News Summary
Orlando recently hosted the 2025 PGA Show, highlighting the achievements of PGA Jr. League Coaches at the annual #GameChanger Awards. Emceed by NBC’s Lauren Thompson, the event celebrated coaches who have enriched golf opportunities for youth nationwide. The ceremony also paid tribute to former PGA employee Dan Baker and acknowledged the vital role of engaging youth in golf through various awards, including the Player Engagement Award. The evening underscored the commitment to cultivating future golf champions and the ongoing support for youth programs.
Orlando Celebrates PGA Jr. League Coaches at the 2025 #GameChanger Awards
Last week, the vibrant city of Orlando, Florida was buzzing with excitement as the 2025 PGA Show rolled into town, embracing fans and professionals alike from the world of golf. High spirits filled the air on January 22, as the highly anticipated #GameChanger Awards ceremony took center stage, brilliantly emceed by NBC’s Lauren Thompson. This memorable event aimed to shine a spotlight on the hardworking PGA Jr. League Coaches, recognizing their significant contributions to broadening golf opportunities for kids across the country.
Recognizing Our Champions
This annual awards ceremony, which has been honoring exemplary coaches since its inception in 2019, showcased the 25 largest PGA Jr. League programs throughout the United States and also highlighted the most impactful programs in each of the 41 PGA of America Sections. The enthusiasm was palpable as coaches and supporters gathered to celebrate their collective achievement of fostering a love for golf among young athletes.
In an exciting addition to the awards, the Player Engagement Award, introduced in 2022, acknowledges coaches who foster inclusive and diverse programming. Coaches recognized in this special category have shown commitment by holding 40 or more active PGA Jr. League players, managing various age divisions, conducting PGA Family Golf events, and completing a selection of PGA Coach courses along with an ADM certification. This highlights the dedication of coaches striving to create enriching experiences for kids.
A Lasting Tribute
As the celebrations unfolded, the atmosphere shifted to a somber note when the life of Dan Baker, a former PGA employee who tragically passed away in a car accident in December 2024, was honored. A heartwarming initiative, the Dan Baker PGA Junior League, was established at The Park to provide golf opportunities specifically for children from high-need communities. This remarkable program, called the Opportunity League, plans to cater to 40 young players, set to commence within the year.
Efforts are underway to seek donations to ensure the longevity of Baker’s program, and leaders like Geoff Lofstead, executive director of South Florida PGA, are emphasizing the need for a lasting endowment for the Opportunity League. It’s a true testament to the spirit of community in the world of golf and how it rallies together for a greater cause.
Celebrating Excellence in Golf Instruction
The evening also recognized outstanding individuals within the golfing community. Jason Baile, the director of instruction at Jupiter Hills Club, was honored as the 2025 PGA of America Teacher & Coach of the Year. Similarly, Pam Elders of Boca West Country Club received the PGA of America Player Development Award. These recognitions highlight the vital role that educators and coaches play in shaping the future of golf.
In another nod to excellence, the Pacific Northwest Section Golf Professionals received the coveted PGA Jr. League Game Changer Award for their success in engaging youth through this program.
Engagement on the Rise
The PGA Jr. League continues to thrive, bringing together over 64,000 boys and girls nationwide last year, all supported by a community of 2,700 dedicated PGA Coaches. This program is all about creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere to keep budding golfers excited about the game for years to come. The league is designed for kids aged 17 and under, separated into two main age divisions: 13u (under 13) and 17u (ages 14-17). With a focus on teamwork and skill development, PGA Jr. League employs a two-person scramble format that encourages collaboration and fun on the course.
Through partnerships like the National Car Rental PGA Jr. League Championship, launched in 2022, the program continues to grow and expand its outreach, making golf accessible to youth from all backgrounds. Remarkably, last year alone, the PGA Jr. League provided over 3,100 scholarships to children who needed assistance, paving the way for inclusive access to the sport.
Among the many advocates of golf’s future are ambassadors such as Stephen Curry, Alex Morgan, Rory McIlroy, and Lexi Thompson, who all lend their voices to promote the importance of youth engagement in the sport.
As the night wound down, it was clear that the 2025 #GameChanger Awards not only celebrated past successes but also laid a foundation for the lasting impact of golf on future generations. The dedication of PGA Jr. League coaches ensures that the game remains vibrant and inviting for young enthusiasts all over the country.
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Additional Resources
- First Call Golf: PGA Jr. League #GameChanger Awards
- Palm Beach Post: Dan Baker & Opportunity League
- Laughing Place: PGA Junior League & Disney Parks
- PNW PGA: 2022 PGA Jr. League Game Changer Awards
- PGA.com: Team Illinois & Team North Carolina Highlight
- Wikipedia: Junior Golf
- Google Search: PGA Jr. League
- Google Scholar: PGA Jr. League
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Google News: PGA Jr. League
