For many golf professionals, the path to leadership begins with a simple love of the game. Such was the case for Tony Miller, the PGA of America General Manager of Wekiva Golf Club, in Longwood, Florida. Miller’s journey from teenage golfer to respected industry leader exemplifies the dedication and relationship-building that define successful club management.
Starting at age 14 in Canton, Ohio, Miller’s early passion for golf quickly evolved into competitive play, participating in state and national championships by 1998. Before graduating high school, he had already recognized that golf would become more than just a recreational pursuit - it would become his life’s work.
After completing his education at the Golf Academy of America in 2004, Miller’s career trajectory took off with his first position as head professional at Timacuan Golf Club in Lake Mary, Florida. During his six-year tenure, he attained PGA membership in 2009, marking a significant milestone in his professional development.
The following years brought diverse experiences and increased responsibilities. In 2010, Christovich and Associates offered Miller the general manager position at Indigo Lakes in Daytona Beach. When the property changed hands in 2012, he transitioned into a regional management role, overseeing multiple facilities from North Carolina to South Florida. This broad exposure to different markets and operations proved invaluable for his future leadership roles.
Since 2014, Miller has served as the PGA of America General Manager at Wekiva Golf Club, where his steady leadership has helped guide the facility through significant transitions. The club, which opened in 1972, has long been a community favorite but faced challenges during the economic downturn of the late 2000s. Under Miller’s management, Wekiva began its turnaround in the early 2010s, culminating in its acquisition by Seminole County in 2021.
Today, Wekiva Golf Club stands as a testament to Miller’s strategic management and community engagement. The facility offers a comprehensive golf experience with 18 holes, a full-size grass driving range and extensive practice facilities. Recent improvements, including a complete irrigation system replacement in 2024, have enhanced the course’s conditioning, with plans for greens and bunker renovations on the horizon. Beyond golf, the club provides full-service dining and banquet facilities, serving as a hub for golfers and the broader community.
One of the hallmarks of Miller’s successful management approach is fostering meaningful partnerships that benefit the facility and its members. I’ve experienced this firsthand through my decade-plus relationship with Wekiva as the Founder and former owner of Little Linksters, LLC, and now with my BE A GOLFER Academy. Tony’s collaborative spirit and commitment to junior golf have made our partnership particularly rewarding, enriching the club’s youth programs while strengthening its community ties.
“Wekiva has been extremely fortunate to have a partnership with Brendon Elliott and the Little Linksters for the past 10+ years. Having known Brendon and his reputation throughout the PGA and the local market made the relationship a no-brainer for Wekiva, and it has only strengthened over the years. Brendon and the LL programs have truly enhanced not only Wekiva GC but the community as a whole. Brendon’s golf knowledge and caring approach is second to none.”
Throughout his career, Miller credits several mentors - Tony Johnson, Ron Parris and Greg Christovich - for their guidance and support. Their influence underscores a crucial truth in golf management. Success often depends on individual skill and the relationships we build and maintain throughout our careers.
As Wekiva Golf Club continues to evolve and improve under Seminole County’s ownership, Miller’s story serves as a reminder that dedicated leadership, combined with strong community partnerships, creates a foundation for long-term success in golf facility management.