Lincoln, NE – The Nebraska Section PGA is proud to recognize Jon Crane, PGA, as the Wilson Sporting Goods Game Ball recipient for May.
The Wilson Game Ball honors PGA Professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to the game of golf. Director of Golf Jon Crane, PGA, of The Ridge Golf Club in Sioux Center, Iowa, embodies these qualities through his passionate service, visionary programming, and deep community impact.
“It’s very humbling,” Crane said. “Our Section has tremendous golf professionals doing great things, and to be recognized amongst my peers is a true honor.”
Crane’s passion for golf is rooted in the game’s unique challenges, personal growth, and the powerful connections it fosters. As a PGA Member, he’s channeled that passion into a career of mentorship and innovation.
“My passion for golf comes from the challenge, camaraderie, and constant drive for improvement,” said Crane. “Being a PGA Member has allowed me to share that with others, grow the game, and build lasting relationships through teaching and team leadership.”
One of Crane’s most significant achievements is the development of one of the top five PGA Jr. League programs in the country. With over 370 junior participants, the program thrives thanks to a blend of creative curriculum, facility support, and grassroots outreach.
“We’re fortunate to have a course that supports our junior efforts and gives us unlimited access,” Crane said. “Each winter, our professionals volunteer roughly 40 hours to in-school golf programs, which has been a key part of our growth. We’ve also partnered with Rising Arrows, a local nonprofit summer school, to provide a league for 60 underprivileged third and fourth graders.”
Corporate sponsorships have also played a role, helping to keep costs low and access high for families across the region.
Crane’s leadership extends into the collegiate ranks as the head coach for both the Men’s and Women’s Golf teams at Dordt University. For him, the joy is in the process—developing athletes not just as players, but as thinkers.
“Coaching has been very rewarding,” he said. “It’s about increasing their golf IQ, refining technique, and helping them understand how to score. I love seeing that growth.”
Perhaps the most ambitious project under Crane’s guidance is “Lil Wispy,” a new 9-hole short course and Himalaya putting course adjacent to The Ridge GC. Built to expand access and elevate the member experience, Lil Wispy represents years of vision, persistence, and community collaboration.
“It started with a ‘why’—a purpose—and grew from there,” Crane said. “We acquired land, worked with an architect, and secured a Destination Iowa Grant through presentations at the state level. It’s been both challenging and rewarding.”
Construction was completed last July, and the course is on track to open later this summer. Once open, it will serve as a versatile hub for junior matches, family-friendly events, and unique tournaments during peak playing times.
Whether he’s coaching future champions, creating new spaces for play, or mentoring hundreds of junior golfers, Jon Crane’s influence on the game is unmistakable—and still growing.
Nominations for the next Wilson Sporting Goods Monthly Game Ball will open on June 1st and will close at 11:59 PM on June 15th.
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.