Ruby & Joy Chou, 2022

Sibling Rivalries and Family Legacies Elevate Iowa’s Golf Championships

In the heartland of Iowa, amidst the gentle rolling greens and under the expansive skies, a tradition of excellence in golf has been cultivated, passed down from mothers to daughters, and among siblings bonded by both blood and a shared love for the game. Within the annals of Iowa’s golfing history, tales abound of familial bonds intertwining with the pursuit of victory on the fairways and greens of the state’s esteemed tournaments. From the Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship to other prestigious golfing events, the echoes of success resonate not only with individual triumphs but also with the collective achievements of mothers, daughters, and siblings who have left an unforgettable mark on the Iowa golfing landscape.

Cedar Falls is home to many of the state’s best golfers, and quite possibly the best collective family of golfers in the Bermels. The Bermels have called Cedar Falls home for more than 30 years and have raised five children immersed in golf. Twins Hailey and Hannah had plenty of competition at home with an older brother, Jacob, and sister, Abby, and younger brother, Ben. All five of the Bermel children played collegiate golf at the University of Northern Iowa and were coached by their father and PGA Professional, John. This upbringing shaped each into the fierce competitors they are today.

Hannah and her twin sister Hailey led Cedar Falls High School to two Class 5A State Titles during their high school careers. Additionally, Hannah placed second at State individually in 2016. While playing collegiately at UNI, she had several top-ten finishes along with two tournament wins. She also won four consecutive Missouri Valley Conference Scholar-Athlete honors and four First Team MVC All-Conference honors. Given the depth of talent in the MVC, these accolades were not easy to come by.

When looking at the leaderboard for an IGA Women’s Championship, one is almost always going to see Hannah near the top. Over the last six Iowa Women’s Amateurs, Bermel has placed in the top ten four times. Hannah has come out on top at two IGA Championships over her career – the 2019 Women’s Four-Ball at Pheasant Ridge (with sister Hailey) and the 2023 Women’s Match Play at Talons Golf. As she goes further into her golf career, don’t be surprised see her name in contention each week.

Lisa (Horton) Snyder had her fair share of run-ins at the Iowa Women’s Amateur, but none more notable than the 1995 championship. Leading by two through 36 holes, Horton quickly found herself joined at the top after just the first hole. After a back-and-forth battle to the end, Horton remained in a tie for the lead as the trio turned to the back nine at Sunnyside Country Club. A couple of late stumbles ended her chances at lifting the Fladoos trophy, but her family legacy at the top women’s event Iowa has to offer, wasn’t over yet.

In 2017, Snyder watched in awe as her then 15-year-old daughter Britta did what she came so close to doing. In a field full of the state’s top female amateurs, the high school freshman made Hyperion Field Club bow down to her length off the tee and pinpoint accuracy from the fairway as she ran away with the title. The Horton legacy finally etched its way onto the Fladoos trophy after all. Even if it does say Snyder.

In the early 1990’s, more than 30 years after the Fladoos sisters left their mark on the IowaWomen’s Amateur, a new set of sisters set out to leave their mark. Lia and Becky Biehl of Keokuk took charge of the event from 1990 through 1993 as they combined to win three titles. Kicking off the incredible stretch for the Biehl’s was Lia as she captured the 1990 Iowa Women’s Amateur at Clinton Country Club with a blistering 12-under-par 54-hole total. Her second round 69 was highlighted by eight birdies which included six straight, and two chip-ins. At the time, she commented, “It was outrageous. You don’t expect to chip in twice during the same round”.

Her confidence in putting together three good rounds that week in Clinton stay

ed with her, and she rode the momentum into the 1991 Iowa Women’s Amateur at Beaver Hills Country Club. With all eyes on the defending champion, masking her nerves was the toughest task she faced all week.Leading by three with a trio of holes remaining in the final round, Biehl bogey

ed the 16th bringing her closest competitor, Edith Dekock, within striking distance. After Biehl tapped in for a bogey four on the par three 17th, the only thing standing between Dekock and a one-stroke deficit was a two-foot par putt. The slick side hill putt missed on the low side and Biehl, admittedly, let out a brief sigh of relief. “How could I not be relieved?” Biehl stated after the round. Pouring in a five-foot par putt on the 18th was the last thing Biehl needed to do to secure her

second straight Iowa Women’s Amateur. Having settled her nerves at the right time, Biehl did just that, and once again left the rest of the field looking up wondering what could have been.

Becky Biehl watched on as her sister Lia won back-to-back Iowa Women’s Amateur championships. Before the 1993 Iowa Women’s Amateur, only one set of sisters, Sharon and Jacque, had ever been victorious. But following three days at Oneota Country Club in July of that year, the list grew to two. Precision off the tee and an impressive short game paid off for Biehl a

s she left little doubt that she was the best female player in the state that week. Opening the championship with a round of 73, she led by one. Posting her second-straight 73, she led by three. By the time she put the finishing touches on her final round 77, her lead had ballooned to eight.

A testy opening nine 40 left Biehl wondering if she was letting everyone back into the championship. Early bogeys and wayward putts left her feeling uneasy as she made the turn, but after draining a five-footer for par on the 13th, her confidence slowly came back. Playing her final six holes in one-under didn’t hurt either.  Lapping the field by eight strokes, it was the largest margin of victory in the championship since Barb Thomas won it in 1982 by 14.

The Chou sisters came to the United States in search of taking their games to the next level. Honing their skills at Iowa State, both quickly made their presence known at the Iowa Women’s Amateur. Joy, the older of the two, was destined for greatness at the Iowa Women’s Amateur. In her first appearance at the state’s most prestigious event, she finished in a tie for second. The following year, in 2020, she captured the Fladoos trophy dramatically with a birdie on the 54th hole to secure a one-stroke victory over little sister Ruby. Three months of quarantine had Chou itching to get back to competitive golf leading up to the championship. Trying to get back on track and have fun paid off for the elder Chou as she closed with one-under 70 for her lowest round of the week. Taking control of the championship at the mid-way point of the final round, it looked like she would cruise to the 18th to capture the title. A double-bogey on the 10th brought Ruby back into the mix but not for long. Stringing together seven straight pars, Chou steadied the ship en route to her first of two Iowa Women’s Amateur titles.

Returning in 2021, Chou left little doubt that she was the best player in the state. Returning to the historic Dubuque Golf and Country Club, she cruised to a nine-stroke victory in the star-studded field. Posting 75-73 to open the event, she entered the final round with a two-stroke lead. Finding her groove on the back-nine, she watched as her lead swelled to nine and she quickly left the field struggling to close the gap. In capturing her second straight victory, she joined the short list of successful title defenses in Iowa Women’s Amateur history. Chou turned pro the following year, and in 2023, made history as she qualified for the U.S. Women’s Open at Pebble Beach. Though she would go on to miss the cut, she joined the exclusive club of Iowans to tee it up at an LPGA Major Championship.

Living up to your family name can be a big ask. Especially when your older sister captures the Fladoos Family Trophy in consecutive years. To Ruby Chou, however, it was just another tournament on her schedule that she wanted to capture. Ruby started her impressive postseason run in 2022 with a top-20 finish at the Big 12 Conference Championship. Her run continued as she made Iowa State Women’s Golf history by posting the lowest 54-hole score in an NCAA Regional by a Cyclone. Ruby shot 211 for the three days, highlighted by a Cyclone all-time Regional low round of 68 on day one. Her stellar play earned her low-individual honors at the NCAA Stanford Regionals which included a spot at the 2022 NCAA Division I National Championship.

Chou rode the early spring momentum into the summer, winning the 98th Iowa Women’s Amateur at Cedar Rapids Country Club by two strokes over Iowa State teammate, Warda Amira. Cedar Rapids Country Club proved to be a difficult test for the field, but her positive outlook helped her handle it with ease. Her Iowa Women’s Amateur win kept the Fladoos Trophy with the Chou family. It marked the first time in tournament history that sisters captured the event title for three consecutive years. They also joined the Fladoos’ and Biehl’s as the only sisters to capture the elusive championship. Joy’s experience helped Ruby earn the title as the elder delivered pep talks over the phone each night of the tournament. Although Joy told Ruby she would not be able to make it to the tournament at all, a surprise visit on the final green made Ruby’s victory even more special. All of Ruby’s accomplishments in 2022 culminated with her securing the title of IGA Women’s Player of the Year.

Ottumwa has a storied background of raising some of Iowa’s top golfers. It was home to six-time Iowa Women’s Amateur Champion Corkey Nydle. It was also home to the Paulson twins Kristin and Sarah. The duo, who were largely self-taught, admit that Ottumwa Country Club served as a babysitter growing up. It paid off for the pair as they each went on to play golf at the collegiate level. With both opting to stay in state for college, they went their separate ways as Kristin enrolled at Iowa State and Sarah at Central.

Kristin more than left her mark on the Iowa Women’s Amateur. A two-time champion, sheset records that may never be broken during her 2011 victory at Sunnyside Country Club. But before she could claim her second, she had to secure her first. In 2010, Finkbine Golf Course in Iowa City played host as the top females in the state teed it up. Even in the town of the Hawkeyes, Paulson felt right at home in her cardinal and gold. Opening the championship with a four-over-par 76, Paulson bounced back with a one-

under-par 71 in the second round to keep herself within striking distance. Trailing 36-hole leader Rachel Hanigan by two, Paulson opened the final round with back-to-back birdies to assume control of the lead. Another birdie on the front helped offset her lone bogey helping Paulson turn in two under, holding a four-shot lead over her playing partners. Coasting through the back nine in what felt like a formality, sealed the deal for Paulson. Her triumph at Finkbine completed the rare Iowa triple crown: a high school state title, the Iowa Junior Girls’ title, and the Iowa Women’s Amateur title.

Sunnyside Country Club in Waterloo has often played favorites to the defending champion. 2011 was no different when Kristin Paulson began her title defense on the par-71 layout. Opening with two-under, 69, Paulson trailed first-round leader Lisa Meshke by one. Round two, however, was a different story. Paulson turned the country club into her personal playground, splitting fairways, firing at pins, and playing with not a care in the world. By the time it was all said and done, she set the 18-hole Iowa Women’s Amateur record with a nine-under-par 63. Her one-shot deficit was flipped on its head, and molded into a ten-shot lead with one round remaining. Closing with her worst round of the tournament, one-under-par 70, Paulson never relinquished double-digit lead. Her 54-hole total of 14-under-par, 202 broke the previous record of 207 set in 2004 by Jennie Arseneault. It still holds to this day.

Des Moines Golf & Country Club opened its gates in 1994 to the Iowa Women’s Amateur. With one of the state’s best venues on display, it was shaping up to the quite the championship. Ames’ Paige Hoefle had just completed her final year at the University of Alabama and the previous summer watched as her brother Bill captured the Iowa Amateur in a rained-shortened championship at Beaver Hills. Unlike Bill, it would take three rounds for Paige to be named the Iowa Women’s Amateur champion. Opening with the only under-par round of the day, Hoefle led by six. Her lead held steady after a second-round 75 and it looked like it was all but over. Early in the final round, her lead had dwindled to four.

A momentous bogey on the par-four seventh was all it would take for her to calm her nerves. “Before I started today, I told myself I could afford to make a couple bogeys” Hoefle later said. She was right. A birdie at the eighth grew the lead to five and she never looked back. Completing the wire-to-wire victory with a closing 76, she and Bill made history as the first brother-sister duo to capture both the Iowa Amateur and Iowa Women’s Amateur.

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

High school golf is where most players get their start. Explore some of the state’s most dominant high school players just in time for the 2024 IGHSAU Championships tee off.

Former Iowa State women’s golf coach, Joan Gearhart

The Masters Behind Iowa’s High School and College Golf Success

In the verdant fields and sprawling campuses of Iowa, where the heartbeat of golf echoes across meticulously manicured greens, a cadre of dedicated mentors shape the next generation of golfing talent. From the windswept fairways of high school courses to the storied collegiate arenas, these coaches stand as beacons of inspiration and knowledge, molding raw potential into polished proficiency. With a keen eye for technique and a passion for the game that borders on reverence, they guide their charges toward excellence, instilling not just skill, but also discipline, sportsmanship, and a profound love for the sport. In the heartland of America, the realm of Iowa golf, these mentors are the architects of dreams and the stewards of tradition.

Tess Balsley – Veenker Memorial Golf Course

Tess Balsley (second from left)

Tess Balsley has long been known at Veenker Memorial Golf Course and the Iowa Masters Tournament. She first got her start at the Ames course in 1985 when she was a sophomore at Iowa State. Just four years later, Balsley was hired on full-time as the Club House Manager where she has remained for more than 25 years. Her duties range from league manager of over 140 participants, to registering players for the various events they host, and tournament prep. In addition to other normal administrative duties for the course, perhaps her most notable role is as the point of contact for the Iowa Masters Tournament held each July. The event continues to be a long-standing tradition on the Iowa Golf calendar and draws field sizes of more than 150 players.

Balsley’s efforts on a day-to-day basis are seen and appreciated by all those who tee it up. Hosting multiple high school, Iowa Section PGA, and IGA events annually, she has become a household name for those working in the industry. Her efforts have also seen her garner the Iowa Golf Association Club Manager of the Year award in 2005.

Sarah Bidney – Hyperion Field Club

Sarah Bidney, teaching pro at Hyperion Field Club, stands as one of Iowa’s premier golf instructors, boasting numerous accolades including three-time Iowa PGA Section Teacher of the Year and two-time Golf Digest Top Five “Best in State Instructor” for Iowa. Her teaching philosophy prioritizes individualized approaches over generic methods, aiming to unlock each golfer’s best swing. Notably, Bidney’s expertise extends to junior golf, where she excels through the Operation 36 program, renowned for its engaging curriculum blending games and creative swing techniques.

Operation 36 challenges kids to progressively shoot 36 for nine holes from various distances, fostering sustained interest and skill development. Bidney’s dedication to junior golf has earned her national recognition as an Operation 36 Master Top 50 Coach and three-time recipient of the Iowa PGA Section’s Youth Player Development Award. Beyond her accolades, Bidney’s genuine passion for the sport shines through, fueled by her own love for golf since high school. Despite her busy schedule, she remains committed to sharing the joy of golf with as many young players as possible, ensuring a bright future for golf in Iowa under her guidance.

Kelley Brooke – Bethpage Black

Hailing from Bettendorf, Kelley Brooke has made a profound impact on the golf industry over the past four decades, excelling as a player, instructor, and businesswoman. Getting her start in Iowa, she captured the 1985 Iowa Girls’ Junior Amateur before later attending the University of Iowa on what was the first-ever athletic scholarship for women’s golf. Her extensive professional career includes teaching over 50,000 golf lessons, owning golf venues, and receiving prestigious accolades such as the LPGA Professional of the Year Award in 2018. In New York City, Brooke has been instrumental in revolutionizing golf and recreation, establishing numerous instructional programs, including the largest junior golf program for children with disabilities and the Police Athletic League Golf Program for economically disadvantaged youth.

Operating three golf centers and managing renowned courses like Bethpage Black and Montauk Downs Golf Course, Brooke has contributed to putting clubs in the hands of those who might never have thought to play. Beyond her on-course endeavors, she has authored instructional books and articles for esteemed publications, showcasing her expertise and passion for the sport. Brooke’s media presence extends to television appearances, radio hosting, and guest spots on prominent shows and podcasts, amplifying her influence and reach within the golf community. As a lead instructor for NBC/Golf Channel, she shared her wealth of knowledge with audiences worldwide, further solidifying her status as a respected figure in the industry. Additionally, Brooke continues to compete on the Legends of the LPGA Tour, demonstrating her continuing commitment to the game she loves.

Lori Gaffney-Burmeister – Willow Creek Golf Club

Lori Gaffney-Burmeister, renowned as an upbeat and passionate golf instructor, first honed her skills as a high-level player, notably contributing to Valley High School’s championship victories. Her journey in golf began with fond memories of high school and junior golf in Iowa, marked by a memorable hole-in-one during the 1983 Iowa Women’s Amateur. Venturing beyond Iowa for college, Lori excelled at the University of Georgia, contributing to an SEC Championship team and further refining her game. Transitioning briefly to professional play on tours like the Futures Tour, Lori ultimately discovered her true passion in teaching.

Joining the LPGA Teaching and Club Professional Division, Lori embarked on a successful teaching career, spanning various resorts across the country with the John Jacob Golf Schools. Returning to her roots in Iowa, she spent 27 years at the Longview Golf Dome before moving to Glen Oaks Country Club and now Willow Creek Golf Course in Des Moines. Throughout her career, Lori’s teaching style has earned her accolades, including recognition as one of Golf Digest’s top five teachers in Iowa in 2019. With a knack for making golf enjoyable for students of all ages, Lori’s positive impact resonates in Iowa’s golfing community, contributing to the game’s growth and enjoyment.

Joan Gearhart – Iowa State University

Joan Gearhart, a trailblazer in women’s golf, was recently inducted into the Iowa State Athletics Hall of Fame for her pioneering coaching career. As head coach of the first ever women’s golf teams in Iowa State’s history, she led the team to three AIAW National Tournament appearances. Gearhart’s dedication and achievements have earned her much recognition, marking a highlight in her lifelong commitment to the sport.

Gearhart’s journey in golf began unexpectedly during high school, leading to a passion that shaped her life. From coaching at Iowa State to becoming one of the 40 Master Life teaching professionals in the LPGA, she has left an unforgettable mark in golf. Despite challenges such as funding shortages and inventive solutions like homemade direction devices, Gearhart’s love for golf has remained unwavering. Today, she continues to share her expertise, particularly with women eager to embrace the game, enriching lives and fostering a love for golf at the Alamo Country Club in Alamo, Texas.

Michelle Klein – Jesup High School

Michelle Klein epitomizes kindness, thoughtfulness, and generosity, and has left an indelible mark on the Iowa golf community over the past decade. Her dedication to women’s golf in the state is unparalleled, notably as co-captain of the Iowa Junior Girls’ Four-State Team for six years, where she served as a mentor and created memorable experiences for young players. Beyond her role as an IGA Board Member, Michelle’s involvement in committees like the Women’s Rules and Competitions Committee and the Ann Griffel Scholarship Committee underscores her commitment to advancing women’s golf. Her contributions extend to coaching the Jesup High School girls’ golf team, instilling valuable life lessons in her players while fostering their love for the game.

Despite her busy schedule, Klein finds time to compete herself, demonstrating her cheerful spirit and success on the course. Her notable achievements include qualifying for the U.S. Women’s Senior Amateur in 2022 and securing victory in the Senior Division of the Iowa Women’s Four-Ball Championship in 2023 with partner Laura Leszczynski. Klein’s impact on Iowa women’s golf is undeniable, earning her the 2021 Sean Flanders Volunteer of the Year Award from the IGA and cementing her as a driving force for the sport’s growth and excellence in the state.

Julie Manning – Iowa State University

Julie Manning (far left)

Former Iowa State Women’s Golf Coach Julie Manning inspired all of her former players to chase greatness. After leading the Cyclones for 20 years, Manning retired following the 2004 season, though her impact continued to last for all of her former players.  Manning’s tenure was marked by commitment to her players’ success both on and off the course. She inspired her team through her passion for the sport and her genuine care for her players’ personal and academic development. Manning’s coaching philosophy emphasized hard work, discipline, and resilience, instilling valuable life lessons in her athletes.

Under her guidance, the women’s golf team achieved notable successes, including conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. Manning was known for fostering a supportive and inclusive team culture. Her retirement was met with gratitude and admiration from the Iowa State community, recognizing her significant contributions to the university and the sport of golf. Throughout her career, Manning’s dedication and leadership left a lasting legacy, inspiring generations of athletes to strive for excellence.

Christie Martens – Iowa State University

Christie Martens has molded the Iowa State women’s golf program into a national powerhouse during her time leading the Cyclones. Under her guidance, the team has secured a remarkable 14 consecutive NCAA Regional berths since 2010. In 2014 they earned Iowa State’s first appearance at the NCAA Championship since 1993. Throughout her 20-year tenure, Martens has consistently led her team to top-25 rankings and program-best finishes and accolades, including Big 12 Coach of the Year honors in 2011. Her deep roster of talented players has contributed to numerous tournament victories, individual medalists, and notable achievements in both collegiate and professional golf arenas.

Martens’ impact extends beyond the golf course, with her players excelling academically and earning numerous academic All-Big 12 honors. Her recruiting prowess has attracted highly touted international talents, ensuring a diverse and competitive roster. Martens’ legacy is further solidified by the success of her former players, many of whom have transitioned to successful professional careers, including LPGA playing privileges and major championship appearances. With Martens’ leadership, Iowa State’s women’s golf program continues to thrive. In 2023, her squad took ISU to new heights both in school and in NCAA history when they smashed the 54-hole team score record, posting 60-under-par 804 at the Mountain View Collegiate. Setting new records and consistently competing at the highest levels of collegiate golf, Martens raises the bar year after year for the Cardinal and Gold.

Morgan McMillen – Oneota Golf & Country Club

General Manager or Head Golf Pro are two ways to describe Morgan McMillen. But becoming the first female to serve as both the General Manager and the Head Golf Pro can only be described as trailblazing. In the 100 years that Oneota Golf & Country Club has been in existence, no other female has held both titles concurrently. For those who know McMillen, it’s no surprise to see her succeed at such a high level.

She had an accomplished collegiate career at Wartburg College in Waverly. She earned All-Iowa Conference honors three times, racked up three top-nine finishes at the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championships, including a third and second-place finish, and earned Women’s Golf Coaches Association All-Midwest Regional honors as a senior. Upon graduating in 2015, she joined the golf professional ranks while also serving as the assistant coach for Luther College. As an Iowa PGA Section Pro, she’ll look to capture her third consecutive Iowa Women’s PGA Professional Championship later this summer. She enjoys giving back to the members at Oneota and helping them build not only their golf fundamentals but love for the game.

Megan Menzel – University of Iowa

Megan Menzel has led the University of Iowa women’s golf program for over a decade, ushering the team to remarkable achievements both on and off the course. Under her guidance, the Hawkeyes have seen significant postseason success, including appearances at the National Golf Invitational and NCAA Regionals. In their 2023 post-season berth to the National Golf Invitational, freshman Shannyn Vogler brought home the first individual tournament title since 2018 for the Hawkeyes. Throughout her tenure, Menzel’s teams have shattered records and consistently ranked among the best in school history, with notable accomplishments including top finishes at prestigious tournaments and individual achievements.

Menzel’s coaching prowess extends beyond competition, with an emphasis on academic merit reflected in numerous Academic All-Big Ten honors and awards. Her commitment to player development and success has solidified Iowa’s position as a competitive force in collegiate golf. With a wealth of coaching experience ranging from collegiate coaching to country club instruction, Menzel’s leadership continues to elevate the Hawkeyes to new heights, both on the fairways and in the classroom. She has also coached four Big Ten Sportsmanship Award recipients with Chelsea Harris (Soda), Amy Ihm, and back-to-back recipients in 2023 and 2024 with Jordan Amelon and Kaitlyn Hanna.

Lisa Miller – PGA Professional

PGA Professional Lisa Miller has had a life engulfed with golf. For good reason too. In 1978, she secured the first women’s golf scholarship at the University of Northern Iowa, graduating with a B.A. in Education in 1979 and later earning a master’s degree in athletic administration from the University of Iowa in 1988. Notably, in 1994, she became the first woman to achieve Class A Membership in the Iowa PGA Section, and in 2005, attained PGA Master Professional status, only the ninth woman to do so at the time. Miller’s career saw her becoming the first female board member in the Iowa PGA Section and being inducted into the University of Northern Iowa’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2009. Her professional journey traversed various golf courses, with significant roles including PGA Head Professional at Indian Creek Country Club and Director of Golf for Cedar Rapids municipal golf courses

Since 1995, she has served as a PGA of America Adjunct Facility Member, continuing to mentor aspiring professionals even after her retirement in 2017. She has garnered numerous awards, including the Iowa PGA Bill Strausbaugh and Iowa PGA Professional Development accolades.

Post-retirement, she remains active in the Iowa PGA, contributing as a Board Member and Chair of the Scholarship Committee, while also teaching veterans through golf programs. Lisa aims to inspire and support women aspiring to join the PGA, advocating for increased female representation in golf leadership roles. She also founded the Women’s Fairway Scholarship awarded to one assistant female annually to help further their education and training toward a career in golf.

Janet Rooney – Des Moines Golf & Country Club

Janet Rooney has been the Head Golf Professional at Des Moines Golf since 1999, boasting over 20 years as a PGA member. Her responsibilities encompass the hiring and scheduling of staff in various capacities, including the pro shop, outside service, and starters. She manages both 9-hole and 18-hole women’s leagues, ensuring smooth operations and enjoyable experiences for participants. Janet takes charge of the monthly inventory for the golf shop, catering to members’ needs by facilitating special orders. Her organizational and diverse skill set make her an invaluable asset to the team, contributing to the efficient functioning of the golf facility.

Under her leadership, the pro shop and related services maintain a high standard of professionalism and customer satisfaction. Rooney’s tenure at Des Moines Golf reflects her dedication to the sport and commitment to providing exceptional service to members and guests alike. Her role involves not only administrative duties but also fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all golfers. Through her career, Rooney has continually demonstrated her expertise and dedication to the golfing community, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and patrons alike. Described by Director of Golf Scott Howe as “a well-rounded, terrific hire” Rooney has more than earned her keep at the West Des Moines club.

Kari Tomash – Cedar Rapids Country Club

Kari Tomash, a PGA Class A Member for 13 years, owns more than 20 years of golf professional experience, marked by a passion for teaching and fostering golf participation among juniors and women. Raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, she discovered her love for golf through her father, eventually earning a golf scholarship to Charleston Southern University. During her tenure there, she clinched five Division I tournament titles and garnered numerous accolades, including being named the 1993 Big South Freshman of The Year.

Recognized with the 2019 Wisconsin PGA Section Youth Player Development Award, she is also Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Certified. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, she commenced her career as a PGA Golf Professional at Cougar Point on Kiawah Island. Transitioning through various esteemed clubs nationwide, such as the Daniel Island Club and Butte des Morts Country Club, she thrives on cultivating lasting relationships with members and students, defining her favorite aspect of being a golf professional. Now at Cedar Rapids Country Club, Tomash continues to grow the game in her hometown.

Chelsea Soda – Echo Valley Country Club

Chelsea Soda, Director of Instruction at Echo Valley Country Club, has quite the resume´. After capturing 3 Illinois High School Team State titles, she brought her talents to the University of Iowa where she was a staple for the Hawkeyes. Leading the team in scoring average for three of her four years, she capped off her career with a 7th-place individual finish at the 2012 Big Ten Tournament. Soda was also named the 2012 Big Ten Conference Sportsmanship Award winner.

After graduating, she turned professional and embarked on her pro career. After playing in mini tour events and Monday Qualifiers, Soda got her big break in 2013 when she qualified for the U.S. Women’s Open at Sebonack Golf Club.

Her coaching career began at Illinois State University as an assistant, but she soon realized she was ready for a new challenge. That new challenge led her to the state of Iowa and Echo Valley Country Club in 2015. Soda’s favorite part of the new job was giving lessons and teaching junior golf. From there Soda went to Nantucket, MA and Denver, CO to learn from top-100 coaches and develop her own style of teaching. In 2022, Soda came back to Echo Valley and has been providing its membership with instruction programs since. In addition, Soda runs junior golf programs for the City of Waukee at Sugar Creek Golf Course and volunteers for First Tee — Central Iowa and the University of Iowa.

Erin Strieck – Pinnacle Country Club

With over 20 years as a PGA member, Erin Strieck oversees various aspects of golf operations and leagues, ensuring exceptional experiences for members and guests. Strieck’s career highlights include being the first female in various roles, such as Director of Golf at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena, Illinois, and Head Golf Professional/Director of Golf at Pinnacle Country Club in Milan, Illinois. She has actively contributed to the growth of the Iowa PGA, serving on the board and as Secretary, and has been involved in national PGA initiatives like PGA LEAD.

In 2021, she made Iowa Section PGA history when she was named the first female president of the organization.

Strieck’s leadership extends beyond the golf course, emphasizing mentorship and community engagement. Under her leadership, Pinnacle Country Club has seen increased participation, especially among women and juniors, fostering a welcoming environment for all. Her dedication to professional development and exemplary teaching skills have earned her accolades, including the Professional Development Award in 2020. She was also awarded the 2023 Iowa PGA Golf Professional of the Year, the highest honor in the Iowa PGA. Through her commitment to excellence and inclusivity, Strieck continues to leave a lasting impact on the Iowa PGA and the golfing community at large.

Jeanne Sutherland – University of Nebraska

Jeanne Sutherland boasts a remarkable career spanning four decades in collegiate golf, marked by numerous achievements and national success. With strong ties to the Midwest, Sutherland’s collegiate journey began at the University of Northern Iowa, where she earned accolades as a student-athlete and later became a member of the university’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Hailing from Dubuque, Iowa, her accomplishments have left a permanent legacy in collegiate golf.

In her debut season as head coach at Nebraska in 2022-23, she led the team to an NCAA Regional appearance, marking her 19th time guiding a team to such a berth. Before her latest post at Nebraska, Sutherland served as the head coach at SMU for 10 seasons and at Texas A&M for 15 seasons. Under her guidance, Nebraska shattered school scoring records and saw individual success reach uncharted territory. Sutherland’s coaching prowess extends beyond Nebraska, as evidenced by her numerous accolades and achievements at SMU and Texas A&M. At SMU, she led the team to consecutive NCAA Regional appearances, achieving notable successes such as a runner-up finish at the American Athletic Conference Championship. During her time at Texas A&M, Sutherland transformed the program, leading the team to multiple NCAA Championship appearances and capturing several tournament crowns and conference titles. A recipient of multiple Coach of the Year honors, Sutherland’s impact on collegiate golf is widely recognized. Her players have garnered numerous individual accolades, including All-America honors and conference championships. Beyond coaching, Sutherland has contributed to the golf community through her involvement with the PGA and WGCA, as well as her role as a golf professional.

Sarah Ward – West Grand Golf

Sarah Ward, a Des Moines native, has seen all that the Iowa golf scene has to offer. After an accomplished playing career at the University of Iowa, Ward turned professional. She went on to play on the LPGA Futures Tour, now known as the Epson Tour, where she held status from 1994 through 2001. After playing professionally for several years, Ward made her way back to her hometown and started teaching at West Grand Golf in West Des Moines. For the last 22 years Ward continues to help players of all ages and abilities improve their game. She contributes to the instruction teams of the Jane Blalock Clinics For Women and First Tee — Central Iowa. On any given summer day, one is sure to see an enthusiastic Ward on the lesson tee at West Grand Golf working with repeat clientele of all ages.

Elise Warne – William Penn University

Elise Warne, Head Men’s Golf Coach at William Penn University (WPU), boasts an impressive coaching career, guiding numerous standout players and earning accolades such as Heart Coach of the Year in 2023. Under her leadership, the Statesmen clinched the Heart title in 2023 and secured a spot in the NAIA National Championship. Warne’s coaching prowess was honed during her time as assistant coach and director of player development at Shattuck-St. Mary’s School in Minnesota, where she oversaw various aspects of the golf program.

Warne’s own golf career at WPU was illustrious, marked by four all-Heart of America Athletic Conference honors and three Heart Player of the Year titles. As an NAIA Third-Team All-American, she claimed victory in numerous tournaments and holds several school records, including the single-season stroke average and multiple 18-hole and 72-hole records. Additionally, Warne’s achievements extend to winning the NAIA long-drive competition and contributing to record-setting team scores at WPU. Her remarkable career trajectory emphasizes her impact on both coaching and playing fronts, solidifying her as a pivotal figure in William Penn University’s golf program.

Sharnae Winters – Hyperion Field Club

Sharnae Winters, Head Golf Professional at Hyperion Field Club, got her start in golf when she was young. Winters’ upbringing in Adel and her golfing journey through Des Moines Area Community College and the University of Nebraska shaped her passion for the sport. After earning her Class “A” PGA membership in 2012, she launched her professional career at Milburn Country Club in Overland Park, Kansas, before transitioning to the First Assistant Golf Professional role at the Vaquero Club in Westlake, Texas.

During her tenure there, she deepened her expertise in golf management and cultivated personalized service for club members, enhancing their overall experience. Returning to her Iowa roots in 2021, Winters assumed the role of Head Golf Professional at the Hyperion Field Club. Enjoying being back home, Winters enjoys sharing her love for the game with each of ‘Hypos’ members. She hasn’t lost her competitive edge either, often teeing it up in various Iowa Section PGA events throughout the year.

Other Section PGA Professionals include:

Mardi Kvidera – Sioux City Country Club

Sherry Newsome – Indian Creek Country Club

Carol Nitchske-Henrich – Bright Grand View

Sarah Overton – Finkbine Golf Course

Karrie Van Ravenswaay – The Ridge Golf Club

Mallory Simmelink – Landsmeer Golf Club

Abigail Tinlin – Echo Valley Country Club

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

In honor of Mother’s Day, look back on some of the most successful and well-known families in Iowa Women’s Golf history.

Honoring Eight of Iowa’s Outstanding Women’s Amateur Champions

In the heartland of America, amidst the sprawling fields and quaint towns of Iowa, a tradition of excellence in amateur golf has long been woven into the fabric of the state’s sporting history. Among the storied tales of fairways conquered and greens mastered, the triumphs of Iowa’s women stand out as beacons of skill, determination, and poise. Across the decades, these champions have left an indelible mark on the landscape of the game, showcasing not only their prowess on the course but also the enduring spirit of competition that defines the Iowa golfing community. As we reflect on the illustrious history of the Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship, we celebrate eight remarkable individuals whose names are etched in the archives of greatness.

In the summer of 1923, amidst the rolling fairways at Hyperion Field Club, Ruth Harwood emerged as a shining star in the Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship. Harwood navigated the challenging terrain with precision and poise, captivating spectators with her skillful play. Despite the intimidating competition, she showcased maturity well beyond her years, surging ahead to claim the coveted title.

Harwood’s triumph at the 1923 Iowa Women’s Amateur was not merely a display of athletic prowess but a testament to her free-flowing swing. Described at the time as a bobbed-haired 18-year-old, Harwood looked like a seasoned veteran in front of a crowd of nearly 250 spectators. After losing the first hole, the two opponents lost their footing on the second as newspapers later dubbed it a ‘blow up’. Though Harwood went on to claim the hole and even the match, the second featured a 10 and 11 by the two finalists.

Harwood flipped the switch and quickly took over the match. After winning the third, she never looked back. Shot after shot, she applied more pressure to her opponent Mrs. Ward E. Baker. Baker would struggle off the tee and on the greens. Soon she found herself three down at the turn to the teen. Harwood’s lead would extend to six up entering the 13^th hole and it would remain as she captured the title in dominant fashion, 6 & 5. Her ability to maintain composure under pressure and execute shots with finesse solidified her status as a true champion in just the second playing of the championship.

Francis Drake’s triumph at the 1928 Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship marked a defining moment in the history of Iowa golf. Competing at Sioux City Country Club, Drake took down the two-time defending champion Elizabeth Curtis in what was described as the “most hotly contested final match in the history of Iowa Women’s Golf”.

Drake never wavered against Curtis and came out the gates firing. After her opponent drove the first green, it appeared as though Drake was behind the eight ball. Following an uncanny three-putt by the defending champion, the two tied with pars. It was evident that Curtis slowly lost confidence as the match went on, first with her drives. Drake once again capitalized on her opponent’s misfires, winning the second hole to go one up. Reeling off two more wins, she quickly was three up through four holes. After extending her lead four up, Drake ran into trouble on the eighth and ninth holes and the lead was quickly cut in half heading into the second half of the afternoon match.

As the match went on, the match status changed four times, though Drake never trailed. Leading by one entering the 18^th hole, Drake watched as Curtis drained her 12-foot putt to extend the match into extra holes. However, it wouldn’t take long for the Clear Lake native to capture the title as she calmly rolled in a ten-footer on the 19^th hole to officially end the reign of Elizabeth Curtis.

Lucile Robinson Mann‘s legacy in Iowa golf is marked by a distinguished career filled with remarkable achievements and enduring contributions to the sport. Born in Cedar Rapids, Mann’s journey to golfing greatness began at a young age, fueled by a passion for the game and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Throughout her illustrious career, she amassed an impressive collection of accolades, solidifying her status as one of Iowa’s most celebrated golfers.

Mann’s list of accomplishments reads like a testament to her extraordinary talent and dedication. A dominant force on the fairways, she claimed victory in numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship. Her remarkable consistency and ability to perform under pressure earned her widespread recognition and respect within the golfing community.

Her remarkable stretch of Iowa Women’s Amateur titles began in 1929 when she claimed her first at Des Moines Golf & Country Club. After falling short in 1930 a fire was lit in Mann as she returned to championship form in 1931 capturing her second title in three years, this time coming at Hyperion Field Club. She was the brightest star on the state’s biggest stage from 1931 through 1934 as she reeled off a remarkable four straight titles. Three of the biggest years of her career came in 1933, 1934, and 1941.

In 1933, Mann claimed both the Iowa Women’s Amateur and the Women’s Western Amateur titles. In 1934, she captured the Iowa Women’s Amateur which for many players would be the highlight of their year. Not for Mann. Earlier in the summer, she got called up to represent her country on the U.S. Curtis Cup Team. The U.S. defeated Great Britain convincingly that year, keeping the trophy on home soil, by a score of 6 ½ to 2 ½. The Iowa Women’s Amateur wouldn’t be the only trophy of Mann’s career that she won multiple times as she reclaimed the Women’s Western Amateur in 1941.

In addition to her accomplishments on the course, Mann’s influence on Iowa golf reaches well beyond the boundaries of the fairways. As a devoted mentor and ambassador for the sport, she inspired countless aspiring golfers to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential. Her unwavering dedication to promoting the game and nurturing the next generation of talent has left a deep-rooted mark on Iowa golf, ensuring that her legacy will stand for generations to come.

While many players have found success early on in their Iowa Women’s Amateur playing history, few have had to wait as long as Nell Staats. Staats claimed her lone Iowa Women’s Amateur title after more than two decades of teeing it up in the championship and proved that age is nothing but a number. Entering the 1949 Iowa Women’s Amateur, the Davenport native wasn’t a player many feared going up against. The 50-year-old quickly proved everyone wrong, dominating the final match 7 & 5 over Mrs. Ray Mansfield.

It was evident early in the championship finals that Staats had her eyes on the prize. She lost just two of the first 16 holes and led 5 up after the morning 18. The afternoon 18 slowed her momentum as her lead shrunk to just three up through 21. She steadied the ship, and thanks to a short miss from Manfield, regained the momentum on the 24^th. She never looked back, increasing her lead, ultimately closing out Manfield on the 31^st hole.  With the victory, Staats became the oldest champion in tournament history and just the second Davenport native to claim the title following in the footsteps of Elisabeth Waterman.

Between the years of 1960 and 1970, the Iowa Women’s Amateur was won nine times by players with the last names of Nydle and Fladoos. But in 1964, Coralville’s Royleen Tipton made waves at Ottumwa Muni Golf Course for all the right reasons. Before teeing it up, Tipton was the dark horse of the championship. Just a week prior, she became an Iowa resident and had only been golfing for four years. Consistent, and personal best, rounds of golf saw the teenager capture the title by a staggering eight shots over a plethora of household names.

After earning the qualifying medalist spot with a 75, Tipton followed with rounds of 79, 76, 77 to post 307. The self-made player unleashed tee shots of up to 250 yards as spectators and fellow competitors could do nothing but watch in awe, and perhaps envy. Defending champion Corkey Nydle told reporters, “I think she surpasses any woman golfer we’ve had in Iowa for a long time”. High praise from someone like Nydle who at the time had racked up two victories at the top event. Linda Schelldorf and Jacque Fladoos finished second and third, respectively, to round out the all-teenage top three.

Linda Frisch of Cedar Rapids knew all about taking a break from golf. She had taken off three consecutive summers leading up to the 1973 Iowa Women’s Amateur when working at a summer camp. Even with the break, Frisch never lost her competitive edge and ultimately claimed a two-stroke victory over fellow Cedar Rapids resident Sue Harmon.

Frisch, who entered the final round with a three-shot lead, stumbled early and saw her lead disappear after taking a quadruple bogey eight on the second hole. She would later recount that the only mistake she made during the final round was hitting it in the rough on the second hole. The mistake, which was made twice, required penalty drops to complete the hole. The early hiccup allowed for her three closest pursuers to inch closer in hopes of claiming the title. Frisch steadied herself and returned to the form that earned her a spot in the final pairing, posting a back nine score of 37. Her maiden victory was capped off with a birdie on the 18^th hole, set up by a blistering 265-yard drive.

It wouldn’t be the last time she hoisted the Fladoos trophy either, as she did so again in 1977, this time coming at Beaver Hills Country Club in Cedar Falls. Once again leading by two in the final round, Frisch watched as her closest competitors stumbled. After tying the lead on the 13^th, Anita Harsh hit two balls in the water on the 15^th to all but dash her championship hopes. After struggling for most of the 15^th hole, Beth Kirkpatrick knocked her wedge to less than two feet from the cup, managing to save bogey and stay one back of Frisch.

As the dust settled, the pair found themselves tied for the lead entering the penultimate hole after an untimely pair of bogeys from Frisch on the 15^th and 16^th. They would remain tied heading into the 18^th and final hole after exchanging pars on the 17^th. With a thirty-foot birdie putt on the final green, Frisch nestled it up to just eighteen inches. After Kirkpatrick tapped in for bogey, Frisch calmly drained the putt for her second crown in four years. The key to securing her second title? Avoiding the big numbers. “I had a lot of bogeys but no doubles or triples and those are the ones that hurt you,” Frisch would later say.

Susan Shinn was self-described anxious during the final round at the 1974 Iowa Women’s Amateur. Only, the rest of the field had no clue. As the Waterloo native strolled the fairways at Lakeshore Golf & Country Club, she looked like a woman on a mission. However, her mind was quickly skipping forward to the 18^th green and making one final putt. “I guess I was just too anxious to finish” she later said.

The well-masked nerves never alerted her fellow competitors as she bolted out of the gates with birdies on two, three, five, and seven. The four birdies, for a combined total of 18 and a half feet, saw her turn in an impressive 3-under-par 33. After beginning the back nine with two pars, her lead ballooned to as many as 9 as the hot July day wore on. Even with two late stumbles, Shinn held on to claim a five-stroke win over Beth Kruger.

Defending her title the following year, Shinn came up short as she finished in solo sixth. Coming back in 1976, she was determined to once again win the Iowa Women’s Amateur in what would likely be her finale. Shinn didn’t just win; she blitzed the field of veterans and fellow champions by 11 shots. Opening the championship with a course record 68, Shinn slept on an overnight six-stroke lead. The lead would stay steady through the second and third rounds, but the final round was where Shinn further separated herself from her counterparts.

Beginning with three straight pars, Shinn birdied the fourth to push her lead to double digits over Frisch. The lead was cut to seven on two separate occasions, but it wouldn’t last. Late in the day, Shinn led by as many as 12. Even with a less than hot putter, Shinn reflected that she made putts when she needed to as the championship went on. Her large margin of victory marked the second straight championship with a runaway victory.

Beth Duenow’s best finish at the Iowa Women’s Amateur was a tie for sixth in 1986. She was in her late 30’s and a mother of three when she teed it up at Sunnyside Country Club in the 1995 Iowa Women’s Amateur. Playing with three collegiate players, Duenow proved that life experiences can translate to on-course success as she claimed a five-stroke victory and etched her name on the Fladoos trophy.

Beginning the final round, Ames’ Lisa Horton held a two-shot lead over Duenow and Iowa State’s Beth Bader. After the first hole, the three were tied. A quick bogey from Horton and two birdies from Bader and Duenow had spectators excited for the remainder of the final round. Duenow had other plans. For the remaining 17 holes, Duenow either held the lead or was tied for the lead. After holding the lead for a brief moment on the 4^th hole, Duenow found herself in a three-way tie heading into the final nine.

Falling to one back after a bogey on the 11^th, Duenow made a clutch up and down from the greenside bunker on the 12^th to once again overtake Horton. Then, a birdie on 15 put Duenow in firm control of the championship. Closing with an even-par 36, Duenow won her first Iowa Women’s Amateur at the same site where she first began her Iowa Women’s Amateur career. Duenow reflected on the 1982 championship where she first saw the Fladoos trophy and wondered “Who would ever be good enough to win this?”. In 1995, it was Duenow, the perennial club champion at the Acorn Park course in St. Ansgar who was good enough.

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

In honor of National Teacher Day, learn about the dedicated coaches whose guidance shapes the next generation of golf talent.