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The Southern Texas PGA is proud to announce our 2024 Section Award Winners

Southern Texas PGA • October 30, 2024

Southern Texas PGA Proudly Announces the 2024 Section Award Winners, Honoring Excellence in Golf Leadership and Achievement

SPRING, TX (October 30, 2024) – The Southern Texas PGA is thrilled to announce that PGA of America Member Bryan Minnick has been named the 2024 STPGA Golf Professional of the Year. This is the Association’s highest honor and is awarded for leadership, strong moral character, and a substantial record of service to the Association and the game of golf.


Minnick, elected to PGA Membership in 1998, has held Head Golf Professional roles at The Dominion Country Club in San Antonio, Shadow Hawk Golf Club in Richmond, and currently at Traditions Club in Bryan, TX.

Minnick’s journey of service and volunteerism with the Southern Texas PGA began 17 years ago on the Tournament Committee. Since then, he has served as Committee Chairman, At-Large Board Member, and most recently as President of the STPGA. His deep commitment to the organization comes from his desire to make things better. From tournament purses, to Member education, to growing the STPGA staff, he continues to push the entire team and Membership to improve and ensure we keep our Members’ best interest first.


“Bryan is all about relationships, listening, and then making decisions for the best interest of the PGA Member,” said Thomas Hutton, STPGA Executive Director. “I have developed a great appreciation for his ability to maintain levelness in turbulent times and ask the right questions before important decisions are needed.” 

For Minnick, golf has been more than a game—it has shaped his life by providing incredible mentors, lasting friendships, and most importantly, his true purpose. His dedication to growing the game reached a pinnacle in 2023 when he accepted the Herb Graffis Award on behalf of the Southern Texas PGA. This moment gave him the opportunity to stand before PGA of America leaders at the National Annual Meeting and highlight the remarkable impact that STPGA is having on individuals and the growth of STPGA programs over the last 5-10 years.


Congratulations to Bryan for winning this year’s Golf Professional of the Year!

Another notable Section Award winner is Craig Trahan, PGA Master Professional and Director of Instruction at Houston Country Club, as the 2024 Southern Texas PGA Harvey Penick Teacher of the Year. Named after the legendary PGA Professional and teacher Harvey Penick, this award is given to an individual for overall excellence in golf instruction.


Trahan has been a teacher of the game for 19 years and is a pinnacle example of a teacher. Trahan’s teaching style is his own unique style but pays homage to the greats that he had studied and those that have come before him. Trahan has built his teaching philosophy on these influences along with the guiding principle of listening to his students and their needs. Trahan gives every lesson with passion, enthusiasm, and praise to the golfer regardless of skill level. Craig’s ability to connect with his students and put his whole heart into his lessons makes the STPGA honored to call him the 2024 Harvey Penick Teacher of the Year award recipient.


“Craig is one of the hardest-working PGA Members I have ever met. His impact at Houston Country Club has been tremendous, and he has truly built something special there,” said STPGA Awards Committee Chairman Ricky Lyons. “This award is meant to honor someone who embodies the spirit of teaching, and Craig exemplifies that perfectly.”

In addition to these awards, the STPGA is also announcing 11 other Section Awards and numerous Chapter Awards. We would like to thank our Awards Committee, led by PGA Member Ricky Lyons, for their time and energy in selecting these winners.


Below we have listed a short phrase or sentence that helps speak to what each award is all about. Each year the STPGA receives many applications, and it is a true honor to win either a Section or Chapter Award!


Section Award winners will be formally presented with their honors during the STPGA’s 57th Annual Awards Banquet on Monday, February 17, 2025, in College Station, Texas, while Chapter Awards will be presented at their respective Chapter Meetings later this Fall.


Congratulations to all award winners!


2024 Southern Texas PGA Section Awards


Bryan Minnick (Traditions Club) - Golf Professional of the Year


Craig Trahan (Houston Country Club) - Harvey Penick Teacher of the Year

Andrew Peterson (Alamo City Golf Trails) - The Bill Strausbaugh Award is presented to a PGA Member who has shown outstanding integrity, commitment to mentoring PGA Members and Associates, building a talented team environment at their facility, and has made a significant impact on the careers of PGA Members.

Kayla McFall (San Antonio Country Club) - The Assistant Professional Award is presented to an Assistant Golf Professional that demonstrates high moral character and leadership and performs his or her duties at their facility at an elevated level.


Doug Strawbridge (GOLFTEC – Upper Kirby) – The Professional Development Award honors a PGA Member who has made significant and ongoing contributions to advancing educational opportunities and enhancing the professional growth of fellow PGA Members. This award recognizes dedication to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the golf industry.


Tirrel Baymon (Cypresswood Golf Course) – The Player Development Award honors a PGA Member who has made outstanding contributions to player development, playing a pivotal role in initiatives to grow the game. This award celebrates those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to expanding access to golf and inspiring new and seasoned players alike.


Roger Stebbins (High Meadow Ranch) - The Youth Player Development Award recognizes a PGA Member who exemplifies leadership in junior golf, embodying a deep commitment to fostering youth development through the game. This award honors individuals who provide meaningful opportunities and impactful experiences, inspiring young players to learn, grow, and enjoy the game of golf.


Doug Carlton (RIIM Golf Academy & Driving Range) – The Patriot Award honors a PGA Member whose exceptional, ongoing dedication to PGA HOPE and other initiatives supporting Veterans, Active-Duty Service Members, and their families has made a profound and lasting impact. This award recognizes those who have gone above and beyond to enrich the lives of our military community through the game of golf.


Bryant Hiskey (PING) – The Golf Sales Representative Award honors an industry representative who exemplifies outstanding support for PGA Members and Section initiatives, demonstrating a strong commitment to service and a genuine passion for the game. This award celebrates individuals who go above and beyond in their dedication to fostering growth and excellence in the golf community.


Hyatt Hill Country Golf Club (Public/Resort) & San Antonio Country Club (Private) – The Merchandiser of the Year Award celebrates Southern Texas PGA facilities that excel in promoting the game of golf through outstanding business and merchandising practices. This award honors facilities that go above and beyond in delivering exceptional retail experiences, fostering customer engagement, and supporting the growth of golf in their communities.


Asher Vargas & Lindsay Lee – The Junior Golfer of the Year Award is presented to two junior golfers who embody excellence both on and off the course. This award celebrates individuals who demonstrate strong academic performance, exemplary character, and unwavering sportsmanship. Recipients stand out for their dedication to the core values of golf and their commitment to playing at an elite level.

2024 STPGA Chapter Awards


Eastern Chapter
Matthew Nyren (The Woodlands Country Club) - Golf Professional of the Year
EJ Kim (Axis Golf Academy) - Harvey Penick Teacher of the Year
James Larkin III (The Woodlands Country Club) - Youth Player Development Award
Champions Golf Club (Houston, TX) - Merchandiser of the Year


Western Chapter
Michael Frost (Briggs Ranch Golf Club) - Golf Professional of the Year
Eric Ilic (David Ogrin Golf Academy) - Harvey Penick Teacher of the Year
Jennifer MacCurrach (First Tee of Greater Austin) - Youth Player Development Award
Oak Hills Country Club (San Antonio, TX) - Merchandiser of the Year



Congratulations again to all award winners!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL OF THE AWARD WINNERS' GRAPHICS
By Southern Texas PGA March 11, 2025
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By Southern Texas PGA March 6, 2025
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By Southern Texas PGA March 5, 2025
No matter where your travel takes you, find the best discounted hotel options now!
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.”
By Southern Texas PGA February 18, 2025
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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.
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!
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By Southern Texas PGA January 29, 2025
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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.
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