Professional Development Award Recipient: Brad Skupaka, PGA

The Colorado PGA Professional Development Award is designed to recognize a Colorado PGA Professional for their outstanding and continuing contributions in developing and improving educational opportunities for PGA Professionals.

Through his distinguished contributions to the development and education of fellow PGA Members Brad Skupaka, PGA, is awarded the 2021 Colorado PGA Professional Development Award. Brad is involved in the development and implementation of training the 700+ coaches at GOLFTEC, who leave feeling inspired and excited to return to their own students. He has a positive influence on the careers of many PGA Professionals as they help to grow the game. Brad also has appeared in over 200 Golf Channel segments presenting content and he raises money for several charitable organizations; over $20,000 since 2019!

Brad grew up in Pittsburgh, PA, where he took an interest in golf around age 10 or 11. Brad commented that his dad played when he was a child, and it became a fun activity for them to enjoy together; playing golf “practically every day after school.” From high school golf to Coastal Carolina’s Golf Management Program, to GOLFTEC, Brad has always been involved in golf. After graduating college in 2009, he has been with GOLFTEC ever since. He managed a center in Philadelphia, PA, until 2016 when he and his wife took a leap and moved to Colorado to work at GOLFTEC HQ (now the Director of Teaching Quality). That’s 12 years with GOLFTEC! Brad enjoys that his career allows him to always strive to be better; continually pushing GOLFTEC forward, and golf in general.

What does it mean to you to receive the Professional Development Award?

It’s an honor to be recognized by peers for my continued contribution to the game of golf. I’ve helped hundreds of coaches each year improve their programs and it’s great to know that people are benefitting from my work.

What are the qualities you possess that you believe supported you in receiving this award?

I believe I can present different complex topics in a way that anyone can understand. Explaining concepts to a Professional versus on the lesson tee requires different communication styles. It’s important to tailor the message to the attendee.

What are tools you use in your profession that help you with your success?

First and foremost, the network of people I’ve surrounded myself with, between living in Colorado, GOLFTEC, and when I was with the Philadelphia Section, are beneficial to my success. Also, staying ahead on different and new technologies, whether that’s new clubs, launch monitors, etc., to further golf education. To create new opportunities with GOLFTEC, we produce objective studies with new technology to compare the results against industry standards, such as Trackman.

As it relates to golf, what is the best piece of advice you have received and what advice would you give to others?

Always try to surround yourself with people you want to be like
Have high aspirations for where you want your career and life to go
Engage with people who have both different and similar viewpoints to yourself

What is your proudest moment as a golf professional?

When I was teaching lessons, I had one particular student who was trying to qualify for World Finals. In October 2018, he failed to qualify. He started working with me at that point and six months later, he qualified! That was meaningful to me because I helped him achieve his goals through hard work.

Share something about yourself that others may not know:

I’ve been involved in golf for what seems my entire life. Every job I’ve ever had has been in golf! Everything from working on the grounds crew at 15 to waiting tables at the Club. Over the years, I’m thankful for the fun opportunities that golf has presented!

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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.