Lawrence, Kan. – Jim Pavonetti, CGCS, superintendent at Fairview Country Club in Greenwich, Conn., has been named the recipient of the 2025 President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).

He will be recognized Feb. 2 during the Opening Session of the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in Orlando, Fla.

The President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship was established in 1991 to recognize an exceptional environmental contribution to the game of golf; a contribution that further exemplifies the golf course superintendent’s image as a steward of the land.

Pavonetti is a 30-year GCSAA member and has been one of the profession’s most decorated environmental award recipients. He has earned three GCSAA/Golf Digest Environmental Leaders in Golf Awards (ELGAs), while finishing as a runner-up four times in the last eight years. His ELGAs include the 2025 Healthy Land Stewardship Award, 2024 Natural Resource Conservation Award and 2023 Innovative Conservation Award.

“Receiving the GCSAA President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship is an incredible honor and deeply humbling,” Pavonetti said. “It represents not only recognition of the work we have done as a club on our course, but also affirmation that golf can be a leader in sustainable land management. This award highlights years of collaboration, innovation and commitment from our entire team to care for our environment while providing a top-quality golf experience.”

Pavonetti said Fairview Country Club, where he has been superintendent for the last 18 years, uses an integrated approach to sustainability where every decision considers the impact on the environment. He says these efforts not only protect natural resources but also demonstrate that environmental responsibility and course quality go hand in hand.

• Water Conservation: Implemented advanced irrigation technology to save water and energy, while also making the golf course play better.
• Habitat Restoration: Established naturalized areas and pollinator habitats that enhance biodiversity and refuge for wildlife.
• Nutrient and Chemical Management: Use precision application and organic alternatives to minimize runoff and protect nearby waterways.
• Energy Efficiency: Transitioning to electric and hybrid equipment, while improving energy performance throughout the entire club’s facilities.

“Jim’s dedication to environmental stewardship while providing enjoyable playing conditions is a tremendous representation of what our members seek to do every day,” said GCSAA President T.A. Barker, CGCS. “He doesn’t just focus on one area, but has an all-encompassing approach that benefits the members, community and industry. I appreciate and applaud his work and congratulate him on this honor.” 

Pavonetti earned a winter golf turf management certificate from Rutgers University. He served as the superintendent at two New York golf courses, West Point Golf Course for two years and The Edison Club for five years, before moving to Fairview Country Club in January 2008. He became a Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS) in 2009.

Pavonetti said golf courses are a part of larger ecosystems that can enhance their surrounding communities.

“Through thoughtful management using best management practices, golf facilities can serve as green spaces that support clean water, wildlife, and community well-being,” Pavonetti said. “Stewardship ensures the game remains sustainable for future generations and shows that golf can be a model for responsible land use and environmental care.”

To learn more about the President’s Award for Environmental Stewardship, visit gcsaa.org/who-we-are/about-us/awards

About GCSAA

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to 20,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and improve communities through the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or visit our industry-leading magazine at GCMonline.com.

The GCSAA Foundation is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to secure funding and support to strengthen advocacy, education, and research that advances the work of golf course management professionals. Visit the Foundation at www.gcsaa.org/foundation.

The post JIM PAVONETTI, CGCS, NAMED RECIPIENT OF 2025 GCSAA PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP appeared first on The Golf Wire.

LOS ANGELES – Marcus Byrd’s remarkable 2025 season on the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour was one for the ages. The 28-year-old Washington, D.C.-area native secured seven top-10 finishes in nine tournaments – including two victories and four runner-up finishes – to earn the APGA’s Jeff Dailey Player of the Year Award.

Byrd won both the APGA at Port St. Lucie in May and the APGA at TPC Deere Run in July, and finished second at the Cisco Black History Month Classic, APGA Juneteenth Classic, Mastercard Tour Championship and the APGA Cisco Invitational. He was sixth at the APGA at TPC Scottsdale.

The Temple Hills, Maryland resident had already been named champion of the APGA’s Cisco Cup Series in August, and closed the year with 3,026 points in the season-long Jeff Dailey points standings.

“It’s just another sign that I am moving in the right direction,” Byrd said. “It’s something that I can be proud of, take it back home to my family and show them that I’m trying my best to make golf a living.

“It’s awesome to go out here and see a lot of people that look like me who are working hard to get to that next level. There’s so much good going on with the APGA Tour, and there are so many opportunities that come from me playing well.”

Named in honor of the former Farmers Insurance CEO, the Jeff Dailey APGA Tour Player of the Year Award goes to the top player in the season-long points standings. The standings measure players’ consistency and overall performance across all APGA Tour competitions, including the Cisco Cup season, the APGA Farmers Insurance Fall Series and two Cisco Invitational events.

Byrd was awarded a $15,000 bonus. Willie Mack III, Chase Johnson and Luis Gagne placed second, third and fourth in the Player of the Year standings and earned bonuses of $5,000, $3,000 and $2,000, respectively.

“Marcus is a truly deserving winner of this award. His season was incredibly consistent, and it seemed like he had a chance to win every time he teed it up,” said Solomon Hughes, Chief Operating Officer of the APGA. “We are thrilled to see the success that he has enjoyed on the APGA Tour this year and are rooting for him as he pursues his dreams of playing on the PGA TOUR.”

Byrd completed his fifth year on the APGA Tour at last week’s Farmers Fall Series Finale in Tustin, California, and missed only one cut in 14 PGA TOUR Americas events. Additionally, Byrd is one of seven APGA players to advance to the second stage of PGA TOUR Q School, to be held at five sites across the country December 2-5.

“I am pleased with how I played this year, but there’s still always room for improvement, especially to get to the PGA TOUR,” said Byrd, who finished second in the APGA Jeff Dailey Player of the Year standings last season while also playing 20 events on the Korn Ferry Tour. “My goal is to get to the PGA TOUR. Even though I’m not quite there yet … I think the APGA is a great place to help me continue to grow my game.”

In the past year, Byrd has had a taste of what it’s like to play on the PGA TOUR. He made the cut in July at the ISCO Championship, his eighth PGA TOUR start, and on Monday he participated in the 18-hole open qualifying event for this week’s RSM Classic in Sea Island, Georgia – a tournament at which Byrd also made the cut in November 2024.

Chase Johnson won the APGA’s Jeff Dailey Award in 2023 and 2024.

Founded in 2010, the APGA is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring an inclusive future through the game of golf. For more information on the APGA, visit apgatour.org.

About the APGA Tour  

The APGA Tour was established in 2010 as a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring an inclusive future through the game of golf. The APGA Tour Board of Directors works diligently to accomplish this by hosting and operating professional golf tournaments, player development programs, mentoring programs, and by introducing the game to inner city young people. In addition to conducting 16 tournaments awarding more than $1 million in prize and bonus money, the APGA has organized a Player Development Program to aid golfers as they work to chase their professional golf goals.

Media Contacts

APGA Tour

Greg Ball – BZA Public Relations

apga@bzapr.com

The post MARCUS BYRD EARNS APGA’S JEFF DAILEY PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARD WITH REMARKABLE 2025 SEASON appeared first on The Golf Wire.

LONDON, NEW YORK – LIV Golf has announced the signing of global golf presenter Henni Zuël as a LIV Golf Broadcaster ahead of its 2026 season, which will feature 14 events across 10 countries, including the League’s first-ever event in South Africa. Zuël, a former professional golfer on the Ladies European Tour (LET) who shattered age records as an amateur, has earned the reputation as one of the sport’s brightest on-air talents through nearly a decade of acclaimed work with Sky Sports and GolfTV. Zuël will bring her signature storytelling style, modern voice, and experience covering the sport across international markets to the LIV Golf Broadcast; anchoring pre-show coverage and delivering on-air analysis throughout all four rounds of 72-hole competition.
 
“Challenge has always guided my career, and I’m drawn to environments that encourage curiosity, innovation, and a genuine sense of purpose. LIV Golf is at the forefront of redefining how the sport is experienced, powered by elite athletes and leaders who embrace meaningful progress – a vision that strongly resonates with me,” said Henni Zuël, LIV Golf Broadcaster. “My passions – golf, technology, creativity, and forward thinking are all reflected in this role. Joining LIV Golf will enable me to draw on my experience as a commentator and former player, whilst contributing to the wider mission of expanding awareness and driving positive global change within the game.”

Henni Zuël (Photo by LIV Golf)

“Henni Zuël brings exceptional journalistic experience and the credibility of a former professional player, enhancing the depth and quality of our coverage and strengthening our commitment to delivering a broadcast that is innovative, informed, and globally resonant,” said Chris Heck, LIV Golf President of Business Operations. “LIV Golf’s two-story format – where team identity and individual performance build simultaneously – requires the ability to illuminate both narratives with clarity and sophistication. Henni’s instincts, intuition, and commitment to modern storytelling make her an ideal voice for this new era. She embodies the professionalism, energy, and vision shaping the game, and her passion for integrating technology will help redefine how golf is experienced around the world.”
 
The LIV Golf broadcast now stands among the most widely distributed sports productions in the world, reaching nearly 900 million households across more than 200 countries and territories through a growing portfolio of elite global partners. Following the league’s expanded 2025 media strategy – which introduced new partnerships with FOX in the United States, DAZN across key European and international markets, and KC Global Media across Asia – LIV Golf is now carried by more than 20 major linear and digital broadcasters, including Movistar (Spain), Seven Network (Australia), Coupang Play (Korea), TV Azteca (Mexico), and additional DAZN territories including Germany, Italy, France, Canada, Japan, Austria, Belgium, Portugal, and Switzerland. Together, these partnerships delivered record-breaking results in 2025, with LIV Golf programming generating more than 66 million viewer hours across live broadcasts, re-airs, and highlights – solidifying the league’s global footprint and establishing its broadcast as one of the most dynamic and far-reaching in professional sport.
 
Prior to her award-winning work in golf broadcast journalism, Zuël distinguished herself as one of the most advanced young talents in British golf, representing England at every amateur level and making history as the youngest player ever to compete on the LET at 13 years old. Turning professional at 18, she spent seven years competing on the LET, earning two LET Access Series victories and multiple major-championship starts, including a T13 finish at the 2010 Women’s British Open. After a severe back injury ended her competitive career, Zuël transitioned into broadcasting, becoming one of the sport’s most respected and recognisable voices. She spent nearly a decade with Sky Sports covering the game’s biggest stages and was part of the BAFTA-winning broadcast team for The Open Championship in 2016. She later joined GOLFTV and Discovery, presenting and co-producing editorial output including three seasons of the acclaimed My Game instructional series. Her work across major championships and international events earned her the SJA Sports Journalist Award and cemented her reputation as one of golf’s most trusted and influential voices.
 
Beyond broadcasting, Zuël has emerged as a leading global ambassador for golf’s continued growth and accessibility. She serves as an R&A Global Golf Development Ambassador and as European Ambassador for Steph Curry’s Underrated Golf Tour, helping create pathways for underrepresented young athletes. Zuël also supports and mentors rising golfers and emerging sports commentators around the world, alongside working with charitable organisations, including Children on the Edge – an international nonprofit focused on protecting and educating vulnerable children. She has served as a presenter and analyst for PIF-supported Saudi Ladies and LET events, reflecting her long-standing commitment to elevating women’s golf and expanding the sport’s international footprint. Zuël also extends her influence through high-profile brand partnerships as a global ambassador for adidas, BMW, Rapsodo, Fairmont Windsor, The Buckinghamshire, and Precision Golf. She continues to balance advocacy, philanthropy, and media work with a commitment to shaping the next generation of players and fans.
 
Zuël will make her global broadcast debut for the League at LIV Golf Riyadh 2026, 4-7 February, under the lights at Riyadh Golf Club. Tickets for LIV Golf’s 2026 Season are available now at LIVGolf.com. For the full 2026 schedule and musical lineup, visit LIVGolf.com/schedule.
 
CLICK HERE to download still images of LIV Golf Broadcaster Henni Zuël, courtesy LIV Golf.

About LIV Golf

Now in its fourth season, the LIV Golf League features 13 teams competing for both an Individual and Team title at premier golf courses across the globe. As the first truly global golf league, LIV Golf is constantly innovating to set a new standard in sport and redefine the fan experience through the lens of music, culture, and entertainment, while growing the game of golf for a new era of players and fans around the world. Headquartered in New York and London, the League holds events in cities across Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Africa, with broadcasts reaching nearly 900 million households in more than 200 international markets and territories. LIV Golf was designed to expand the sport on a global level, bring new audiences to the game, create new value within the golfing ecosystem, and enhance the game’s societal impact far beyond the course through the League’s Impact & Sustainability efforts. In 2022, LIV Golf launched The International Series, which features 10 elevated events in world-class destinations. Sanctioned by the Asian Tour, these events offer a pathway for leading professional and amateur golfers from around the world into the LIV Golf League and the Majors.  Media Contacts:
Lara Toscani Weems
Media@LIVGolf.com

The post LIV GOLF SIGNS GLOBAL GOLF PRESENTER AND FORMER PROFESSIONAL GOLFER HENNI ZUËL TO ITS BROADCAST TEAM IN ADVANCE OF 2026 SEASON appeared first on The Golf Wire.

Over the week in Dubai, Fitzpatrick ranked second in Strokes Gained: Approach (+1.492 shots per round) and fifth in putting (+0.943), including one of the best final rounds in the field by gaining nearly two shots (+1.878) on putts outside 24 feet.

Throughout the season, Fitzpatrick has incorporated Arccos performance insights, including early access to A.I. Strategy delivered through Arccos Pro Insights, into his preparation, practice, and on-course decision-making. A.I. Strategy is currently available in beta to Arccos members using iOS as part of their Arccos game tracking subscription. Notably, Fitzpatrick ranked third in Strokes Gained: Approach from 125 to 175 yards in Dubai, an area that has historically been a relative weakness for him, underscoring the impact of focused preparation and smarter strategy.

“Arccos insights are key to giving me an edge,” said Matt Fitzpatrick, 2025 DP World Tour Championship Winner. “Understanding my tendencies and making smarter decisions is a big part of how I approach my game.”

Arccos Pro Insights is the company’s Tour-level intelligence platform used by elite players and coaches, including Fitzpatrick, and is led by Arccos Chief Data Strategist Edoardo Molinari. The introduction of A.I. Strategy in beta reflects Arccos ongoing work to bring advanced decision modeling and personalized strategy tools to everyday golfers.

“Matt’s victory in Dubai is a perfect example of how elite players are embracing data to inform smarter decisions,” said Edoardo Molinari, Arccos Chief Data Strategist and Ryder Cup Vice Captain. “The same types of insights we use with Tour players through Arccos Pro Insights are starting to become available to amateur golfers. It is exciting to see this level of intelligence make an impact across the entire game.”

Fitzpatrick’s win reinforces Arccos belief that Smart Golf Wins, whether on Tour or during a weekend round.

“We could not be happier for Matt,” said Sal Syed, Arccos CEO and Co-Founder. “His success reflects the future of the game. Players are using data, insights, and AI to understand their tendencies and make better decisions. With A.I. Strategy in beta and already providing value to early users, we are working to expand the tools that empower golfers everywhere to play smarter. Matt’s win shows just how powerful that can be.”

Momentum across the Arccos platform

Arccos is also beginning to ship its new Smart Laser Rangefinder, an AI-powered device that delivers

real-time “plays like” distance. As part of the Arccos connected ecosystem, the Smart Laser enhances the company’s suite of intelligence-driven tools designed to help golfers make smarter decisions on the course.

Proven platform trusted by the game

Arccos powers its ecosystem with the world’s largest on-course dataset, spanning more than 25 million rounds, 1.3 billion shots, and 3.9 trillion data points. Strengthened by partnerships across leading OEMs, the PGA TOUR, and elite players and coaches, Arccos is recognized as golf’s number one game tracker.

Trusted by amateurs and professionals alike, Arccos ambassadors include Matt Fitzpatrick, Edoardo Molinari, and Erik Anders Lang. The system tracks every shot and transforms that data into insights that help golfers make smarter decisions, shoot lower scores, and continue improving.

About Arccos Golf LLC

Arccos Golf LLC is revolutionizing the game tracking experience by integrating Artificial Intelligence with real-time on-course data to deliver insights that help players maximize their potential. Listed among the “World’s Most Innovative Companies” by Fast Company, Arccos has built the golf industry’s richest dataset. Official partners include PGA TOUR, PING, Cobra PUMA Golf, Srixon-Cleveland Golf, Club Champion, EA Sports, and Golf Digest. Arccos investors include many of golf’s most influential brands and businesses such as the PGA TOUR, PING, Inc., TaylorMade Golf Company, Cobra PUMA Golf, and Topgolf Callaway Brands Corp. (NYSE: MODG).

For more information, please visit arccosgolf.com.

Media Contact:

Ciara Smith ciara@arccosgolf.com

The post ARCCOS TOUR AMBASSADOR MATT FITZPATRICK WINS 2025 DP WORLD TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP IN DUBAI appeared first on The Golf Wire.

Golf It Forward® represents the Marilynn Smith and Founders’ Legacy Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization honoring the original 13 women founders. These founders envisioned a future for women in golf and recognized the sport’s potential impact on women’s lives. Over the past seventy-five years, events like the Marilynn Smith Pro-Am and Shirley Spork Golf Tournament have contributed to promoting opportunities for women in this sport.

Golf It Forward’s events, including the annual Silent Auction, Sunday Tea, and Marilynn Smith Scholarship Pro-Am, continue this legacy. As a result, the foundation provides a number of American and Canadian high school female golfers committed to U.S. collegiate golf, with scholarships up to $5,000. To date, the foundation has supported 300 young women with $1.5 million in scholarships.

This year’s auction offers items for golf enthusiasts, including playing spots in the LPGA Epson Tour 2026 Carlisle Arizona Women’s Golf Classic and tickets to the 2026 LPGA Ford Championship. There are also opportunities to acquire pieces of golf history, plan a vacation, and more.

For more information on the auction and to place bids, visit: www.32auctions.com/golfitforward2025.

ABOUT GOLF IT FORWARD®

GOLF IT FORWARD is the public face of the Marilynn Smith and Founders’ Legacy Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization. The foundation embodies the ingenuity, drive and passion of 13 women who had the foresight to see that there was a future for women in golf and golf in the future of women. For more information on GIF, please go to www.GolfItForward.org.

Media contact:

Debbie Waitkus – President | Golf It Forward

602.722.3605

13Founders@golfitforward.org

The post GOLF IT FORWARD® CARRIES FORWARD THE MISSION OF MARILYNN SMITH THROUGH A NATIONAL ONLINE AUCTION appeared first on The Golf Wire.

Wixom, MI – SuperStroke, the No. 1 Putter Grip in golf and the leader in innovative Tour-proven golf grip technology, congratulates former Purdue standout Adam Schenk on capturing his first career win by a single stroke at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship.

Schenk’s 12 -under-par finish, on the strength of rounds of 69-65-67-71 was enough to avoid a playoff and secure his all-important maiden win on the PGA TOUR. Using a SuperStroke Zenergy Flatso 1.0 putter grip, Schenk keep his card mostly clean in the final round – with just one birdie and one bogey – to outlast a charging field in this Fall Series event. The Indiana native made 19 birdies for the week and got up and down greenside 22 times out of 27 attempts. He also recorded 1.73 putts per Green in Regulation.

“Congratulations to Adam Schenk for wining for the first time on the PGA TOUR at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship,” said SuperStroke Vice President of Marketing Ryan Harris. “We’ve seen Adam come close to winning before, so it was exciting and gratifying to see him earn his first victory with a SuperStroke Zenergy Flatso 1.0 putter grip in beautiful, sunny Bermuda.”    

The SuperStroke Flatso putter grip features a distinct pentagonal “Flatso” profile: a wide, flat front grip shape with five pronounced edges. Now with Enhanced Spyne Technology and Multi-Zone Texturing, the Flatso Series has been refined to offer even better feel and feedback.

Part of SuperStroke’s groundbreaking Zenergy line, Flatso 1.0 features: 
 
Enhanced SPYNE® Technology – The new SPYNE® Technology has an improved, embossed ridge along the underside of the grip, engineered to make it easier to square the face at impact.
 
New Multi-Zone Texturing – Strategically placed texture in high-sensory areas designed to optimize feedback and comfort from the incredibly soft polyurethane outer layer.
 
No Taper Technology – Our patented No Taper minimizes grip pressure with an advanced parallel design that enables golfers to quiet their hands and add consistency to their stroke. 

Flatso 1.0 Size Specs:  

Width: 1.02”
Length: 10.60”
Weight: 87g
Core: 0.58”

SuperStroke grips are trusted by hundreds of top professional golfers. In 2024, SuperStroke users won 71 tournaments on golf’s major professional tours, totaling more than $58 million in first-place prize money in those events.     

SuperStroke’s putter grip line is a product of relentless innovation, fueled by feedback from more than 600 tour pros. From signature shapes and sizes to cutting-edge materials, SuperStroke delivers unprecedented features into every putter grip while connecting golfer and putter like no other product on the market.     

For more details on SuperStroke’s range of innovative golf grips and to keep up with the latest news from the company, visit https://superstrokeusa.com.     

About SuperStroke     

Since launching the first line of oversized putter grips in 2009, SuperStroke’s mission has been to help golfers make every swing and every stroke the best it can be. This commitment to offering high-performing, innovative products has helped SuperStroke users earn more than $500 million on major professional tours around the world, as well as propelling amateurs to shoot their career-low rounds.     

In addition to custom grips, SuperStroke offers a full range of officially licensed products to help golfers show their team spirit on the course. This includes both putter and club grips from college, NFL, and NHL teams.      

One of the most trusted brands on all major tours around the world, SuperStroke’s team of ambassadors includes three-time major champion Jordan Spieth, eight-time winner on the PGA TOUR Patrick Cantlay, 2019 PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year Sungjae Im, and world-renowned putting coach Phil Kenyon. In addition to the company’s beloved putter grips, SuperStroke offers a full lineup of club grips allowing golfers to experience the benefits of SuperStroke technology in every shot.     

More information: https://superstrokeusa.com/.     
 

Media Contacts:     
Kevin Frisch PR     
Carl Mickelson     
(512) 797-2673     
carl@kevinfrischpr.com     

 Kevin Frisch     
(989) 614-0241     
kevin@kevinfrischpr.com 

The post SUPERSTROKE CONGRATULATES ADAM SCHENK ON FIRST CAREER VICTORY AT THE BUTTERFIELD BERMUDA CHAMPIONSHIP appeared first on The Golf Wire.

“Bill’s reputation in the fitting world speaks for itself and having him join our team sends a strong message,” said Scott Carlyle, Global Marketing and Business Development Officer. “His leadership and forward-thinking approach align perfectly with our vision to elevate the brand’s fitting presence and deliver a best-in-class experience for our consumers that reflects the same innovation and performance that’s found in our products.”

In his new role, Price will lead Dunlop Sports Americas fitting strategy, driving initiatives in advanced fitting technologies, software development, and fitter education. He will also oversee efforts to elevate the fitting experience by expanding the brand’s presence to serve not only the best players in the world, but golfers of all skill levels through data-driven, performance-focused solutions.

A PGA of America member and highly respected figure in the golf fitting industry for more than 25 years, Price brings a proven track record of developing and implementing comprehensive fitting programs with a leading manufacturer to deliver world-class fitting experiences. Joining DSA from a major competitor, his hiring marks a significant step forward for the company and reinforces their commitment to listening to   consumers and delivering a more personalized, data-driven approach to the brand’s equipment performance.

In the near term, Price will focus on enhancing Srixon’s fitting infrastructure, while establishing a multi-year fitting roadmap designed to keep the brand at the forefront of innovation and player insight. Srixon is making a concerted push to establish itself as the leader in iron performance, technology, and innovation, while doubling down on their reputation of precision craftsmanship and tour validated performance.

Srixon’s Irons have seen strong global momentum, trusted by their Tour staff as well as professionals not under contract, and a growing base of avid golfers who recognize the brand’s precision and performance. Through expanded fitting access and new product development guided by real player feedback, Srixon aims to make personalized performance more accessible than ever before.

“Joining Dunlop Sports Americas at a time of such incredible momentum feels like the perfect next chapter,” said Price. “The Srixon, Cleveland Golf, and XXIO brands are all pushing boundaries in performance and technology, and I’m eager to build on that success by enhancing our fitting programs and helping golfers experience the full performance potential of these products.”

Following a Tour season that has delivered 45 global victories and a surging demand for Srixon Irons among professionals and amateurs worldwide, Price’s hiring comes during a period of unprecedented momentum. As he steps into his new role, Price is poised to make a significant impact in upcoming product launches and fitting initiatives and will represent the brand at major golf industry events, including the 2026 PGA Show in Orlando, Florida.

With a renewed focus on fitting and player performance, Dunlop Sports Americas is advancing its position as a leader in technology, innovation, and precision craftsmanship, strengthening its commitment to helping golfers at every level play their best.

ABOUT Dunlop Sports Americas:

Based in Huntington Beach, CA and Greenville, SC, Dunlop Sports Americas (DSA) is the North American subsidiary of Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. We manufacture and sell premium golf and racket sports equipment to players of all skill levels under a portfolio of brands: Dunlop, Srixon, Cleveland Golf, and XXIO. DSA is also a licensed exclusive distributor of ASICS golf footwear. Our unique global sales network and infrastructure in R&D, manufacturing, and material science elevates our brands onto a global stage where we encourage players from around the world to experience our incredible products. For more information, please contact Noelle Zavaleta at noellezavaleta@srixon.com.

The post DUNLOP SPORTS AMERICAS STRENGTHENS FITTING INITIATIVES WITH BILL PRICE HIRE appeared first on The Golf Wire.

Joe, a recent graduate of Michigan State University, earned his degree in Turfgrass Management from the Department of Crop & Soil Sciences, with a minor in Business. He follows in the footsteps of his father, Chris, and grandfather, Michael Wilczynski, both MSU graduates. Michael, a respected turfgrass professional, established the family’s foundation in the industry — a tradition that continues today through Chris and now Joe.

“I’m incredibly proud to welcome Joe to the team,” said Chris Wilczynski, ASGCA. “Our family’s connection to Michigan State and to the game of golf runs deep. Having Joe join me in carrying that legacy forward is both exciting and meaningful — not only for me personally, but for the future of our company. With our growing portfolio of work, the timing couldn’t be better.”

Chris earned his Landscape Architecture degree from Michigan State University in 1994 and spent nearly 20 years with Arthur Hills/Steve Forrest & Associates, one of the nation’s premier golf course design firms, before founding C.W. Golf Architecture in 2010. Today, Chris also serves on the Executive Committee of the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) and is recognized for his innovative, fun, beautiful, and strategically engaging golf course design work.

“I’ve always been impressed by Joe’s natural artistic ability,” said Chris. “He has a great eye for design and detail, and when you combine that creativity with his technical education in turfgrass and soil sciences, it creates an exceptional foundation for success in the golf architecture profession. I believe that blend of art and science will serve us — and, most importantly, our clients — incredibly well.”

C.W. Golf Architecture is currently engaged in its sixth collaboration with national homebuilder Taylor Morrison, where the father-son duo is working in tandem to oversee the construction of Esplanade at St. Marys, a new golf course development in St. Marys, Georgia scheduled to open in 2026. In addition, the firm is wrapping up golf course renovation projects in Michigan and is actively planning three new golf course construction and two large-scale renovation projects slated for 2026.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to begin my career alongside my dad,” said Joe Wilczynski. “Growing up, I was always fascinated by the game of golf and the creativity behind golf course design. Now, being part of the process and contributing to these projects firsthand is both inspiring and rewarding.”

With Joe joining the firm, C.W. Golf Architecture continues to build on a proud Spartan tradition, blending artistry, science and a shared family passion for shaping exceptional golf experiences.

About C.W. Golf Architecture

C.W. Golf Architecture, based in Saline, Michigan, was founded in 2010 by Chris Wilczynski, an active member of the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA). The boutique firm specializes in master planning and renovating existing private and public golf courses, as well as designing and developing new golf courses and practice facilities. Guided by a mission to passionately craft beautiful, engaging, and strategically interesting design work, C.W. Golf Architecture seeks to enhance the golfing experience for players of all skill levels. For more information, please visit www.cwgolfarch.com or contact Chris Wilczynski at (734) 395-7941.

The post CHRISTOPHER WILCZYNSKI, ASGCA, WELCOMES SON JOSEPH WILCZYNSKI TO THE FIRM — CONTINUING A THREE-GENERATION SPARTAN LEGACY appeared first on The Golf Wire.

Editors: For photos, click here.

FRISCO, Texas   – The PGA of America today announced key leadership appointments, including the addition of Vanessa Vogler as Chief Administrative Officer, along with promotions within the Association’s legal team to position the organization for continued growth and success.

“As we continually strive to serve our members and grow the game, Vanessa brings a track record of strong leadership, strategic expertise and operational excellence to the PGA of America,” said PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague, PGA. “Her guidance, along with the promotions of Drew Blasband and Ted Koehler on our legal team, will be instrumental as we continue to build a peak performance organization.”

Vanessa Vogler, Chief Administrative Officer

In this new role, Vogler will oversee the legal department, people strategy and operations, internal communications, as well as operations and events for the Home of the PGA of America and the PGA of America Coaching Center in Frisco, Texas. She will report to Sprague.

Vogler was previously the Senior Counsel for the United States Soccer Foundation in Atlanta, where she managed impactful corporate development projects and played a key role in launching high visibility initiatives for the 2026 World Cup. From 2021-24, she was a lead attorney for the PGA TOUR across Talent & Culture, USA Golf, Risk Management, PGA TOUR Champions, PGA TOUR Tournament Business Affairs, Golf Course Properties, Tax, Global Events and Employee Services.

Legal Department Transitions 

After 10 years as Chief Legal and Risk Officer of the PGA of America, Henry Smokler has transitioned to a senior advisory role, where he will continue to provide strategic counsel to the Association on several important initiatives. “Henry has been a trusted advisor and steady hand throughout his tenure, guiding our legal department with professionalism, integrity, and deep expertise during pivotal moments for the PGA over the last decade,” Sprague said.

Following the transition, Drew Blasband, who has been with the PGA of America for 19 years, was promoted to General Counsel and named a member of the Executive Team. Blasband joined the PGA of America as Associate Counsel in 2007 and has risen through the ranks since then, serving as Legal Counsel, Assistant General Counsel, Associate General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel. Ted Koehler, who joined the organization in 2021, was named Deputy General Counsel. It is Koehler’s third promotion in four years at the PGA of America.

“Drew has been an invaluable leader within our organization, demonstrating deep institutional knowledge and strategic guidance over the nearly two decades of his tenure with the PGA of America,” Sprague said. “His steady leadership, combined with Ted’s expertise, has been instrumental in navigating our championships, partnerships, properties and more.”

Additional Transitions

Jeff Price, Chief Commercial and Philanthropy Officer, will depart the PGA of America at the end of the year after 11 years of distinguished service. Price will assume the role of CEO at the Heisman Trophy Trust, beginning in January. The PGA of America has engaged Excel Search & Advisory, a division of Excel Sports Management, for the Commercial leadership search. Additionally, Sandy Cross recently stepped down as Chief People Officer after 30 years of dedicated service to the PGA of America. Cross’s responsibilities will transition to Vogler.

About the PGA of America

The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of more than 30,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals who love the game, are expert coaches, operators and business leaders, and work daily to drive interest, inclusion and participation in the sport. The PGA of America owns and operates numerous championships and events, including major championships for men, women, seniors and the Ryder Cup, one of the world’s foremost sporting events. For more information, visit PGA.com and follow us on X,Instagram and Facebook.

Media Contact: Jesse Dodson, PGA – PGA of America, jdodson@pgahq.com

The post PGA OF AMERICA ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP CHANGES appeared first on The Golf Wire.

Designed and precision-milled in Bettinardi Golf’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility just outside Chicago, the BB48, crafted from Double Aged Stainless Steel (DASS), was built specifically to match Fitzpatrick’s preferred feel, balance, and control on the greens. The putter’s clean profile, responsive feedback, and elite-level performance proved to be the perfect fit as Matt delivered a clutch week of putting to close out the season in championship form with a final round and bogey-free 66. Since his putter switch at the Omega European Masters, Matt has captured three top-fives, helped propel Team Europe to a Ryder Cup win, and won the DP World Tour Championship. Matt ended his 2025 season with 1.71 putts per green in regulation, finishing fourth on the DP World Tour in this category.

This victory adds to the growing list of global Tour wins for Bettinardi putters and further validates the performance-driven craftsmanship behind every product that leaves their factory.

“We’re incredibly proud of Matt and honored to be a part of his success,” said Sam Bettinardi, President of Bettinardi Golf. “The BB48 was designed as a symmetrical, compact mallet to give him unmatched feel and confidence, and seeing him roll it so beautifully on one of the biggest stages in golf is a testament to the dedication of our entire team. We couldn’t be more excited for him winning his third DP World Tour Championship title.”

Matt’s win caps a phenomenal season and highlights Bettinardi Golf’s continued presence at the forefront of precision-milled putter performance on Tour.

About Bettinardi

Located just outside Chicago, Illinois, Bettinardi Golf is a high-end, family-owned and operated, golf equipment company that designs, crafts and mills precision-made golf products, including putters, wedges, irons, headcovers, and more in their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. Since 1998, American-made Bettinardi Golf putters have amassed over 100 victories worldwide on Tour. For more information, please visit www.bettinardi.com.

The post BETTINARDI GOLF ANNOUNCES MATT FITZPATRICK WINS DP WORLD TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP WITH NEW BB48 PUTTER appeared first on The Golf Wire.