Professionals eligible for SOPGA Special Awards must be active PGA Members in good standing (Class “F” or Inactive Members not eligible); except SOPGA Associate Assistant of the Year must be PGA Associate in good standing.
The SOPGA Golf Professional of the Year is awarded to a PGA member for overall performance as a golf professional, leadership, service and promotion of the game of golf. Overall performance at the member’s facility, level of service to the SOPGA Section and to the Association, and image as a golf professional are some of the criteria considered for this award.
This award bestows special recognition on a SOPGA Professional for excellence in golf instruction, along with overall performance. Promotion of golf, use of teaching aids, involvement in junior golf activities, teaching techniques, and articles published are some of the criteria considered for this award.
This award is designed to recognize a SOPGA member for their outstanding service and contributions in developing and improving educational opportunities for fellow PGA Professionals. Voluntary contributions to National PGA and Section education programs are also considered for this award.
This award is presented to a SOPGA member who has shown outstanding integrity, commitment to mentoring PGA Professionals and has made a significant impact on the careers of PGA Professionals. The award also considers the member’s service to the Association, and involvement in community and charitable activities.
The “PGA Golf Executive of the Year Award” bestows special recognition on a PGA Golf Professional who has performed outstanding services for a multiple facility/course management/ownership operation, Allied Association or golf industry executive management position. As one of the highest honors the PGA can bestow, candidates must possess outstanding qualities of leadership, vision, courage, strong moral character, and a substantial record of service to the Association and the game of golf. Individuals honored with the PGA Golf Executive of the Year award will be held as a model PGA Golf Professional.
This award is designed to recognize a SOPGA Professional who is a leader in junior golf, reflects the image and qualities that juniors can emulate, and provides opportunities for juniors to learn and play golf. A member’s contributions to Sectional and National junior programs and involvement in the promotion and development of junior golf at the facility and community levels are some of the criteria considered for this award.
Recognizes SOPGA members who have demonstrated superior skills as merchandisers in the promotion of golf. Awarded in two categories (Private and Public/Municipal/Military/Semi-Private). Credit rating, community involvement, staffing, inventory, displays and merchandising techniques are some of the criteria considered for this award.
The SOPGA recognizes the PGA Member and Apprentice 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.
This award recognizes a SOPGA member who has made extraordinary contributions and achievements in conducting and/or supporting growth of the game initiatives.
The Patriot Award is presented to a PGA Professional who personifies patriotism through the game of golf and demonstrates unwavering commitment and dedication to the men and women who have valiantly served and protected the United States of America.
The Sales Representative of the Year Award is designed to recognize a sales representative who serves the Southern Ohio PGA with outstanding customer service, support and dedication to the members and apprentices of the Southern Ohio PGA as well as support of the Section through sponsorships and other programs.
Please click here to email SOPGA Director of Operations Derek Tincher, PGA with any questions about the Southern Ohio PGA Special Awards and nomination process or he can also be reached by phone at (937) 637-9968.