Indiana PGA 2025 Special Award Winners

In front of their peers, we recognized our 2025 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!

Ryan Steele, PGA 

Pretty Lake Golf 

2025 IN PGA Merchandiser of the Year: RESORT 

A three-time recipient of the Indiana Section PGA Merchandiser of the Year – Resort Award, Ryan Steele continues to set the standard for excellence in golf retail operations. As the Head Golf Professional at Swan Lake Resort, Steele’s merchandising philosophy is centered on delivering value to members and guests while ensuring sustainable profitability for the facility. His keen attention to consumer needs, evolving market trends, and strategic partnerships with vendors have driven consistent growth and success in Swan Lake Resort’s golf shop.

Steele’s approach to merchandising is dynamic and adaptive, with a focus on providing high-quality products that align with customer preferences. Under his leadership, merchandise displays are refreshed frequently—some on a weekly basis—to maintain an engaging shopping experience. His commitment to presentation and inventory management ensures that the golf shop remains an inviting and profitable space for all who visit.

In 2023, Steele guided Swan Lake Resort’s golf shop to gross merchandise sales of $283,520.65, a testament to his ability to optimize product selection and pricing strategies. The resort saw nearly 48,000 rounds played in 2024, and Steele’s hands-on involvement—spending approximately 30% of his time in the merchandising area—has played a key role in shaping a retail experience that complements the resort’s premier golf offerings.

Beyond sales performance, Steele prioritizes relationship-building with ownership, staff, members, and vendor partners. His long-term vision includes ongoing innovation, brand enhancement, and service improvements that ensure a thriving golf shop for years to come. His dedication to continuous improvement and a customer-first mentality has earned him recognition as one of Indiana’s top golf retail professionals.

With previous Merchandiser of the Year honors in 2019, 2020, and 2022, Steele’s commitment to excellence remains unwavering. His ability to adapt to industry changes while staying true to his core philosophy of service and value makes him a deserving recipient of the 2024 Indiana PGA Merchandiser of the Year – Resort Award.

Kyle Lynne Demeter, PGA

Warren Golf Course

2025 IN PGA Merchandiser of the Year: PUBLIC

Kyle Lynne Demeter has made a significant impact on merchandising at the Warren Golf Course, located at the University of Notre Dame. As a key team member, Kyle’s innovative and customer-focused merchandising philosophy has elevated the shopping experience for golfers and visitors alike.

With over 30% of her time spent personally overseeing the shop, Kyle’s dedication is reflected in Warren Golf Course’s impressive sales growth, which soared from $597,390 in FY23 to a projected $850,000 in FY25. Her merchandising strategy centers on building strong relationships with vendors to ensure alignment with the unique identity of the course and the university.

Kyle’s creativity and adaptability are evident in the frequent, strategic display changes she leads—typically once or twice a month, and before every home football game. These efforts ensure a fresh and dynamic shopping environment that captures the spirit of Notre Dame.

The merchandise mix under Kyle’s leadership emphasizes balance, offering a variety of Notre Dame-themed apparel, Warren Golf Course branding, Coore & Crenshaw designs, and Play Like A Champion accessories. She remains open to feedback and embraces calculated risks to continuously enhance the customer experience.

Kyle also oversees the university’s Mill River-style purchasing program, which extends exclusive merchandise benefits to over 10,000 faculty, staff, and giving society members.

Her commitment to delivering high-quality merchandise in a welcoming, well-curated retail space has positioned Warren Golf Course as a premier destination for golf apparel and accessories, making Kyle Lynne Demeter a deserving nominee for this prestigious award.

Tim Frazier, PGA

Sycamore Hills Golf Club

2025 IN  PGA Merchandiser of the Year: PRIVATE

For nearly three decades, Tim Frazier has been the driving force behind the exceptional retail operation at Sycamore Hills Golf Club. As the club’s Head Golf Professional for 27 years, Tim has not only overseen golf operations but has also led a merchandising program that has earned national recognition. Under his leadership, the Sycamore Hills Golf Shop has been acknowledged as an industry leader by the Indiana PGA Section, PGA Magazine, Club + Resort Business, and the Association of Golf Merchandisers.

Tim’s merchandising philosophy is rooted in creating a welcoming and engaging shopping experience for Sycamore Hills members and guests. His approach prioritizes selecting high-quality golf and lifestyle products that align with the club’s demographics while ensuring competitive pricing and strong vendor partnerships. The golf shop undergoes frequent visual updates, with merchandise displays changing approximately 24 times annually to maintain a fresh and inviting atmosphere. Every aspect of the shop—from background music to scent and customer service—is carefully curated to enhance the member experience.

Working alongside Director of Retail Morgan Faull, Tim develops strategic buying plans, coordinates vendor partnerships, and ensures that the golf shop remains a hub of both performance and profitability. The success of his approach is evident in the club’s growing merchandise sales, which have increased significantly over the past three years, reaching over $770,000 in 2024 with an impressive $47.68 in retail sales per round played.

Tim’s leadership extends beyond sales metrics; he fosters a culture of excellence in customer service and merchandising best practices among his professional staff. His commitment to innovation and adaptability has allowed Sycamore Hills to remain at the forefront of private club retail operations. Through his dedication, expertise, and keen business acumen, Tim Frazier has set the standard for golf shop operations, making him a deserving recipient of the 2024 PGA Merchandiser of the Year Award in the Private Category.

Sabrina Bonanno, PGA

Sycamore Hills Golf Club

2025 IN PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year

Sabrina Bonanno has established herself as an outstanding PGA Assistant Golf Professional, demonstrating a strong commitment to excellence in golf operations, instruction, and leadership. As the Lead Assistant Golf Professional at Sycamore Hills Golf Club, she has played a pivotal role in enhancing the club’s operations and member experience while also making history in the Indiana PGA Section.

A native of Illinois, Sabrina’s journey in golf began as a competitive junior player, eventually leading her to a standout collegiate career at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. After earning her degree and completing graduate school, she transitioned into the business side of the sport, joining Sycamore Hills Golf Club in 2020. With an eagerness to learn and an unparalleled work ethic, she quickly became an integral part of the club’s team, taking on increasing responsibilities and setting a standard of professionalism.

In 2024, Sabrina made history by becoming the first female Lead Assistant Golf Professional at Sycamore Hills. That same year, she achieved another milestone by becoming the first woman to win the Indiana Section PGA Championship, cementing her place as a trailblazer in the section. Her leadership extends beyond competition—she has been instrumental in daily golf operations, tournament management, player development, and mentoring fellow professionals. She teaches over 500 lessons annually, leads clinics, and actively promotes the game’s growth at all levels.

Beyond her club responsibilities, Sabrina is deeply involved in the Indiana PGA Section. She has served on the Tournament Committee, working to increase female participation in section events, and has been a vocal advocate for Associate Professionals, helping develop pathways to retain and grow talent within the industry. Her dedication to fostering a strong, inclusive golf community exemplifies her passion for the sport.

With her drive, leadership, and dedication to the game, Sabrina Bonanno continues to make a lasting impact in the industry. As the 2024 Assistant Golf Professional of the Year, she not only represents excellence in her role but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of PGA Professionals.

Kyle Kolarz, PGA

Hillview Golf Club

2025 IN PGA Professional Development Award Recipient

Dedicated to the advancement and mentorship of PGA Professionals, Kyle Kolarz has been a driving force in the Indiana Section’s education and professional development efforts. As the Head Golf Professional at Hillview Country Club, Kolarz has made it his mission to support and guide PGA Associates on their journey to full membership, ensuring they have the tools, knowledge, and mentorship necessary to succeed in the industry.

Since joining the Indiana PGA Board, Kolarz has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at fostering professional growth within the section. In 2023, he launched a contact campaign to personally reach out to all 88 PGA Associates in the Indiana Section, providing guidance and resources to help them navigate their coursework and career paths. His one-on-one efforts resulted in over 50% of associates engaging in direct mentorship.

Kolarz has played a pivotal role in organizing educational opportunities for PGA Associates, including bi-monthly Zoom sessions featuring industry experts and best practices, as well as hands-on workshop days to assist Associates in completing their Level 1 requirements. In 2024, he facilitated the first-ever PGA Associate Teaching Workshop at PXG Indianapolis, giving participants an opportunity to gain practical experience and accelerate their progress toward membership. Additionally, he was instrumental in developing a new Associate Newsletter, which keeps aspiring PGA Professionals informed and connected with an impressive 50-60% open rate.

Beyond his efforts to support education, Kolarz is a strong advocate for work-life balance and professional well-being in the golf industry. At Hillview Country Club, he has cultivated an environment where PGA Professionals are encouraged to maintain a healthy balance between their careers and personal lives, while also ensuring his assistants are well-compensated and valued for their contributions.

Kolarz’s commitment to mentorship and professional development extends beyond Indiana. Through the PGA PGM Mentor Program, he has supported and guided countless young professionals, helping them secure internships and navigate career transitions. His influence has reached international levels, as demonstrated through his mentorship of Wei Li Loo, a PGA Professional who recently accepted a leadership role at PGA Golf Club in Shanghai, China.

A former recipient of the Indiana PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year Award (2014), Kolarz continues to shape the future of the profession through his unwavering dedication to education, mentorship, and the success of PGA Professionals at all stages of their careers.

Chris Clemens, PGA

Indianapolis Golf Academy

2025 IN PGA Player Development Award Recipient

Chris Clemens, a dedicated PGA Professional at Indianapolis Golf Academy, has established himself as a leader in player development through innovative programming and mentorship. With a passion for growing the game, Chris has created a welcoming environment that prioritizes inclusion, retention, and community engagement.

In 2024, Chris led a robust array of programs. His PGA Jr. League grew to over 200 participants and spectators, offering complimentary post-event dinners to foster community. He also conducted five 6-week PGA HOPE sessions and organized the annual Family Golf Scramble, which attracted over 100 participants. Through his Golf FORE Families initiative, Chris provided scholarships and financial assistance to ensure access for families facing hardships. Additionally, his Inclusion Initiative opened opportunities for diverse populations with free access to programs, equipment, and facility resources.

Chris’s programs have driven remarkable engagement and retention. His PGA Jr. League and adult lessons maintain retention rates above 95%, with beginners transitioning to on-course play within six weeks of their first session. Women’s Golf School participants have also reported greater confidence on the course, and Chris’s strategic expansion of simulator use has reduced participant costs while increasing facility revenue.

A recognized mentor, Chris frequently shares insights on PGA Coach, PGA HOPE, and program branding at Indiana PGA Spring Business Meetings and Teaching and Coaching Summits. His personalized instruction model includes pre-lesson assessments and tailored online training spaces to foster long-term improvement and player retention.

Chris’s service to the Indiana PGA Section reflects his commitment to advancing the game. As the 2023 Indiana Youth Development Award Winner, Chris remains focused on creating inclusive, impactful programs that inspire new and returning players alike.

Christopher Tilbury, PGA

Tilbury Golf Academy

2025 IN PGA Roger Lundy Youth Player Development Award Recipient

Christopher Tilbury, PGA, has made a profound impact on junior golf through his leadership at Tilbury Golf Academy and his commitment to growing the game at both the local and national levels. His dedication to player development is evident in the success of his programs, his mentorship of young golfers, and his contributions to the broader golf community.

In 2024, Chris organized five PGA Junior League sessions, engaging 39 students year-round and providing over 72 hours of instruction. Additionally, he collaborated with Jenny Zimmerman of First Tee-Indiana Michiana to establish PGA Junior League teams, expanding opportunities for an additional 96 junior golfers. His commitment to family-oriented golf led to the introduction of PGA Family Cup at Tilbury Golf Academy, fostering a welcoming environment where parents and children could enjoy the game together. His efforts earned him recognition as a 2024 #GameChanger Award recipient from the PGA of America.

Beyond his academy, Chris actively supports youth golf in his community. He volunteers with the Fremont Middle School and High School golf teams and, alongside his wife, coaches the Fremont High School Girls Golf Program. Understanding the financial barriers young golfers face, he implemented an affordable U.S. Kids Clubs leasing program, ensuring children have access to properly fitted equipment. At Lake James Golf Club, which he manages, Chris has prioritized youth accessibility by reducing greens fees and introducing family-friendly tees, leading to a notable increase in junior and family participation.

Chris’s leadership has contributed to a 47% increase in junior golf participation in his region from 2023 to 2024. His integrity and dedication to youth golf extend beyond skill development—he instills values such as perseverance, hard work, and honesty, reinforcing golf as a lifelong sport.

A mentor to fellow PGA Professionals, Chris openly shares his insights on junior golf programming, facility management, and instructional strategies. His advocacy for PGA Junior League has helped fellow professionals enhance their player development efforts while strengthening business sustainability.

Recognized as a two-time PGA Junior League #GameChanger Award recipient (2023, 2024), Chris remains committed to making golf more accessible, inclusive, and engaging for the next generation. His passion, leadership, and innovative approach continue to inspire both young golfers and the professionals who guide them.

Bill Pollert, PGA 

Highland Golf and Country Club

2025 IN PGA Bill Strausbaugh Award Recipient

With over 20 years of experience as a PGA Head Golf Professional and Director of Golf, Bill Pollert has built a distinguished career centered on mentorship, leadership, and service. Inspired by his mentor Tony Pancake, the 2024 PGA Professional of the Year, Bill has dedicated his life to developing and empowering the next generation of golf professionals.

Throughout his career, Bill has mentored more than 30 associate professionals, apprentices, and PGM interns, emphasizing the importance of well-rounded proficiency in staff management, tournament operations, teaching, and merchandising. His hands-on approach includes granting leadership opportunities in hiring decisions, golf committee meetings, tournament planning, and junior golf programs. Under his mentorship, nine former assistants have risen to Head Golf Professional roles, while others have pursued careers in major golf organizations or outside the industry.

Bill’s contributions extend well beyond his home club, Highland Golf and Country Club. Over the past 15 years, he has served as a board member, officer, Past President of the Indiana Section, and committee chair. His tenure includes chairing the Apprentice and Growth of the Game Committees, serving on the Tournament Committee, and representing the Indiana Section at four PGA Annual Meetings. Additionally, he has hosted multiple PGA HOPE clinics, First Tee events, and PGA Junior League programs, ensuring inclusive access to the game for players of all backgrounds and abilities.

Renowned for his integrity and professionalism, Bill’s character is a model for others in the golf community. He has been a guest speaker at numerous Indiana Section educational events and featured in Indiana Golf Magazine and the Indiana PGA podcast. As a two-time competitor in the Club Professional National Championship, Bill exemplifies the highest standards of competition and sportsmanship.

Bill’s leadership has earned him numerous accolades, including Indiana Section awards for Assistant Professional of the Year (2005), PGA Professional Development (2014), Merchandiser of the Year – Private (2017), Golf Professional of the Year (2021), and Teacher of the Year (2023).

Whether through mentoring, teaching, or serving, Bill’s unwavering commitment to the PGA’s values continues to inspire those around him and elevate the game of golf across the Indiana Section and beyond.

Jim Morse, PGA

The Legends Golf Club, Morse Golf Academy

2025 IN PGA Teacher of the Year 

With a lifelong passion for teaching and club fitting, Jim Morse has dedicated his career to helping golfers of all skill levels refine their game. From his early days as an Associate Professional at Eldorado Country Club in Indian Wells, California, to his role as Director of Instruction at The Legends Golf Club in Franklin, Indiana, Jim has built a reputation as a premier golf instructor known for his technical expertise, innovative approach, and commitment to player development.

Under the mentorship of PGA professionals Terry Beardsley and the late Bill Ogden, Jim honed his skills in both instruction and club fitting, delivering thousands of private lessons and running clinics tailored for men, women, and juniors. His experience at GOLFTEC Castleton in Indianapolis further solidified his expertise, as he gave over 3,000 lessons in just three years, utilizing launch monitors and motion analysis technology to enhance player performance.

In 2018, Jim took his career to the next level by joining The Legends Golf Club as Director of Instruction, where he continues to offer personalized coaching and cutting-edge technology to elevate the student experience. His vision for year-round training led to the creation of the Morse Golf Academy (MGA)—a state-of-the-art indoor facility designed to provide golfers with an elite learning environment. Opening its doors in 2020, MGA features high-speed HD cameras, GCQuad launch monitors, and an 800-square-foot putting green. It is also home to one of Indiana’s few Callaway Certified Master Fitting Centers, a testament to Jim’s expertise in club fitting.

Beyond private instruction, Jim has played a key role in the growth of PGA HOPE Indiana, working alongside his wife, Crystal Morse, and The Legends Golf Club leadership to provide veterans with access to the game. He has also contributed to junior golf as a former head coach for the Whiteland High School boys’ golf team, where he helped lead them to a historic regional finals appearance.

Jim’s relentless pursuit of innovation is evident in his commitment to integrating the latest golf technology into his coaching. In 2024, he introduced Sportsbox 3D Studio, making MGA the first facility in Indiana to implement this cutting-edge 3D motion analysis system, further enhancing the learning experience for his students.

A dedicated professional with an unwavering commitment to growing the game, Jim Morse continues to impact the golf community by combining traditional teaching methods with modern technology, ensuring that every student has the tools to succeed on the course.

Matt Kirchgessner, PGA

Elk Run Golf Club

2025 IN PGA Deacon Palmer Award Recipient

Matt Kirchgessner is a dedicated PGA Professional at Elk Run Golf Club in Jeffersonville, Indiana, and a passionate advocate for children’s literacy and community service. As a husband to Lauren, and a father who has experienced unimaginable loss, Matt’s life changed forever on December 4, 2020, when a tragic accident took the lives of his children, Addie (6) and Baylor (4). In the face of this heartbreaking tragedy, Matt and Lauren chose to channel their grief into a positive force for change, founding the Addie & Baylor Foundation in memory of their children.

The Foundation’s mission is to provide children with access to diverse and engaging books that inspire imagination and foster a lifelong love for reading. Matt and Lauren believe that equitable access to books, especially in the early stages of a child’s life, plays a crucial role in narrowing the achievement gap and supporting children’s growth. Through their foundation, they aim to make a lasting impact on children’s literacy, while honoring the memory of their beloved children.

Since its inception, the Addie & Baylor Foundation has raised nearly $1.5 million, thanks to the support of generous partners and the community. Through events like the Bear and Buddy Pro-Am, the Addie and Baylor’s Panama City Beach Golf Scramble, and the Bows and Bowties Gala, the Foundation has raised significant funds, totaling over $475,000, to further its mission. Additionally, the Bows and Bowties Gala alone has raised over $1 million to support the Foundation’s initiatives. In 2024, the Foundation reached a remarkable milestone of distributing 100,000 books to children, supporting programs like Norton Children’s Hospital Reach Out and Read Program, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, and Scholastic book fairs.

The Foundation’s philanthropic work is not limited to literacy alone. Matt and Lauren have also made significant contributions to the First Tee of Louisville, providing $75,000 over four years to support girls’ programming and developmental golf initiatives. In 2024, they expanded their giving to First Tee Indiana, furthering their commitment to young golfers.

Matt’s journey exemplifies resilience, compassion, and a relentless commitment to making a difference. His ability to inspire others through his personal story, his work with the Addie & Baylor Foundation, and his dedication to helping children and communities thrive serves as a powerful example of how even the darkest moments can give rise to meaningful, lasting change.

Through his work, Matt Kirchgessner is not only creating opportunities for children to grow and succeed, but also honoring the memory of his children, Addie and Baylor, ensuring that their legacy continues to shine brightly in the lives of others.

For more information about the Addie & Baylor Foundation and their impactful work, please visit www.AddieandBaylorFoundation.com.

Catherine Benson, PGA

Trine University

2025 IN PGA Golf Professional of the Year 

Catherine Benson has dedicated her career to growing the game of golf, mentoring future professionals, and serving her community with excellence. With over two decades of experience in various leadership roles, Catherine has made a lasting impact on the Indiana golf industry.

Her journey began in 2002 as the Women’s Golf Coach at Bethel College in Tennessee, where she built the program from the ground up and led her team to a Region XII Championship in 2005. A move to Indiana brought new opportunities, and in 2007, Catherine became the Director of Golf for the City of Richmond, overseeing two courses and a night driving range. Under her leadership, Glen Miller Golf Course transitioned into a First Tee of Indiana affiliate, expanding opportunities for young golfers in the community.

Since 2012, Catherine has led Trine University’s Golf Management program, shaping the next generation of industry professionals. While the program is not PGA-affiliated, many of its graduates have gone on to earn PGA membership and thrive in various sectors of the golf industry. In addition to her role as Director of Golf Management, Catherine has served as the Dean of the Ketner School of Business since 2019. Despite her demanding academic role, she remains committed to hands-on instruction, providing lessons, hosting junior clinics, and fostering a passion for golf among students.

Catherine’s service to the Indiana PGA Section has been extensive. As the first female president of the Indiana Section, she has championed career development and networking opportunities, initiated monthly Associate and Women in Golf calls, and collaborated with PGA Career Consultants to promote employment opportunities within the industry. Her leadership has created a stronger, more connected professional community, benefiting both aspiring and seasoned golf professionals.

A dedicated mentor, Catherine inspires fellow professionals by bridging the gap between education and real-world career opportunities. She works closely with industry leaders across public, private, resort, and non-green-grass facilities, ensuring that young professionals receive the guidance they need to succeed. Her philosophy is simple: dream big, work hard, and serve others—success will follow.

Beyond her professional contributions, Catherine actively works to grow the game at all levels. From hosting free clinics and junior programs to organizing indoor putting activities and university engagement events, she continuously finds creative ways to introduce new players to golf. Whether leading rules seminars for high school programs, offering free lessons to students and faculty, or speaking at local elementary schools, she remains a passionate advocate for the sport.

Catherine Benson’s dedication, leadership, and service to the game exemplify what it means to be a PGA Professional. Her impact on Indiana golf will continue to be felt for years to come.