On Friday, October 24, the IGA Board of Directors named recipients of the 2025 Annual Awards in six categories. We are pleased to announce this year’s honorees.

9-Hole Course of the Year – Hickory Grove Golf Course

Hickory Grove Golf Course has been named the IGA’s 2025 9-Hole Course of the Year.

Hickory Grove Golf Course stands out as an impressive nine-hole facility that caters to golfers of all skill levels. With a thoughtful variety of tee options, the course accommodates everyone—from younger, new golfers just learning the game to high-level collegiate players seeking a challenge. This inclusivity reflects Hickory Grove’s ongoing commitment to promoting the game of golf and welcoming new faces to the sport.

Proudly serving as the home course for the Upper Iowa University golf teams, as well as the Oelwein High School golf and cross country teams, Hickory Grove continues to play an integral role in supporting area athletics. The course regularly hosts high school meets, multiple summer leagues for golfers of all ages and skill levels, and a busy calendar of outings and tournaments that bring the community together.

Recent updates and renovations have further elevated the playing experience. The course conditions are consistently strong, featuring well-maintained bunkers, challenging and fun greens, and a layout that rewards both strategy and creativity. The removal of over 150 ash trees has opened up the landscape, enhancing both aesthetics and playability, while the outside staff has continued to improve course conditions year after year.

The practice facility remains another standout feature—offering an excellent space for warm-ups, practice, and game development. Together, these improvements and amenities make Hickory Grove not only a destination for golfers, but also a hub for recreation and community engagement in northeast Iowa.

“Hickory Grove Golf Course truly represents what this award is about,” said IGA Board Member Michelle Klein said following a visit to the course. “The combination of outstanding course conditions, strong community partnerships, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a model 9-hole facility for Iowa.”

What truly sets Hickory Grove apart is its friendly, attentive staff and inclusive atmosphere. Whether it’s a competitive tournament, a junior league night, or a casual afternoon round, every visit reflects the course’s mission to foster community, competition, and a genuine love for the game.

The Iowa Golf Association congratulates Hickory Grove Golf Course and its entire staff on this well-deserved recognition.

18-Hole Course of the Year – Red Oak Country Club

Red Oak Country Club has been named the IGA’s 2025 18-Hole Course of the Year.

The honor recognizes the club’s remarkable turnaround story—one defined by perseverance, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to preserving a century-old community golf tradition.

In 2024, Red Oak Country Club faced the most challenging chapter in its 101-year history. The club endured a severe financial crisis, course conditions had declined, membership was dwindling, and morale had reached a low point. Yet, through renewed leadership and community spirit, the club has staged one of the most impressive recoveries in Iowa golf.

Under the guidance of newly appointed Board President Jason Orme, whose detailed leadership and experience with the Iowa Golf Course Superintendents Association proved invaluable, the club charted a new course forward. Bob Boeye stepped in as interim club manager, providing stability and direction to day-to-day operations. Together with an active Women’s Committee, a dedicated board, and several generous benefactors, the club began the difficult work of revitalization.

Efforts were made to reorganize course maintenance and daily clubhouse operations, resulting in an extraordinary transformation. Quentin Thornburg was named Golf Course Superintendent, bringing fresh energy and focus to improving course conditions. His brother, Colton Thornburg, joined as Clubhouse Manager under Boeye’s mentorship—forming a team that continues to strengthen the club’s foundation.

Physical improvements have been extensive. The removal of 120 ash trees has enhanced course playability and aesthetics, while numerous clubhouse renovations have revitalized the atmosphere. Fundraisers helped finance upgrades including new carpet, lighting, ceiling fans, window shades, and a full repainting of the bar and ballroom. Meanwhile, the introduction of a rotating food truck schedule has provided members and guests with fresh dining options as the club explores future partnerships for its kitchen space.

The results speak for themselves. Membership has increased by 30% in just one year, tournaments and outings have returned in full force, and communication with members and area golfers has improved dramatically.

“Seeing where the club is now compared to a year ago is amazing,” said Fred Davis, a longtime member. “Everyone—staff, volunteers, and members alike—has poured their heart into saving this place. It’s been truly inspirational.”

Today, Red Oak Country Club stands as a model of resilience and renewal. Its members refused to let their piece of Iowa’s golfing heritage disappear, demonstrating what can be achieved through collaboration, sacrifice, and shared purpose.

“The transformation at Red Oak Country Club is nothing short of phenomenal,” said Davis. “This award recognizes not only the improvements to the course and clubhouse, but the spirit and determination of everyone involved in its revival.”

The Iowa Golf Association congratulates Red Oak Country Club on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates the community that made its comeback possible.

9-Hole Superintendent – Mike Ray, Ida Grove Golf & Country Club

Mike Ray, of Ida Grove Golf & Country Club, is this year’s IGA 9-Hole Superintendent of the Year.

Ray’s dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence have made him an invaluable asset not only to Ida Grove Golf & Country Club but to the broader Iowa golf community. Known for his willingness to lend a hand, share advice, and collaborate with fellow superintendents, Mike exemplifies the spirit of service and professionalism that this award celebrates.

“Mike truly checks all the boxes for this award,” said Holstein Country Club Superintendent Aaron Nedved said. “He’s the first person to offer help when others need it, and he brings a wealth of knowledge, humility, and passion to every project he takes on. There’s no one more deserving.”

Under Ray’s leadership, Ida Grove Golf & Country Club has continued to thrive. He oversees a vibrant youth golf program with nearly 100 participants and manages numerous leagues — all while maintaining the course at an exceptional level. His work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to balance maintenance duties with community engagement make him a standout in the industry.

Beyond his technical skill, Ray is recognized as a mentor, a friend, and a driving force behind the club’s success. His leadership has been instrumental in completing several major course improvement projects and ensuring local tournaments and events are administered with precision. Rain or shine, Mike can be found on the job, going the extra mile to ensure the best possible experience for every golfer who visits the course.

“Ida Grove Golf & Country Club would be lost without him,” said Ida Grove G&CC member Scott Ausborn. “Mike takes immense pride in his work and his course, and his passion for the game is reflected in everything he does.”

The Iowa Golf Association congratulates Mike Ray on this well-deserved honor and thanks him for his continued contributions to the game of golf in Iowa.

18-Hole Superintendent – Stephen Roseberry, The Ridge Golf Club

Stephen Roseberry, The Ridge Golf Club, has been named the IGA’s 2025 18-Hole Superintendent of the Year.

Roseberry’s name has become synonymous with excellence in golf course management across Iowa. His vision, leadership, and meticulous attention to detail have helped elevate The Ridge Golf Club to one of the premier public golf destinations in the state—an achievement made even more impressive given the scale and scope of operations he oversees.

Hosting numerous IGA, Iowa Section PGA, and major regional tournaments over the years, The Ridge has earned a reputation for exceptional course conditions. Golfers frequently comment that playing The Ridge feels like “stepping onto a championship venue.” According to Todd Arends, that reputation “is directly attributable to Stephen’s vision, dedication, and passion for the game.”

Under Roseberry’s direction, The Ridge handles more than 35,000 rounds annually, supporting a thriving golf community with 320 men’s league players, 120 women’s league players, and over 360 PGA Junior League participants each season—all while maintaining tournament-caliber conditioning. His commitment to perfecting greens is particularly noted, with “smooth, fast, and consistent putting surfaces that golfers rave about,” said member Luke Vermeer.

Roseberry also played a key leadership role in the construction and grow-in of “Lil Wispy”, The Ridge’s new Par 3 short course, completed in partnership with Landscapes Unlimited, LLC and opened in 2025. Featuring nine signature tribute greens, walkable fescue-lined fairways, and a layout that celebrates creativity and fun, Lil Wispy has already become a standout addition to the property—and a testament to Roseberry’s innovative spirit and deep understanding of course design and playability.

In 2024, he also oversaw a comprehensive bunker renovation project, which improved sand quality and playability heading into the 2025 season. Then, on July 28, 2025, when a derecho storm swept through Sioux Center causing widespread damage and the loss of 59 trees, Roseberry and his crew worked tirelessly for days to restore the course. Today, the grounds show no sign of the devastation—proof of his leadership, work ethic, and pride in his craft.

Beyond his own course, Roseberry is known as a leader among superintendents statewide. He regularly shares his knowledge, offers guidance to peers, and remains committed to helping others elevate their own facilities’ conditions—embodying the collaborative spirit at the heart of the Iowa golf community.

“Stephen’s passion, professionalism, and dedication are unmatched,” said one member. “The Ridge Golf Club continues to set the standard for 18-hole facilities in Iowa, and that success begins with his tireless efforts and commitment to excellence.”

The Iowa Golf Association congratulates Stephen Roseberry on this well-earned honor and thanks him for his ongoing contributions to the advancement of golf course management and the game itself in Iowa.

Club Manager of the Year – Matt Matthias, Echo Valley Country Club

Matt Matthias, Echo Valley Country Club, has been named the IGA’s 2025 Club Manager of the Year.

Since joining Echo Valley Country Club as General Manager in 2015, Matthias has guided the club through a remarkable transformation. Under his leadership, Echo Valley has become one of Iowa’s premier private clubs — both in golf course quality and member experience — and has grown to become the second-largest green-grass IGA member club in the state.

Working hand-in-hand with ownership and the membership, Matthias oversaw a complete golf course renovation and redesign, bringing new life to all 27 holes. Improvements extended well beyond the course, including updates to the clubhouse, the Lower Terrace Grill, locker rooms, and the addition of a new bar and golf simulators.

Echo Valley’s membership experience has flourished as well. The club is now at maximum capacity, drawing members from across Polk County and throughout Iowa. Matthias has cultivated an environment that appeals to both younger and senior members, emphasizing outstanding service, inclusivity, and a shared love for the game.

“Matt knows what great service is all about and teaches his staff to be knowledgeable and friendly,” said member Gene Elliott. Another member, Charlie Taylor, described Matthias as “an exceptional leader — very fair, a beautiful communicator, calm but firm.” Owner Michael Coppola added, “Matt is laser-focused and as knowledgeable as anyone I’ve ever met. He knows the numbers, the people, the membership, and most importantly, how to juggle all of those things to provide a wonderful member experience. His gift is that he comes to work curious and enthusiastic every single day.”

A PGA Professional, Matthias made the transition from the golf side of operations to the broader responsibilities of club management when he joined Echo Valley. While that meant giving up some of what he loved most — instruction, competitive play, and time on the course — he embraced new challenges such as staffing, facilities, and member events with characteristic energy and excellence.

Managing a club with 27 holes, a large membership, extensive event programming, and a substantial staff, Matthias has excelled at balancing complexity with consistency. Echo Valley hosts numerous golf and non-golf events throughout the year, and Matthias’s steady leadership ensures that every detail is handled seamlessly.

Matthias has also been a strong supporter of the IGA and its mission. Echo Valley proudly hosts the Herman Sani Tournament every other year, and Matthias’s organizational expertise helps make both the tournament and its accompanying scholarship dinner run smoothly. His support extends to other IGA celebrations and dinners, where attendance from Echo Valley members and staff is always strong.

Additionally, Matthias was actively involved in the planning and design of Golf House Iowa, demonstrating his deep passion for Iowa golf and its history.

“Matt has been incredibly easy to work with — a true partner to the IGA,” said IGA Executive Director/CEO Chad Pitts. “Echo Valley is one of our most active clubs, and Matt’s leadership makes that possible. With so much going on there year-round, it’s impressive how smooth and member-focused everything remains.”

For his dedication, professionalism, and lasting impact on both Echo Valley Country Club and the greater Iowa golf community, the Iowa Golf Association proudly recognizes Matt Matthias as the 2025 IGA Club Manager of the Year.

PGA Pro of the Year – Morgan McMillan, Oneota Golf & Country Club

Morgan McMillan, Oneota Golf & Country Club, is the IGA’s 2025 PGA Professional of the Year.

McMillan’s tireless dedication, leadership, and passion for the game of golf have made her one of the most respected professionals in Iowa. Through her efforts, Oneota Golf & Country Club has seen significant and sustained growth, reflecting her ability to inspire participation, foster community, and promote the game for golfers of all ages and skill levels.

A certified Master Club Fitter, McMillan combines deep technical expertise with exceptional interpersonal skills. She also serves as an assistant golf coach at Luther College, a junior skills academy instructor, and a private lesson teacher—sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm with both seasoned golfers and newcomers. Her students and members alike describe her as patient, encouraging, and passionate about helping others learn and enjoy the game.

McMillan’s leadership extends well beyond instruction. She is known for creating an inclusive and welcoming culture at Oneota Golf & Country Club—one where all members feel valued regardless of experience or background. Her work has been particularly impactful in growing women’s golf, as many women feel more comfortable taking lessons from her. She offers women’s clinics before each best-shot tournament, helping participants build confidence and skill while having fun on the course.

“Morgan is the definition of a team player,” said member Austin Lynch said. “There isn’t a single task she asks of her staff that she wouldn’t do herself. Whether it’s bartending, serving, cooking, cleaning, or helping with maintenance—Morgan leads by example and does it all.”

Her thoughtful approach to course management ensures an enjoyable experience for all golfers. McMillan consistently takes into account weather conditions, course setup, and the needs of average players, working closely with maintenance staff to balance playability and course care. She’s also built strong relationships with local high school golf programs, coordinating schedules and access to ensure student-athletes have opportunities to develop their skills.

McMillan’s success is rooted in humility, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to service. Whether she’s on the lesson tee, leading her staff, or helping behind the scenes, she sets a standard of excellence that uplifts everyone around her. The Iowa Golf Association congratulates Morgan McMillan on this well-deserved honor and celebrates her ongoing contributions to the game of golf in Iowa.

NOTE – The IGA Annual Awards Banquet is scheduled for Friday, December 5, at Terrace Hills Golf Course in Altoona. We will communicate a schedule of events to the public, including the price to attend very soon. 

The Iowa Golf Association (IGA) is proud to announce that Leighann LaRocca (right) has been elected as the first female President in the organization’s long and storied history. LaRocca’s election marks a historic milestone for the IGA and a powerful reflection of the growing inclusivity and leadership of women in golf throughout the state of Iowa.

LaRocca, who will serve a two-year term as president, has been a passionate and active member of the Iowa golf community for decades. Joining her on the IGA Executive Committee are Vaughn Halyard, Vice President, Matt Arenholz, Secretary, and Jon Brown, Treasurer (continuing in his role).

For LaRocca, the game of golf has been a lifelong source of friendship, personal growth, and joy — a journey that began humbly and has led to one of the most respected leadership roles in Iowa golf.

“I grew up on a farm in northwest Iowa, so summers were spent working outside,” LaRocca said. “My parents didn’t golf, so it didn’t even come onto my radar until my junior summer at UNI. I needed a class to graduate, so I took golf too. I learned the basics and we could play at the UNI course — which is now Highway 218.”

After moving to Des Moines and beginning her career with the Iowa Utilities Board, LaRocca’s love for the game deepened. “I bought a set of clubs at a garage sale, and my husband Bob and I started golfing on weekends,” she recalled. “We even went to Hilton Head for our honeymoon and golfed six of the seven days we were there.”

From those early rounds to decades of involvement in women’s golf, LaRocca’s journey has been one of connection and community. She has played in the Waveland Women’s League since 1991 — alongside the same three playing partners, who are commemorated with a bench on Hole #2. She has also been an active participant in IWGA and IGA events, finding not only competition but camaraderie and lasting friendships.

Her volunteer service began when she helped run the IWGA District 13 State Team Qualifying, which led to her being invited to join the IWGA Board.

Following the 2014 merger of the IGA and IWGA — a process that included extensive collaboration from many, including LaRocca, to preserve the history and vision of the IWGA — she has served on various boards and committees, always focused on creating opportunities for others to enjoy the game.

“I’ve never been the best golfer,” LaRocca said, “But I love the game and want to see it survive and thrive long into the future. Golf has enabled me — even as an introvert — to strike up conversations, make lifelong friends, and be part of something that brings people together.”

LaRocca’s presidency represents both a historic first and a continuation of her lifelong commitment to advancing the game she loves. Her leadership, energy, and perspective will help guide the IGA as it continues its mission to promote and preserve golf throughout Iowa.

Pictured above – Iowa Golf Hall of Fame members from Friday night’s event – HOF members in attendance included (from left) Rick Brown, Eugene Elliott, Bob Morland, Mike Coppola, Tom Verrips, Ken Schall, Jon Brown, Doug Snook, Nate Dunn, Jeff Schmid, Larry Gladson, Mark Egly, Ivan Miller and Kevin Beard. Not pictued but attended – Joe Palmer

The Class of 2025 Iowa Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held at Echo Valley CC on Friday, October 17th. The Iowa Golf Hall of Fame added four members in 2025, bringing the total number in the Hall of Fame to 105. Those four included Nate Dunn, Whitey Barnard, Jeff Schmid and Tom Verrips.

Click here to read more about Nate, Whitey, Jeff, Tom and their accomplishments

View acceptance videos from each inductee below

Nate Dunn
Whitey Bernard
Jeff Schmid
Tom Verrips

Proehl Blends Playing, Teaching and Club Professional
Duties into Well-Rounded Golf Career

Introduced to the game by his father and enticed by a $50 annual student membership at one of Iowa’s hometown golf courses, Chad Proehl fell in love with the game at an early age. Growing up in Atlantic, Proehl learned to play golf by running laps around Nishna Hills Golf Club, often playing 54 holes in a day. His mother, Mona, would drop him off at 7:30 a.m. every weekday and pick him up at 5:30 p.m.

Inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 2021, Proehl has competed at the PGA Tour and Champions Tour levels.

Nearly five decades later, the now 58-year-old Urbandale resident reflected upon a golf career filled with distinction, achievement, and service to the game during an interview with “Up and Down the Iowa Golf Scene.”

“The game has been very good to me,” Proehl stated. “I’ve made great friendships, met my wife on the golf course, had the opportunity to compete at high levels and helped many golfers of all ages reach their potential through instruction. It’s been wonderful and the best experience.”

For the past 17 years, Proehl has been a PGA Teaching Professional at Sugar Creek Golf Course in Waukee, working with players of all ages and levels and teaching all aspects of the game. He particularly enjoys instruction with junior players.

“It’s very rewarding to see a player smile after they hit a great shot, after they see their game improve and when they know they’ve accomplished something. I truly enjoy getting texts from students of all ages saying they’ve accomplished a goal and seeing junior players fall in love with the game, just like I did.”

Players are encouraged to set their own goals with the instructor providing guidance and ensuring the goals are stretched but attainable.

“After a few lessons, you understand what motivates each player, how hard they want to work and what their commitment to the game is,” Proehl said. “What separates most players on a competitive basis is their short game.

We stress working on wedge play, chipping, and putting but most younger players love to hit that driver.”

Proehl has been a standout player at all levels of competition. His decorated playing career includes 16 appearances in the National PGA Club Professional Championships, a 13-time Iowa Cup team member, three-time Iowa PGA Section Player of the Year, two-time, Iowa PGA Match Play champion and won the Iowa PGA Section Championship three times. In addition, he is a 2013 Herman Sani Champion, a 2019 Iowa Section Senior Champion, and two-time Iowa PGA Senior Player of the Year. In 2021, Proehl was inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame.

He has also competed at the highest levels of golf, including the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions. Proehl has played in eight PGA Tour Champions events, including five KitchenAid Senior PGA Championships where he made the cut twice with his best finish was a T52 in 2019 with a $6,700 in prize money. In 2018, Proehl played in three Champions Tour events, including the Principal Charity Classic, the 3M Invitational, and the Sanford International. Proehl competed in the PGA Tour’s John Deere Classic five times, first in 2008 and last in 2021.

Over the years, he served as Head Professional, Director of Golf and Teaching Professional at Iowa courses such as Echo Valley Country Club, Wakonda Club, Jester Park, Sugar Creek and Atlantic Golf and Country Club.

Proehl has been a standout competitor at the Iowa PGA Section level and made 16 appearances in the National PGA Club Professional Championship.

Proehl excelled as a prep, leading Atlantic to the 1985 Iowa High School Boys Golf Class 3A state championship while capturing medalist honors by firing a 36-hole total of 149 at Finkbine Golf Course in Iowa City. Following a dream to play Division I golf, he attracted initial interest from the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Arkansas. He recalls a conversation with Steve Loy, the Razorback men’s golf coach who would later go on lead Arizona State to an NCAA title propelled by Phil Mickelson. Loy would move on to serve as Mickelson’s caddie, coach, friend, agent, and business partner.

“Coach Loy asked me what credentials I brought to the table,” Proehl recalls. “I told him I won a state title. He said delicately everyone on the team did that, and most have multiple championships. I figured out quickly how hard this would be.”

Proehl accepted an offer to enroll at Grand View University, playing two seasons under Coach Chad Blake and two more under Jack Webb, the long-time PGA golf professional and member of the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame. Proehl led the Vikings to three appearances to the NAIA National Golf Championships, capped off with a top ten finish and All-American honors in 1990. He also captured a pair of NAIA District 15 titles. Proehl turned professional in 1991 and embarked on his playing and teaching career that continues today.

“The game has been good to me, and I look forward to continue competing at the PGA Section and PGA Champions Tour levels and teaching players what a great game this is. My wife, Shari, children Jesse Bach (Miles), Jordan and new grandson Bentley are my inspirations and loves of my life” he stated.

“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
– High-Level Competition, Boatwright Internship Preps Hoffman for Career in Golf
– Globetrotting Knutzon Comes by Nomadic Golf Lifestyle Naturally
– George on a Mission to Make the Game More Enjoyable While Breaking Through Barriers

The Class of 2025 Iowa Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will
take place at Echo Valley CC on Friday, October 17th

The Iowa Golf Hall of Fame will add four members in 2025, bringing the total number in the Hall of Fame to 105. Those four include Nate Dunn, Whitey Barnard, Jeff Schmid and Tom Verrips.

Click here to read more about Nate, Whitey, Jeff, Tom and their accomplishments

Join us for an evening of celebration on Friday, October 17! The event kicks off with facility tours at Golf House Iowa from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m., while a cocktail hour begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Echo Valley Country Club. A dinner buffet will open at 6:30 p.m., followed by the Induction Ceremony around 7:15 p.m. The evening will conclude with wrap-up and pictures at approximately 9 p.m. We look forward to seeing you there!

The cost for a ticket to the event will be $75/person and can be purchased online.

You can click here to sign up to attend, or you can call the Iowa Golf Association office at 515-207-1062.

Congratulations to each inductee and welcome to the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame!

SIGN UP TO ATTEND THE CEREMONY