Matt Stephens, PGA,General Manager,Blackstone National Golf Club,Sutton, Massachusetts
At Blackstone National Golf Club in Sutton, Massachusetts, the off-season doesn’t mean going quiet. Instead, PGA of America General Manager Matt Stephens and his team use that downtime to stay engaged with golfers through fun, low-cost social media contests.
“If you’re in a region with a true off-season, like we are in the Boston area, these contests are a great way to keep people thinking about you,” says Stephens. “We run things (pictured) like ‘Guess Our Opening Day’ or ‘Guess the First Hole-in-One.’ We also promote upcoming events. It costs us very little but delivers a big return.”
Originally launched by Stephens’ colleague Marnie Havalotti, who serves as the facility’s Social Media Director, the contests have become a winter tradition for Blackstone’s 6,000 Facebook followers. The goal? Reach and retain the public player – especially the “frequent” golfer who might not think about the course in December, but plays often come spring.
Winners of the contests receive a complimentary twosome or foursome, plus lunch – what Stephens describes as “a day at the course.” And while the prize represents a small expense, the value in engagement is substantial.
“When there’s five inches of snow on the ground and we’re still seeing people comment or message us, that’s a boost for everyone,” he says.
More importantly, Stephens notes that the strategy keeps traffic flowing directly to Blackstone’s own channels.
“We’re not pushing them to a third-party website. It’s our site and our Facebook page. That matters,” adds Stephens.
Ultimately, it’s about cultivating year-round connection.
“Avid golfers engage all the time,” he says. “Casual golfers might not. But frequent golfers – they know we’re here in June. These contests help make sure they’re thinking about us in December, too.”
Scott Sedgwick, PGA,Director of Golf,Louisville (Kentucky) Country Club
At Louisville Country Club in Kentucky, PGA of America Director of Golf Scott Sedgwick has spent more than two decades doing something that can’t be taught overnight – earning trust.
After 24 years in his role, Sedgwick has seen generations of families grow up under his guidance. “We have two families that have had four generations cross my lesson tee,” he says. “Some of today’s seasoned golfers were juniors during my early days here. One of our members now plays for Auburn University – I remember when he was born.”
That level of personal connection is part of what drives repeat business everywhere from the golf shop to the lesson tee. The other key? Consistency.
“Our clubhouse shuts down every January for repairs and deep cleaning,” Sedgwick explains. “But the golf shop stays open with limited inventory, our two simulators remain active and the course stays available on warmer days. It’s part of our commitment to being reliable and consistent.”
That reliability shows up in the details – gift wrapping, shipping items, offering flexible return policies – and it’s paired with product knowledge and genuine care for the members’ experience.
“We stock what members like, track new trends and do everything we can to help them enjoy the game. Even something like checking the 700-plus stored bags for grip wear shows we’re looking out for them,” says Sedgwick.
He and his staff are adding a new layer of member engagement this season with a player development initiative: short-notice clinics that welcome the first five members to respond. These impromptu sessions are held on quieter days, offering targeted instruction in a casual setting.
“The goal is to stay connected, offer value and keep things fresh,” Sedgwick says.
That same philosophy applies to Sedgwick’s team of assistants. Five-day work weeks and shorter shifts help protect energy and focus.
“I expect a lot from my staff, but I’m always fair,” he adds. “We’ve built strong relationships and we stay active – teaching, fitting, even playing in Section events together. It’s important to take good care of both your team and your members. That’s been the formula that works for us.”
The PGA of America has announced that Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma, will host the 2032 PGA Championship. It will become the first venue to host the Championship six times.
Southern Hills previously hosted the 2022, 2007, 1994, 1982 and 1970 PGA Championships, as well as the 2021 Senior PGA Championship.
“We could not be more excited to return to Southern Hills Country Club for the 114th PGA Championship in May 2032,” says PGA of America President Don Rea Jr., PGA Master Professional.
At the 2022 PGA Championship, Justin Thomas birdied two of three holes to edge Will Zalatoris in a three-hole aggregate playoff and capture his second Wanamaker Trophy.