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PGA Members Eric Eshleman and Kevin Kirk Headline 2019 PGA of America National Award Recipients

Southern Texas PGA • July 24, 2019


Editor’s Note: For photos and videos of the 2019 PGA of America National Award recipients, click here.


PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. (July 24, 2019) - Eric Eshleman, PGA, the Director of Golf at the Country Club of Birmingham (Alabama), is the recipient of the 2019 PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award. This award is the highest annual honor given to a PGA of America Professional, awarded for qualities of leadership, strong moral character and a substantial record of service to the PGA and the game of golf.


A 24-year PGA Member, Eshleman has demonstrated a passion and commitment to training and mentoring fellow PGA Professionals throughout his career and has served in advisory roles on several golf committees. Eshleman currently serves as the Honorary President of the Alabama-NW Florida PGA Section, after a two-year term as President. During his time as a Section Officer, he helped raise the image and status of the Section and established a fundraising program for its foundation, while his stint as president included the approval of the Section name change (formerly the Dixie Section).


He has trained many PGA Professionals to become outstanding golf instructors, stemming from his devotion to bettering the golf community and fostering strong relationships with the individuals he mentors. Under his leadership, the Country Club of Birmingham has averaged more than 2,400 lessons annually since 2014. Eshleman is also a member of the PGA Adjunct Faculty, teaching golf to beginners and assisting students and staff in developing their skills and shaping their career paths. Additionally, Eshleman oversees one of the largest junior golf programs in the country, with 200 kids playing in CCB’s Junior Club Championship in 2018.


Well known as a teaching professional for students such as Graeme McDowell, Patton Kizzire, Paul Dunne and the 66th U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Eshleman has been honored by the Alabama-NW Florida PGA Section on several occasions. He received the Section’s: PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award in 2010 and 2017; the Teacher of the Year Award (2000 and 2004); the 2011 PGA Bill Strausbaugh Award; and 2014 Youth Player Development Award.


Kevin Kirk, PGA, a 26-year PGA Member in the Southern Texas Section and Director of Golf Instruction at The Woodlands Country Club in The Woodlands, Texas, is the recipient of the 2019 PGA Teacher of the Year Award for his “outstanding services as a golf teacher, innovator and coach.”


Kirk, a PGA Master Professional and a GOLF Magazine Top 100 Teacher in America, has taught an impressive list of students, highlighted by three-time United States Ryder Cup Team Member and 2018 Masters Champion Patrick Reed; LPGA TOUR star and Major Champion Lexi Thompson; and three-time PGA TOUR winner Jhonattan Vegas, among others. Kirk also works with professional golfers Maria Verchenova and Rodolfo Cazubon, making him the coach of five Olympians.


Committed to player development, Kirk’s holistic approach to teaching caters to individuals of all ages and skill levels, from newcomers to Tour stars. A sought-after presenter and instructor, Kirk is a member of the PGA of America’s Coaching & Player Development Committee and has delivered numerous insightful presentations at PGA meetings, workshops and education programs at the Chapter, Section and National levels, as well as coaching summits in England, Australia and New Zealand. He is an advocate for the Aspen Institute Project Play and strongly supports the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and the PGA of America in the advancement of the American Development Model.

Fluent in Spanish, Kirk is a valued consultant for several golf federations, Olympic Committees and private clubs throughout Latin America. Highly regarded as a mentor, educator and role model for fellow PGA Members, Kirk’s passion is reinforced by his commitment to inclusiveness and sharing both his experience and knowledge with peers.


His recognition as 2019 National PGA Teacher of the Year follows a long list of awards at the Section level including: Southern Texas PGA Section Harvey Penick Teacher of the Year five times (1998, 1999, 2008, 2011 and 2017); the Horton Smith Award in 2006; and the Bill Strausbaugh Award in 2012.


“The 2019 Class of PGA of America National Awards winners has distinguished themselves as leaders and innovators, and it’s a privilege to recognize each one of them for their extraordinary commitment to the Association, as well as their passion for advancing the game and business of golf,” said PGA President Suzy Whaley. “With a commitment to excellence and the utmost of professionalism, these honorees inspire our 29,000 PGA Professionals to continually pursue the highest standards of success and achievement.”


Eric Eshleman and Kevin Kirk lead a group of 11 PGA Professionals and one PGA Section in winning the PGA of America’s 2019 National Awards. The majority of the awards will be presented on Thursday, Nov. 7, as part of the 2019 PGA Annual Meeting in West Palm Beach, Florida. The three PGA Merchandiser of the Year Awards will be presented next January, in coordination with events surrounding the 2020 PGA Merchandise Show.


2019 PGA of America National Awards Recipients

PGA Golf Professional of the Year: Eric Eshleman, PGA, Country Club of Birmingham (Ala.)

PGA Teacher of the Year: Kevin Kirk, PGA, The Woodlands (Texas) Golf Performance Center

Bill Strausbaugh Award: David Reasoner, PGA, Ridgewood Country Club - Paramus, N.J.

Horton Smith Award: Todd Sones, PGA, Todd Sones Impact Golf - Vernon Hills, Ill.

Deacon Palmer Award: Randy Jones, PGA, Club Car - Richmond, Texas

Patriot Award: Judy Alvarez, PGA/LPGA, Monarch Country Club - Palm City, Fla.

PGA Player Development Award: Liz Cooper, PGA/LPGA, Springfield (Va.) Golf & Country Club

PGA Youth Player Development Award: Scott Wilson, PGA, Bay Meadows Family Golf Course. -
Traverse City, Mich.

Herb Graffis Award: South Florida PGA Section

PGA Merchandiser of the Year-Resort Category: Sara Muldoon, PGA, Hershey (Pa.) Country Club

PGA Merchandiser of the Year-Public Category: Duncan Simms, PGA, Oak Creek G.C. -
Irvine, Calif.

PGA Merchandiser of the Year-Private Category: Scott Kirkwood, PGA, Ocean Reef Club -
Key Largo, Fla.


For bios and information on the individual award winners, click here.


About the PGA of America
The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of PGA Professionals who daily work to grow interest and participation in the game of golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.org, follow @PGA on Twitter and find us on Facebook.


Media Contact
Michael Abramowitz  PGA of America 561/624-8458 mabramowitz@pgahq.com
Jared Minski, Mastro Communications, Inc. 732/469-5700 jared@mastrocomm.com

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.

Welcoming our 2025 Partners!

By Ximena Davila • January 20, 2025
The Southern Texas PGA is pleased to have the following corporate partners, sponsors, and national partners involved with the Section in 2025! Each partner's involvement is critical to our success and we could not do what we do without the support of each of these companies. We will highlight each of these companies throughout the year in our Section Weekly Headlines and at numerous events. Click the buttons below to view our list of partners and how to best contact them. We also have a short video from our Director of Business Operations, Andrew Gridley.

Announcing our 2025 One-Day Schedule!

By Southern Texas PGA • December 20, 2024
The STPGA is pleased to announce One-Day events for 2025 which includes our second year of Section One-Day Events, our Energy Transfer Texas Senior Open Qualifying Series, and our PATs for our Associates. Please note: Registration will open 30 days prior to the event's date. SECTION ONE-DAY EVENTS Monday, January 27 th Revenge Scramble | TPC San Antonio Monday, April 21 st Two-Person Scramble | Cimarron Hills Golf & Country Club Wednesday, May 14 th 3-Club Challenge | East River 9 Monday, June 23 rd 1 st Pro-Scratch | Boot Ranch Monday, August 11 th Two-Person Shamble | BlackHorse Golf Club (South) Monday, November 10 th Two-Person Scramble | Lakecliff Golf Club Monday, November 24 th Two-Person Shamble | Bentwater Yacht & Country Club (Weiskopf) ENERGY TRANSFER TEXAS SENIOR OPEN QUALIFYING SERIES Monday, April 14 th The Wilderness Golf Course Monday, May 5 th Delaware Springs Golf Course Monday, July 28 th Riverhill Country Club Monday, August 4 th Beaumont Country Club Monday, September 29 th Eagle Pointe Golf Club PLAYING ABILITY TESTS Monday, March 3 rd Bearkat Golf Course Monday, April 14 th Pebble Creek Country Club Tuesday, May 13 th The Quarry Golf Club Tuesday, June 10 th The Woodlands Country Club (West) Wednesday, June 25 th Eagle Pointe Golf Club Thursday, August 7 th Corpus Christi Country Club Wednesday, August 20 th Forest Creek Golf Course Monday, October 13 th Bearkat Golf Course If you missed seeing our 2025 Major Championship schedule and other events that were announced in October, click here ! 2025 is going to be an awesome year and thank you to all of our PGA of America Members that are hosting events! Merry Christmas to our Members and their families!

STPGA Closes out the Year With an E9

By Southern Texas PGA • December 6, 2024
STPGA continues to serve its Members, grow the game through STPGA Programs, and elevate the Association! 2024 was another record year for the STPGA and as we head into the Holiday Season, we thought it would be fun to recap some of our best moments and highlights. By the end of the day, 18-holes just cannot be finished, so let's go play an emergency 9-holes!

Honoring Mike Ray and Brent Buckman for their Hall of Fame Induction

By Southern Texas PGA • November 22, 2024
Brent Buckman, PGA and Mike Ray, PGA Inducted into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame
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