Author: iowagolf

Help support the future of golf in Iowa on Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday is a global day of giving back. Today, December 2, you’ll have the chance to join people around the world and support a cause close to your heart. This Giving Tuesday, help the Iowa Golf Association Foundation give the gift of golf and education to a junior golfer in the State of Iowa by supporting the Iowa Golf Association Foundation’s Youth on Course and/or Scholarship Programs.

At its most basic level, Youth on Course is a program that subsidizes rounds of golf for juniors at participating courses. In 2018 Iowa became the 21st state to offer Youth on Course.  It has now extended to all 50 states.

The concept is this: A junior boy or girl age 6 to 18 can join Youth on Course for a yearly fee.  That gets them access to any participating Youth on Course facility (there are over 1,400 nationally) to play a round of golf for $5 or less.  Then the participating course receives an additional subsidy ($) for that round. To donate towards Youth on Course in Iowa visit https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.aspx?name=E334279&id=14

The Iowa Golf Association Foundation also serves as host for two college scholarship programs – The Herman Sani Scholarship & the Ann Griffel Scholarship.

The Ann Griffel Scholarship was named after the long time IWGA President, Ann Griffel. Ann was inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 2006 to honor her contributions to the game. Since 1963, over 250 students have received this scholarship. The IGAF awards $2,000 Ann Griffel Scholarships to Iowa high school senior girls who intend to further their education at an Iowa institution of higher learning, whether a college, university or trade school.

The Herman Sani Scholarship was established in 1958 in memory of Herman Sani who had a passion for golf and for young people. Over 200 college-bound students have been awarded this four-year scholarship. Each recipient receives $8,000 ($2,000 per year) over a consecutive four-year period.

To donate and read more about each scholarship program visit https://iowagolf.org/scholarships/

2025 IGA schedule, USGA qualifying locations announced

DMG to host 123rd Iowa Amateur,
Wakonda Club selected for Iowa Women’s Amateur

The 2025 Championship schedule is here!

The schedule includes an abundance of great IGA Member Clubs that will serve as host sites for not only IGA Championships but also USGA Qualifiers next year. Without the gracious support from our hosts, as well as our players, none of this would be possible.

The 123rd Iowa Amateur will be played at Des Moines Golf & Country Club, July 28-30. This marks the twelfth time DMG has hosted the state’s biggest men’s amateur event, having previously hosted in ‘03, won by Scott Hart. Qualifying events will be held once again for the championship. In previous years a total of three qualifying sites were identified across the state, but an additional two more will be added in 2025. Players not already exempt will have a chance to qualify to be a part of the field that will compete. Dates and locations for those qualifiers are still being determined and will be posted online as soon as possible.

After the marvelous showing of the 100th Iowa Women’s Amateur, contested at Sunnyside Country Club in Waterloo, the 101st edition will be played at Wakonda Club in Des Moines. Partway through the 2023 season Wakonda underwent a massive course restoration which included taking out trees, redesigning greens, and adding in bunkers. After the 2024 Principal Charity Classic, Wakonda Club opened back up for member play along with hosting the 2024 IGA Men’s Club Team Championship. The 2025 edition of the Iowa Women’s Amateur will be played a little later than usual, on Mon-Wed., August 4-6. The Fladoos Trophy has had a home in Iowa City won by Hawkeye golfers Katlynn Hanna (‘23) and Paula Miranda (‘24). Will another Hawkeye player walk away with the win in 2025? Stay tuned in August to find out.

In 2024, Iowa narrowly missed the exemption criteria for the USGA Boys’ Junior Amateur, but that is no more. New to the 2025 season, the Iowa Junior Amateur joins the list of IGA events as USGA exemption events with the champion moving on to the equivalent USGA championship. The champions of Iowa Women’s Amateur, Iowa Amateur, Iowa Girls’ Junior Amateur, and now the Boys’ Junior Amateur will receive an automatic bid into these USGA sanctioned events (U.S. Women’s Amateur, U.S. Amateur, and U.S. Boys’/Girls’ Junior Amateur).

The IGA Men’s and Senior Men’s Four-Ball will once again be split up – similar to last year. Due to the popularity of the event, the IGA hosted a championship for the Open Division and then a separate championship for the Senior and Super-Senior Division. The IGA Four-Ball will be held at Finkbine Golf Course in Iowa City May 1-2, while the Senior and Super-Senior event will be contested at Burlington Golf Club, September 19-20.

The IGA is excited to announce the inaugural Iowa Adaptive Open sponsored by Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino next year, to be held July 12-13, at Terrace Hills Golf Course in Altoona. This will be open to golfers of various classifications of disabilities, such as individuals with arm and leg impairments, amputations, blind golfers, and those with neurological and intellectual impairments. The Iowa Adaptive Open will not be limited to only Iowa residents and IGA members. It will be open to anyone from around the country to participate. Many other details still need to be determined, but the IGA is looking forward to being a part of this wonderful event.

Talons Golf, located in Ankeny, has accepted to be the host of the IGA Men’s and Women’s IGA Match Play for the sixth straight year. The event will take place June 24-27. In 2024, Blake Cronin at the age of 16 became the youngest individual to win in the championship history. Talons Golf which is privately-owned sits between uniquely placed holes and rock-walled streams has been home to nail-biter matches over the years.

The Iowa Mid-Amateur Championship will still continue the 54 hole tournament style allowing top finishers to receive World Amateur Golf Ranking points. This championship will be played at Whispering Creek Golf Club in Sioux City, May 15-17.

The Herman Sani will make a return to Hyperion Field Club, in Johnston, August 8-10. Since the first playing of the Sani in 1950, this tournament not only showcases great golf, but also highlights great students that receive the Sani and Ann Griffel Scholarships during a ceremony held that week.

Growing in popularity the IGA Father-Son and Parent-Child will see a different layout in 2025. The championship will still be contested at Jester Park Golf Course, but will be held on Fri-Sat., June 13-14. Friday’s play will consist of a shotgun and Saturday’s play will have a morning shotgun and then an afternoon shotgun starts.

The Director’s Cup Matches will be back in Iowa better than ever! This championship will be contested next to Golf House Iowa at Echo Valley Country Club, Sept. 21-23.

Along with those championships listed above, the IGA will conduct events at the following venues – Irv Warren Memorial Golf Course (IGA Women’s Mid-Am Series #1 May 10), Coldwater Golf Links (IGA Senior Amateur June 1-3), Grinnell College Golf Course (Women’s Forever 39 Match Play June 2-3), Prairie Links Golf Course (IGA Women’s Four-Ball June 16-17), Glynns Creek Golf Course, (Iowa Junior Amateur, Iowa Girls Junior Amateur June 9-11), Rice Lake Golf Course (Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur July 20-21), Bos Landen Golf Course (IGA Women’s Mid-Am Series #2 July 26 & IGA Women’s Club Team Aug. 11) Veenker Golf Course (IGA Senior & Senior Women’s Match Play Aug. 14-16), Sunnyside Country Club (Wife-Husband Sept. 12-14), Short Hills Country Club, (IGA Club Team Championship Sept. 29) and Ames Golf & Country Club (Iowa Cup Matches Sept. 30-Oct. 1).

Additional IGA Women’s Mid-Am Series event dates and locations will be announced at a later time. Those updates can be found by checking back to the schedule page on the IGA website.

The IGA is set to also conduct and administer several USGA Qualifiers throughout the state in 2025. Those events along with sites are:

  • Cedar Rapids Country Club, Cedar Rapids – U.S. Open Local Qualifier – May 12
  • Ames Golf & Country Club, Ames – U.S. Junior Amateur Qualifier – June 23
  • Glen Oaks Country Club, West Des Moines – U.S. Amateur Qualifier (Final) – July 17
  • Legacy Golf Club, Norwalk – U.S. Senior Amateur Qualifier – July 24
  • Legacy Golf Club, Norwalk – U.S Senior Women’s Amateur Qualifier – July 24
  • Beaver Hills Country Club, Cedar Falls – U.S. Mid-Amateur Qualifier – Aug. 18
  • Spirit Hollow Golf Course, Burlington – U.S. Four-Ball Qualifier – Sept. 9

Entries open for IGA Championships March 3.

Entries will be available for USGA Championships at a later date, which will be determined by the USGA and announced on their website.

Bill Zinn named 2024 George Turner Distinguished Service Award recipient

Bill Zinn’s association with the Northwest Amateur began as a caddie in the early 1960’s when the tournament was contested at the 9-hole south course. Zinn (left) is pictured with 2020 Northwest Amateur champion Jon Olson.

For 103 years, the Northwest Iowa Amateur has been among the most popular and prestigious golf tournaments on the Iowa Golf Association calendar. And for more than 50 years of that span, Spencer’s Bill Zinn, recipient of the 2024 George Turner Distinguished Service Award, has been an integral component of ensuring a smooth and memorable experience for the multitude of participants.

Originating in 1921, the Northwest Iowa Amateur is Iowa’s only 72-hole amateur event and currently draws 384 competitors annually with a unique mixture of the top amateur players in Iowa, South Dakota and Minnesota, collegiate players as well as a large collection of casual weekend warriors.

Past champions include the greats of yesteryear such as Ed Updegraaf, John Jacobs, Jack Rule, Steve Spray, Bob Leahy, Tom Chapman, Jr., and George Turner himself, a former Spencer resident. Modern day champions include Denny Bull, Jon Brown, JD Anderson, the late Jim Currell, Sean McCarty, Mike Bender, Jason Knutzon and Ron Peterson.

Over the years, a family reunion atmosphere has been the hallmark of the Northwest Amateur. Many players have developed friendships and look forward to seeing one another at the tournament; former high school or college teammates reunite; and others use the first weekend of August to play golf in a highly competitive event while enjoying the Iowa Great Lakes. 

“The Northwest Amateur has a long and rich tradition, and Bill Zinn embodies that tradition,” Ron Peterson said. “It is a favorite among the players, and Bill’s dedication and contribution to the tournament is greatly appreciated. Thank you Bill, and congratulations on this well-deserved award.”

Bill Zinn’s association with the Northwest Amateur began as a caddie in the early 1960’s when the tournament was contested at the 9-hole south course.

“There were five to ten of us young kids who worked as caddies,” he recalled. “We’d look for and fight over the Polk County cars because those players paid ten bucks while everyone else seemed to be at five.”

Zinn’s formal association with the tournament began in 1974, working for long-time tournament directors Bob Woods and Bob Rose as the starter and announcer. In that role. He forged friendships with hundreds of golfers while also ensuring that starting times were kept on track and the three sets of 128-player shifts ran without hitches. In former years, pairings, starting times and scoreboards were all done by hand, and tee times were announced on the local radio station KICD. The advent of computers automated many of those processes, but the family atmosphere remained constant. When Bob Rose retired as tournament director, Zinn stepped into that role and served for nearly ten years until his retirement in 2023.

2024 IGA Annual Awards, Player of the Year banquet scheduled

Open to the public

The IGA would like to announce to the public that the 2024 Annual Awards and Player of the Year Banquet is scheduled for Friday, December 6, at Terrace Hills Golf Course, in Altoona (8700 NE 46th, Ave.).

The schedule of events for the evening will be:

  • 5:30 to 6:00 p.m. – Arrival and Check-in
  • 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. – Social hour and food
  • 6:45 – 7:00 p.m. – Awards program begins
  • 9:00 p.m. – Award program ends

The cost for the evening’s event will be $40 and can be paid for via credit card over the phone or online by clicking here. You may reach out to the IGA Office at (515) 207-1062 to pay over the phone.

Note – Groups can purchase up to eight tickets at a time online. 

Deadline to register for the event is Tuesday, November 26


Read more about each IGA Annual Award winner by clicking here.

Read more about each Player of the Year by following the links below.
Men’s Player of the Year (Open, Senior, Super Senior)
Women’s Player of the Year (Open, Senior)
Junior Player of the Year (Boys, Girls)

2024 Annual Awards announced

On Friday, November 1, the IGA Board of Directors named recipients of the 2024 Annual Awards in six categories. We are pleased to announce this year’s honorees.

9-Hole Course of the Year – Rock Valley Golf Club

Rock Valley Golf Club has been named the IGA’s 2024 9-Hole Course of the Year.

Rock Valley GC is constantly described as a beautiful and wonderful facility to come and play, while their clubhouse, bar, and kitchen keep busy.

Success at the course is evident with growing memberships over the last few years, but the true testament to the condition of the course is arriving at the clubhouse on any given day and seeing cars with out-of-county or out-of-state plates.

RVGC has undertaken many projects around the course that have improved its condition, including the addition of multiple bunkers to the course, tree removal that had been detrimental to the condition of greens, rough, and fairways while also maintaining a level play that is competitive and still plays to the history of RVGC.

“We’ve added cart paths, been strategic in re-leveling tee boxes as needed and overseeding the greens and fairways to maintain the health of the course,” RVGC member Vaughan Ranschau said. “We have also added our own program for youth involvement that awards prizes as they accomplish goals.”


18-Hole Course of the Year – Palmer Hills Golf Course

Palmer Hills Golf Course has been named the IGA’s 2024 18-Hole Course of the Year.

Located in Bettendorf, Palmer Hills GC features 100-year-old oak trees, rolling hills, meticulously maintained fairways, and a meandering creek that comes into play on 11 holes. The course offers a challenge and a beautiful setting for golfers of all levels.

Also located at the facility is The Forge – an 18-hole putting course. The course covers 56,500 square feet and has four putting greens, providing flexibility in setup. Each green contains multiple holes, which are routed out and back. Tees (Cup holder stands) and holes are moved routinely to reduce wear. The greens are bent grass and roll around 11 on a Stimpmeter, which is the same speed as the main course.

Palmer Hills GC is also committed to junior golf. In 2024, 220 kids went through the First Tee program at Palmer Hills in addition to over 1,500 rounds as part of the Youth on Course program the course supports in partnership with the IGA. The course also supports PGA Jr. League, which brings family and friends together around fun, team golf experiences with expert coaching from PGA and LPGA Professionals.

Each year since 2018, Maintenance Superintendent Brian Hickey has worked with Bettendorf Middle School to organize a field trip to Palmer Hills. At the course, Bettendorf eighth graders learn the science behind golf course management through a program called First Green. In 2023, more than 300 Bettendorf eighth graders participated in First Green.

Palmer Hills encourages players to Tee it Forward to increase the pace of play and improve the enjoyment of the golfers. The scorecard lists the suggested tee based on how far a player can hit their driver. The suggested tees are also listed on a sign just outside the clubhouse near where the carts are staged.

Projects implemented in 2024 at Palmer Hills GC included the addition of new tees to cater to a wide variety of skills. In some cases, forward tees have been moved closer to the hole. In other cases, tees have been installed behind the existing tees to lengthen the course. A putting green was installed near the 1st tee, nets were installed on two sides of the driving range, and trees were removed to widen fairways and improve fairway growing conditions.

“Palmer Hills Golf Course excels in every aspect, from its well-maintained facilities and dedicated staff to its innovative and sustainable practices,” KC Jones said. “The course’s commitment to quality, community, environmental stewardship and wildlife conservation is outstanding.”


9-Hole Superintendent – Mike Finch, Hawarden Golf Club

Mike Finch, Hawarden Golf Club, is this year’s IGA 9-Hole Superintendent of the Year.

Finch is yet another outstanding example of the many superintendents of 9-hole golf courses across the state of lowa. Working long hours through the golf season with limited human and budgetary resources, Finch has overcome hurdles to produce one of the better maintained and playable 9-hole courses in northwest lowa.

Now completing his ninth season as superintendent, Finch spends his busy days mowing fairways, cutting rough, changing holes, mowing tees and greens, spraying for knot weeds, crabgrass and clover, fixing irrigation lines, top dressing and aerating greens, tree maintenance, keeping the equipment in running shape and a multitude of other problem-solving activities that are part and parcel to maintaining a quality golf course.

Finch has implemented several course improvements, including the formation of a practice area for iron play in previously unused space, automating all fairway sprinkler values, and the creation of a memorial golf tournament that, in five years, has raised more than $12,000 for enhancements to the tee boxes, cart paths, patio furniture, and other improvements.

“Mike takes great pride in his work, stretches resources, has brought new ideas, and maintains the course with the player’s perspective in mind,” Mark Gambaiana said. “Over the years, he’s done a great job keeping the turf in shape through all types of challenging weather conditions and the greens are always well maintained.”


18-Hole Superintendent – Dane Wilson, Wakonda Club

Dane Wilson, Wakonda Club, has been named the IGA’s 2024 18-Hole Superintendent of the Year.

For the past year, Dane has transitioned from golf course maintenance to golf course building as he oversaw the full restoration of Wakonda Club.

His work included rebuilding six greens, greatly expanding 12 others, reshaping and building all 57 buckers, planting 90 new trees, and installing a new irrigation system. Wakonda Club also regrassed all fairways and tees and laid over six trucks of sod. During the restoration Dane showed great leadership and skill in completing this work on time and under budget for the club.

“While this restoration has been difficult politically, physically, emotionally and more, Dane has been incredible in his work and expertise to successfully pull the project off,” Wakonda Club member Kevin Grimm said.

Dane spent countless hours planning, executing, growing in, and now maintaining a new course with the restoration. From hours of meetings to countless calls with vendors, Dane meticulously planned each detail and secured bids for each phase of the project. Included in the restoration was a brand-new irrigation system and pump house to improve our efficiencies and save money going forward. His new programs not only conserve water and save money but also provide firmer conditions in the fairways and greens for the membership to enjoy.

“Wilson’s stewardship of Wakonda Club has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Alex McCarty, Tournament Director, Principal Charity Classic said. “Under his leadership, the course has consistently been in pristine condition, offering an exceptional experience for both players and spectators. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence are evident in every aspect of the course.”


Club Manager of the Year – Chris Klahn, Valley Oaks Golf Course

Chris Klahn, Valley Oaks Golf Course, has been named the IGA’s 2024 Club Manager of the Year.

Klahn has actively advocated for junior, senior, and women’s golf, ensuring that Valley Oaks GC is a welcoming place for players of all ages and skill levels. He oversaw numerous events in 2024, including outings by the Clinton Chamber of Commerce, local athletic boosters, and many more. In addition, he has managed countless company golf outings and holiday gatherings, which are executed to perfection.

Klahn also plays a significant role in coordinating and participating in weekly after-work golf leagues that create an atmosphere that appeals to and attracts golfers of all abilities.

With Klahn’s leadership, Valley Oaks has seen several course and facility improvements, which has led to a significant increase in rounds played year after year. His efforts have helped transform Valley Oaks into a sustainable operation, which was not necessarily the case before his arrival.

“Chris brings an infectious energy to the course, fostering a sense of camaraderie among members, while promoting a positive and engaging work environment for his staff,” Patrick Drennen said.


PGA Pro of the Year – Greg Mason, Iowa PGA Section

Greg Mason, Iowa PGA Section, is the IGA’s 2024 PGA Professional of the Year.

Mason, a true friend and forward-thinking advocate for the game of golf, was elected to membership in the PGA of America in 1991, and was named Executive Director of the Iowa PGA Section in 2018.

His leadership qualities have been seen state-wide, with not only his involvement with the IPGA Section but also as President of the Iowa Golf Council, which features representatives of Iowa’s major golf associations (IGA, PGA, GCSA, Club Managers).

Mason continues to provide a resource to the IGA as well, fostering open and honest dialogue to help grow the game of golf in the state of Iowa. Mason was also openly in favor of the Golf House Iowa project and key in getting the IPGA Section to contribute in an extremely generous way.

“Greg and I talk frequently,” stated Chad Pitts, IGA Executive Director. “I expect that we have quite a bit more communication than most in our respective positions in other states. That has led to tremendous collaboration amongst the IGA and Iowa PGA. Even though we serve a different segment of golfers, our mission and interests cross paths all of the time. ‘Mase’ has been a wonderful resource for our staff. We are grateful for that.”

Mason’s leadership helped the IPGA Section earn the 2024 Herb Graffis Award, given annually to one of the 41 PGA of America Sections that has shown tireless dedication to grow the game of golf and furthering player-development programming in the community.

Mark Egly, PGA, Head Golf Professional at Des Moines Driving Range for the past 30 years, is instrumental in showcasing the exceptional work the IPGA Section is accomplishing under Mason’s leadership. He has been honored with the 2024 Deacon Palmer Award, which recognizes a PGA of America Golf Professional who exemplifies remarkable integrity, character, and leadership in overcoming significant challenges in their life.


NOTE – The IGA Annual Awards Banquet is scheduled for Friday, December 6, at Terrace Hills Golf Course in Altoona. We will communicate a schedule of events to the public, including the price to attend very soon. 

‘Up and Down’ the Iowa Golf Scene – All Smiles

The Hoffman family celebrates the 2021 Iowa Class 4A state championship won by the West Des Moines Valley team in record-setting fashion. The Tigers set a state record of 604 and won by 62 strokes. Pictured left to right are Brett, Lisa, Paige and Hailey Hoffman.

High-Level Competition, Boatwright Internship Preps Hoffman for Career in Golf

Decades from now, when Paige Hoffman looks back on what most certainly will be an impactful career in golf administration, she will have no trouble identifying what got her start in the business.

An Iowa High School state golf champion at age 16 and an Iowa Women’s Amateur Champion at age 17, the highly decorated Hoffman is underway with her senior season at Northwest Missouri State University, an NCAA Division II school in Maryville, MO. 

Continuing a pattern of excellence at each level of competition, Hoffman has put her stamp on the Bearcat women’s golf record book. She captured the 2023 Mid-American Athletic Association (MIAA) conference tournament, qualified for the NCAA Division II national championship that year and most recently set a school record this fall by firing a 36-hole total of 138. In fact, Hoffman owns eight of the top ten lowest 36-hole scores in school history.

Now a senior at Northwest Missouri State University, Hoffman captured the 2023 MIAA Conference Tournament medalist crown and participated in the NCAA Division II national tournament.

Her playing accomplishments aside, an internship with the Iowa Golf Association during the 2023 and 2024 seasons modified her career path. Hoffman participated in the P.J. Boatwright Internship program sponsored by the United States Golf Association (USGA). Established in 1991, the Boatwright Internship is designed to provide experience to individuals who are interested in pursuing golf administration as a career while assisting state and amateur golf associations with the promotion of amateur golf. P.J. Boatwright was a long-time executive director of the USGA and came to be acknowledged as the world’s foremost expert on the rules of golf. 

During her IGA experience, Hoffman received well rounded exposure to handicapping and course rating functions, marketing, communications, rules, working with the Sani and Griffel Scholarships, member services, scoring, and tournament preparation, administration and follow up. Since 2002, more than 50 young people have served the IGA through Boatwright Internships, including all current full-time IGA staff.

“My Boatwright Internship with the Iowa Golf Association was a fantastic experience,” Hoffman told Up and Down the Iowa Golf Scene during a recent interview. “It really put my life and career plans on a different trajectory. I always enjoyed golf before, but this has sparked a new level of passion I’d not had before. So much of that is due to the leadership and guidance of the IGA staff, they are an incredibly fun group of people who are eager to teach you. It was impossible not to have a good day working at the IGA.”

The pace during the summer is frantic as this past season the IGA staff worked through 33 championships and qualifiers in a span of just 62 days. 

“As a player, you don’t really have any idea about all the logistics necessary to conduct a smooth-running tournament,” Hoffman remarked. “You have to prepare, problem solve, multi-task and be ready for sudden change. There may be ten things going on at once.” 

Providing students with a well-rounded experience has been a point of emphasis for the Boatwright Internship program, says Chad Pitts, Executive Director of the IGA, who himself went through the program more than 20 years ago. 

“We’ve had more than 50 Boatwright Interns at the IGA since 2002 and collectively they’ve added excellent value over the years,” PItts said. “Interns get a first-hand look at what is needed to run an effective golf tournament and golf association.”

A data science major, Hoffman will graduate from Northwest Missouri in the spring of 2025 and has her sights set on a golf administration career with the USGA or allied golf associations. 

Motivated with the promise of M&M’s, Paige Hoffman molded her golf swing at a young age by joining her father Brett to the Longview Golf Center.

The daughter of Brett and Lisa Hoffman of West Des Moines, Paige’s introduction to the game started at age five. 

“Dad would go to the old Longview Golf Dome in Urbandale during the winter to work on his swing, and I’d tag along because of the promise of M&M’s,” she noted. 

Hoffman started competing in Iowa PGA junior events at the age of ten. A multi-sport athlete in middle school, golf became the focus when she received an invitation to compete in the prestigious Junior Girls Four-State event in Wichita, KS., and later qualified for a national Optimist junior tournament at PGA National in Florida. Hoffman was a prep standout for Coach Kelli Moore at West Des Moines Valley, leading the Tigers to state championships in 2019 and 2021 and runner-up finish in 2018. 

Individually, Hoffman captured state medalist honors during her 2019 sophomore campaign, firing a sizzling five-under par 137 at Coldwater Golf Links in Ames, nipping Bettendorf’s Shannyn Vogler by a single shot. Hoffman fired a 36-hole total of 143 as a senior, good for fourth in the medalist standings as the Tigers set a state team record of 604 and won by a whopping 62 strokes.

Another crown jewel achievement of Hoffman’s young golf career followed a few months after her state high school title at the 95th Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship in 2019. The unassuming Hoffman, a newly minted 17-year-old, fired rounds of 71-71-68 at Otter Creek in Ankeny, and her three-under par 210 captured the title by four shots. She was among the youngest players to ever win the Iowa Women’s Amateur. 

A desire to play Division I golf resulted in a one-year stopover at the University of South Dakota, but Hoffman’s collegiate career mushroomed after a transfer to Northwest Missouri. 

In 2023, Hoffman captured medalist honors at the MIAA Conference Tournament, shot a 54-hole total of 216 to tie for third at the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional, and shot a three-round total of 232 at the Division II national tournament in Eureka, MO. She was named to the all-conference and all-region teams. Hoffman set a school record 36-hole total of 138 (70-68) this fall at the Grace Shin Regional Preview in Edmond, OK, winning medalist honors after a five-hole playoff. The Bearcats set a team record of 587 strokes in the event. A week earlier, Hoffman shot a 143 at the Mustang Invite hosted by Southwest Minnesota State in Marshall, MN.

As her collegiate career draws to a close next spring, Hoffman has more goals to achieve. She would like to help her team qualify for regionals for the first time in program history before moving on with a career in golf administration. 

“Through tournament and internship experiences, Iowa women’s golf has taught me how to be a stronger competitor, better communicator and a more well-rounded person,” she said.

She offers the following advice to junior players.

“Practice consistently, analyze your game to work on the areas that need improvement and always, always work on your short game,” she said. “Treasure the memories, enjoy the game and keep it fun.”


“Up and Down” the Iowa Golf Scene

A regular feature column written by IGA Foundation board member Mark Gambaiana, Up and Down the Iowa Golf Scene is designed to take the reader beyond the headlines and scoreboards to share stories of those who help make Iowa golf so rich and rewarding. Profiles will spotlight those who advance the game through volunteerism, service, extraordinary achievement, competition, human interest and the many other dimensions of golf in Iowa.

Click the links below to read previous Up and Down features
– IGA Rules Official Sean Flanders
– R&A, USGA Champion Gene Elliott
– Nervig Reflects on Decades of Service to The Iowa Masters
– Arseneault Finds Fulfillment in Life’s Next Chapter After Competitive Golf
– Ivan Miller remembers the days of the Minnows
– Kinney adjusts to life on tour
– Standard Golf’s roots run deep
– Pettersen sets sights high
– McCoy, Norton Put Iowa Stamp on Florida Senior Golf
Moreland Reflects on his Extraordinary Club Pro, Playing Career
From Sibley to the LPGA Tour – Barb Thomas Whitehead Fulfills Her Dream
At 88 Years Young, Cleo Brown Remains a Fixture at the Principal Charity Classic, IGA Events
Love of the Game, Service to Others Propel Charlie Taylor to IGA’s 2023 George Turner Award
The Calling Card for Ottumwa’s Matthew Walker in Quest to Reach Golf’s Highest Level
Following the Rules Leads Katelynn Hogenson Down a Path Through Magnolia Lane
State Golf Champions Gather, Reminisce, 50 Years after Surprise Title

Three Iowans make prestigious West Team for East West Matches

Mike McCoy (right) and Gene Elliott (left) have been longtime forces in the amateur game both as teammates and foes. The pair has battled it out for years in Iowa Golf Association events and also on the national stage.

The prestigious and unique 3rd Annual East West Matches are scheduled for Nov. 1-3, 2024, at Maridoe Golf Club in Carrolton, Texas.

Live Scoring

Since 2020, the East West Matches at Maridoe Golf Club in Carrolton, Texas, have attracted some of the best amateur golfers in the United States to play in the Ryder Cup-style team event. The unique format allows top senior, mid-amateur and college golfers to play together and represent their geographic locales while building relationships and lasting bonds.

The 3rd Annual East West Matches are scheduled for Nov. 1-3, 2024, at Maridoe Golf Club in Carrolton, Texas. Each team consists of 18 players: six seniors, at least 10 mid-amateurs and up to two amateurs who have not yet reached the age of 25. The event is played every two years. Iowa amateurs Dennis Bull, Gene Elliott and Mike McCoy will play for the West team.

“We are committed to fielding the best West team we can for the upcoming prestigious East West matches,” said West Captain Brady Exber. “And we know there are some very, very good players in Iowa and we are thrilled to have Mid-Amateur Dennis Bull, and senior amateurs Mike McCoy and Gene Elliott. They will be a big part of our West team.”

Exber will look to McCoy and Elliott for their leadership in addition to their talent.

“I feel the same about both Gene and Mike,” Exber said. “They are the Mount Rushmore of amateur golf and the top of the mountain. They are, and have been, a great example of what amateur golf is all about, and I really wanted them on the West team for their leadership on and off the course. They were great players as younger amateurs and now they are great senior players. I am thrilled to have them on the West team.”

Bull (right) and his experience will also be a key part of the West’s attempt to win the event after a loss in 2022.

“We are so happy to have Denny on the team,” Exber said. “He is a returning player who had a winning record the last time we played. In addition, he will be a valuable influence in the team room. He’s a guy who everybody likes.”

LIV Golf League player and former Univ. Tennessee star Caleb Surratt played in the 2022 East West Matches and verifies the quality and prestige they have.

“Getting to play with different players in a different age group is a neat part about the East West Matches,” Surratt said. “It was cool to see how everybody plays the game and it makes it a little more fun than just watching guys hit it 350 yards and straight all day. I think the format goes back to a little bit of what golf is all about. It includes everybody and brings back a lot of the tradition of the sport.”

The East West Matches feature teams from the East and West regions of the United States.

Nathan Smith will captain the East while Exber will captain the West.Smith will also be the 2025 United States Walker Cup captain. Exber is a member of the Las Vegas Golf Hall of Fame, the Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame and the National Senior Amateur Hall of Fame.

The teams are selected via qualifying events and also captain’s picks. For complete information about the process, visit www.eastwestmatches.com. You can view the events that will earn points for Mid-Ams and Senior Ams in addition to viewing the updated standings.

The unique makeup of the East West Matches is what initially attracted Maridoe Golf Club Owner Albert Huddleston to the event.

“I view Maridoe as a sandbox of fellowship, and we are always thrilled to open it up to the East West Matches because they epitomize exactly what golf should be all about,” Huddleston said. “I don’t know of any other opportunity where you have this amalgam of silos of golfers that actually have any connectivity. College players never play with the seniors or the mid amateurs in a competitive team environment. What the Matches also do is encourage those golfers that are younger that if they don’t play professional golf, there is a robust amateur circuit with a lot of talent with events like this to keep their competitive drive alive.”

Scott Harvey is one of the event’s original visionaries, and understands how the support of Huddleston and Maridoe Golf Club allows the East West Matches to be successful.

“The East West Matches are indebted to Mr. Huddleston, who is one of the nation’s most prominent supporters of amateur golf and continues to do more and more each year,” Harvey said. “Maridoe Golf Club is a world-class test of golf, and the staff assures that the players, captains, and volunteers are treated with the best service, hospitality, and food. The best players are very interested in qualifying for the East West Matches, and we are sure we will have another competition that features the highest-level of golf.”


About the East West Matches

The East West Matches started in 2020 and are played every two years. The three-day amateur golf competition features a Ryder Cup-style team format for American amateur, mid-amateur and senior competitors. The competition is currently tied 1-1.

The vision of the competition is “promoting the amateur game by bringing the best amateurs in the United States together for highly competitive matches and camaraderie in its purest form.”

The Mississippi River is the dividing line between East and West teams, each of which is made up of 18 players: six seniors, at least 10 mid-amateurs, and up to two amateurs who have not yet reached the age of 25.

Maridoe Golf Club in Carrollton, Texas, is the bi-annual host. In the three days of competitions, there are nine 18-hole four-ball matches on Day 1, nine 18-hole foursome matches in the morning of Day 2 and nine 18-hole foursomes in the afternoon of Day 2 with 18 singles matches on Day 3.

www.eastwestmatches.com

McCoy, Brown, Gaer take home 2024 IGA Men’s Player of the Year honors

Ankeny’s very own Nate McCoy has not only left his name on several trophies, but also in the record books as being named IGA Men’s Player of the Year for the fourth consecutive year.

McCoy racked up three wins, three top five finishes, a top 10 finish in 2024.

McCoy started the season finishing runner-up at the 39th IGA Mid-Amateur Championship, at Bos Landen GC, Pella, carding a three day score of 212 (-4).

Along the way McCoy also finished in the Round of 16 at the 36th IGA Match Play Championship, at Talons Golf, Ankeny. 

Two of his wins came from Additional Point Events on the IGA schedule.

McCoy took home the victory at the Fort Dodge Amateur shooting an impressive 63 (-8). Along with the Briarwood Amateur carding 138 (-6).

McCoy placed 2nd at the Lake Creek Amateur shooting 142 (-2), and T3 at The Classic, at Elmwood Coutnry Club, with 78 Stableford points. In the 87th Iowa Masters McCoy finished 7th carding 213 (-3).

His peak summer highlight was taking home the victory at the 122nd Iowa Amateur, contested at Finkbine GC, Iowa City. A win that would qualify him for the 2024 U.S. Amateur. McCoy carded two eagles on the back nine of the final round to shoot 204 (-12) for the three days.

This was the first year the winner from the Iowa Amateur would receive an exemption into the U.S. Amateur contested at Hazeltine National Golf Club, Chaska, Minn. Nate posted qualifying rounds of 142 (E) total. 

He would then be forced to a 14 man playoff for 11 spots to make it to match play. McCoy capitalized with a par on the opening hole to advance. He would eventually lose in the Round of 64 to Paul Chang 5&4.

McCoy has reached yet another milestone for his Iowa golf career. He continues to demonstrate what it takes to be one of the best competitors in the Iowa golf circuit.


Jon Brown, of Adel, a two time IGA Men’s Player of the Year, is now an IGA Senior Men’s Player of the year. He had yet another outstanding season, capping off the year with three wins, four top fives, Round of 16 at the IGA Senior Match Play and qualified for a pair of USGA events.

Brown further solidified the standings late August when he made a run in the 69th U.S. Senior Amateur, contested at The Honors Course, in Ooltewah, Tenn. Seeded 9th after qualifying, Brown made it through two rounds of match play. In the Round of 16 Brown lost his first four holes, but fought till the end before falling in the match 3&2.

Brown also qualified for the 9th U.S. Amateur Four-Ball held at Philadelphia Cricket Club, Flourtown, Pa. Brown and partner Jon Olson shot a 135 (-7). This put Brown and Olson in an eleven team playoff for six spots, the two ended up falling just short on the second playoff hole. 

Brown’s summer in 2024 started off hot at the 28th IGA Four-Ball Championship, contested at Elmwood CC, Marshalltown with partner Gene Elliott. The pair shot a two day score of 133 (-6) and finished T4. 

From there he went on a tear taking back-to-back wins at the 39th Iowa Mid-Amateur Championship at Bos Landen, Pella, carding a three round total of 215 (-1), followed by the 46th Iowa Senior Amateur Championship, held at Bent Tree Golf Club shooting 217 (+1).

Brown, a four time Iowa Masters Open Division champion, took home the 87th Iowa Masters this time in the Senior Division. Brown recorded a three day total of 209 (-7).

The impressive golf did not stop there, in the 75th Herman Sani Tournament, at Echo Valley Country Club, Norwalk he earned a runner-up finish carding a 217 (+1). Brown also played in the Northwest Amateur, at Spencer G&CC, Spencer where he placed third with a 141 (-3) in the Senior Division, along with 17th place carding a 284 (-4) in the Championship Flight.

His season came to a close at the IGA Senior Four-Ball Match, held at Elmwood CC. Partnered with Gene Elliot the pair managed to finish T3 carding a two day total of 137 (-3).

Jon Brown has always been a solid player throughout Iowa tournaments, after the 2024 season this just proved he still has what it takes to be at the top of the leaderboard.


Des Moines’ Dave Gaer who finished runner-up in 2023, is the 2024 IGA Super Senior Men’s Player of the year. Gaer did not stop at go and collect, he instead kept his foot on the gas all season long.

Gaer had four wins, a trio of runner-up finishes and was a semifinalist at the IGA Senior Match Play in 2024.

Gaer started out the summer firing on all cylinders finishing runner-up at the 39th Iowa Mid-Amateur Championship at Bos Landen GC, Pella 228 (+12). Later he would travel to Council Bluffs for the 46th Iowa Senior Amateur Championship at Bent Tree GC, to pick up his first win shooting 222 (+6).

Soon after that Gaer would collect his next two wins at the Fort Dodge Amateur, which a score of 71 (E).

A month later he would travel to Ames for the 87th Masters, at Veenker Memorial GC. Gaer won by an stagoring 13 shots 222 (+6) over last year’s Super Senior Player of the Year Bob Brooks.

Gaer fell short of capping off back-to-back victories at the Northwest Iowa Amateur, finishing 5th carding 148 (+4).

He would keep all this momentum headed into the final three events. 

Gaer would take home the victory at the 75th Herman Sani contested at Echo Valley CC, shooting 215 (-1). He then placed runner-up at the Classic at Elmwood CC, with 60 stableford points. Gaer closed out the season to a thrilling 20 hole match coming up just short and losing to Tom Norton in the semi-finals of the 22nd Senior Match Play.

Gaer absolutely put the hammer down during the 2024 season and it is well-deserving for his first IGA Super Senior Player of the Year honor. 

Jensen, Huser tough to beat in 2024; earn IGA Women’s Player of the Year

Anna Jensen, of Dubuque, has been named IGA Women’s Player of the Year. Jensen, who has cracked the top 10 the last two years’ finally got it done.

She has not only showed success throughout Iowa, but has also made a name for herself competing at the collegiate level for the University of Northern Iowa. Jensen finished in a T5 in the 2024 Missouri Valley Conference Championship.

Once her season wrapped up at UNI, Jensen kept it rolling into summer tournaments. She started with the 14th IGA Women’s Four-Ball Championship at Glen Oaks Country Club, where she finished T5th with a score of 142 (E) with partner Anna Nacos, a teammate at UNI.

She then took on the 13th IGA Women’s Match Play Championship at Talons Golf, Ankeny. Jensen was hoping to become a two-time champion as she won in 2020. Seeded second after qualifying, Jensen would play lights out and come out victorious defeating Amber Henson 5&4 in the final match.

Jensen would be familiar with the host of the 100th Women’s Amateur, at Sunnyside Country Club, Waterloo. Her 223 (+7) three round total would be good enough to finish 3rd for the championship.  

Before returning to UNI for her fifth-year, Jensen would participate in the 63rd IGA Women’s Club Team Championship, at Indianola Country Club. Representing Thunder Hills Country Club, she would card a 69 (-1) to share medalist honors and lead Thunder Hills CC to a 6th place team finish.

Anna Jensen has proved to Iowa golfers that she can compete and it showed during the 2024 season.


Proving she can compete, newcomer Geri Huser in the IGA Senior Women’s Player of the Year.

Huser, from Altoona, collected a pair of wins, runner-ups, and third place finishes throughout the season.

She started her summer at the IGA Women’s Mid-Am Series Event #1 at South Hills Golf Course, Waterloo. In this Stableford formatted tournament she finished 3rd with 51 points.

Huser would then travel to Ankeny Golf & Country Club, host for the 61st Women’s Forever 39 Match Play Championship. Seeded third after qualifying, Huser made the finals and just fell short to Leanne Smith 2&1, to finish runner-up.

That was just the beginning for her as she would tee it up in the 100th Iowa Women’s Amateur at Sunnyside Country Club, in Waterloo, finishing T2 in the Open Division carding a three day score of 256 (+30).

Huser would keep momentum going at the 59th Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur Championship at Stone Creek Golf Club, Williamsburg. She would record a 36-hole score of 150 (+8) and finish 3rd overall.

Excited for an additional event, Huser didn’t waste the opportunity at the 1st IGA Senior Women’s Match Play Championship, hosted by Whispering Creek Golf Club, Sioux City, where she walked home with the win. Seeded second after qualifying, Huser took down Nicki Miller 3&2 in the final match.

While at the IGA Senior Women’s Match Play, Huser found out she was in the field for the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur as an alternate to be contested at Broadmoor GC, in Seattle, Washington. Although she missed the cut it was the icing on the cake to a great season for Huser.

Huser without a doubt will be a force to be reckoned with come the 2025 season.

Nelson, Wilson claim 2024 IGA Junior Player of the Year honors

For the second year in a row Braeden Nelson of West Des Moines has been crowned Iowa Golf Association Junior Boys’ Player of the Year. Nelson has had a year to say the least, coming out on top over Parker Rodgers by 135 points.

As a freshman for Valley High School, Nelson finished runner-up at the 2023 IHSAA 4A Tournament at Otter Creek Golf Course, Ankeny. He carded +2 over the course of the two days.

Nelson finished T2 at the 87th rendition of the Iowa Masters in Ames carding 209 (-7) over three rounds and T50 in the 122nd Iowa Amateur hosted by Finkbine Golf Course with a three-round total of 220 (+4). In addition he also finished T3 in the U.S. Open Local Qualifying shooting 70 (-1) at Crow Valley Golf Club.

Nelson played in several American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) events throughout the summer with solid success.

At the Austin Minnesota Junior Championships presented by Hormel Foods Nelson finished T7 carding a 214 (-2) over three rounds contested at Austin Country Club, Austin MN.

He later competed in the Under Armour/Jordan Spieth Championship, at Brookhaven Country Club, Farmers Branch, TX finishing 216 (+3) T16.

In the Justin Thomas Junior Championship held at Harmony Landing Country Club in Goshen, KY, Nelson finished T12 carding 210 (-3).

Nelson played in the 91st Iowa Open hosted by the PGA of America at Blue Top Ridge, Riverside and finished solo 8th carding 221 (+5).

One would think obtaining another IGA Junior Player of the Year title will give him the confidence along with the momentum to excel in the 2025 season.


Ainsley Wilson may be only 14, but she showed everyone she can compete which led her to earn IGA Junior Girls’ Player of the Year honors in 2024. Wison, of Iowa City, a rising high school freshman stood at the top of several leaderboards this summer.

Wilson not only competed in IGA tournaments, but also Iowa Junior PGA Junior Tour  and American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) tournaments and racked up quite an impressive resumé.

Throughout the IGA schedule, Wilson was T2 at the Iowa Girls’ Junior at Coldwater Golf Links, carding a three round total of 216 (+3).

Later in the summer Wilson would showcase her length as a 14-year old at the 100th Iowa Women’s Amateur, at Sunnyside Country Club, Waterloo. She would post a 54-hole total of 233 (+16) good enough for T16th.

Wilson also made a statement on the Iowa Junior PGA Tour racking up four top five finishes and a T6 finish. 

A highlight from her play was her win at the Spring Junior Open, contested at Elmwood Country Club, Marshalltown, and Ames Golf & Country Club. Her two-day total of 154 (+14) earned her the title. She also was runner-up at the John Deere Classic Junior, TPC Deere Run, Silvis IL.

In AJGA play Wilson walked away with two top-10 finishes from events that took place across the nation.

She placed 5th at the AJGA Junior All-Star at Quail Creek Presented by City of Robinson, Quail Creek Country Club & Resort, Robinson, IL. Wilson would have two rounds under par and rack up a three day total of 215 (-1).

Wilson would use this momentum and card a 218 (+5) to finish sixth at the AJAG Wichita Junior Championship presented by TGC Group, Terradyne Country Club, in Andover, KS.

Wilson placed fourth in the 2024 Midwest Junior Championship, Finkbine Golf Course, Iowa City carding 227 (+11). Along with a T10 finish shooting 81 (+9) in the U.S. Girls Qualifier hosted by Champions Run, Omaha.

Iowa Junior PGA of America:

  • 1st 154 (+14) Spring JR Open Elmwood CC, Marshalltown and Ames G&CC, Ames
  • T3 83 (+11) Principal Charity Classic Junior Open, Glen Oaks, WDM
  • Runner-up John Deere Classic JR, TPC Deere Run, Silvis IL
  • T6 148 (+8) 48th Iowa Girls Junior PGA Championship, Elmcrest CC, CR
  • T3 76 (+4) Junior Tour Midsummer Classic, Des Moines G&CC, WDM

American Junior Golf Association (AJGA):

  • Fifth 215 (-1) AJGA Junior All-Star At Quail Creek Presented by City of Robinson, Quail Creek Country Club & Resort, Robinson, IL
  • T12 226 (+13) UHY ST. Louis Junior, Franklin County CC, Washington, MO
  • Sixth 218 (+5) AJGA Wichita Junior Championship Presented by TGC Group, Terradyne CC Andover, KS

Other:

  • 4th 227 (+11) at 2024 Midwest Junior Championship, Finkbine Golf Course, Iowa City
  • T10 81 (+9) US Girls Qualifier Champions Run, Omaha   

Wilson has made her mark across multiple states in her freshman high school season and will be chasing a state title here come the spring of 2025.

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