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Meet the Member: Dr. Rich Ballinger, PGA

Southern Texas PGA • April 24, 2024

Dr. Rich Ballinger, PGA – Make your Passion your Career!

Dr. Rich Ballinger, PGA has been at the helm of the Sam Houston State PGA Golf Management Program since its establishment in 2005. Texas is one of the 18 states that provides the Professional Golf Management Program to students who are passionate about having a successful career in golf.


After graduating from the Ferris State University PGA Golf Management Program, he got his first job as an Assistant Golf Professional in the Carolinas Section. He worked his way up to Head Professional with the responsibility of opening two new facilities. When the opportunity came for him to work at Coastal Carolina University’s PGA Golf Management Program as their Internship Coordinator, he was eager to take on the new role since he went through the program previously. After a couple of years, he found his way to Texas for the role at Sam Houston State University and has been here for 19 years.


“When the opportunity came for me to get involved with the program it was a great fit for me because I was proud to be a graduate and how it had altered the course of my life,” said Ballinger.


The PGA Golf Management Program at Sam Houston State University allows students to earn a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a Concentration in PGA Golf Management, and you will be directly elected by the PGA of America as Class “A” Member upon graduation. Throughout the four years, students are required to go out into the golf industry and do 16 months of internship work.


Dr. Ballinger said, “It’s an opportunity to make your passion your career, an opportunity to get your college business degree and pursue PGA Membership at the same time. It’s fantastic!”

SHSU Alumni Jesse Campbell, PGA aspired to pursue a career in golf but didn’t know how to make that possible until he encountered the PGA Golf Management Program at Sam Houston State University.


“When I was trying to figure out how to pursue my career, I came across the Golf Management Program at Sam Houston,” Campbell stated. Campbell is currently the Head Professional at BlackHorse Golf Club in Cypress, TX.  “After I met with Dr. Ballinger, I knew it was going to be a great fit for me and it has led me down the avenues I’m at today.”


In the golf industry, opportunities vary from traditional roles such as Head Professional, Teaching Professional, and General Manager at green grass facilities to administrative and director positions at allied associations. The purpose of this program is to allow students to try different areas of golf, get educated in the PGA Education Program, and then network with people across the country to then decide on the correct career path within the industry.


“Rich is an advocate of experiencing different styles of jobs in the golf industry as well as different regions in the country,” said SHSU Alumni Colton Escamilla, PGA. “I think that is key to figuring out what you want to do in the golf business, especially if you are going through the program rather than perusing PGA Membership on your own.” Escamilla is currently serving as Co-Head Professional at Whispering Pines Golf Club in Trinity, TX. 

The PGA Golf Management program takes pride in the 100 percent job placement opportunities their students receive after graduation. In addition, 80 percent of their students are elected to Membership in either the Southern or Northern Sections of Texas.


“We are proud of the fact that our program is in Texas and a program that primarily produces PGA of America Professionals for the state of Texas,” Dr. Ballinger commented.


Not only are students receiving their Class-A Membership, but they can have a college experience. SHSU Alumni Beau Davidson, PGA encourages students to be involved on campus.


“You not only go to campus to learn, but there's actual activities for you and your friends to go do,” Davidson said. Davidson is serving as Assistant Professional at BraeBurn Country Club in Houston, TX. “They introduced the Cat Club when I was there. It's an arcade room for students with a bowling alley which gives you plenty of opportunities to take advantage of.”

“I am an alumni of the STPGA Junior Golf Program as well as the SHSU PGA Golf Management Program”, said Scott Archer, PGA, current Assistant Executive Director for the Southern Texas PGA. “Following my junior golf career, I had a passion for the game but did not know how to direct it, and that is when I came across the PGA Golf Management Program.”


“Graduating from this program has not only allowed me a successful career where I have the privilege to influence the next generation of golfers, but it has also given me the opportunity to stay in the game I love, and I encourage all high school students who love golf to look into the PGA Golf Management Program as a viable option for their futures.”


If you are interested in joining the PGA Golf Management program at SHSU please reach out to Dr. Ballinger for more information.

Meet the Member: Rob Charter, PGA

By Southern Texas PGA • March 18, 2025
Rob Charter, PGA – Family in the Fairways

TERMEER & CHERVONY ARE THE KINGS OF THE HILLS

By Southern Texas PGA • March 11, 2025
Steven Chervony (Left) and Tayler Termeer (Right) AUSTIN, TEXAS (March 11, 2025) – The 2025 Pro-Pro Championship brought 94 players to The Hills Country Club (Signature Course) in Austin, Texas, for two days of premier competition. Participants battled it out, showcasing their talent on one of the region’s top courses. A colder start to our typical Southern Texas tee time didn't slow down the field as only four strokes separated the Top-5 after round one. Robert Scott, PGA Teaching Professional at Royal Oaks Country Club, alongside Ryan Polzin, PGA Head Professional at Oak Hills Country Club, would post an incredible -15 for the first day's scramble. The great round solidified them as the solo leaders for Day Two, but they would need to keep their foot on the pedal to maintain it. At the beginning of Round 2, it would be Troy Schleicher, PGA Life Member, and Billy Sitton, PGA Golf Executive at Triumph Golf, only trailing behind the leaders by one stroke, leading the charge. A windier day would prove an already challenging course that much more, but Schleicher and Sitton would remain steady and climb up to the top spot late in the final round. Tayler Termeer, Teaching Professional at the University of Texas Golf Club, and Steven Chervony, Assistant Professional at Austin Country Club, would keep the competition interesting. They would rise four spots and put pressure on Schleicher and Sitton heading to the final hole. "We thought we would perform better in the Four-Ball format versus the Scramble format. We knew 6-under or 7-under would make it competitive and give us a good chance at winning," said Chervony. Termeer and Chervony would have done enough to seal the victory in their favor. They would head to the scoring table with an official score of 62 - 65 – 127 ( -17 ) and walk away crowned the 2025 Pro-Pro Champions by two strokes. "I was hitting my driver well, and that freed us up a lot. We had a fairly relaxed round because of that, along with the eagle we carded on Hole 9 that took some pressure off us as well," stated Termeer. The Southern Texas PGA extends its sincere appreciation to The Hills Country Club and its dedicated staff for their exceptional hospitality. Additionally, we are grateful for the support of our valued partners—Callaway, E-Z-GO, Evolve Golf, Texoma Golf, Tagmarshal, Scales, Sap’s, NextRound, and OMNI Hotels & Resorts—whose contributions made this event possible.

New STPGA & AGM Partnership

By Southern Texas PGA • March 6, 2025
Hello STPGA Members and Associates , We are excited to announce a new partnership with the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM) to bring education and networking opportunities to the STPGA. Below, you will find online education seminars related to merchandising that might benefit you and/or your team. I highly recommend signing up for all or specific topics that interest you. AGM has graciously waived registration fees; all you need to do is click the buttons below to register your name. Feel free to invite anyone on your team to this as well. PDR credits will be awarded to those who register and attend each session. Quarterly Blueprint for Golf Shop Success - Justine Gray Wednesday March 26, 2025 3:00 P.M. CST REGISTER HERE Join Justine for a seminar on optimizing golf retail operations. Learn proactive inventory management, customer service strategies, and staff training tips while enhancing cross-department collaboration. Leave with a personalized quarterly action plan to drive long-term success in your golf shop! Increasing the Average Units Per Transaction: What You Need to Know - Nicole Leinbach Hoffman Thursday April 9, 2025 3:00 P.M. CST REGISTER HERE Join retail expert Nicole Leinbach Hoffman of Retail Minded to discover proven strategies for increasing average units per transaction. Learn how merchandising, staff engagement, and strategic product pairings can boost sales and enhance the customer experience. The REAL Impact™ of One - Rita Goodroe Wednesday May 28, 2025 3:00 P.M. CST REGISTER HERE The REAL Impact™ of One shows how YOU make the difference between business as usual and business that wins. In an industry where timing and relationships drive results, every action ripples across the organization. With humor, storytelling, and practical tools, award-winning connection expert Rita Goodroe lights up the room—leaving you thinking about your impact in ways you never have before.

New Hotel Partnership Formed with SportGo Travel and the STPGA!

By Southern Texas PGA • March 5, 2025
No matter where your travel takes you, find the best discounted hotel options now!

First Community Expands Partnership With Southern Texas PGA

By Southern Texas PGA • February 19, 2025
Creation of the First Community STPGA Team to be showcased in 2025 and 2026 February 19th, 2025 (Spring, TX) - This week at the STPGA Annual Meeting, a special announcement was made around an expanded partnership between First Community and the Southern Texas PGA. The elevated partnership includes showcasing First Community and unique story telling opportunities as we create a new team of STPGA Members. Known now as the First Community STPGA Team, this group of STPGA Members are the PGA Professionals that have qualified for the PGA Professional Championship to be played on April 27-30 at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, FL. This year’s First Community STPGA Team currently features 9 PGA Members from Southern Texas that hope to qualify for the PGA Championship and earn a spot on the Corebridge PGA Team of 20. Prior to the event in April, the STPGA will showcase these players in unique spotlights and then follow them along at the PGA Professional Championship. All 9 of these players earned this spot at the 2024 STPGA Section Championship. Our First Community STPGA Team will be led by Jared Jones, PGA Director of Instruction at River Oaks Country Club in Houston, TX who came in a tie for second at last year’s PGA Professional Championship and won the 2024 STPGA Section Championship. These 9 First Community STPGA Team members will not only represent the STPGA but their facilities as well. PGA Members continue to be the backbone of the industry and the First Community STPGA Team will showcase the playing ability of the STPGA membership. “We could not be more thrilled to try something new and have a current partner that believes in the value this Team will showcase,” said Thomas Hutton, Executive Director of the STPGA. “This idea started on a white board and to see a company like First Community jump on board and then our members get excited about it, makes this something special.” In addition to this announcement, First Community is also excited to announce special perks and exclusive offers for STPGA Members and Employees to elevate their banking needs with products and services from First Community. “Last year was our first year expanding our outreach within the golf community through the STPGA and it was a big success,” said TJ Tijerina, CEO of First Community. “We saw tremendous exposure through the STPGA Junior Golf Program and are excited for this additional opportunity to support the community and showcase stories that will resonate with our potential members.”

57th EDUCATION SUMMIT & ANNUAL MEETING COMES TO A CLOSE!

By Southern Texas PGA • February 18, 2025
Over 200 PGA of America Members begin their year with education, celebration, and networking. COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS (FEBRUARY 18) - Over the last two days, the 57th Education Summit and Annual Meeting took place at Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center where PGA of America Members experienced 9 keynote speakers: Three and Jackie, Eric Eshleman, PGA, Dale Morgan, PGA, Mark McGinnis, HUB Investment, Chet Williams, Jeff Blume, RC Slocum, EA Tischler, Chuck Cook, PGA, and Bill Moretti, PGA. These speakers covered a wide range of topics to help ensure our PGA Members remain the backbone of the industry. PGA Members continue to wear many different hats throughout their day to day lives and providing high level education allows them to continue to be well rounded individuals. The STPGA would like to thank all of our keynote speakers for bringing unique insight to the STPGA. In addition to our wonderful presenters, this year was an election year where we elected our new set of Officers and 3 new At-Large Directors. Congratulations to everyone. We look forward to your leadership over the next two years.

STPGA Membership Elects New Officers and Board of Directors!

By Southern Texas PGA • February 17, 2025
Dr. Rich Ballinger, Director of Sam Houston State PGA Golf Management Program becomes the Association’s next President. February 17, 2025 (College Station, TX) - During the 57th STPGA Education Summit and Annual Meeting today, the STPGA Membership elected its new Officers and Board of Directors to lead the Association for the next two years. The Association’s 4 Officers are the following individuals. PRESIDENT Dr. Rich Ballinger, PGA Director Sam Houston State University PGA Golf Management Program VICE PRESIDENT Darrell Fuston, PGA General Manager Westwood Golf Club SECRETARY Ricky Lyons, PGA General Manager Big Easy Ranch HONORARY PRESIDENT Bryan Minnick, PGA Head Professional Traditions Club “It is an honor to become the next President of the STPGA,” said Dr. Ballinger, who has been a PGA Member since 1996. “I look forward to continuing the positive momentum that we have experienced within our association and the game at a local level for the next two years.” “Our PGA Members are the backbone of our sport and we need to continue to provide them tools and education to be the best in the business. In partnership with our Board and Officers, I look forward to working with them on ensuring this continues for many years to come." In addition, 3 At-Large Director Board positions were also open, with Alan Hodde, PGA , Michael Frost, PGA, and Chad Donegan, PGA winning those three positions. Congratulations to each of them, and thank you to everyone who ran for a position during the meeting. At the end of last year, each of the two Chapters within the Southern Texas PGA also elected two people to serve on the STPGA Board of Directors. The Eastern Chapter officers are President Matthew Scadden, PGA , and Vice President Trent Peddy, PGA . The Western Chapter officers are President Derrick Dixon, PGA , and Vice President Corey Roberson, PGA . To round out the Board of Directors, President Ballinger will announce his Presidential Picks in the near future. The Board of Directors serves a 2-year term and leads the Association’s governance model and direction.

Chad Donegan, PGA Awarded STPGA President's Award!

By Southern Texas PGA • February 17, 2025
Donegan wins the award for his dedication to the Association, friendship with fellow PGA of America Members, and positive attitude. February 17, 2025 (College Station, TX) - During today’s 57th STPGA Education Summit and Annual Meeting, President Bryan Minnick, PGA awarded the second-ever President’s Award to fellow PGA Member Chad Donegan from the City of New Braunfels. This award was established two years ago when former President James Brown awarded the first President’s Award to Steve Hammond. This tradition was started to provide the outgoing President an opportunity to select one PGA of America Member that they felt was deserving of recognition in front of their peers. “During my time as President, Chad provided me with insight, friendship, and a desire to keep the organization as strong as possible,” said Minnick, the current Head Professional at Traditions Club in Bryan, TX. “Chad is a true friend to everyone.” Chad has been a PGA Member since 2002 and has continued to elevate his career to his current position of being the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of New Braunfels and overseeing Landa Park Golf Course. During this time, Chad has also made himself an asset to the Association and his fellow Members by serving on the Board of Directors and as the Championships Committee Chairman. He loves to play the game but most importantly, he loves to represent all viewpoints and not just a select few. He is a person of strength and regardless if it is professional or personal items, he remains positive and builds relationships. Chad was surprised with this recognition during the morning session of today’s Education Summit and Annual Meeting for the Southern Texas PGA. Congratulations Chad!

Molson Coors Partners with the Southern Texas PGA!

By Southern Texas PGA • February 13, 2025
Blue Moon, Happy Thursday, ZOA Energy, Coors Light, and Miller Lite to be showcased at each of the STPGA’s 5 Major Championships.

Absentee Voting Available Now! Click for More Information

By Southern Texas PGA • January 29, 2025
ABSENTEE VOTING NOW AVAILABLE CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE THE GOOGLE FORM In 2022, your Board of Directors approved Absentee Ballot Voting for the position of Secretary to ensure that all PGA of America Members have the opportunity to have their voice heard when electing the next Officer, and this process will continue for the 2025 elections. To be eligible to complete an Absentee Ballot, you must meet the following criteria: You must be a Class A PGA of America Member in good standing You are not able to attend the Education Summit & Annual Meeting You must complete the Google Form that will be sent out by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 7 Please note that this is for the position of Secretary only, and only candidates that declared their intention to run for the position by the time Absentee Ballots are sent will be included in the ballot. People may still run from the floor or state their intention to run after Absentee Ballots are sent. Two important reminders with this new process: You must request an Absentee Ballot. You will NOT receive an Absentee Ballot by simply NOT registering for the Education Summit & Annual Meeting. If for some reason you request an Absentee Ballot and then attend the event, your Absentee Ballot will be discarded, and you must vote in person during the Education Summit & Annual Meeting. The below timeline will be implemented for Absentee Ballot Voting: Wednesday, January 29, 2025: Absentee Ballot Request Available This will be included in STPGA Weekly Headlines, posted to www.stpga.com , and emailed out to all eligible PGA of America Members. Friday, February 7, 2025: Absentee Ballot Request Deadline This will be the final day that PGA of America Members will be able to request an Absentee Ballot. Requests must be received by 5:00 p.m. Monday, February 10, 2025: Absentee Ballots Sent Absentee Ballots will be sent to all PGA of America Members who requested a ballot during the open period by Southern Texas PGA Staff. Wednesday, February 12, 2025: Absentee Ballot Voting Deadline This will be the final day that PGA of America Members will be able to cast their Absentee Ballot. Ballots must be submitted by 5:00 p.m.
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