Lincoln, NE – The Nebraska PGA Section is proud to recognize Bobby O’Keefe, PGA, General Manager at Oak Hills Country Club, as the September Wilson Sporting Goods Game Ball recipient.
The Wilson Game Ball Award recognizes PGA Professionals who go above and beyond in serving their facilities, communities, and the game of golf. O’Keefe has made an impact on each of those fronts through his leadership at Oak Hills Country Club, his continued service to the Nebraska PGA Section, and his commitment to programs such as PGA HOPE Nebraska.
Since taking over as General Manager at Oak Hills, O’Keefe has helped move the facility forward while creating a culture centered around the member experience and empowering his staff to find new ways to make an impact.
For O’Keefe, that starts with understanding exactly what makes a facility unique.
“Recognizing who you are as a club and your culture and being really good at it,” O’Keefe said. “Finding ways to elevate our member experience is something I try to do each day and challenge our staff to do the same.”
He believes improving the experience at a club does not always require major changes or large investments. Often, it comes down to listening, paying attention to the details, and finding opportunities to exceed expectations.
“Most of the time the biggest impacts don’t cost any additional money,” O’Keefe said. “It is just taking what you may have heard and delivering them a WOW factor. Taking chances and leaving your comfort zone sometimes is necessary to ultimately reach your goals.”
O’Keefe’s leadership has also extended well beyond Oak Hills Country Club. He has dedicated significant time to serving the Nebraska PGA Section as an officer and currenty serves as the Secretary. Through his involvement with the Section and attendance at national meetings, he has had the opportunity to represent Nebraska while gaining a deeper understanding of the PGA of America and its governance.
“The networking and listening to some bright minds all over the country has been extremely rewarding,” O’Keefe said. “You have the front row seat to the governance of the PGA of America and how things work.”
That experience has only strengthened his desire to give back to the Nebraska PGA Section and help move the organization forward.
“It has been a great journey so far, and I hope I can apply what I have learned to contribute to making our Section even better,” O’Keefe said.
One of the most meaningful ways O’Keefe has served others throughout his career has been through PGA HOPE Nebraska. As an instructor, he has helped introduce Veterans to the game of golf while using the sport as a way to create connection, enjoyment, and a positive outlet.
For O’Keefe, PGA HOPE provides an opportunity to give back to those who have sacrificed so much.
“It is the only way I know to give back to those that have sacrificed everything,” O’Keefe said. “I remember driving away after my first one, emotional to say the least, and calling my wife and telling her I just did something today that reminded me of one of the reasons why I got into the business.”
The impact of those experiences has stayed with him throughout his involvement in the program.
“The pure joy that you see on their faces and knowing that you have made a difference is indescribable,” he said.
Whether he is leading his staff at Oak Hills, representing the Nebraska PGA Section, attending meetings on behalf of the Association, or working directly with Veterans through PGA HOPE, O’Keefe has continued to embrace opportunities to serve those around him.
Receiving the Wilson Game Ball Award carries special meaning for O’Keefe because the recognition came from fellow PGA Professionals who understand the dedication the profession requires.
“We all work extremely hard at our jobs, and we are all very humble about what we do for our clubs and/or facilities because that is what we expect from ourselves,” O’Keefe said. “But for someone to take the time and recognize what somebody else is doing to make their career or place better is very much appreciated.”
Congratulations to Bobby O’Keefe, PGA, on being named the Nebraska PGA Section’s September Wilson Sporting Goods Game Ball recipient, and thank you for your continued leadership at Oak Hills Country Club, service to the Nebraska PGA Section, commitment to PGA HOPE, and dedication to the game of golf.
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.