On the job for a few months now, take a moment to get to know the next PGA WORKS Fellow of the SOPGA, Issie Spray. Issie is a native of Leeds, England and joins 22 others in the 2025-2026 class of PGA of America REACH Foundation WORKS Fellows.
SOPGA: Who is Issie Spray and what does she love to do?
Issie Spray: Things that make me, me, consist of my passion for following my favorite soccer team back home (Leeds United), crafting and scrapbooking, going to the movies and shopping. I recently took up fostering cats but failed at my first foster and ended up adopting. I love things that remind me of home, like watching the Great British Baking show. I also love exploring new areas of the States when possible.
SOPGA: What’s your sports background and how did you end up in the United States?
IS: My sports background primarily consists of soccer and a little field hockey. I started playing soccer aged six and grew up playing in academies in the UK. When I was 18, I decided to continue my education and soccer career out in the States where I played collegiate soccer in Alabama and Texas. I completed a sport management degree which has helped set me up to work in various sports like cross country/ track and field and now golf.
SOPGA: What has been your favorite part of working with the SOPGA?
IS: My favorite thing about working with the SOPGA so far has been getting involved with all the different types of events they organize and host. I’ve worked Section events, Junior events, DCP’s. I’ve attended PGA HOPE sessions where I have helped bridge a gap between veterans and golf. I have also been a part of a Smiling FORE Life event at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus which was really special. I feel as though I have accomplished and experienced a lot in just three and a half months with the section. My golf knowledge is also improving massively!
About the PGA WORKS Fellowship and PGA REACH
The PGA of America REACH Foundation is the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the PGA of America.
The PGA WORKS Fellowship, established in 2017, provides the opportunity for a paid immersion in a PGA of America Section’s Foundation operations. PGA Sections oversee the 41 regions of the PGA of America across the United States and help create the network of communication and community for PGA of America Golf Professionals and amateur golfers nationwide.
The PGA WORKS Fellowship is one of the most valuable entry-level opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to gain experience in the golf industry. The Fellowship gives recent college and university graduates a first-hand look at everything that a career in the $102 billion golf industry can provide.