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Abby Parsons, PGA Head Golf Professional at Pinnacle Peak Country Club in Scottsdale, has been named the 52nd recipient of the Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award, the highest annual honor bestowed by the Southwest PGA on a PGA Professional. A dynamic and dedicated PGA Golf Professional, Parsons embodies the Association’s highest values while continuously elevating those around her.
“I do not believe I will ever be able to find the words to express my gratitude and appreciation for being named the Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year,” said Parsons. “Joining the esteemed list of Professionals who have earned this award is an honor that I will forever cherish; however, this recognition was earned only because of the unwavering support of the people and mentors around me. I am fortunate to be a part of Pinnacle Peak Country Club surrounded by an incredible membership, leadership team, and fellow staff members that make coming to work so special. Having a career in golf is a privilege, and I look forward to continuing to give back to the game that has given me everything.”
Parsons heads the 2025 Southwest PGA Awards class for “qualities of leadership, strong moral character, and a substantial record of service” to the Southwest PGA and the game of golf. She will be honored at the Southwest PGA Awards Ceremony in February of 2026.
Abby Parsons of Pinnacle Peak Country Club – Golf Professional of the Year
Tommi Avant of Lone Tree Golf Club – Assistant Golf Professional of the Year
Ben Weir of Lone Tree Golf Club – Teacher of the Year
Tyler Hoeft of Superstition Mountain Club – Youth Player Development Award
Susan Harnedy of Stone Canyon Club – Bill Strausbaugh Award
Cesar Balgañon II of El Conquistador Golf & Tennis – Player Development Award
Tim Skophammer a PGA Life Member – The Patriot Award
Courtney Vogel of Alta Mesa Golf Club – The Deacon Palmer Award
Cal Peters of Tucson Country Club – Merchandiser of the Year for Private Facilities
Tyce Calvert of Revere Golf Club – Merchandiser of the Year for Public Facilities
The Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year – Born and raised in Pinehurst, North Carolina, Parsons’ connection to the game began early. As the daughter of a PGA Professional, she developed a lifelong appreciation for the sport, and the impact PGA Members can have on their communities. Parsons attended Boston University, where she competed for four years on the women’s golf team and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism with an emphasis on broadcasting. During her collegiate career, she earned Second Team All-Patriot League honors in 2019 and was named to the Patriot League Academic Honor Roll in 2017. Following graduation, she began her career in the golf industry as a Golf Operations Intern at Whistling Straits in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, where two seasons later she was named the 2nd Assistant Golf Professional two seasons later. She wintered as a PGA Associate at Coral Creek Club in Placida, Florida and earned PGA Membership in 2022. Later that year, Parsons relocated to Arizona to serve as the Lead Assistant PGA Professional at The Country Club at DC Ranch before joining Pinnacle Peak Country Club in 2023 as the PGA Head Golf Professional.
At Pinnacle Peak Country Club, Parsons has distinguished herself through a balance of operational excellence, player development innovation, and mentorship. She created two of the club’s fastest-growing programs, the “Par-Suit: The Pursuit to Par” ladies’ development series and the Winter Junior Golf Academy, both designed to welcome golfers of all ages and abilities. These programs have strengthened member engagement and grown the club’s female and junior golf participation. Parsons plays a major role in the club’s PGA Jr. League team each spring, as well as the Summer Junior Camps, fostering a fun and competitive environment for young athletes. Equally significant is her leadership as a mentor. Parsons provides clear structure, accountability, and guidance for PGA Associates, helping them achieve PGA Membership and advance into impactful roles. Her mentorship has already contributed to the success of several Associates who have earned Class A status and moved into leadership positions.
Across the Southwest PGA, Parsons’ influence continues to grow. She serves on the Board of Directors, chairs the Communications Committee, and is an active member of the Inclusion Committee. Her work helped launch and host the Section’s podcast, giving professionals across the region a platform to share their stories and insights. She also supports charitable outreach through events such as Play for Pink, the WGA Charitable Holiday Luncheon, and the St. Mary’s Food Bank Thanksgiving Turkey Drive, strengthening the Section’s connection to its community. Nationally, Parsons is recognized as an emerging leader. She serves as vice-chair of the PGA Coach Amplification Committee, collaborates with the PGA Digital team to produce live broadcasts on PGA.com and NBC Sports platforms, and was selected as a member of PGA LEAD Cohort 10 – one of just 15 professionals nationwide chosen for this prestigious leadership program. Her expertise and growing national presence led to speaking invitations at the 2025 PGA Show, where she shared insights on personal branding and social media in the golf industry. Her leadership, defined by service, authenticity, and enthusiasm, continues to inspire colleagues, elevate fellow coaches, and open new pathways for growing the game. The Golf Professional of the Year Award marks Parsons’ first recognition in the Southwest PGA.
For the full release on all award winners please visit: https://www.southwestpga.com/news/2025/awards.asp
