2025 Yearbook

11 short of historic. Mike’s dedication to the game and his enduring competitive fire continue to make all of us in Iowa proud. Of course, reaching new heights in participation and hosting high-level championships also came with its challenges—chief among them, the weather. Iowa’s climate kept us on our toes all season long. It felt as though nearly every multi-day event encountered some combination of rain delays, lightning suspensions, or storms that swept in at exactly the wrong time. It quickly became a running joke among our staff that radar maps and weather apps were practically honorary members of the operations team. In fact, we were grateful to have invested in new lightning detection and prediction software this summer - it certainly came in handy! While these disruptions tested our patience and required constant adjustments, what stood out most was the unwavering cooperation and understanding from players, volunteers, and host facilities. Their collective resilience helped us navigate a season full of necessary pauses, restarts, and long days, ensuring our championships maintained the standards our golfers expect. Weather aside, the success of this season was rooted, as always, in the people who make up the IGA team. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to work with a staff that brings such professionalism, flexibility, and genuine passion to their roles. This year, we were delighted to welcome Paige Hoffman as our new Director of Development. Paige has quickly become an integral part of our team, bringing fresh ideas, a strategic mindset, and the relationship-building skills that will help strengthen and expand the IGA’s impact in the years ahead. Of course, the continued expertise of our veteran staff - Katelynn, Clint, Nate, and Karli - is substantial. Our staff is my favorite part of working at the IGA, bar none. Our PJ Boatwright interns once again played a vital role in nearly everything we accomplished. These young professionals embrace long hours, unpredictable weather, and the fast pace of the summer with enthusiasm and poise. Their contributions are essential to running quality events and providing great experiences for our golfers. This year’s group carried on that tradition of excellence, and watching them develop over the course of the season remains one of the most rewarding parts of our work. I would be remiss if I did not mention our volunteers, whether it be at championships, course rating, or the board and committee levels. Their dedication to the IGA is astounding. Collectively, we are talking about thousands of hours given to our great organization, with no monetary return. We are tremendously grateful. In a year marked by growth, record-setting participation, and historic achievements, it’s the people—our members, volunteers, staff, interns, and the broader Iowa golf community—who made 2025 truly special. As we look ahead to 2026, I’m filled with gratitude for everyone who contributes to the IGA’s mission and helps sustain the momentum we’ve built together. Whether you competed in a championship, supported one of our programs, volunteered your time, or simply enjoyed the game at your local club, you are part of what makes Iowa golf exceptional. Thank you for being with us this past year—and here’s to another great season of golf in Iowa. IGA CEO/Executive Director Chad Pitts with 2025 HOF inductee Jeff Schmid