A well-executed program creates a memorable experience for players and families from start to finish. When that happens, the PGA of America Golf Professional shines through as “the person” behind the magic.
The magic doesn’t simply happen on its own. It’s a testament to the success of the unseen, monumental effort lying beneath the surface, an analogy often referred to as the “Iceberg Effect.” Players and families only see the tip: the enjoyable practice, the smooth organization of a Sunday afternoon 9-hole playing experience, and the clear communication from the PGA Member. What they don’t see is the underwater base – the meticulous planning, attention to detail, proactive communication and continuous thoughtfulness required to bring the program and each experience to life.
To make any program successful, benefiting both the PGA of America Professional and the participants, building a framework on planning and communication is essential.
Country Club of Birmingham (Alabama) Director of Player Development Chris Biggins, PGA, is “the person” at his facility. Since 2016, he has also been a key figure in the greater Birmingham golf community, taking on a vital role in rallying PGA Jr. League coaches to coordinate excellent programming.
In 2025, Biggins (pictured with players) coordinated 26 teams from private and public facilities to form four leagues of teams. Biggins’ expertise in organization and communication is showcased as he takes the lead in connecting with coaches, putting together the game schedules, and organizing how All-Star coaches and players are determined in each league based on season standings. Biggins’ PGA Jr. League players and families at Country Club of Birmingham are at the receiving end of this, as well as the other 25 PGA Jr. League teams and their coaches, families and facilities.
“The main goal of the Birmingham-area PGA Jr. League season is to grow the game for beginner and intermediate golfers,” says Biggins. “Although we’ve had teams that advanced to the Regional Championship, our focus is not on the elite playoff track.
“We strive to place each team in appropriate leagues to create a fair competitive environment where teams of similar skill levels can compete against each other.”
Planning and Preparation: The foundation of a successful PGA Jr. League program is in the planning, which begins well in advance of the season. Biggins focuses on quality, safety and, ultimately, the success of the entire offering.
Structure: A thoughtfully designed, cohesive and progressive framework creates order and structure before Biggins or any teams in the Birmingham leagues accept a single registration. The entire program is scheduled, with backup plans for inclement weather and unexpected logistical issues in place.
Facility Access: Biggins and his fellow coaches communicate regularly regarding facility access prior to games. They determine – and communicate – course accessibility, golf car availability for spectators, the range and practice facilities status, and food & beverage plans ahead of time.
Staffing: Determining the number of staff available for both practices and games allows coaches to safely and efficiently plan for the proper number of players per practice activity or station, on-course experiences and more.
Proactive and Consistent Communication: Once the program is created, communication becomes the engine that drives coordination, ensuring everyone – staff, players, and parents – are aligned, informed and excited for what’s ahead.
Communication with Staff: Effective internal communication is paramount. Every staff member, from the lead coach to assistant coaches, should understand the daily schedule, their assigned roles and the communication strategy for parents. A pre-program meeting is important to walk through the curriculum, discuss participant special needs (specific skill levels, players wanting to be grouped with a friend) and review emergency procedures.
Communication with Players, Parents: Clear, timely and com prehensive external communication is the sign of a great program.
The Payoff of Thoughtfulness: Beyond the mechanics of planning and communication lies the art of “thoughtfulness.” This is the attention to detail that transforms a good program into a great one. Thoughtfulness means:
Personalization: Knowing the names of all PGA Jr. League participants (and their parents).
Anticipation: Having extra water bottles or snacks on hand for a player who forgot theirs.
Feedback: Scheduling a post-program debrief with staff to capture what worked and what needs improvement before the next program.
Like Biggins, most great coaches will tell you that if you do a great job, the parents will be asking, “What’s next?” and “When can we do this again?”
The perception that a successful PGA Jr. League program “just happens” is the Iceberg Effect in action. The players and families only see the smooth surface. But below the waterline, PGA of America Golf Professionals like Biggins are demonstrating planning, attention to detail, communication and thoughtfulness – the essentials that keep the entire program afloat and ensure a meaningful and successful experience for all involved.
Frank Maynard III, PGA, is a Player Engagement Consultant serving the Carolinas, Tennessee and Alabama-NW Florida PGA Sections. He can be reached at fmaynard@pgahq.com or (919) 593-0424.
