Author: cvogel

PGA of America Golf Professionals Broadcast 107th PGA Championship

By Jim McCabe

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina (May 16, 2025) – Raised in various parts of the country, afforded different entry points into the game, and inspired by wide ranges of teaching philosophies, they are galvanized not only by their passion for golf, but for the desire to introduce others to its magic. But for this week, Nathalie Sheehan, Joanna Coe and Joe Hallett will unite their talents and join other PGA of America Golf Professionals to enhance the experience for millions of golf fans. These PGA Members will be involved in extensive coverage of the 107 th PGA Championship, which will broadcast for 250 hours of coverage across multiple platforms on CBS, ESPN, and ESPN+ and Paramount+, with 500 million households across 186 countries watching. Additionally, SiriusXM and Westwood One radio will provide extensive coverage each round.

The opportunity is not lost on them.

“This is a very unique experience and it’s made me a better PGA Professional in so many ways,” said Sheehan, the Director of Women’s Golf at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Fla.

Sheehan and Joe Hallett, a PGA Master Professional who is the Director of Instruction at Vanderbilt Legends Club in Franklin, Tenn., will work remotely from the Home of the PGA of America in Frisco, Texas, offering extensive analysis and observations during coverage of featured groups Thursday and Friday on ESPN+.

Ask Hallett his assignment and he puts it this way: “Do not interfere, but you want to get a fun nugget that the viewer can relate to,” he said. “(For instance), showing that Justin Rose is trying to get a downward angle of approach between 1.4 and 2.25 degrees with his driver is not interesting or relatable to the average viewer. “However, saying that Justin is hitting some drivers off the deck on the practice range to help his contact on his tee shots is (interesting and relatable).”

Having relationships with fellow golf instructors will enable Hallett and Sheehan to contribute facts and tips to viewers. “I did it last year (from Valhalla in Louisville, Ky.) and it was very fun,” said Sheehan, who laughs when asked if it’s organized chaos. “Kind of, yes. It is live TV. But you talk to your producer and explain your ideas and you’re doing it on the fly, but that’s why you have your thoughts organized.”

Like Sheehan and Hallet, Coe has experience with these PGA Championship broadcasts. The Director of Instruction at Merion Golf Club in Philadelphia, Coe has previously worked PGAs at Kiawah Island (2021), Southern Hills (2022) and Oak Hill (2023) but her assignment for Quail Hollow in Charlotte, N.C., this year is being an on-course reporter for the featured groups.

“I speak to a lot of my students in a group setting, so I’m more comfortable in front of the camera,” said Coe, who missed last year’s PGA Championship at Valhalla because she was pregnant with her first child, daughter Jennie. “But I totally relate to the viewers; I just know we have to do it very quickly.”

Reporting on the world’s greatest golfers from Quail Hollow where the strongest field in golf will be assembled is not such a daunting task, they all agree. That’s likely because they share such a love of the game, albeit with different histories.

Hallett grew up in Coral Gables, Fla., where he honed his game at a famed Donald Ross layout called Biltmore GC. After failing at PGA Tour Q School for a third time, Hallett was fortunate enough to be under the tutelage of Joe Lopez Sr. who had experience as a tour professional.

“He told me, ‘You should teach this game. You have been to some of the best instructors (Bob Toski, Jimmy Ballard, David Leadbetter) plus you have tournament experience.’”

At first, Hallett balked. Then one day he circled back to Lopez and asked if the offer still stood. “He cleared a spot on the tee for me next to him and I learned and taught and taught and learned,” said Hallett.

Similarly, Sheehan and Coe said teaching was never on their radar.
“I didn’t have any interest,” said the former Nathalie Filler, a junior standout from Hartford, Conn., who took lessons from PGA of America Past President Suzy Whaley, PGA Master Professional, but was singularly focused on her game at the University of Delaware. “But when I started teaching summers and worked with junior golfers I saw it as a way to stay in a game that I loved.”

Whaley is also contributing to the ESPN broadcast team at Quail Hollow as an On-course reporter. Married to Justin Sheehan, PGA, the COO and Director of Golf at Pelican GC, she embraces her days “teaching golfers from 4 to 85, men and women” and sharing a love of this great game.

Like Hallet, Coe was first and foremost focused on trying to be a tour professional. But four years on what is now called the Epson Tour opened Coe’s eyes “to how tough life can be on the road.” When she started teaching golf at Baltimore Country Club, Coe’s instincts for competition remained alive; she just transferred it to help make youngsters as good as they can become.

To be a huge Philadelphia sports fan and having the chance to work at the iconic Merion GC is a thrill that still makes Coe pinch herself. Married to Ryan Hartsfield – “he loves golf and is about a 15 handicap” – she loves that golf “challenges both sides of your brain” and that her TV duties this week will continue to bring the game to a wider audience.

“I’m very excited,” said Coe, who agrees with Hallett and Sheehan that this week also gives them a chance to be ambassadors not only for their different clubs but the game in general. “It’s why I fell in love with golf; it gives you a chance to be competitive with every single shot.”

Additional PGA of America Members Rounding out the ESPN team are Steve Scott, PGA, on-course reporter, and Gary Christian, PGA.

PGA of America Members on the CBS Sports and Paramount+ teams include Michael Breed, PGA and Brian Crowell, PGA, who will recap each round through the PGA Championship Clubhouse Report, hosted by Kelly Tilghman.

The PGA Championship will conclude May 18 at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, N.C. You can stream, watch or listen on the networks of CBS, CBS Sports Network, Paramount+, ESPN, ESPN+ and SiriusXM Radio. You can also follow the action on pgachampionship.com.
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 of America, jdodson@pgahq.com

Maui Jim to Support the Philadelphia PGA

Lower Gwynedd Township, Pa. (May 10, 2025) — The Philadelphia PGA Section is pleased to announce the renewal of its partnership with Maui Jim, a market leader in the sunglass industry.

The section is glad to have Maui Jim’s support at the Fall Pro-Pro Championship at Union League National G.C. on October 13, as well as the PGA REACH Philadelphia Pro-Am on October 6 at the Stonewall Links.

“We couldn’t be happier to partner with Maui Jim,” said Geoff Surrette, the Executive Director of the Philadelphia PGA. “We are excited to continue working with a high-quality sunglasses company.”

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the Philadelphia PGA Section. We value the opportunity to support their professionals and enhance the visual experience and performance of golfers within the section” said Jen Hong, the Director of Golf/ Tennis Sales of Maui Jim.

About Maui Jim
Maui Jim sunglasses, born on the beaches of Maui, were designed to protect the eyes from the harsh rays of the island sun. Today, Maui Jim is the world’s fastest-growing Premium Polarized Sunglasses Brand and is sold in more than 100 countries. Maui Jim is recognized for its unparalleled “Aloha Spirit”, Customer Service, and advanced PolarizedPlus2 Lens Technology. In 2022, Maui Jim became part of Kering Eyewear, which belongs to the global Luxury group Kering.
Click here to learn more about Maui Jim Golf Events

Contact: John Higinbotham jhiginbotham@comcast.net

About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 590 golf facilities in our region.

Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Communications Director, mfrey@pgahq.com

Fifteen PGA of America Golf Professionals From Philadelphia Will Compete in the PGA Professional Championship

Lower Gwynedd, Pa. (April 25, 2025) — Fifteen PGA of America Golf Professionals hailing from the Philadelphia Section will be traveling to Port St. Lucie, Fla., to compete in the 2025 PGA Professional Championship. The event, taking place on April 27-30 at PGA Golf Club, brings together some of the most talented PGA Professionals from across the country to compete for a spot in the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, as part of the Corebridge Financial PGA Team.

The Philadelphia PGA Professional Championship, held at Rolling Green Golf Club and Chester Valley Golf Club last year, served as the primary qualifier for the majority of the Section’s players, including champion Brett Walker.

To view starting times and scores for the PGA Professional Championship, click here. 

To view event information for the PGA Professional Championship, click here.

The players representing the Philadelphia Section are:

  • Trevor Bensel, PGA – Sandy Run Country Club
  • Brian Bergstol, PGA – Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort
  • Joanna Coe, PGA – Merion Golf Club
  • Rusty Harbold, PGA – Philadelphia Cricket Club
  • Jeff Herb, PGA – Waynesborough Country Club
  • Terry Hertzog, PGA – Bent Creek Country Club
  • Michael Meisenzahl, PGA – Tavistock Country Club
  • Zac Oakley, PGA – Bidermann Golf Club
  • Dave Pagett, PGA – Whitemarsh Country Club
  • Tony Perla, PGA – Huntingdon Valley Country Club
  • Dave Quinn, PGA – Laurel Creek Country Club
  • Braden Shattuck, PGA – Rolling Green Golf Club
  • Billy Stewart, PGA – Union League Liberty Hill
  • Andrew Turner, PGA – Country Club of York
  • Brett Walker, PGA – Chester Valley Golf Club

About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 300 golf facilities in our region.

Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Communications Director, mfrey@pgahq.com

Levelwear To Return As Partner of Philadelphia PGA

Lower Gwynedd Township, Pa. (April 20, 2025) —The Philadelphia PGA Section is delighted to continue its partnership with Levelwear, a leading performance apparel brand, for the 2025 season.

Levelwear will be supporting the Henry McQuiston Senior Pro/Junior Pro Event at Bala Golf Club on October 16.

Section Executive Director, Geoff Surrette, expressed, ‘We’ve thoroughly enjoyed our collaboration with Kevin and Levelwear, and we’re excited to build on that success for another fantastic season.”

“Levelwear is proud to join the Philadelphia Section family and connect with its membership. At our core we believe strong relationships at the grassroots level are key to lasting success,” saidJohn Jenkins, National Sales Manager US Golf. “We’re committed to growing alongside you, supporting your shops, and building a partnership that thrives well into 2025 and beyond.”

About Levelwear
Levelwear delivers high-quality performance apparel through modern design, innovative fabrics, and state-of-the-art branding, while also prioritizing sustainability through reduced emissions and resource consumption. Since 1987, their focus has been on building community and celebrating shared victories, believing that true strength comes from the people and products they create. Levelwear is dedicated to those who understand that collective success is greater than individual achievement.
Section Sales Rep: Kevin Depaulis, kevindepaulis@gmail.com 

About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 590 golf facilities in our region.

Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Communications Director, mfrey@pgahq.com

The Philadelphia PGA Section Announces a Partnership with Ashworth Golf Company

Lower Gwynedd Township, Pa. (April 19, 2025) —The Philadelphia PGA Section is thrilled to maintain its relationship with Ashworth Golf Company, a trusted name in golf apparel.

Ashworth Golf Company will be supporting the Pro-Assistant Pro Championship at Seaview Golf Club on July 14.

“We are pleased to have Ashworth Golf Company supporting the Pro-Assistant Pro again this year,” said Section Executive Director, Geoff Surrette. “Kevin does a great job of highlighting their best pieces.”

Kate Cunningham, Senior Vice President of Sales and Business Development for Ashworth Golf Company said, “We’re thrilled to partner with the Philadelphia PGA Section to support the Pro Assistant Pro Championship this summer!”

About Ashworth Golf Company
Ashworth Golf Company, established in 1987, was founded with the vision of crafting stylish and functional apparel for golfers of all levels. From casual players to world-class touring professionals competing in major championships, Ashworth Golf Company delivers exceptional clothing and accessories designed to enhance the golfing experience worldwide. With a focus on quality and timeless design, Ashworth Golf Company has become a trusted name in golf apparel, catering to the needs of golfers seeking both performance and style.

Section Sales Rep: Kevin Depaulis, kevindepaulis@gmail.com 

About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 590 golf facilities in our region.

Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Communications Director, mfrey@pgahq.com

Philadelphia PGA Section Announces Partnership with Stitch

Lower Gwynedd Township, Pa. (April 19, 2025) — The Philadelphia PGA Section is proud to announce its partnership with Stitch, a company renowned for its high-quality luxury golf bags, apparel, and equipment.

As part of the partnership, Stitch will be sponsoring the Spring Membership Meeting on March 31 at Dupont Country Club.

“The Philadelphia PGA is excited to partner with Stitch,” said Section Executive Director Geoff Surrette, PGA. “It’s great to have another premium brand like Stitch come on to support our professionals. We want to thank Laurie and the entire team at Stitch for their commitment to the Section.”

“The Philly Section is such an important PGA Section.  With over 100 years of history and including some of the finest clubs in the country, the Philly Section of the PGA is so important to the game of golf,” said Brad King, CEO. “Stitch Golf is so proud to be a sponsor of this year’s Section event and we are grateful, once again, for being able to spend time with so many of the Section members.  Stitch’s commitment to the Philly Section is unwavering and we are so appreciative for the support you are showing our growing brand.  Thanks once again for allowing us to come and spend time with you.  See you next year!”

About Stitch
Stitch Golf designs and manufactures premium golf bags and accessories that combine timeless design with modern craftsmanship, ensuring each bag has exceptional attention to detail down to the last stitch. Stitch Golf’s products are built on the principles of super-lightness, strength, and durability, offering golfers a stylish way to carry golf gear and to Dress Your Game®. Stitch Golf was founded in 2012 in Cary, North Carolina, as a golf brand taking inspiration from vintage motorsports. The company’s inception was sparked by an encounter with a 1958 Porsche Racer, leading to the creation of the original leather Racer Headcover, which remains a best-seller. Over the years, Stitch’s product line has expanded to include innovative golf bags, travel gear, and apparel, all designed to seamlessly blend function and style.

Contact: Laurie Stewart, laurie@thepgagroup.com

About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 590 golf facilities in our region.

Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Communications Director, mfrey@pgahq.com

The Philadelphia PGA Section Announces a Partnership with TrophySmack

Lower Gwynedd Township, Pa. (April 16, 2025) —The Philadelphia PGA Section is looking forward to another great year of working with TrophySmack, a company specializing in custom and unique awards.

TrophySmack will be supporting the Section by providing awards for the PGA HOPE Cup, a discount on medals for the Philadelphia PGA Junior Tour and will be working with PGA REACH Philadelphia on a revenue share.

“We’re excited to work with TrophySmack again this season” said Section Executive Director, Geoff Surrette. “Both our Veterans and Juniors loved the title belt awards from last season.”

“This partnership is a testament to our mission to redefine the thrill of victory,” said Chase Vernon, TrophySmack representative. “Working with the Philadelphia PGA, we’re excited to spark a new era in golf where every champion—whether a seasoned pro or an emerging talent—feels the rush of winning. We envision golfers getting truly excited to show off their championship gear. At the end of the day, social media posts hit differently when you’re celebrating with a championship belt or one of our other epic awards. The events, sponsors, and courses only stand to benefit from the increased organic exposure.”

About TrophySmack
TrophySmack is revolutionizing golf recognition with dynamic, customizable awards that are helping to inspire a new era while honoring the previous. Far from the traditional trophy company, TrophySmack transforms the act of winning into an unforgettable celebration, igniting excitement and inspiring passion among players of all ages.
Contact: Chase Vernon, chase@trophysmack.com 

About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 590 golf facilities in our region.

Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Communications Director, mfrey@pgahq.com

The Philadelphia PGA Section Announces a New Partnership with Branded Bills

Lower Gwynedd Township, Pa. (April 15, 2025) —The Philadelphia PGA Section is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Branded Bills, an apparel company renowned for its distinctive hats.

Branded Bills will be sponsoring the Pro-Assistant Pro Championship at Seaview Golf Resort on July 14.

“We’re delighted to partner with Branded Bills” said Section Executive Director, Geoff Surrette. “We’re looking forward to a successful and collaborative relationship.”

“Myself and Branded Bills are very excited for this collaboration,” said McKae Franks, account executive. “We cannot wait to provide some of the best premium headwear to help the Philadelphia PGA section and their mission to help grow this game.”

About Branded Bills
Branded Bills, established in 2015, is a premium apparel company specializing in meticulously crafted hats and apparel designed for a lifestyle of exploration and refinement. Originating with hand-branded leather patches, they’ve grown through dedication and innovation, prioritizing quality and customer customization. From early state-specific designs to developing their own headwear line and expanding into apparel, Branded Bills focuses on delivering exceptional products that resonate with a discerning audience, emphasizing both style and purpose. They continue to evolve, exploring new partnerships and expanding their reach while maintaining their commitment to premium quality and customer satisfaction.
Contact: McKae Franks, mckae.franks@brandedbills.com

About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 590 golf facilities in our region.

Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Communications Director, mfrey@pgahq.com

Turtleson Joins Philadelphia PGA as Section Partner

Lower Gwynedd Township, Pa. (March 3, 2025) — Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the Philadelphia PGA Section is excited to partner with Turtleson. Their reputation for crafting classic sportswear with a modern edge makes them a perfect fit, and we look forward to a successful collaboration

Turtleson will be sponsoring this year’s Pro-Scratch Championship at Rolling Green Golf Club in August on Monday, August 11.

Geoffrey Surrette, Philadelphia PGA Executive Director, said, “Turtleson’s focus on quality and innovation makes them a great partner. We’re looking forward to an elevated Pro-Scratch experience for our members.”

“Partnering with the Philadelphia PGA Section is a natural fit for Turtleson,” said Mark Gama, Turtleson’s local account manager. “With its rich history and connection to some of the most prestigious courses and private clubs in the country, the Section reflects the tradition, excellence, and passion for the game that Turtleson stands for.”

About Turtleson
Based out of Tennessee, Turtleson is a golf apparel company known for making classic sportswear with a modern twist, an ideal blend of luxury and performance. They value quality, style and versatility as well as seek to ensure the utmost satisfaction from all of their customers.
Contact: Mark Gama, magamacompany@gmail.com

About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 590 golf facilities in our region.

Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Communications Director, mfrey@pgahq.com

Jack Jolly & Son Inc. Returns as a Partner of the Philadelphia PGA

Lower Gwynedd Twp., Pa. (April 13, 2025) — The Philadelphia PGA Section is pleased to announce the renewal of its partnership with Jack Jolly & Son Inc., a leading wholesale supplier of golf equipment and accessories for pro shops, golf shops, and club repair shops, for the 2025 season.

Jack Jolly will support the William Hyndman III Memorial Classic on Monday, June 30 at Huntingdon Valley C.C., the Delaware Valley Open at Trump National Golf Club – Philadelphia, on September 29 and the Philadelphia Assistant’s Organization. They also will be a presenting sponsor of the Jack Jolly & Son Championship on September 8, at Laurel Creek C.C.

Geoffrey Surrette, PGA, the Executive Director of the Philadelphia Section said, “The section is always thankful of the support of Jack Jolly and Son Inc. We have been working with them for countless years and all of their staff are great people to do business with.”

“At Jack Jolly, we’re proud of our long-standing partnership with the Philadelphia PGA,” said Miranda Rooney. “We’re committed to supporting both our loyal partners and new customers every step of the way. With top-quality merchandise at competitive prices, we’ve got everything you need for your shop—because once you go Jack, you never go back!”

About Jack Jolly & Son Inc.
As a leading wholesaler of golf accessories, Jack Jolly & Son Inc. provides personalized solutions for tees and grips. This family-owned company, established in memory of Scottish golfer Jack Jolly, partners with top golf brands to distribute customized products to local golf facilities.

Contact: Miranda Rooney, mrooney@jackjolly.com

About the Philadelphia PGA Section
The Philadelphia PGA Section, covering eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware, is one of 41 geographical managing entities of the PGA of America. This Section manages nearly 900 PGA of America Members and Associates who are employed at over 590 golf facilities in our region.

Contact: Matt Frey, PGA, Communications Director, mfrey@pgahq.com