Let me start by addressing the recent resignation of PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague. As you may have read, Derek is returning to upstate New York to support his family through some difficult health matters. This decision was not easy for Derek, as his commitment and dedication to the PGA of America and the game of golf spans decades. His accomplishments are many, and the golf industry is in a better place today thanks to the contributions of PGA of America Golf Professionals like Derek.
We are deeply grateful for his many years of service to the Association – as a PGA of America Golf Professional, club general manager, Past PGA of America President and CEO. Derek has been instrumental in advancing the mission of the PGA of America and, while he will remain in an advisory role, his leadership will be greatly missed.
One of Derek’s greatest passions is networking and collaboration, and nowhere is that more evident than at the PGA Show. It was wonderful to see so many fellow PGA of America Golf Professionals at last month’s Show, and I hope you had a productive week. As I have said before, that is OUR Show, and it truly serves as the launching pad for all things golf each season. We must continue to use the time in Orlando to address the golf industry at every level, while showcasing the unmatched value of PGA of America Golf Professionals.
The PGA Show is a hub for professional development through PGA Education sessions and workshops covering all sectors of the industry, with Teaching & Coaching a centerpiece. I was captivated listening to respected PGA of America Members discuss important topics such as the evolution of teaching & coaching, integrating innovative technology, and keys to operational excellence.
Another critical vehicle to help promote the latest trends in teaching and coaching is PGA Magazine. This month’s cover story goes in-depth to profile the game’s leading teachers and coaches, along with case studies and best practices, to equip PGA of America Members with the tools and resources to support student progression, make smart business decisions and remain competitive. Teaching and coaching remain at the forefront of our profession, and a catalyst for golfers of all levels to improve and enjoy the game for a lifetime. It is core to our mission of growing the game at the PGA of America, which is why I encourage you to read this cover story, learn from the experts, and continue mentoring those under your leadership.
The best golf instructors are committed to implementing new strategies and techniques that allow them to thrive with players of all levels. While this requires constant assessment and refinement, the ability to adopt and apply proven best practices from peers and leaders in the game can be a game changer for your business. While not every PGA of America Golf Professional teaches the game regularly, instruction is core to driving the game and industry, which is why this cover story goes deep into the business side of teaching and coaching.
Perhaps the greatest intangible in our profession – whether in teaching and coaching, golf operations or executive management – is mentoring. This month’s cover story highlights the role mentoring plays in inspiring those we lead, who represent the future. Mentoring has proven to develop the best our profession has to offer and must remain a priority.
Lastly, this cover story will address PGA Coach, an invaluable resource for professional development. In 2025, more than 25,000 training courses were completed through PGA Coach, doubling 2024 activity. Since its inception, the PGA Coach platform has generated approximately 200,000 leads and $25.8 million in booking revenue across nearly 4,000 coaches. With more than 17,000 all-time ADM certifications, I can’t say enough about this platform. It’s a proven model for structuring and sustaining a coaching business.
There is quite a bit of information to uncover from this month’s Teaching & Coaching cover story. Please take the time to delve into the story and learn as much as you can from the best in our profession. Thanks and God bless.
Sincerely,
Don Rea Jr., PGA President, PGA of America