, PGA

Speakers gave encouragement, explained best practices, and shared stories of past experiences. The discussion portion of the evening was very informal while also providing valuable information for all those involved. The goal is for attendees to take what they learned and bring this information to improve their facilities. These individuals are not only crucial to the golf industry’s current operation but also the future leaders. The Section and its Foundation are dedicated to supporting these PGA Professionals and Associates in Assistant-level positions in all aspects.

 

Thank you to Jake Spott and Hoover Country Club for hosting this event and to the Alabama – NW Florida Golf Foundation for sponsoring this fantastic evening!