DAYTON, OH — The Southern Ohio PGA is proud to congratulate the newest member of the PGA of America in our section, Mitchell Cook, PGA! Mitchell was elected to membership in 2026 and is an Assistant Professional at Brookside Golf & Country Club in Columbus.

Say hello to Mitchell today via email at mcook@brooksidegcc.com.

The SOPGA caught up with Mitchell to talk about his journey to becoming a member of the PGA of America.

SOPGA: Who or what inspired you to get involved with the GAME of golf?

Mitchell Cook, PGA: I was inspired to get involved in the game of golf through my family, especially my dad, who worked as a golf course superintendent. Growing up around the course gave me a unique perspective on the game, not just as a sport, but as a lifestyle and a community. My parents introduced me to golf at a young age, many of my early memories are tied to time spent at the course, seeing firsthand how much care, pride, and effort went into curating a great experience for others. Being immersed in that environment shaped my appreciation for the game and ultimately led me to pursue a career in golf, where I could combine my love for the game with the opportunity to serve people and be apart of something bigger than myself.

SOPGA: Who or what inspired you to get involved with the BUSINESS of golf?

MC: I was inspired to get involved in the business of golf by growing up in a family that owned and operated a 9-hole golf course in Bucyrus, Ohio. From a young age, I was exposed not just to the game itself, but to the day-to-day realities of running a golf facility. From maintenance operations to customer relationships and community engagement. Being part of a small, family-run course showed me how golf businesses survive and thrive through hard work, adaptability, and strong relationships. That early exposure gave me an appreciation for both the operational and financial sides of the game, and it sparked my interest in pursuing a career where I could help create sustainable, welcoming golf experiences for others.

SOPGA: What are you most looking forward to pursuing now that you are a PGA of America Member?

MC: As a PGA of America Member, I’m most excited to pass on my love for the game by mentoring the next generation of golf professionals and leaders, helping create welcoming pathways that inspire others to grow, stay, and succeed in the game.

SOPGA: What about the game makes you LOVE golf?

MC: What I love most about golf is how closely it resembles life. The game demands integrity when no one is watching, patience when progress is incremental, resilience in the face of failure, and humility in both success and adversity. Each round reinforces that while many factors are beyond our control, we are always accountable for our preparation, our attitude, and our response, making golf a continual teacher both on and off the course.

SOPGA: Have there been any mentors who have assisted your career along the way to PGA Membership that you would like to thank?

MC: I have been fortunate to have several mentors who played an important role in my journey to PGA Membership. Joey Glander and Zack Ziembo provided guidance, support, and leadership that helped shape my development both professionally and personally, consistently pushing me to grow and hold myself to a higher standard. I am also grateful for the countless friends and members who make the work enjoyable, and especially for my wife, Abby,