Lincoln, NE – Twice a year, the Nebraska PGA gathers its Membership to reflect on the past, share updates, and look ahead to the future—once in the spring and once in the fall.
Yesterday, we came together at the Country Club of Lincoln for our Spring Meeting, one of my favorite events of the year as the Section’s Digital Media Director.
But let’s be honest—the word meeting hardly does it justice.
A day like yesterday is so much more.
It’s a day of inspiration. A day of reflection. A day where, if you walk in lacking motivation, you leave feeling rejuvenated for another season.
This event is particularly special because it gives us the opportunity to honor PGA Professionals who have earned one of our prestigious annual awards.
When each recipient is recognized, the room fills with admiration as we hear their reflections on the past season’s achievements. Their stories highlight the dedication, passion, and hard work that define our PGA Membership.
The Nebraska PGA is home to an exceptional community of PGA Members and Associates, all devoted to growing the game in unique and meaningful ways. With such incredible talent throughout our Section, earning an award is no small feat—it is a true testament to excellence in our profession.
I knew going into the event that it would be a great day. But this particular Spring Meeting was even more special for various reasons.
One of them? This is the Centennial year of the Nebraska PGA.
It’s an exciting time for everyone involved with the Section, and Rodd Slater, PGA of Two Rivers Golf Club—our 2024 Golf Professional of the Year—put it best:
“100 years is a tremendous milestone for past and current PGA Members when you think about how much the game of golf has grown across the Section. But what excites me most is knowing the next 100 years will be even better.”
As the Digital Media Director, I have the incredible privilege of telling the stories of our PGA Professionals from the past century. I don’t take this responsibility lightly because I know how rich our history is.
With the Centennial on our minds, it was only fitting to honor someone who has not only contributed to this year’s communications but has also dedicated a 40-year career to telling the stories of our PGA Professionals and Nebraska golf as a whole.
That person is Stu Pospisil, golf editor and high school sports reporter for the Omaha World-Herald.
Our Section President, Mike Schuchart, PGA, invited Pospisil to the podium, where he shared some of those very stories and reflected on his journey—one shaped in part by the PGA Professionals who have impacted his career.
He wasn’t the only special guest in attendance.
Scott Harris of Harris Golf Cars was there to accept the Distinguished Service Award on behalf of his late father, Terry Harris.
Seated across from Scott were two of the most influential figures in our Association: PGA of America Vice President Nathan Charnes, PGA, and District 8 Director Phil Anderson, PGA.
To have them both in the same room was truly special.
Nathan Charnes, PGA, holds the second highest-ranking board position in the entire PGA of America.
Phil Anderson, PGA, is the General Manager of Hazeltine National Golf Club—one of the most historic clubs in the world and the future host of the 2029 Ryder Cup.
The room was filled with individuals who have profoundly shaped the game of golf.
And the day ended in the most fitting way possible.
In a two-part education seminar, James Sieckmann, PGA, and Troy Bassham shared their expertise with PGA Members and local golf coaches, diving into both the technical and mental sides of the game.
Think about those names.
Per Golf Digest, Sieckmann is a Top-50 instructor in America and a coach to many PGA Tour Professionals.
Troy Bassham is a four-time National Champion and World Champion rifle shooter, now an expert in mental performance and elite sports psychology, particularly in golf.
When individuals like that speak, you listen.
That’s the kind of opportunity Nebraska PGA Professionals had to close out an extraordinary day.
And that’s why an event like yesterday is so much more than just a meeting.
As I drove home from the Country Club of Lincoln after a long week of preparation, I took a moment to reflect.
Though I’m not a PGA Member or Golf Professional, the Nebraska PGA has become a huge part of my life. It’s become an extended family to me.
To witness a day like yesterday and see the incredible work being done by so many dedicated individuals is truly inspiring.
I’m excited for the 2025 season.
I’m excited for the Centennial Gala in December.
And most of all, I’m excited for the future of the Nebraska Section PGA and all that will be accomplished in the next 100 years.
About the Nebraska Section PGA
The Nebraska Section PGA is a non-for-profit organization comprised of over 340 PGA Members and PGA Associates who strive to promote the enjoyment and growth of the game of golf. The Nebraska Section PGA encompasses the entire State of Nebraska, western fifth of Iowa and a small portion of South Dakota including Dakota Dunes and Yankton. The Section office is located in Lincoln, NE and acts as a resource for local and national golf information for the golf professional and amateur player alike. Our members are often referred to as “Club Professionals”, not to be mistaken as PGA Tour Professionals.
Each Nebraska Section PGA Professional serves as an expert in the ever-changing business of golf. They are the leading expert players and teachers, skilled business managers, community leaders, and superior merchandisers who have dedicated their careers to the local delivery of these services.