PGA REACH Colorado Teams with the Colorado Golf Association, Game For Life event at Hiwan Golf Club, and Wilson Golf to Make Junior Golf Accessible to All

Financial Aid Available for Golf Equipment and Junior Tournament Entry Fees

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Larkspur, Colo. - PGA REACH Colorado (the charitable arm of the Colorado PGA Section) is proud to release a new collaboration that will hopefully provide access to the game of golf for kids who can’t otherwise afford it. With the help of the Colorado Golf Association (CGA), Game For Life, and Wilson Golf, kids within the geographical boundaries of the Colorado PGA (COPGA) will now be able to apply for financial aid to play in tournaments on the COPGA Junior Tour and apply for a new set of clubs from Wilson Golf.

The COPGA Junior Tour is a part of the newly released junior golf pathway created by the 850 PGA Professionals who call the COPGA Section home. The concept was created with the American Development Model (ADM) in mind and utilized by the US Olympic Committee. This model focuses on getting kids involved in the game at the right level and at the right age to prevent burnout. The junior tour, which houses over 1,000 junior golfers and growing, has three different levels of competition for kids ages 6-18. Starting with the Developmental Series, to the Player Series, and up to the top level of competition at the Cup Series, the tour is open to kids of any skill level and now any financial level.

PGA REACH Colorado was created by PGA Members in 1996 with the goal of positively impacting lives through the game of golf. The 501c3 tries to ensure that no matter your financial situation you should not be deterred from being involved in a game that teaches so many life lessons. With the creation of this Financial Aid program, alongside our other free programs such as Golf in Schools and Drive, Chip & Putt, the Foundation is heading in the right direction, despite many other challenges ahead.

“Thank you to our partners on this initiative. Without them, it would not be possible to afford all kids the opportunity to play in our amazing junior programs. This is a huge step forward in our foundation's priorities. I would encourage all Colorado PGA Professionals and Allied Associations to identify families within their network who may benefit from this program.” said Mike O’Donnell, PGA, Vice President and Board Chairman of PGA REACH Colorado.

To learn more about PGA REACH Colorado, the COPGA Player Pathway, or the 850 PGA Professionals who teach the game of golf, please Click Here.

For more information on the PGA REACH Colorado Junior Programs or the Financial Aid Initiative, please contact Peter Weisel, Player Engagement Director.

Support PGA REACH Colorado Support the Colorado Golf Association Support the Game for Life Foundation

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Steve VanDyke, PGA, Elected as President of Colorado PGA’s West Chapter, Alongside Newly Appointed At-Large Directors

By Steven Bartowski • 19 Apr, 2024

Larkspur, CO - The West Chapter of the Colorado Professional Golfers' Association (COPGA) proudly announces the election of Steve VanDyke, PGA, as its newest President, alongside the appointment of esteemed At-Large Directors. PGA of America Golf Professional Steve VanDyke brings a wealth of experience and a profound dedication to the West Chapter PGA of America Golf Professionals and Associates, making him an ideal candidate to lead the West Chapter. With an almost 20-year career as a Class A PGA of America Golf Professional and a passion for the sport that shines through in every endeavor, VanDyke is poised to steer the Colorado PGA West Chapter toward a future marked by excellence. "It is an honor and a privilege to serve as President of the West Chapter PGA," said Steve VanDyke, PGA. "I am deeply committed to advancing the interests of our members, promoting the growth of golf at all levels, and fostering a vibrant and supportive community within the region. Together with my fellow directors and the entire West Chapter membership, I look forward to charting a course that ensures the continued success and vitality of the West Chapter PGA." Joining President VanDyke in this new chapter of leadership is a group of distinguished At-Large Directors whose expertise and vision will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of the Colorado PGA West Chapter. These directors bring diverse perspectives, extensive industry knowledge, and a shared commitment to advancing the golf industry and enhancing the professional lives of PGA of America Golf Professionals. The newly appointed At-Large Directors are: Cody Hasten, PGA Head Professional at Haymaker Golf Course Jim Pratt, PGA General Manager at Aspen Glen Golf Club (beginning a new term) Continuing with their At-Large Director roles are: Loren Forney, PGA Member Trey Johnson, PGA Assistant Professional at Vail Golf Club Mark Matz, PGA Head Professional at Beaver Creek Golf Club Tim Tafoya, PGA Director of Golf at Tiarado Golf Course We would like to thank Luke Brosterhous, PGA, who served selflessly as West Chapter President before VanDyke. During his term, Luke was instrumental in raising the standards for education and the West Chapter Cup Matches. Luke will now slide into the Honorary President role on the Board. Their combined talents and dedication to the principles of the Colorado PGA will undoubtedly enrich the West Chapter's initiatives and programs, benefitting both members and the broader golfing community. "We are thrilled to welcome Steve VanDyke as our new West Chapter President and to introduce our esteemed At-Large Directors," said Cathy Matthews-Kane, PGA President of the Colorado PGA Section. "Under their leadership, we are confident that the West Chapter PGA will continue to thrive and uphold its legacy as a beacon of excellence for the members of the chapter. We are also excited to welcome Mr. VanDyke to the Section Board of Directors as West Chapter President." For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Steven Bartkowski CEO/Executive Director Colorado PGA Section PGA REACH Colorado Foundation 303.996.1593 sbartkowski@pgahq.com About the Colorado PGA West Chapter: The West Chapter of the Colorado PGA encompasses those Members and Associates that work west of the Continental Divide in the state of Colorado. The West Chapter is made up of approximately 100 Members and Associates with over 50 facilities being located in the Chapter. The West Chapter is governed by Officers elected by the Chapter Membership. The Core Purpose of the Chapter is to deliver the member programs and services of the Colorado PGA on the Western Slope. The West Chapter provides continuing education, pro-only, and pro-am tournaments.