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NEBRASKA PGA NEWS

March 2026

SpecialAwards

THE TEAM

OFFICERS/BOARD

President Mike Schuchart, PGA

Vice President Phil Palmer, PGA

Secretary— Bobby O’Keefe, PGA

Honorary President—Dawn Neujahr, PGA

NEBRASKA PGA STAFF

Executive Director/CEO David Honnens, PGA

Assist. Executive Director Seth Scollard, PGA

Managing Director—Renee Tyson

Tournament Director—Derek Carlson, PGA

Board Member Tony Baranowski, PGA Junior Golf Director Kurt Karcher, PGA

Board Member Joe Wiegand, PGA

Digital Media Director Brett Renner

Director of Foundation Programs—Amber Bogle

DISTRICT 8 DIRECTOR

Phil Anderson, PGA

Incoming Aaron Krueger, PGA

Administrative Assistant—Tiffany White

Development Officer Bob Danenhauer

Community Relations Coord. Margie Smith

ON THE TEE

2025 NEBRASKA SECTION PGA SPECIAL AWARD WINNERS

The Nebraska Section PGA is proud to announce that Tony Collins, PGA, Director of Golf at Wild Horse Golf Club in Gothenburg, has been selected as the 2025 Nebraska PGA Golf Professional of the Year.

The award is the highest honor presented by the Section and recognizes a PGA Professional who demonstrates outstanding leadership, strong moral character, and a significant record of service to the game of golf, the PGA of America, and their community. Collins exemplifies those qualities daily through his work at Wild Horse and his ongoing commitment to growing the game throughout Nebraska.

Nebraska PGA’s Dawn Neujahr had the pleasure of delivering the exciting news to Collins.

“It was a very surreal moment when Dawn called to tell me I’d been selected as Golf Professional of the Year. I was standing alone in the middle of our half-demolished kitchen at the club, and I couldn’t muster anything more than, ‘Thank you so much,’” Collins said.

A Nebraska native, Collins returned to the state in 2021 and has since become a driving force within the Nebraska Section. Known for his player-first approach and servant leadership style, he has elevated Wild Horse’s reputation as one of the premier public golf destinations in the region while maintaining a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for golfers of all backgrounds.

At Wild Horse, Collins’ impact is visible well beyond day-to-day operations. Under his leadership, the club has experienced significant growth in participation, programming, and long-term vision. Junior golf has flourished, with participation expanding from approximately 15 juniors in 2021 to more than 60 annually today. Through PGA Jr. League, PGA camps, and daily access to the facility, Collins has helped make Wild Horse a true home away from home for young golfers in the Gothenburg community.

That commitment continues with the development of The Pony, a five-hole short course currently under construction and scheduled to open in the summer of 2026. Designed to introduce and challenge golfers of all skill levels, The Pony will always be free for juniors as part of an agreement with the Wild Horse Foundation further reinforcing Collins’ dedication to accessible player development.

Collins has also played a central role in shaping the future of Wild Horse Golf Club as a destination facility. Since arriving, he has helped guide the creation of a mission statement and strategic plan, leading to major capital improvements including additional lodging and a newly renovated and expanded clubhouse. The project will add expanded dining, retail space, indoor simulator technology, and community gathering areas enhancing both the golfer experience and the club’s role in local tourism.

Beyond the golf course, Collins is deeply involved in the Gothenburg community. He volunteers his time with numerous civic organizations and has been instrumental in fundraising efforts that have generated more than $40,000 in scholarships for local youth and young agricultural professionals. Through the Wild Horse Foundation, Collins continues to champion initiatives that support junior golf, education, and community engagement.

Service to the Nebraska Section PGA has also been a hallmark of Collins’ career. He has hosted and assisted with numerous Section, Nebraska Junior Golf, and Nebraska Golf Association events, including championships, qualifiers, junior tournaments, and high school competitions. His willingness to open his facility and share best practices has made him a trusted resource among his peers.

Equally impactful is Collins’ commitment to mentoring the next generation of PGA Professionals. A PGA Member since 2011, he has guided and developed assistants and apprentices throughout his career, many of whom remain in the golf industry today. At Wild Horse, his leadership has fostered a positive workplace culture, steady staff growth, and a turnover rate well below the national average.

“Tony doesn’t just run a golf course,” one colleague noted. “He fosters a culture of excellence that reflects the very best of the Nebraska Section.”

The Nebraska PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award honors those who lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and inspire others through their actions. In every sense, Tony Collins, PGA, embodies those ideals.

“Once the dust settles on our current clubhouse expansion, I will without a doubt use the honor as motivation to continue to be the best golf professional I can be. It will motivate me to continue to do as much as I can for this great Section and its professionals every single day,” Collins said.

The Nebraska Section PGA has announced Zac Morley, PGA the recipient of the Wilson Sporting Goods Monthly Game Ball for the month of March

The Nebraska Section PGA is proud to name Zac Morley, PGA, of Jim Ager Golf Course in Lincoln as the March Wilson Sporting Goods Game Ball recipient, recognizing his continued impact on growing the game and creating a welcoming environment for golfers of all ages and abilities.

Morley, a lead instructor with Lincoln City Golf, has become a driving force behind junior golf development in the Lincoln community. Through camps, leagues, clinics, and on-course programming, he has helped introduce and engage thousands of young players each year fostering not only skill development, but a genuine love for the game.

In 2025 alone, Jim Ager Golf Course saw more than 30,000 rounds played, with over 10,000 juniors impacted through various programs. Morley’s innovative approach includes the introduction of a weekly two-person scramble format for juniors, designed to help players transition from practice to on-course play in a fun, team-oriented setting.

“Zac has been a great professional for the Nebraska PGA and the city of Lincoln,” said Nic Latcham, PGA, who nominated Morley alongside Wade Foreman. “Growing the game and seeing the next generation improve is something he thrives on. He’s a great role model and leader.” Morley’s influence extends far beyond structured programming. His ability to create a welcoming and inclusive environment leaves a lasting impression on those he meets. Latcham shared a recent example that highlights Morley’s personal impact.

“When I mentioned Zac’s name to a student, his face lit up,” Latcham said. “He talked about how Zac welcomed him when he first started playing and still greets him and his disabled brother by name years later. That kind of connection is what sets Zac apart.” Continue Reading...

CAREER CONSULTANT

Kevin Drew, PGA

PGA of America Career Consultant Serving the Nebraska & Iowa Sections

The Power of the Network: Elevating the Game Through Peer Best Practices

In my role as a PGA Career Consultant, I get to see a lot of what's working across the industry and, more importantly, who is making it work. Every facility has its own set of challenges. Geography, demographics, budget, ownership structure. No two situations are quite the same. But the most successful PGA Professionals I work with tend to share one thing in common: they don't go it alone. They tap into the collective knowledge of their peers, and they do it intentionally.

We talk a lot about growing the game at the macro level. What I've seen is that some of the most meaningful growth happens one conversation at a time, when professionals are willing to share what's actually working.

Redefining Player Development and Engagement

Player development has always been the core of what we do, but the approach has shifted. The best operators I'm seeing aren't just running clinics anymore. They're building systems that keep golfers engaged over the long haul.

One of the more creative examples: a few peers have borrowed from the martial arts playbook, using belt or hat progression systems for junior golfers to give kids a tangible sense of accomplishment and a reason to keep coming back. Others are addressing the intimidation barrier head-on with "Play Fore Free" days and on-course coaching that meets new golfers where they are. The goal in both cases is the same. Moving someone from occasional to committed. That transition is where job security lives for the modern PGA Professional.

Operational Excellence and Getting Back to What Matters

The post-COVID surge brought a lot of new golfers into the game, but it also buried a lot of professionals in administrative work. The ones reclaiming their time are doing it in a couple of ways.

Some are leaning on digitally-fluent staff to handle content creation and social media so the Head Pro can get back to being visible. On the first tee, walking the range, having real conversations with members. Others are taking a hard look at underused square footage and finding opportunities they weren't seeing before.

Old storage areas becoming boutique women's retail or staff breakrooms. Unused food and beverage corners getting converted into simulator bays or private lounge space that keeps members engaged year-round. Small changes to the footprint, but real revenue impact.

Technology as a Tool, Not a Shortcut

The professionals using technology well aren't using it to replace the human side of the job. They're using it to protect it. AI is helping them draft member correspondence that stays professional even when a topic is sensitive, transcribe board meeting notes, and put together tournament materials that used to take hours. That time gets redirected back to the work only they can do.

On the instruction side, AI-driven motion analysis and 3D modeling give coaches a way to show students what's happening in their swing rather than just describing it. Comparing a student's data to tour benchmarks adds credibility to the coaching conversation and speeds up buy-in. GPS pace-ofplay tools and 24/7 chat assistants on facility websites are handling operational volume that used to fall on already-stretched staff.

The Collective Is the Point

None of these ideas are meant to be copied wholesale. What works at a private club in the Midwest won't translate exactly to a daily fee course in the Southwest. The value is in the conversation. Ask a peer at your next section event what their biggest win has been lately. You might hear something that solves a problem you've been sitting with for months. Your network is one of the most underused resources in this profession. Don’t be afraid to leverage those relationships and bounce ideas off your peers. Whether it's me or your local Career Consultant, PGA Career Services is here to help you figure out which ideas actually fit your situation and how to put them into practice.

Kevin Drew, PGA,ARWC

PGA Career Consultant Iowa & Nebraska

402-670-2973

kdrew@pgahq.com

Book a Meeting: Kevin Drew's Meeting Calendar

PGA Financial Assistance Fund Scholarship Application

Are you a PGA of America Member with a child or grandchild applying for or attending college? The PGA Financial Assistance Fund Scholarship is open now and provides scholarships based on evidence of academic achievement during high school or college. The 2026-2027 school year application deadline is April 9, 2026.

How to Apply in 2026-2027

APPLY HERE

Important Dates

• December 9, 2025 - Scholarship application is open.

• April 9, 2026 - Deadline for submitting Application and Supporting Documents

• June 2026 - Notification of Selection Results

• July 2026 - Funds Disbursed

The PGA Financial Assistance Fund was established in 1986 and provides college scholarships to the children and grandchildren of PGA of America Members based on evidence of academic achievement during high school or college. All funding for the scholarships comes from contributions made by the PGA Members. Since its inception, the PGA of America has awarded a little over 4,500 scholarships totaling $9,997,500.00. For the 2024-25 school year, 185 students were awarded academic scholarships totaling $400,000.

From Terry Clark to You

Terry Clark has officially begun his role as CEO of the PGA of America. He is dedicated to listening to PGA of America Golf Professionals, supporting your career, and ensuring members remain at the center of every decision. Discover his vision and commitment to you.

Open Now: PGA Championship Pre-Registration

PGA of America Members, Associates and PGM University Students can receive complimentary access to the 2026 PGA Championship, taking place May 11–17 at Aronimink Golf Club. If you plan to attend, please pre-register by April 27, 2026, to expedite your entry and receive key event communications.

Pre-Register Here

Tackle Tax Season with Resources on PerkSpot

Tax season is here! As a PGA of America Member, you can access savings on tax filing resources, such as TurboTax, through PerkSpot. Log in to your PerkSpot account to access the following offerings.

View Offerings

We are excited to share that the applications for PGA LEAD (Cohort # 11) will be available starting April 1, 2026! This is for governance leaders who are actively involved in Chapter/ Section governance, or those who have expressed interest in being involved and learning more about it.

PGA LEAD Information and Details:

• Comprehensive information on PGA LEAD can be found here!

• The PGA LEAD Program is a 12-month experience including virtual monthly meetings and attendance at the PGA of America's Annual Meeting and Core Committee Meetings where the cohort will graduate.

• Below is a detailed timeline specific to Cohort 11, but serves as a framework for future cohorts as well:

-April 1, 2026 - Applications open

-August 2027 Attendance and graduation at the August Core Committee Meetings (Dallas, TX)

-August 2027 - Final presentation

-November 2026 - Attendance at the PGA of America Annual Meeting (Las Vegas, NV)

-September 2026 - July 2027 - Monthly virtual meetings with guest speakers

-August 2026 - Virtual introduction meetinJuly 2026 - Cohort 11 announced

-June 15, 2026 - Final selection of applications

-June 1, 2026 - Initial screening of applications

-May 15, 2026 - Applications close

Mark Leads as Contacted to Clean Your Inbox - Mobile App & Web

You can now mark leads as Contacted after following up off-platform, which removes them from your 'New' lead list and helps you stay focused on who still needs attention.

Auto-Replies Now Visible in Message Threads - Mobile App & Web

When your auto-reply is turned on, your automated response now appears directly in the coach-student message thread so you have a complete record of communication.

Weekly Calendar - Mobile App Only

You can now switch to a weekly calendar view in the mobile app by turning your phone sideways, making it easier to see and manage your weekly schedule at a glance.

Tap to Pay - Mobile App Only

Collect payment on the spot with Tap to Pay. Use your phone as the terminal and let students tap their contactless card or mobile wallet to pay instantly.