Today, in front of their peers, we recognized our Indiana Section PGA Special Award Winners at our Annual Business Meeting in Muncie, Ind. Congratulations to all of our winners on this well deserved honor.
Merchandisers of the Year – Established 1988
The Merchandiser of the Year Awards recognizes those PGA professionals who have demonstrated superior skills as merchandisers in the promotion of golf. The award is given for excellence in golf shop operations in three categories: Private, Resort and Public/Municipal/Military/Semi-Private. The following criteria are applied to all awards: PGA Member in good standing, credit rating with the industry, overall credit rating and community involvement. The candidates are judged in the following areas: merchandising ability and techniques, inventory levels and turn rate, shop display and attention to detail.
Robert Koontz
Merchandiser of the Year – Resort Award
French Lick Resort – The Pete Dye Course
An esteemed member in the golf industry, Robert Koontz’s merchandise philosophy centers on creating unique opportunities through well-organized displays of branded products. With a harmonious blend of aesthetic appeal and essential business operations, he offers a diverse range of products, reflecting tradition, infusing creativity, and delivering top-notch equipment all within budget constraints. Robert’s strategic “good, better, best” selection approach caters to dynamic market demands, ensuring clean cut presentations that transcend the area of retail, offering a narrative of both pride and experience.
Robert is an expert in golf merchandising and his success is fueled by a comprehensive strategy, including retail studies, lifestyle trend research, and abundant partnerships. His commitment to team development and detailed training results in attractive displays, fostering a friendly environment that transforms merchandise into memorable impressions. Recognized as the Indiana Section PGA Merchandiser of the Year – Resort recipient in 2017 and 2023 and 2024 and now the National Merchandiser of the Year for 2024, Robert’s success is anchored in his passion for the industry, continuous learning, storytelling, heavy attention to details, and his undeniable dedication to delivering exceptional golfing experiences.
Jeffrey Williams
Merchandiser of the Year – Public Award
Brickyard Crossing
Jeffrey Williams is a pioneering force in golf merchandising, demonstrating unwavering dedication 365 days a year. Employing a strategic approach, he intricately manages the planning and ordering process, infusing distinctive race-themed branding into his work. Particularly notable is his crafting of a unique merchandising strategy at the renowned Indianapolis Motor Speedway golf course, Brickyard Crossing, where Jeffrey maximizes the impact of the Brickyard Crossing and Motor Speedway logos together.
As an experienced PGA professional, Jeff emphasizes the critical role of loyalty and demand, acknowledging their varying importance among clientele and membership. He values the insights of sales representatives, noting the importance of aligning with companies and reps that resonate with their branding. Jeff navigates the dynamic golf merchandising landscape with a balanced approach and advocates for strategic partnerships and the creation of custom products to stand out in the competitive market. Recognizing the potential for brand expansion through social media, he addresses the challenges of corporate spending constraints and sets an ambitious goal of capturing an additional 10%-20% of the corporate outing business. Jeff urges professionals to engage their customers, adapt their strategies as needed, and find joy in the evolving and creative process of merchandising.
Nate Holm
Merchandiser of the Year – Private Award
The Woodstock Club
In the fall 2021, Nate leveraged his strategic insights from previous roles to transform the Woodstock shop into a thriving establishment by May 2022. Observing favored products at other clubs, he embraced the mindset of “Why not at Woodstock?” The past two seasons saw a surge in membership, particularly among a younger demographic, establishing a new standard for higher volume, increased traffic, and elevated price points. Nate’s vision was clear: set a welcoming standard and provide the best merchandise and opportunities in golf.
With Nate having a heavy focus on understanding his clientele, he curated a selection featuring high-end apparel, trendy accessories, diverse headwear designs, fitting days, and demo club offerings to maximize sales. Club sales became the driving force, creating curiosity among members about the latest offerings. Regular visits to other golf shops and active monitoring of social media platforms kept Nate’s shop stocked with high demand items. Recognizing Woodstock’s member-driven purchases, Nate strategically refreshed the shop around events and holidays, maintaining an effective atmosphere. Nate’s commitment led to a full fall lifestyle shop reset, keeping members excited even during the quieter club periods. As a socially-driven club, Nate continues to offer products that are inviting to all members.
Teacher of the Year – Established 1986
The Teacher of the Year Award bestows special recognition on a PGA golf professional that has performed outstanding service as a golf instructor. Criteria to be considered are: overall performance as a golf professional at his/her facility, service to his/her Section and the Association, leadership ability, image and ability to inspire fellow professionals, use of teaching aids and the ability to illustrate their effectiveness, involvement in junior golf activities at the facility and in the community, techniques for teaching small and large groups, articles written for publication in books and magazines.
Scott Barla
PGA Teacher & Coach of the Year Award
Barla Golf Academy
Barla Golf Academy was founded in 2016 by dedicated golf professional, Scott Barla, who boasts a rich history of coaching and mentoring across the Greater Indianapolis Area. The academy’s inception coincided with an impactful tenure at Brad Fellers Golf School of Indiana, laying the groundwork for the establishment of Barla Golf Academy at Sahm Golf Course in 2017. Under Scott’s leadership, the academy flourished, introducing local Junior Golf Camps and Clinics, leaving an impactful mark on the golfing community.
In addition to coaching, Scott Barla has been instrumental in community outreach, spearheading initiatives such as PGA HOPE Programs, PGA Jr. League, and innovative events like Drive, Chip, and Putt practice facilities. The Scott Barla Golf Academy, recognized as a leader with its PGA Certified Indoor Training Center since September of 2021, has transformed into a hub for golf enthusiasts. Implementing cutting-edge technology, including Foresight Sports Launch Monitors and innovative training aids, Barla Golf Academy has not only produced remarkable players like the 2023 Prep Tour Junior Player of the Year, Gavin Davis, and the 2023 Indiana PGA Women’s Open Champion, Rachel Johnson, but has also contributed significantly to the growth and accessibility of golf for all skill levels and backgrounds.
PGA Professional Development Award – Established 1976
The Professional Development Award is designed to recognize individual golf professionals for their outstanding and continuing contributions to developing and improving education opportunities for the PGA golf professional. The guidelines for this award are: contributions to educational programs and seminars in the Indiana Section, contributions and assistance toward the development of articles which benefit and relate to education, contributions to building the image of both the PGA golf Professional and the Association.
Mark Nance
PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award
Parsons Xtreme Golf (PXG)
For over three decades, Mark has played a vital role in expanding the influence of golf through clinics, job fairs, and additional events. He conducted his first golf clinic for the PGA Headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1993, initiating a continuous contribution to the sport’s growth. Mark’s impact can be displayed throughout multiple PGA clinics, including those at Black Enterprise Magazine and the PGA Works Collegiate Championship, where he played a pivotal role in its beginning, now with a 33-year history.
Beyond the course, Mark actively engages in career expos, as well as setting up booths at job fairs to promote the PGA along with his facility. His commitment continues as he speaks at events like the Career Day hosted by the Indiana Section PGA, and his involvement in PGA Works committees where he focuses on developing clinics, speakers, job fairs, and educational materials.
Mark is extremely known for his open-door policy, fostering a supportive community, always offering advice and acknowledgement to his peers. Actively involved with players of all ages and skill levels, he participates in local clinics, tournaments, and fundraisers, with the goal of transforming his facility into a hub for inclusivity. Mark was previously recognized for his contributions, receiving the Indiana Section PGA Merchandiser of the Year award in 2010.
Player Development Award – Established 2014
The Player Development Award is designed to recognize a PGA Professional for extraordinary and exemplary contributions and achievements in the area of player development. This award considers the PGA Professional’s growth of the game leadership commitment at the Section and National levels and the impact made at the facility. The following guidelines are used in making nominations: contributions to Section and National Player Development initiatives, quantity, quality and diversity of player development programs, use of Play Golf America tools and resources in the area of Player Development, quality of best practices, including uniqueness of ideas, increase in rounds/revenues, retention and customer satisfaction, and inspiration of fellow PGA Professionals in the area of player development.
Crystal Morse
PGA Player Development Award
The Legends Golf Club
Crystal is a prominent figure within the golf industry, having served on the Indiana Board of Directors in 2019-2020, where she contributed to Player Development and built valuable connections. As a sought-after speaker, she has inspired students at Indiana PGA Career Days and online platforms like the National LPGA Webinars, emphasizing the collaboration between PGA Jr League and LPGA*USGA Girls Golf to further engage young women in the sport. Crystal’s expertise can be seen in her various submissions that have been published, as well as within her role on the Indiana Section Player Development Committee where she works closely with other professionals in the state to brainstorm ideas for Adult and Youth Player Development.
As Director of Player Development at The Legends, Crystal has transformed PGA Jr League, earning awards for top-tier programs and creating a positive environment for the youth. Her commitment extends to running an in-house league, organizing successful events like the PGA Family Cup, and involving high school students as volunteers. Beyond PGA Jr League, Crystal significantly contributes to youth programs such as PGA HOPE, First Tee of Indiana, Get Golf Ready for Ladies, LPGA*USGA Girls Golf, and Youth on Course. Her influence extends to coaching at Franklin Community High School and providing private instruction through the Morse Golf Academy. Running the Under Armour Junior Tour has displayed her dedication to nurturing golf talent, resulting in substantial revenue and growth at The Legends. Crystal is beyond grateful for the Indiana Section’s support and is eager to continue her journey of growing the game in the state.
Youth Player Development Award – Established 1989
The Youth Player Development Award (formerly the Junior Golf Leader Award) is designed to pay recognition to a PGA Golf Professional who is a leader in junior golf, reflects the qualities and ideals of those who work with our nation’s youth, and provides opportunities and experiences for juniors to learn and play golf. The following guidelines are used in making nominations: contributions to junior programs and the events in the Indiana Section, involvement in the promotion and development of junior golf at the facility and also within the community, support of Indiana Junior Golf programs, overall image, service and leadership in the area of junior golf, overall integrity as an individual and acceptance by junior golfers as a person of outstanding character.
Roger Lundy
PGA Youth Player Development Award
Indiana Golf
Roger’s career in golf spanned over 40 years and touched countless people. A Wisconsin native, after graduating from the Professional Golf Management Program at Ferris State University in Michigan, Roger began his career as a PGA Professional.
In 1981, he began what would be a 42-year career in the golf industry with stops in Auburn, IN, Wabash, IN, and Franklin, IN. For the past 20 years he worked for the Indiana Golf Foundation overseeing the Gongaware Golf Academy in Franklin and as First Tee Director for Indiana’s southern district since 2017. Over those years, Roger impacted thousands of Indiana youth. His energy, passion, enthusiasm and lightheartedness drew people to him. He would always put others first and dedicated his PGA career to helping others; either with their games, their outlook, or their lives. In the last 8-9 years his job would lead him to focus on First Tee – Indiana. He worked tirelessly instilling the life skills that go along with the game of golf into his students and also shared his teaching and coaching wisdom with others who would strive to teach like him.
There was no doubt that Roger’s truest passion was coaching. From 1994 to 2004 he coached the Men’s and Women’s Golf Programs for Manchester College. In 2007, he began coaching at Franklin College in addition to his role as our Academy Director and later our Southern Region First Tee – Indiana Director. He was an active and dedicated member of the PGA of America and Indiana Section PGA. He served on the Indiana Section PGA Board of Directors from 1984 serving as secretary, vice president, and president from 1993-1994 and he often volunteered his teaching talents to help disabled veterans through PGA Hope.
Bill Strausbaugh Award – Established 1979
The Bill Strausbaugh Award is presented to those PGA members who by their day-to-day efforts have distinguished themselves in the field of club relations, causing dramatic improvements in employment conditions in their local Section and/or the PGA of America. The following guidelines should be used in making a nomination: length of service as a chairperson, committee member or worker on club relations and employment, or as a resource person in these areas, level of activity, i.e. number of calls made to golf facilities, contacts with professionals, employers on employment matters, etc., involvement in education efforts relating to club relations and employment by either writing or speaking on a Sectional or National basis, involvement in the development of data and statistics, materials or programs used either Sectionally or Nationally on club relations and employment activities, any other positive and significant contributions to PGA employment.
Catherine Benson
Bill Strausbaugh Award
Trine University
Catherine (Cat), a dedicated golf industry leader, began in 2002 as the Women’s Golf Coach at Bethel College, earning Region XII Coach of the Year in 2005. Later, as Director of Golf for Richmond, IN, she managed two facilities. In 2012, Cat took over Trine University’s Golf Management program and became the first female president of the Indiana Section PGA in 2019. She has played a pivotal role in fostering career events, monthly calls, and promoting golf opportunities.
Throughout her career, Cat has led teams, managed staff, and now oversees an entire school within a university. Her success stems from a commitment to open communication and a passion for mentoring others to reach their full potential. And while she has ended up in leadership roles, she has not always actively sought those out. Hard work and a strong commitment to others have positioned Cat to take on leadership roles in her career.In her unique education role, she collaborates with facilities and PGA Professionals, addressing industry challenges. Cat strives to bridge gaps by sharing valuable insights with employers and young professionals alike, promoting success in the golf industry.
Cat’s commitment to growing golf is evident in mentoring, clinics, and speaking engagements. Notably, she won the Horton Smith Award in 2019. Her mantra is to dream big, work hard, and serve others faithfully, believing that success will follow.
Deacon Palmer Award – Established 2014
The “Deacon Palmer Award” bestows special recognition on a PGA Golf Professional who personally displays outstanding integrity, character and leadership, in the effort to overcome a major obstacle in their life. This individual is an unsung hero/heroine at their facility and in their community, who serve to inspire, empower and assist others, both inside and outside of the game. This award was first given in 2014 to Arnold Palmer in honor of his Father who the Award is named after.
Jim Poole
Deacon Palmer Award
Prestwick Country Club
Jim Poole’s journey in the golf industry began at Supreme Golf under Joe Singleton’s guidance. Aspiring to be a golf pro, Jim initially transitioned into an assistant manager role, later turning professional at the Castleton store. Jim took on roles at Orchard Golf Center and Brickyard Crossing, where a chance meeting led him to a position as head golf professional at The Trophy Club.
However, life took an unexpected turn with Jim’s diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis and personal challenges followed. Amidst his own health struggles, Jim’s wife, Kelly, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and Breast Cancer.
After taking a leave from golf to focus on raising their twins, when Jim returned he shifted his focus to teaching. Facing his own health battles, including aggressive metastatic prostate cancer, Jim’s determination led to various treatments. Despite setbacks, Jim’s teaching career focused on junior players, offering free lessons as well as coaching high school golf. His life theme revolves around gratitude, and he is guided by the core values displayed by a Deacon Palmer Award recipient, including integrity, character, leadership, and love, as reflected in his approach to teaching and battling life’s adversities.
Assistant of the Year – Established 2001
The Assistant of the Year Award, established in 2001, is designed to recognize an individual assistant golf professional for his or her dedication to the game and commitment to the profession. Criteria that are considered are: commitment to customer service, leadership ability and academic history.
Pete Makarov
Assistant of the Year Award
Crooked Stick Golf Club
Pete, who is in his second year as the Assistant Golf Professional at Crooked Stick Golf Club, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and continuous growth goals. From hiring and training over 20 employees to advocating for pay raises, Pete remains dedicated to fostering a competitive and supportive golf environment at Crooked Stick. His natural leadership abilities have made him a primary point of contact for both staff and members, ensuring an overall seamless golf experience for everyone involved. Pete’s involvement in elite junior tournaments and collaboration with various departments displays his all-encompassing approach to golf operations.
Beyond Crooked Stick, Pete actively engages with the broader golf community. As an alumnus of the Florida Gulf Coast University Professional Golf Management Program, he mentors students through internships, emphasizing a work-life balance and diverse representation in the game. Pete’s commitment to inspiring and developing golf professionals, partnered with his involvement in junior programs and charitable initiatives, reflects his dedication to fostering a welcoming and positive atmosphere in the world of golf.
Golf Professional of the Year – Established 1955
The Golf Professional of the Year Award is the highest honor paid to a PGA Professional within the Indiana Section PGA. The following guidelines are used to determine nominees for this prestigious award: overall performance as a golf professional at his/her facility, level of service to his/her Section and to the Association, leadership ability, image and ability to inspire fellow professionals and promotion of golf. While this honor should be based on a professional’s entire record, emphasis should be placed on his/her performance and achievements over the last five years.
Dave McAtee
Professional of the Year Award
Helfrich Hills Golf Course
Dave McAtee, a seasoned Golf Professional with 37 years in the industry, boasts an impressive career with 36 years in a leadership capacity including the last 23 years as the Head Golf Professional at Helfrich Hills Golf Course, making him the longest-serving golf professional in Evansville. A PGA Member for 30 years, Dave earned the esteemed Master Professional status in 2004, highlighting his expertise and commitment to excellence.
Throughout his career, Dave actively contributed to the golf community, serving on the Evansville City Golf Tournament Committee for 33 years, with a 22-year tenure as Rules Chairman. He also dedicated his time to mentoring the next generation as a volunteer instructor for the Evansville Junior Golf Association from 1988 to 2017.
Dave’s impact extends nationally as an active member of the PGA of America Rules Committee for 23 years, currently holding the position of National Rules Chairman. His commitment to rules education is evident through the annual USGA/PGA Rules of Golf Workshops, benefiting both PGA members and the broader golfing community. Recognized for his outstanding contributions, Dave received the Indiana Section Horton Smith Award in 2009, showcasing his efforts to enhance educational opportunities for PGA professionals. Dave McAtee continues to lead by example, inspiring fellow golf professionals and tirelessly promoting the growth and enrichment of the golf experience for players of all levels.