Abby Parsons, PGA,Head Professional,Pinnacle Peak Country Club,Scottsdale, Arizona
For PGA of America Golf Professional Abby Parsons, the foundation of her network was built long before she got into the golf business herself.
“I grew up going to the golf course with my dad, Tom, who’s a PGA Professional,” says Parsons, the PGA of America Head Professional at Pinnacle Peak Country Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. “The one takeaway I had from being there with him was how he interacted with people. He was always the first to introduce himself, no matter who they were. And he always built relationships with every member he possibly could.”
Those early lessons made a lasting impression. Parsons saw that her father’s success in golf came from connection. “A lot of his strong friendships were members, friends of members or other golf professionals,” she says. “I definitely learned from him how important it is to be that outgoing personality in the golf industry. We’re very people-facing, whether it’s with memberships, public play, resorts or students. Learning how to talk to people was the first thing I learned from him.”
That comfort with communication only grew as Parsons pursued a degree in broadcast journalism, a background that now gives her confidence in front of both people and the camera. “It translates to social media,” she says. “With my golf social media account, I try to humanize the golf professional. Rather than instructional tips, I post more humorous content from tournaments or member interactions.”
For Parsons, social media isn’t just about building followers. It’s about building relationships.
“I’m a female golf professional, and there still aren’t too many of us,” she says. “I like to have fun with some of my interactions, and that has helped me build my own network of people similar to me, as well as people who like seeing more women golf professionals out there. So, I’d say don’t be afraid to show a little personality – obviously in a professional way – and let social media help you build your network and brand.”
Parsons’ ability to connect has been strengthened by mentors who recognized her potential and encouraged her to take bold steps in her career. When she moved to Arizona to join the Southwest PGA Section, she went to work for one of Scottsdale’s most respected golf professionals, Dick Hyland.
“I had no idea who he was when I moved out here, but he’s a legend in Scottsdale,” Parsons says. “He knows everybody, and he became a solid mentor who both backed me and helped push me out of my comfort zone. For example, he encouraged me to run for the Section board, which was great because I knew nothing about governance. It was so eye-opening as a 25-year-old.”
Today, working at Pinnacle Peak, Parsons has another strong mentor in PGA of America Director of Golf Jim Murphy. “He introduces me to at least five people at every event I attend with him,” she says with a laugh. “You don’t get anywhere alone in this business. You get there by having good mentors and building your network from their help.”
That belief shapes how Parsons approaches her own role as a leader and connector within the game. As a member of PGA LEAD Cohort 10, she encourages other PGA of America Professionals, especially those early in their careers, to be intentional about the relationships they build.
“I recommend starting your network by finding a mentor who aligns with your future goals and can help guide you in that direction,” Parsons says. “Then get involved in your Section and connect with people close to you geographically. That will get your name out there for any job opportunities that come up, but it also helps you build relationships that can help you – and help you help others – down the road.”
