FAIRBORN, OH – The Southern Ohio PGA is thrilled to recognize PGA Associate Jerome Porter as the 2023 Southern Ohio PGA Associate of the Year.
Jerome Porter, Associate Assistant Professional at Dayton Country Club, is the 2023 Southern Ohio PGA Associate of the Year. Although introduced to the game later in life, Porter was immediately hooked and began pursuing PGA Membership in 2019. He has quickly made his mark at Dayton Country Club having a great effect on the culture by leading the junior and women’s programs as they reach all-time highs in participation as well as managing the Outside Operations staff and Caddy program. Porter’s passion for growing the game is fueled by the lack of exposure he had to it as a child growing up in the Dayton area. In addition to introducing all that the game has to offer new players, he is also quick to serve his community though speaking with those interested in a career in the industry or inspiring his peers to be the best they can. The 2023 Southern Ohio PGA Associate of the Year Award is Porter’s first recognition for success in the industry.
Q: What does it mean to you to be named the Southern Ohio PGA Associate of the Year?
JP: It means a lot to be named the Southern Ohio PGA Associate of the Year. A lot of hard work and time goes into being a PGA Professional and it’s nice to have that hard work recognized. To know that my peers see and value my work means more than I can express! I am truly honored to receive this award!
Q: What inspired your passion to become a PGA Professional?
JP: My passion to become a PGA Professional was inspired by my lack of exposure to golf as a kid. I did not begin playing golf until I was 20 years old and was hooked immediately. So much so that I found myself disappointed that it took me 20 years to find this great game. That disappointment inspired me to become a PGA Professional to help grow the game in hopes of preventing other juniors from missing out on all that golf has to offer!
Q: What do you think makes a successful PGA Associate in the industry?
JP: I believe there are two things that are important to being a successful PGA Associate. The first being a passion for the game. There are a lot of perks in this industry, but there are also hurdles. Those hurdles are easier to clear when you are passionate about what you do. The second is a great mentor/friend in the industry, someone who has knowledge of how the industry works. This has been very valuable in the early stages of my career.
Q: How important is it to continue learning as you pursue PGA Membership?
JP: It is very important for me to continue learning as I pursue my PGA Membership because to teach you must first learn. I hope to help many people on their golf journey but to do that I have to continue mine. Education is a big part of growing as a PGA Professional and I have a lot to learn and look forward to continuing down that path.
Q: Since beginning the PGA Associate program, what has been the most surprising and/or interesting thing you’ve learned about yourself or the industry?
JP: The most surprising thing I’ve learned about myself since becoming a PGA Associate is how much I enjoy teaching. When I first got into the industry, I envisioned more of the Head Professional role but after getting exposed to player development programs and lessons I found myself gravitating towards that side of the industry. So much so that I have chosen the teaching and coaching track as I pursue my PGA Membership!
Q: Is there any advice would you give to someone thinking about getting into the industry?
JP: If you have a passion for the game of golf and want to see it grow, then take a chance. Try to find a staff you connect with when looking to for your first opportunity. If you find the right environment, you won’t regret your decision and will find yourself reaping all the rewards the industry has to offer!
The SOPGA recognizes the PGA Member and Associate Assistant of the Year for their growth in their development as a golf professional as well as commitment to a career in the PGA. Criteria for these awards are based on: 1) overall performance as an Assistant golf professional; 2) services to the Section, Chapter or Association; 3) leadership ability and; 4) promotion of golf. Click here to learn more about the Southern Ohio PGA Special Awards and to view previous recipients.
Porter and all the 2023 Southern Ohio PGA Special Award recipients will be recognized at the annual Special Awards Celebration on Friday, October 13, 2023 at Montgomery Inn in Montgomery, OH. All members of the Southern Ohio PGA golf community are invited to join in the celebration. Click here for more information.