Each year, the Pacific NW Section (PGA of America) recognizes the golf professionals throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana who are helping grow the game of golf by working with players of all abilities.
Special Award Winners
Roger Wallace, of Polson Bay Golf Course, is honored as the 2023 Golf Professional of the Year. This is Roger’s fourth time receiving this prestigious award.
Carrie De Gree, from Royal Oaks Country Club received two awards: Assistant Golf Professional of the Year and Professional Development Award for Education.
Eugene Country Club’s Christopher Smith was named 2023 Teacher of the Year.
Chas Holmes, from Bear Creek Country Club, received the Bill Strausbaugh Award for Mentoring. Chas was recognized for his work to help mentees become better pros.
The 2023 Player Development Award went to Ryan Young. The Chambers Bay professional was honored with the same award in 2020 and 2016.
2023’s Youth Player Development Award was given to Sara Griffin, who was also awarded for her work with PGA Jr. League.
Perry Williams Awards (For Rules)
Mike Miller, of Kent, WA was recognized for his unwavering dedication to the rules of golf.
Merchandisers of the Year
Running a golf shop means different things to different types of facilities. That’s why the section awards those high performing professionals from three different categories.
Public Category
Sean Arey, of Trysting Tree, is one of the few pros who own his golf shop. He’s excelled at highlighting college sports, thanks to his close proximity to Oregon State.
Resort Category
Kalispel Golf & Country Club’s Nick McCaslin snagged his third consecutive merchandiser award by always making his customers feel special in his shop.
Private Category
Trevor Fox, from the Golf Club at Black Rock, rose to the top for private club merchandisers. Creativity and commitment to service have contributed to his club’s success.
Player of the Year
Liam Kendregen’s outstanding season was punctuated when the Sand Point CC professional finished tied for 3rd at the PNW PGA Professional Championships.
Senior Player of the Year
Semiahmoo’s Jeff Coston won the Senior Washington Open, and logged two more top three finishes in some of the section’s biggest events of 2023.
PGA Assistant Player of the Year
Shane Prante, of The Home Course, won the Pelzer Golf Oregon Open Invitational and finished second in the National Car Rental PNW PGA Assistant Championship.
Patriot Award
Bill Morach, of Eugene Country Club, earned the 2023 Patriot Award, emphasizing his dedicationto serving members and veterans of the US Armed Forces.
Deacon Palmer Award
Ryan Cutter, born with leg deformities, was recognized for his resilience in the face of personal challenges. Ryan inspires through his PGA Hope program.