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.

Celebrating Iowa’s Female Golf Visionaries

As the wheels of time turn and the landscapes of golf evolve, it’s important to acknowledge the dedicated individuals who have steered the sport’s path in Iowa through the years. From the inception of the Iowa Golf Association and Iowa Women’s Golf Association to the game today, a lineage of passionate stewards have navigated the challenges of organizing championships, rating courses and crafting indispensable yearly directories.

The Iowa Women’s Golf Association was initially formed in 1922, with Mrs. L.W. Bryant, Mrs. Don Donnan and Mrs. Walter Cherry serving as president, vice president, and treasurer, respectively. That same day, the inaugural Iowa Women’s Amateur teed off at Sunnyside Country Club in Waterloo, the first of many historical steps for women’s golf in Iowa. Although the first official charter year for the IWGA was 1955, members worked hard to grow the game for girls and women across the state.

As time went on, more championships for women were added to the summer schedule. The first new arrival was the Iowa Junior Girls’ Amateur in 1952. Over the next 17 years, women would see five more championships added with the inception of the Iowa Wife/Husband, Women’s Club (State) Team, Women’s Forever 39 Match Play, Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur, and Junior Girls’ Four-State. The IWGA’s most recent additions introduced were the IGA Women’s Four-Ball in 2010 and the IGA Women’s Match Play in 2012.

With the addition of new championships, the workload for IWGA board members increased tremendously as the years went on. It was custom that each board member was assigned a women’s championship each season. Once assigned, that board member was in charge of securing host sites, creating tournament flyers, coordinating with the host club’s head pro, and communicating tournament schedules with players. While the annual assignments rotated, the chair of the Iowa Junior Girls’ remained consistent for many years.

Corkey Nydle was instrumental in expanding playing opportunities for girls in Iowa. She was present at the inaugural Iowa Junior Girls’ Amateur. Though historical records indicate it was initially played in 1952 at Ames Golf and Country Club, former historian Sally Sharp believes it began in 1951 at Pine Lake Country Club in Eldora. Nydle, elected to the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 1989, was also responsible for starting the Junior Girls’ 4-State Team event in 1968. After being approached by Mrs. E.W. Geiger Jr. of Kansas about creating an interstate junior team play, Nydle quickly jumped on board. The event first took place at Shawnee Mission Country Club in Kansas in 1968, with Missouri claiming the first title. It was played at Ottumwa Country Club, Nydle’s home course, the following year when Iowa not only hosted the event but took home the title.

The IWGA increased the frequency of events held each year and expanded its board of directors to include district chairs, responsible for securing host sites in their respective districts. They also compiled a comprehensive list of all women’s golf events in Iowa for the year to update their annual directories. While each championship had an assigned official, often the same woman would oversee multiple championships. This was evident with Ann Griffel and Jill Blackwood, two women who wore many hats during their time with the IWGA and IGA.

Griffel’s significant contributions to golf in Iowa span various roles as a player, volunteer, administrator and benefactor. Blackwood, who succeeded Griffel as president of the Iowa Women’s Golf Association, said, “I doubt that there is another individual who has had a greater impact upon women’s golf in Iowa than Ann.”

Griffel held the position of IWGA president for 23 years, beginning in 1962. During her tenure, she spearheaded the establishment of new competitive avenues for women, including the Iowa Junior Girls’ Amateur, the State Wife/Husband, the Women’s Forever 39 Match Play, and the Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur. Griffel chaired the State Wife/Husband from 1961 to 1965, an event that grew into one of the nation’s largest tournaments contested on a single course. There were over 500 participants at its peak.

Additionally, Griffel’s prowess on the course was evident as she clinched the Forever 39 titles in 1973, 1974, and 1979. She was also a five-time runner-up. And she dominated the Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur Championship, winning 11 times in a 12-year span from 1967 to 1979. Griffel’s commitment to nurturing talent and supporting education led to the inception of IWGA scholarships for Iowa high school seniors in 1966, later renamed the “Ann Griffel Scholarship” in her honor in 1985. She was elected to the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 2006.

Blackwood’s IWGA and IGA involvement was quite impressive as well. With a longstanding dedication to the IWGA, she assumed the role of district chair in 1985 and later joined the organization’s Board of Directors in 1991. Her commitment extended further as she served as president of the IWGA from 2002 to 2005. Additionally, she generously volunteered her time and expertise, directing the annual Iowa Wife/Husband Tournament for 13 years, the Iowa Women’s Amateur for eight years, and the Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur for four years. Notably, she played a pivotal role on the Ann Griffel Scholarship Selection Committee for a decade. In recognition of her remarkable contributions, the IGA honored her in 2014 with the prestigious George Turner Distinguished Service Award, acknowledging her lifetime of volunteerism and dedication to the sport. She was also inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 2019.

Julie (Bush) Buerman’s passion for the game of golf extends beyond her own game. Her service to golf in Iowa started early in her career as she began coaching girls’ golf at Kennedy High School in Cedar Rapids, just a few years after graduating from Luther College where she played collegiately. In addition to coaching high school golf for over 20 years, Buerman served on the IWGA board (2008-2011) and numerous IGA committees. She remains involved as both the Chair of the Women’s Rules and Competition Committee and the Ann Griffel Scholarship Committee. She also joined the 100^th Iowa Women’s Amateur Committee this past year, helping elevate the championship to new heights. For the last six years, Buerman has led Team Iowa at the Junior Girls’ Four-State event. As a Four-State coach, she puts her high school coaching experience to use to encourage the next generation of Iowa golfers.

Outside of championships, the IWGA board members were in charge of conducting course ratings throughout the state. Joyce Prescott served on the IWGA board for 13 years. During that time she was responsible for conducting course ratings throughout the state. In 1995, the board transitioned by combining the Handicapping and Course Rating positions into one. Combining the two still stands today within IGA staff roles. Patty Iogha joined the board in 2007 and quickly got involved with course ratings. She remains heavily involved, assisting with dozens of course ratings annually and also contributing to the Handicapping and Course Rating Committee.

One of the most pivotal moments in IWGA and IGA history happened in 2013 when the two organizations merged. Carroll Dethrow, then president of the IWGA, worked closely with the key leaders of the IGA to ensure not only a smooth transition but also to preserve the playing opportunities for women in the state. After joining the board in 2007, Dethrow quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Vice President in 2009 and President in 2010.

Other notable board members and committee members include Ione Reid, Betty Thye and Trudie Higgs. Reid was a member for 26 total years, from 1962 through 1993. One of the most important roles during her stint was serving as the historian. She compiled all the history ranging from championship history to board members and district chairs. In a time when everything was printed, she pored over past files ensuring that future members would have a clear understanding of where the IWGA came from.

Betty Thye’s involvement with the Iowa Women’s Golf Association spanned 25 years, commencing in the 1960s. She was the IWGA’s vice president from 1984 to 1985 and president from 1985 to 1988. Additionally, she chaired the Course Rating Committee from 1970 to 1977, facilitating the establishment of women’s course ratings statewide in collaboration with the USGA. Furthermore, Thye played a pivotal role as the director of the Iowa Wife/Husband Championship from 1978 to 1985, notably during its staging at Okoboji. Betty was inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 2009.

Currently, the IGA has four female board members with Leighann LaRocca serving as vice president and Molly Altorfer, Michelle Klein and Rose Kubesheski holding seats. Each also is involved with various committees. Altorfer assists with the Communications Committee; Klein serves on the Communications, Herman Sani Scholarship and Women’s Rules and Competitions committees; and Kubesheski serves on the Women’s Rules and Competitions, Ann Griffel Scholarship and Hall of Fame Nominating committees.

The IGA is fortunate to have passionate females on various committees, including three all-female committees with the Women’s Rules & Competitions, Ann Griffel Scholarship and the 100^th Iowa Women’s Amateur.  They are as follows:

WOMEN’S RULES & COMPETITIONS
Julie Buerman, Chair
Kathy Fortune
Christi Imsland
Nicol Jones
Michelle Klein
Rose Kubesheski
Leighann LaRocca
Mikayla Olson

ANN GRIFFEL SCHOLARSHIP
Leighann LaRocca, Chair
Rose Kubesheski
Julie Buerman
Laurie Graham
Jan Sewright
Christi Imsland
Leanne Smith
Jennifer Corkrean
Sheila Burton
Fiona Watson
Becky Schwiete

100^th IOWA WOMEN’S AMATEUR
Julie Buerman
Beth Duenow
Paige Hoffman
Christi Imsland
Michelle Klein
Judy McCarty
Mikayla Olson

Judy McCarty came out of retirement in 2024, when she joined the 100^th Iowa Women’s Amateur Committee. Having previously served on the board, McCarty held a variety of positions during her 14 years of involvement with the IWGA. She began as a board member before transitioning to the assistant secretary and later into secretary/treasurer. She also reached the pinnacle position of president from 2009 through 2010. One of her biggest responsibilities while on the board was drafting and publishing the IWGA Club Directories. The annual project was distributed across the state and included a list of each women’s event being played that year in Iowa. This included IWGA-sponsored and non-sponsored events. Though it was time-consuming, it was a critical piece to the ever-growing landscape of women’s golf in Iowa.

In reflecting on her time with the IWGA, McCarty echoed just how rewarding it was to be surrounded by passionate women. Many of the board members came from roles as district chairs, making the selection process easy because everyone was working toward a common goal. McCarty fondly remembers every board member being easily identifiable at IWGA events wearing their matching red blazers.

Other notables to have served on the IWGA board include Trudie Higgs (1989-2009) and Gleni Howard (1982-1999). Trudie Higgs became the first and only mother to have a daughter serve on the board during her stint. Kathie Sankey joined her mother from 2005-2007 when she was brought on as the treasurer.

These women, spanning past and present board members and committee affiliates, have worked to continue the growth and excellence of women’s golf within the state. Their commitment and expertise stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of the game.

For a complete list of IWGA board members from 1955-2007 click here.

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

Highlighting five past champions who etched their names on the Fladoos trophy.

Profiling Five Past Iowa Women’s Amateur Golf Champions

Iowa has a rich history of women’s golf, marked by outstanding players who have showcased their talent and dedication on the course. Over the years, the Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship has allowed these golfers to shine, displaying skill, determination, and sportsmanship. Let’s delve into the achievements of some remarkable winners who have left an indelible mark on the Iowa golfing landscape.

In 1922, the inaugural Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship took place, marking a significant milestone in the state’s golfing history. The event was a testament to the growing interest and participation of women in golf during that era. Hosted at Sunnyside Country Club, the initial championship was invite-only. Miss Margaret Addington, a Waterloo native, defeated Mrs. Frank C. Byers 4&3 in the championship match. Local papers reported at the time that “Miss Addington apparently had the better of her opponent throughout, although the Cedar Rapids woman played a remarkable game while each encountered hard luck at times”. 

After starting the match tied through three, Addington would reel off six straight wins on holes four through nine to take a commanding lead into the back nine. Byers would cut into the deficit with a par on ten but it wouldn’t be enough as Addington quickly won the 11th getting back to a six-up advantage. After tying the 12th, Byers sank an eight-footer for birdie on 13 to keep her championship hopes alive. It wouldn’t be enough though as the two tied the 15th and final hole, etching Addington as the first in a long list of Iowa Women’s Amateur champions. Her triumph undoubtedly laid the foundation for future generations of female golfers to excel on the course.

In 1997, the Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship was held at the Burlington Golf Club, a renowned course known for being the oldest golf club west of the Mississippi River. The competition attracted top female golfers from across the state, all vying for the prestigious title.Among them, Chris Cervetti emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional skill and composure throughout the tournament.

Cervetti opened up the championship with a round of three-over 75 to find herself tied for the lead. She remained steady over the final 36 holes, posting 76-77 to claim the title by a single shot over then-Iowa State player Cathy Matthews. While the victory at age 44 was impressive, it wasn’t the most impressive stat of the week. Since playing in her first Iowa Women’s Amateur in 1978 Cervetti had finished second in six different championships and placed in the top seven 13 different times. With all her close calls, it appeared as though the 1997 championship would be yet another. Holding a four-shot lead, she stepped onto the 15th tee. By the time she tapped in on the 18th, her lead had shrunk to just a single stroke. It didn’t matter as the Des Moines native would finally claim triumph at Burlington Golf Club, cementing her place in Iowa’s golfing history.

The 1998 Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship witnessed fierce competition at the Ottumwa Country Club, a picturesque venue known for its lush fairways and immaculate greens. Against this backdrop, Stacey Bergman delivered clutch shots and touch around the greens throughout the back nine and into a playoff on her way to capturing the Iowa Women’s Amateur.

The Fort Dodge native, an incoming transfer and soon-to-be Junior at Tennessee, was no stranger to rising to the occasion. Earlier in the 1998 season, Bergman had tied for medalist honors at the Big 10 Conference Championship while competing for the University of Iowa. After missing short putts on the front, Bergman found herself trailing Patricia Martinson by two after the pair went bogey-birdie on the 10th. She’d battle back to tie Martinson when the pair reached the 16th tee.

After posting identical 54-hole scores of 12-over, 225, Bergman and Martinson returned to the first tee. After parring the first, Martinson hit her tee shot on the par three second to 18 feet. Bergman then stepped up, delivering a five-iron that settled 8 feet from the flag. After a miss from Martinson, Bergman calmly knocked in the birdie putt. Her victory at Ottumwa Country Club showed not only her talent but also her resilience in claiming the Iowa Women’s Amateur title.

In 2001, the Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship showcased the pinnacle of women’s golfing talent at the prestigious Finkbine Golf Course in Iowa City. Amidst the challenging terrain and competitive field, Mary Anne Locher rose above the rest, demonstrating determination and grit en route to victory.

While many players have to wait years and suffer from close calls before claiming their first victory, Locher was able to capture the title in her first year participating. Along the way, she took down future three-time champion Jenny Heinz and the defending champion Patricia Martinson with a 54-hole total of two-under-par 214. After opening with a three-over 75, Locher quickly bounced back with a second-round 67. Heading into the final round, she trailed Heinz by one. Rain delayed the start of the final round by nearly two and a half hours, but it didn’t seem to faze Locher as she capitalized with an early birdie on the par-5 second hole.

That one-shot lead remained throughout the rest of the final round and would be extended to two heading into the 17th. Heinz made birdie on the penultimate hole to close the gap, but it wouldn’t be enough as Locher’s final approach of the day came within 15 feet of the hole. “I came here wanting to win, but what were the odds of that happening?” Locher would later say.

Her win at Finkbine Golf Course solidified her status as a formidable force in Iowa’s golfing community. More impressive than winning her first title in her first attempt was the list of past and future Iowa Women’s Amateur champions who filled the final leaderboard, including Jenny Heinz, Patricia Martinson, Sarah Gilbert, and Jennie Arseneault.

Des Moines Golf & Country Club (North) was the backdrop for the 2012 Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship, where the state’s top female golfers converged to compete for glory. Among them, Kimmy Askelson distinguished herself with a stellar performance that showcased her remarkable talent and off-season learning.

During the fall of Askelson’s freshman season at Drake, she discovered a partial tendon tear in her foot, which led to her being sidelined for nearly nine months. In just her second start back from injury, the teen returned better than ever physically and mentally. Much of her off-season prep revolved around improving her mental game. The work paid off, as she claimed the win over University of Iowa assistant coach Laura Cilek and her head coach Leanne Smith.

Askelson found herself trailing after the first round, but only by one, and after 36, slept on a two-shot lead over Smith. Even with the cushion, she kept her foot on the pedal, doubling her lead by the time she finished the final round. Even with temps that reached above 100 degrees each day of the championship, the Bulldog remained as cool as ever. Askelson was steady through the 54 holes, carding two rounds of 75 sandwiched around a 76 for a 54-hole total of 226 and a four-shot victory. Emerging victorious at Des Moines Golf & Country Club, Askelson etched her name in Iowa’s golfing records.

The Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship has been a platform for extraordinary talent to shine, showcasing the best of women’s golf in the state. From the inaugural event in 1922 to recent triumphs, each winner has contributed to the rich tapestry of Iowa’s golfing heritage. Their achievements serve as a source of inspiration for future generations of female golfers, highlighting the values of perseverance and skill that define the sport. As Iowa continues to produce exceptional talent, the legacy of these champions will stand, shaping the future of women’s golf in the state for years to come.

Next week on Women’s Wednesday…

Explore the legacy and contributions of past board members and benefactors of the IWGA and IGA, highlighting their key role in shaping the landscape of women’s golf in Iowa.

Female Leaders Tee Up Success in Iowa’s Golf Community

The Iowa Golf Association (IGA) and Iowa Section PGA (IPGA) each play integral parts in growing the game of golf in the state of Iowa. Many recognize the IGA as the organization that runs different amateur events while the IPGA focuses on the professional side of the game. While both are true, the IGA and IPGA overlap when it comes to not only professional tournaments but also junior events. The IGA hosts two professional events each year in the form of U.S. Open Local Qualifying and the Herman Sani Tournament. IGA junior events include the Iowa Junior Amateur, Iowa Girls’ Junior Amateur, and U.S. Junior Amateur qualifying. While they don’t work directly together on high school state tournaments, the IGA and IPGA collaborate greatly as the IGA handles the administration of the girls’ and the IPGA takes care of the boys’ side. The two organizations also come together annually for the Iowa Cup Matches which feature the top male amateur and PGA Sectional pros.

They too work together to promote women’s golf. Beginning in 2022, the Women’s Golf Summit was created to celebrate women in golf and promote the game outside of social settings. In its first year, the event was a huge success. This year marks the second edition of the biennial event and the first at Golf House Iowa.

Along the way, the organizations have grown with the influx of golfers and expanded their staff. Both organizations currently have two female staff members, with Katelynn Hogenson and Karli Kerrigan working for the IGA and Tess Goudy and Stephanie Mason working for the IPGA.

Tess Goudy, PGA has been a member of the PGA for nearly 25 years and along the way has collected many of the state’s top honors. After beginning her career as an assistant professional at both Kirksville Country Club and Geneva Golf & Country Club, she was hired by the Iowa PGA in 2001, by then Iowa PGA Executive Director Kirk Stanzel, PGA as the Communications Director. Goudy has transformed the junior golf structure in the state and has been credited for shaping the Iowa Junior Golf Tour into a model for other Junior Tours in the U.S.

Annually, the Iowa PGA Tour administers more than 100 Junior Tour, Pee Wee Tour, and IHSAA events. Along with coordinating junior tournaments, Goudy also administers the Junior Academy and oversees the PGA Jr. League and Drive, Chip, and Putt. Goudy’s responsibilities don’t end there. She heads up the Membership Development for the Iowa PGA which includes setting up educational opportunities for IPGA Members, Continuing Education, and Membership updates.

Goudy broke through in 2019 when she was named the Iowa PGA Professional of the Year. The Golf Professional of the Year Award is the highest honor paid to an Iowa PGA Golf Professional. Honorees are chosen based on leadership abilities that stand above the rest, contributions made to their facility’s success, and excelling as an overall golf professional at the Iowa PGA Section level.  Goudy was the first female to win this prestigious award in Iowa PGA history. Additional awards and accolades for Goudy include: Bill Stausbaugh Award (2002), and Youth Player Development (2008, 2011). Iowa PGA was honored earlier this year with the 2024 Herb Graffis Award. Named annually, it recognizes the PGA of America Section for extraordinary and exemplary contributions and achievements in the area of Player Development.

Stephanie Mason now holds the position that gave Goudy her start at the Iowa PGA – the Communication Coordinator. Stephanie is no stranger to the golf industry, having grown up in a golf family headed by her father, and IPGA Executive Director, Greg Mason, PGA. Stephanie got her initial start in golf by working at two courses owned by the Mason family during and beyond her high school years. She joined the staff in February 2020 and oversees all media-related duties ranging from press releases to graphic design, and website redesign.

Mason currently executes marketing plans and communication across all social media accounts including X (Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat. Outside of social media, Mason is responsible for publishing the digital magazine for the IPGA which is shared with more than 15,000 individuals. She is also responsible for press releases ranging from tournament previews and recaps to annual award winners and Player of the Year recipients. One of her biggest projects was the overhaul of the IPGA’s four websites. With websites ranging from junior golf to internal sites for PGA members, Mason was able to design user-friendly sites to match branding initiatives and optimize the user experience.

With all of that going on, Mason still finds time to help assist with tournament operations for events such as the Iowa Open, and Iowa PGA Professional Championships, as well as five local Drive, Chip, and Putt qualifiers.

While the IGA currently has two women on staff, they weren’t the first. Julie Buch was the office manager for both the I.W.G.A and IGA from 2003-2011. Though she was part-time, she played an important role as the accountant and bookkeeper for both organizations. While she rarely assisted in championship prep or execution, her responsibility in the office freed up various IGA and IWGA staff to conduct championships, course ratings, and various initiatives.

Noel Treibel, now Knock, was the first full-time IGA female staff member after the IGA-Iowa PGA office split in 2001.  She joined the team in 2010. Previously a PJ Boatwright Intern for the I.W.G.A. from 2008-2010, Treibel would go on to become the Manager of Member Services and Women’s Golf.

Her main responsibilities during her time at the IGA revolved around women’s golf and women’s course ratings. For women’s events, Noel was the official in charge of securing host sites, preparing the courses, and executing the overall championship. In 2012, her role shifted when she became the Director of Course Rating while also maintaining Women’s Golf. Former IGA Executive Director Bill Dickens credited Treibel for her outstanding work leading up to the 2013 I.W.G.A. and IGA merger saying “The consolidation of the IGA and I.W.G.A. would not have been possible without the outstanding work of Noel Knock”.

During her time at the IGA, Treibel oversaw the hiring of Katelynn as an IGA intern in 2011. The two made a great team and helped elevate women’s golf in the state of Iowa. Each has many stories to tell from their early days at the IGA, as evident in their 2021 Greenside Episode: On Target with Noel. It was only fitting that Hogenson took over for Treibel in 2013 when she left the golf industry. She now resides in Waukee with her husband Justin and their two daughters.

During high school, Katelynn Hogenson participated in softball, volleyball, basketball, and golf and earned 11 varsity letters. She was named the 2007 Muscatine Community Y Female Athlete of the Year and awarded the Masterson Cup Award that same year. In golf, Hogenson qualified for State three of her four years. She earned medalist honors twice and was runner-up once at the MAC tournament. During her senior year, she set the 9-hole course record at Stone Creek Golf Club in Williamsburg with a 3-under par, 33.

Hogenson continued her golf career at Iowa State University where she lettered and double majored in Business Management and Marketing. In 2009 Hogenson qualified for a Futures Tour event (now Epson Tour), and in 2010 qualified for the U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links Championship. In that same season, she finished top-5 in the Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship at Finkbine Golf Course and won the inaugural IGA Women’s Four-Ball with partner Katie Suckow at Mason City Country Club. The two still hold the low scoring record for the event with a two-round total of 130.

In 2011, Hogenson was hired as the 4-month IWGA P.J. Boatwright Intern working closely with the IWGA Board of Directors and Noel Knock. The following year, Hogenson took the 6-month IGA P.J. Boatwright Internship and was offered the position of Director of Operations and Women’s Golf by Bill Dickens later that year. Following a staff change in 2015, she took the role of Membership Services and Women’s Golf and in 2021 was named the Chief Operating Officer.

In addition to working with the IGA, Hogenson has assisted with several USGA initiatives. In 2018 she was one of seven individuals nationwide selected for the USGA Handicap Outreach Working Group tasked with the rollout of the 2020 World Handicap System. She remained on this committee through 2023. She currently holds a position on the USGA P.J. Boatwright Working Group, focused on encouraging young men and women to work in the golf industry.

Hogenson has achieved Expert Level certification in the Rules of Golf which has earned her an invitation to over 10 USGA Championships including the 2022 Curtis Cup held at Merion Golf Club. She was a referee during the 2017 Junior Solheim Cup held at Des Moines Golf and Country Club and was a forward observer for the Singles Matches of the Solheim Cup between Michelle Wie and Caroline Masson. Most recently, Hogenson was invited to the 2024 Augusta National Women’s Amateur Championship, a 54-hole stroke play championship featuring the best women in the world held at Champions Retreat and Augusta National Golf Club.

“It’s amazing where this game has taken me, and who knew it would be without swinging a club,” Hogenson said.

Hogenson’s first USGA officiating role came at the 2015 USGA Women’s State Team at Dalhousie Golf Club in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. It also marked the first USGA event for then high school senior Karli Kerrigan. Just a few short years after that trip, Kerrigan would enter the world of golf administration through the P.J. Boatwright program at the IGA. Not long after, the two would join forces as colleagues, recognized as the driving forces behind the 100th Iowa Women’s Amateur.

When you ask Karli Kerrigan how her day is, you almost always get the same response: “Just another day in paradise.” For those lucky enough to know Karli, they know this is her sense of humor shining through. However, her response could be taken literally as she has an unmistakable passion for the IGA and her role as the Director of Competitions. Kerrigan can serve in this role so successfully because of her lifetime of experience with golf and her hard-working personality.

Having been around the game her whole life, she was an accomplished junior and collegiate player. She earned an individual state title for Centennial High School in Ankeny, an individual Heart of America Conference Championship title while at Grandview, two IGA Women’s Four-Ball titles, and an Iowa Junior Girls’ Amateur title in between. In 2016, Kerrigan was named a Sani Scholar, which is a high honor for any graduating senior in Iowa. Taking her passion for golf beyond college, she served as a P.J. Boatwright intern for the IGA in 2019 and 2020. After a short stint working at Glen Oaks Country Club, Kerrigan was hired at the IGA full-time in 2022 as the Director of Competitions where she has flourished.

Karli puts countless hours into planning IGA Championships and considers even the smallest details. Many players would be shocked by all the planning that is involved before anyone tees up a ball. The player’s overall experience at an IGA Championship is of utmost importance to Karli and she is constantly brainstorming new ideas for the future. The 100th Iowa Women’s Amateur is a perfect example of Karli’s ideas and plans for the future coming to fruition. The 100th playing of the Iowa Women’s Amateur will be special for numerous reasons, but most of them would not be possible without people like Karli or Katelynn working behind the scenes.

The IGA and I.W.G.A. have also featured nearly a dozen female interns since the initiation of the P.J. Boatwright program. Previous interns include:

• Sara Sexton – 2003
• Cindy Whitmore – 2007
• Noel Treibel – 2008-2010
• Kasie Pheanis – 2009
• Amanda Vogt – 2010
• Ashlen Matzdorf – 2011
• Katelynn Hogenson – 2011-2012
• Mayci Rule – 2012
• Kelsey Van Tassel – 2013-2015
• Katie Gustafson – 2014
• Meg Monson – 2016
• Brooke Miller – 2017
• Megan Rush – 2018
• Karli Kerrigan – 2019-2020
• Annika Patton – 2021
• Jackie Wojciechowski – 2022
• Paige Hoffman 2023-2024

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

Past champions who joined the impressive list of women to claim the elusive Iowa Women’s Amateur title.

Celebrating Iowa’s Three-Time Iowa Women’s Amateur Champions

Winning the Iowa Women’s Amateur can often be the pinnacle event of a player’s career. The highly competitive field combined with the demands of the course often brings the cream of the Iowa crop into contention. Most would feel fortunate just to be in contention during the championship. For a select few, being in contention was the standard, a regular occurrence, and potentially, an expectation. It is rarified air being crowned the champion of this event twice, but in its history, four players have reached another level: three victories.

Des Moines’ Mary Louise Cordingly was the first of four players to reach the magical number of three Iowa Women’s Amateur titles. She did so rather quickly, reeling off three victories in four years from 1947 through 1950. Her first title, in 1947, came at Cedar Rapids Country Club. Cordingly got off to a quick start in the championship match and never looked back. After the first 18 holes, she was already four up on Nell Staats who was, by all accounts, the veteran in the match. But that didn’t deter the Des Moines native as she then won or tied each of the following 11 holes, closing out a decisive 9 & 7 victory.

Returning to the championship in 1948, Cordingly was the player to beat. Sunnyside Country Club has often felt like home for defending champions and it was no different for Cordingly. In the all Des Moines final, she took down Lois Penn by a margin of 2 & 1. Along the way to clinching the title, she faced some of the state’s top golfers in Corky Nydle and a rematch with Nell Staats. In both rounds of the title match, Cordingly saved her best for the back nine as she closed out in one-under-par 41 and two-under 40. After miscalculating her score on the 32^nd, she was forced to concede it to Penn, helping her competitor close the gap. It gave Penn the momentum as she was also able to win the 33^rd and 34^th holes, slashing the deficit to one. Never one to back away, Cordingly drove the 35^th hole and two-putted for birdie, closing out her successful title defense.

After bowing out early in the 1949 championship, Cordingly returned in 1950 with her sights once again set on victory. Similar to her first title, she dominated the final match, leaving little doubt to those who watched, that she was the top amateur in the state. Bebe Fisher had the tall task of trying to take down the two-time champion but proved to be no match as Cordingly rode an early five-up lead into an 8 & 7 victory at Clinton Country Club. Cordlingly led from start to finish, leaving the 19-year-old Fisher unable to gain any form of momentum. Following her third victory at the Iowa Women’s Amateur, the trophy was retired as was customary following a participant’s third victory in the event.

It was evident that Cordingly was the player to beat at the 1951 Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship and would go on to claim even more titles. However, she never got the chance. She tragically passed away during the early morning hours of March 31^st, 1951. After leaving Wakonda Club, her home course, she drowned when the vehicle she was riding in was swept off Fleur Drive due to high floodwaters. The 1951 playing of the championship unveiled a new trophy, appropriately named after Cordingly.

It would take more than 25 years before another champion would claim three Iowa Women’s Amateur titles, but like Cordingly, it would only take four years to achieve. Hailing from Sibley, Barb Thomas took the state by storm in 1978 and 1979 as she captured both the Iowa High School Individual Championship and the Iowa Girls’ Junior title in both years.

Following her high school graduation in 1979, she would go on to claim her first Iowa Women’s Amateur title at Ottumwa Country Club. Standing on the 18^th hole, the then 17-year-old Thomas was faced with a five-foot putt to claim victory. Rising to the occasion, the teen calmly rolled it in to post a three-over-par 74, and a 54-hole total of 298, edging out Dorea Mitchell by one.

She would go on to star at Iowa State University the following season, earning First Team All-American honors. Following her freshman season, she transferred to NCAA powerhouse University of Tulsa, where she would later finish third individually in the NCAA Championship while helping Canes to the team title.

Thomas would once again finish 1-2 in 1980, but this time it was Mitchell claiming the win. Thomas then came back better than ever in 1981. Playing at Burlington Golf Club, she left little doubt that she was the player to beat, posting rounds of 70, 72, 81 to win by seven strokes. Her first round 70 broke the previous Burlington Golf Club course record. Such as with Cordingly, Thomas successfully defended her Iowa Women’s Amateur title at Sunnyside the next year. After finishing the first round in a tie for first, Thomas blitzed the field over the next two rounds with back-to-back 71s to lift the trophy, this time by 14 strokes.

Following her college career and final Iowa Women’s Amateur title, Thomas set her sights on playing professionally. She played on the LPGA tour for 18 years where she captured the Cup Noodles Hawaiian Ladies Open in 1995. That year also marked one of her top finishes on the money list as she would go on to finish 31^st in the standings. She was inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 2011.

Jenny Heinz of Waterloo was no stranger to the Iowa Women’s Amateur when she teed it up at Dodge Riverside Golf Course in 2003. The University of Northern Iowa Panther already had an Iowa High School State Individual title and Iowa Girls’ Junior Amateur to her name, but was still looking to capture the state’s largest event.

Entering the 2003 championship, Heinz had finished solo second and in a tie for second in the two previous Iowa Women’s Amateurs. It was plenty of motivation for her as she was able to hold off a late charge from Iowa State’s Leanne Owens and Lisa Meshke, capturing her maiden title. A birdie on the final hole helped her post three-under 33 on the back nine, securing the championship by two shots.

Heinz would continue her impressive play at the Iowa Women’s Amateur through the 2000’s but would have to wait six more years to claim her second win. During the drought of championship titles, she never finished outside the top 10 on the leaderboard. In 2009, she finally broke through again, clinching the Iowa Women’s Amateur title at Hyperion Field Club in Johnston. Even though she was out of college, the championship felt much like the 2003 event as Leanne Smith, previously Owens, finished runner-up. Heinz would once again wait six years before another title, this time capturing the crown in 2015 at Coldwater Golf Links in Ames. She was the only player under par after 54 holes, shooting 6-under-par 207 to claim the title by six over University of Iowa golfer Jessie Sindlinger.

While Jenny Heinz had to wait six years between victories, another Jennie was able to complete the trifecta in as many years. Beginning in 2004, Jennie Arseneault captured her first Iowa Women’s Amateur title. It wasn’t surprising to those who knew the teen. Originally from Grinnell, Arseneault opted to attend the prestigious International Junior Golf Academy, David Leadbetter Golf Academy, and The Pendleton School during her high school years.

Being immersed in golf year-round paid dividends as she was able to successfully defend her Iowa Women’s Amateur title in 2005, this time coming at Harvester Golf Club. In each of her first two titles, she closed in quite impressive fashion. First at Elmwood posting 66-67 then again at the Harvester posting 65-69 over the final 36 holes.

Her third and final title, coming in 2006 at Des Moines Golf & Country Club, began with quite the bang as she posted a course record 68. Losing momentum in the second round with a 73, she regrouped and saved her best for last. During the final nine holes of the event, she used a three-hole stretch recording a birdie and eagle to distance herself from the field and claim the title by four over Jill Marcum.

2006 was more than just the year she claimed her third straight title; it was one of the best years of her career. She qualified for the U.S. Women’s Open and the U.S. Women’s Amateur that summer. Although she missed the cut at the U.S. Women’s Open, the experience would come in handy just a few weeks later when she teed it up at the Amateur. She put together quite the week, advancing out of stroke play and all the way to the quarterfinals before falling in 19 holes to Lindy Duncan.

Though she never teed it up again in the Iowa Women’s Amateur, mostly in part because of various injuries, Arseneault continued having success at the national level. Her most prolific victory came in 2008 when she captured the Women’s Western Amateur in Newnan, Georgia.

Next week on Women’s Wednesday…

Decisions aren’t made overnight. Take a closer look at those who have impacted the policies and procedures both for the Iowa Women’s Golf Association and the Iowa Golf Association.

Teenage Triumph: Juniors Capture State’s Crown Jewel

The Iowa Women’s Amateur is one of the toughest tests a player can face within the state borders. With a field made up of the top juniors, mid-amateurs, and seasoned veterans, it often requires many years and close calls for players to finally get their hands on the Fladoos Trophy. For a select few, the wait didn’t last long. They staked their claim in Iowa Women’s Amateur history before receiving their high school diploma.

The year was 1935 and the Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship was a mere 14 years old. The championship was being held at Davenport Country Club and all of the stars were teeing it up. Amongst the favorites and household names was a budding Edith Estabrooks.

The same age as the championship, Estabrooks’ game was well established and many quickly tabbed her as ‘a prodigy playing a high level of golf that defied her age’ with the physical and ‘mental makeup required of a champion’. By the end of the week, she rightfully earned her championship title taking down Jennet Jones, 5&4, in the match-play format. Aside from the dominant victory was the fact that Estabrooks began the 36-hole match five down through five. After leveling the match through 23 holes, the teen won five of the next nine holes. To cap it off, she drained a fifty-foot eagle putt on the 32^nd hole to slam the door on Jones.

In her third attempt, Edith was able to not only write her name on the trophy, but into the record books by becoming the youngest champion in tournament history. She successfully defended her title in 1936 and 1937. After surrendering the trophy in 1938, she promptly claimed it again in 1939. Estabrooks did more than win the Iowa Women’s Amateur in her teenage years as she also captured the Western Girls’ Junior in 1936. She nearly claimed her second title in 1938 before falling to future LPGA and USGA champion Patty Berg in the championship match.

Five years after Estabrooks’ incredible victory, another young teenager tried her hand at capturing the same title. Phyllis Otto had just finished up her sophomore year of high school and was 10 days away from turning 16 when she teed it up at the 1940 Iowa Women’s Amateur. She captured the title at Wakonda Club in Des Moines with a decisive 6&5 margin over Kathleen Carey. Her closest match of the week was a 3&2 victory over future six-time Iowa Women’s Amateur Champion Ann Casey Johnstone.

Otto, having first participated in the event when she was 12, would go on to capture two more Iowa Women’s Amateur titles in 1942 and 1952, both coming at Des Moines Golf & Country Club. Between 1945 and 1946, she added titles at the Women’s Western Amateur and National Collegiate Women’s Championship along with a Curtis Cup invite to her resumé. Her 1945 Women’s Western Amateur title was over the legendary Babe Didrikson Zaharias.

Outside of women’s golf, Phyllis also left her mark in boys’ golf. She and three other boys teamed up to help Atlantic High School capture the state title in 1941. After turning in the lowest score, a protest broke out when it was discovered the team did not have a faculty member on site. Otto’s mother had driven the teens to the event but when the track and field coach failed to show up as the faculty representative, the team was disqualified.

Otto would later marry Jack Germain, the brother of her college roommate and teammate Dorothy, and hang her clubs up until 1948 when she continued her impressive display of golfing prowess. Seven years later, in 1952, she captured her third and final Iowa Women’s Amateur title before turning professional and pursuing a career in golf instruction.

Otto would remain the most recent high schooler to capture the Iowa Women’s Amateur until 1956. Not only would that year’s championship be won by a teenager, but the combined age for the two finalists didn’t even reach 30. In a match that felt more like the Iowa Junior Girls’ Amateur than the Women’s Amateur, 16-year-old Andy Cohn prevailed by a mark of 6&5 over 13-year-old Sharon Fladoos. Clinton Country Club was flooded with patrons as an estimated crowd of 1,000 followed along for each of the 31 holes played that July day. Even more groundbreaking was the fact that all four semifinalists that year were teenagers. Cohn and Fladoos were joined by Judy Kimball, 18, and Linda Cahill, 16. Kimball, the oldest of the four, was just a month removed from turning 18.

With the unprecedented teenage movement in the semifinals, the I.W.G.A. held a vote to see if juniors should be allowed to play in both the Iowa Junior Girls’ and the Iowa Women’s Amateur. Fortunately, the vote never passed. Had it passed, Sharon Fladoos wouldn’t have become the first girl to capture both the Junior and Women’s Amateur title in the same year, a feat she accomplished in 1960.

The 1956 championship was groundbreaking for more reasons than just its young finalists. It also marked the final time the champion was determined through a match-play format. The championship changed to stroke play medalist competition in 1957 and has remained so through today. Even with the format change, Estabooks’ championship record at age 14 still holds to this day. The closest anyone has ever come to besting Estabrooks was a fifteen-year-old Britta Snyder.

The Ames native made headlines in the summer of 2016 when she committed to Baylor University before ever stepping foot in a high school classroom. A highly-sought recruit, Snyder focused many of her competitive efforts on national-level events and an American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) schedule.

Not often teeing it up in Iowa, the youngster came into the 93^rd Iowa Women’s Amateur with one goal: to win. She didn’t just win, she blitzed the field by a staggering 13 shots posting an even-par 216. Not bad, kid.

Snyder won every event she played in Iowa from 2017 through 2019. Beginning with her freshman year in the spring of 2017, Britta earned medalist honors at each of her high school tournaments. The one event she didn’t win? The individual high school state championship. It wasn’t because someone beat her. It was because she qualified for a USGA Championship, which was scheduled over the same dates.

Returning in 2018, the Gilbert sophomore won each time she teed it up, including her first individual state title. Her junior year, 2019, was more of the same as she continued to remain undefeated en route to her second straight individual state crown. She closed out her title defense with an eagle on the last hole to post a course-record 65. She didn’t know it then, but it would be her final time wearing the Gilbert uniform.

A senior in 2020, Snyder had to sit back as the COVID-19 epidemic wiped away any chance at her threepeat. “If I have a chance to leave high school golf that’s how I wanted to. I mean 65, winning a state title by 15 with an eagle putt. There’s no better way to end it than that,” Snyder would later say.

Synder didn’t know it then, but she wouldn’t be the last high schooler to claim a victory at the Iowa Women’s Amateur. Two years later in 2019, Paige Hoffman of West Des Moines teed it up at her first Iowa Women’s Amateur. The 17-year-old was fresh off claiming the 4A High School Individual State title and was well-known in the IGA circuit. But before she could win her maiden title, her passion for the IGA began with an invitation.

The Iowa Golf Association helped Hoffman kick-start her junior golf career in an important way in 2017 with an invitation to the Junior Girls’ Four-State Tournament. This event was a springboard for Paige’s love of golf and pushed her to pursue golf on a more competitive level. Throughout her junior career, Paige played in four Four-States, won three Iowa Junior Girls’ Player of the Year titles, won two IGA Women’s Four-Ball tournaments with teammate Kylie Carey, and won the previously mentioned Class 4A Iowa High School State Championship.

The pinnacle of Hoffman’s junior career was winning the Iowa Women’s Amateur at Otter Creek Golf Course in 2019. It is a title even she admits she didn’t think she would claim so early in her career. Paige ended her successful junior career by earning a Herman Sani Scholarship in 2021 for her high character and achievement in the classroom.

Hoffman’s passion for golf did not end at the junior level as she now plays collegiate golf at Northwest Missouri State University. She played her way to the NCAA Division II National Championship as a sophomore in 2023, which led to her inaugural IGA Women’s Player of the Year title.

Paige does not just have a passion for playing golf, but also a passion for golf administration. Paige served as the Handicapping and Course Rating Intern in 2023 and is excited to intern with the IGA again in 2024. “The Iowa golf community is a special group and I feel fortunate to be a small part of it as a player and an intern,” Hoffman said.

Though five champions are highlighted, they aren’t the only high schoolers to lift the Fladoos trophy. Jennie Arseneault did so in 2004 at Elmwood Country Club kicking off her streak of three in a row. Future releases will share Arseneault’s incredible run at the state’s top event. Sharon Fladoos captured her first of three Iowa Women’s Amateur titles in 1960 at age 17, just four years after her runner-up finish to Cohn. For a more in-depth look at Sharon’s career, click here.

Excerpts from Golden Harvest and We Are Iowa (WOI-TV) were used in this feature.

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

Celebrating the life of Corkey Nydle, one of Iowa’s most decorated amateurs.

100 Competitive Holes: Fundraising for the Future

In celebration of the 100th Iowa Women’s Amateur, the IGA is excited to share the 100 Competitive Holes Fundraiser. Six highly competitive, engaging women have committed to playing 100 competitive holes of golf between now and the first round of the Iowa Women’s Amateur. Money raised will go towards enhancing the overall player experience at the championship and any net proceeds will be donated to the IGA Foundation to support women’s programming. The mission statement for this centennial event is ‘Centennial Celebration: Champion our Women’. Within the mission statement, we wanted to focus on centennial, celebration, and champion as the three categories of women who exemplify this fundraiser.

Centennial: Women’s Golf Today

The two individuals who embody the present state of women’s golf are Kelly Fosse of Grinnell and Fiona Watson of Des Moines. Both are mid-amateurs and participate in nearly all IGA Women’s events.

Fiona Watson is a native of Scotland and first came to Iowa in 1994 when she enrolled at Iowa State University. After an accomplished four-year career on the golf course, one that saw her share in the school record for the low 18-hole score, Watson transitioned into the role of assistant coach for Julie Manning. While she was the first player from overseas to be recruited to ISU, it quickly became a trend and many more soon followed.

Throughout her playing career, Watson has collected many IGA titles, most recently at the 2023 Iowa Forever 39 Match Play Championship. She has also qualified for the U.S. Women’s Amateur and U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur. Though she is not quite eligible, Watson is sure to try her hand at qualifying for the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur when the time comes.

“Golf in Iowa had been a magical part of my life. It’s provided me with so many opportunities and experiences that I have been able to capitalize on. So, I was both honored and excited to be asked to participate in the 100 Competitive Hole Fundraiser and the chance to help create an experience to remember for the 100th Iowa Women’s Amateur.”

Very rarely does a player come along to IGA events and truly dive in head first as Kelly Fosse did in 2023. The Grinnell resident played in four IGA women’s events in her first year of joining the circuit and quickly made friends with many of her competitors. Outside of the IGA, Fosse also participates in the Amateur Tour and Heart of a Lion Amateur Golf Tour, established by former PGA Tour standout John Daly.

After growing up playing golf, Kelly elected to put her clubs down in high school to focus on other sports. The hiatus didn’t last for long, as she would once again pick up the game during her college years at the University of Iowa. Outside of IGA and Heart of the Lion Tour events, Fosse participates in the Amateur Players Tour and weekly leagues at local courses. Off the course, she works as a Farm Mutual Reinsurance Territory Manager at Grinnell Mutual and also volunteers as a firefighter for the Grinnell Fire Department. She’s been with the department for nearly four years and routinely responds to structure and grass fires as well as vehicle accidents, hazmat incidents, and rescue operations. Simply put, no two days are ever the same. Through her involvement with the Grinnell Fire Department, Fosse began participating in the Tunnel to Towers Foundations 5K in New York City. The annual fundraiser is in honor of Stephen Siller who lost his life in the line of duty the morning of September 11^th, 2001. Proceeds from the fundraiser are put towards helping America’s heroes who have made the supreme sacrifice of life or limb.

“I am honored to have been chosen to participate in the 100 Competitive Holes Fundraiser for the 100th year of the Iowa Women’s Amateur. I am so incredibly thankful for the Iowa Golf Association and other Iowa amateur tours that have provided women opportunities to play competitive golf. The game of golf has impacted my life incredibly by fostering personal and professional growth, creating a competitive spirit, teaching me diligence in following my dreams, and allowing me to make valuable friendships along the way. My hope is for this fundraiser to not only encourage young female athletes to put themselves out there and reach their full potential in the game of golf, but also for other women to be inspired by the talent they are surrounded by and have the confidence to participate, regardless of age or ability level.”

Celebration: The History of Women’s Golf

The two individuals who embody the establishment of women’s golf are Laura Leszczynski of Saint Marys and Noreen Christians of Urbandale. Both are seasoned veterans in respect to women’s golf in Iowa having played in IGA events for dozens of years combined.

Laura Leszczynski has quickly established herself as a top competitor on the senior circuit in Iowa. A three-time IGA Senior Women’s Player of the Year recipient, Leszczynski’s name is always in contention when looking at the leaderboard. Last year alone she scored two victories and a pair of runner-up finishes in IGA championships. Along with her Player of the Year titles, Leszczynski also has a firm hold of the Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur having lifted the trophy each of the last three years. Outside of Iowa, she has also qualified for the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur, most recently in 2022.

“I’m honored to be part of the 100 Competitive Hole Fundraiser, an event that not only celebrates the rich history of the Iowa Women’s Amateur but also champions the spirit of community and philanthropy. Participating in this fundraiser is a unique opportunity to connect with fellow golf enthusiasts, challenge my limits, and contribute to a cause that extends beyond the greens. It’s about being part of something larger than the game itself—a commitment to fostering talent, supporting women’s sports, and making a meaningful impact in our community. I’m excited to embark on this journey, share my progress, and see how our collective efforts can make a difference. Together, we’re not just playing for a title; we’re driving change, stroke by stroke.”

Noreen Christian, of Urbandale, has been participating in IGA events since 2021. Events ranging from one-day IGA Mid-Am Series events to the Wife-Husband to the Forever-39 Match Play, Christian is no rookie to the ever-changing formats. Outside the IGA, she is heavily involved with the LPGA Amateur Des Moines Chapter. With events during the warm months throughout Iowa, Noreen also travels across the U.S. to participate in LPGA Amateur championships, never missing an opportunity to tee it up and grow the game.

“Most that know me well would say I live in 2 seasons, golf, and no golf. It is an honor to be representing the many women in Iowa who also share this same passion for golf. The IGA and the LPGA Amateurs have led me to new friends, beautiful and different golf courses, and equipped me to attempt any course/opponent, no matter the challenge.”

Champion: Supporting the Future of Women’s Golf

It’s easy to look at Paige Hoffman and Anna Jensen and call them the future of women’s golf in Iowa. However, if one were to look closer, they would find that Hoffman and Jensen are here in the present and have made a name for themselves capturing the most prestigious events Iowa has to offer.

Paige Hoffman, of West Des Moines, has been participating in IGA championships dating back to her junior golf days. Along the way, she has built up quite the resume. Her participation includes the IGA Parent-Child Championship, Iowa Junior Girls’ Amateur, IGA Women’s Four-Ball (2x champion), IGA Women’s Match Play, and Iowa Women’s Amateur (2019 champion). She has excelled at every level scaling from the junior ranks to the collegiate level and now the amateur level. Additional information on Paige’s career will shared in a future release article.

“Through tournament and internship experience Iowa Women’s Golf has taught me how to be a stronger competitor, a better communicator, and a more well-rounded person. The Iowa women’s golf community is a group of fun and spirited women that I am proud to represent. I am excited to be a part of this fundraiser to help celebrate the past, present, and future of Iowa women’s golf through the 100th Iowa Women’s Amateur.”

Anna Jensen of Dubuque followed a similar path to Hoffman, excelling early and often. Jensen, a senior at the University of Northern Iowa, has been competing in IGA championships since her junior days. 2022 marked the biggest victory of her IGA career, capturing the Iowa Women’s Match Play Championship over fellow fundraising participant, Paige Hoffman. As a panther, Jensen’s career has been highlighted by frequent top-ten finishes including two top-fives this past fall.

“I am truly honored to represent Iowa women’s golf in this fundraiser for the 100th Women’s Amateur. I am a huge advocate for women’s sports, especially women’s golf, because I know first-hand the blessings playing competitive golf has given me. I grew up playing IGA events and specifically in the Women’s Am. Through it, I have learned so many valuable lessons and I have found so many lifelong friendships with my competitors. I think it is important to continue to grow the field and allow many more girls and women to be able to share in this amazing experience.”

CLICK HERE TO VIEW EACH PARTICIPANTS PROGRESS AND SUPPORT THEIR EFFORTS!

Next week on Women’s Wednesday…

The Iowa Women’s Amateur is one of the toughest tests a player can face within the state borders. With a field made up of the top juniors, mid-amateurs, and seasoned veterans, it often requires many years and close calls for players to finally get their hands on the Fladoos trophy. For a select few, the wait didn’t last long, staking their claim in Iowa Women’s Amateur history all before receiving their high school diploma.

The Fladoos Trophy – Iowa’s Trailblazing Sisters

It’s all in the family. Golfers often say that their family got them into the game whether it be parents, grandparents, or sometimes siblings. Numerous family members and sisters have added their names to the Iowa Women’s Amateur trophy in its 100-year history. But who was the first? The answer is simple; Sharon and Jacque Fladoos so it’s only fitting the trophy is now named the Fladoos Trophy.

Debuting in 1970, the Fladoos trophy was presented to Ann Griffel, president of the I.W.G.A. with the following message: “Our family has given thought to express in some manner its sincere appreciation for Iowa’s excellent annual golf Championships open to both juniors and adults.

The five members of our family have thoroughly enjoyed these championships in past years as participants and spectators. We feel it was through these championships our three children and the many other Iowa youngsters were given their first opportunity to test their golf games and upon which to build their golf reputations.

We would, therefore, like to present to the Iowa Women’s Golf Association in 1970- here at the Dubuque Golf and Country Club, site of the 44th Anniversary Championship- a perpetual silver trophy to be presented annually to the Iowa State Women’s Amateur Champion.”

Sharon (pictured right), the older of the two, began competing in IWGA and USGA championships from an early age. At just 13, she became the youngest golfer to advance to the U.S. Girls’ Junior semifinals. That same year, 1956, she would also be named runner-up at both the Iowa Girls’ Junior and Iowa Women’s Amateur. It was just the beginning as the Dubuque native quickly began her impressive seven-year run of amateur golf not only in Iowa but on the national stage.

Her 1958 and 1959 resume included back-to-back runner-up finishes at the Iowa Women’s Amateur as well as the Western Junior Girl’s Championship. Her runner-up finish in the 1958 Western Junior Girl’s Championship was to none other than future World Golf Hall of Famer Carol Mann. The streak of second-place finishes was finally broken in 1960 as she captured her first Iowa Women’s Amateur title and got her hands on the elusive Western Junior Girl’s title.

Even with her near misses, she still found a way to capture tournament titles. From 1958 to 1961, she captured both the Iowa Junior Girls and Iowa High School State Tournament titles each year. Finding comfort in defending her Iowa titles, Sharon kept the Iowa Women’s Amateur trophy under lock and key from 1960 to 1962 earning three straight victories.

While Sharon was busy building her decorated career, her younger sister Jacque (pictured right with Ann Griffel) followed along knowing she would have big shoes to fill. Always up for the challenge, Jacque quickly took the junior golf reins and extended the Fladoos family streak of High School State golf titles as she earned medalist honors in 1962 and 1963.

It wouldn’t be the last time she won the state title either, as she returned to championship form in 1965 to collect her third individual title. In her sophomore year of high school, Jacque matched another one of Sharon’s accomplishments; capturing both an individual High School State title and the Iowa Junior Girls’ Amateur within the same calendar year. Jacque’s record at the Iowa Women’s Amateur also mirrors that of Sharon as the younger Fladoos captured three total victories between 1966 and 1969.

Though separated by five years, Sharon and Jacque’s careers were nearly identical. Such as with the trophy naming, it was fitting both were inducted into the Dubuque Senior High School Hall of Fame (1992 and 1996) as well as the inaugural class for the Iowa Coaches Association Hall of Fame (2008).

While there have been two other sets of sisters to successfully capture Iowa Women’s Amateur titles, none have been more prolific than the Fladoos sisters. Though Jacque has passed away, her and Sharon’s legacy remains alive and well every time the Iowa Women’s Amateur rolls around. The Fladoos Trophy; was named in honor of the trailblazing sisters who guided women’s golf in Iowa to unchartered territory and new heights.

Next week on Women’s Wednesday…

Six women from six different cities with one thing in common: a love for the game. See how a passion for the game has inspired these players to grow the game for present and future players.

2024 marks more than just the 100^th playing of the Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship. It is also a celebration of the history of women’s golf in Iowa. Over the next 20 weeks leading up to the championship, we will be celebrating the stories and lives of 100 women who have made lasting impacts on the course as well as in their communities. Check in each Wednesday for a new release!

Dating back to its inception in 1922, the Iowa Women’s Amateur has crowned many deserving champions and served as a springboard for numerous current and future, Iowa Golf Hall of Famers. The accomplishments of those whose names fill the Fladoos trophy include three Curtis Cup participants, three Western Women’s Amateur champions, and numerous All-Americans, just to name a few.

Sunnyside Country Club in Waterloo has been a central piece to the history of the Iowa Women’s Amateur. The club was the inaugural host of the championship. The Centennial edition of the event will also mark an unprecedented 10^th time that the club has served as host as women from across Iowa again gather to try and etch their name on the Fladoos trophy.

Defending champions often feel at home when teeing it at Sunnyside. Six players claimed their second title in a row (Waterman 1925, Robinson 1933, Estabrooks 1937, Cordingley 1948, Johnstone 1954, and Paulson 2011) at the Waterloo course. While it might be easy to say the venue favors the defending champions, Beth Duenow (1995) and Margaret Addington (1922) have proven that isn’t always the case as the par-72 layout saw each claim their maiden Iowa Women’s Amateur title.

A mix of doglegs, long par fours, and risk-reward par fives give players a chance to showcase their shot-shaping abilities and capitalize on their length. But where the championships are won, and sometimes lost, is on the putting greens. With elevated greens and undulation that trick even the most seasoned veterans, attention to the smallest of details will be required for all players. Though Sunnyside has since changed venues from its home in 1922, the championship presence remains strong from the moment players step on the first tee.

Initially starting in 1922, the Iowa Women’s Golf Association (I.W.G.A.) was formed on August 30^th at the Sunnyside Country Club. Two days later, the first Iowa Women’s Amateur champion was crowned as Waterloo’s very own Margaret Addington defeated Mrs. Frank C. Byers of Cedar Rapids 4 & 3. The following year marked the second and final year of the event being invite-only. But the match-play format held strong for the first 32 years of the championship before changing to medal play competition in 1957.

In the eighth year of the championship, Lucile Robinson Mann (pictured right) captured her first Iowa Women’s Amateur title, but it would be far from her last. Dominant in Iowa, especially in the 1930’s, Mann reeled off four straight victories from 1931-1934 with her 1933 title coming at Sunnyside. Though many have tried, her record of four straight victories remains intact. Pursuing the highest level of amateur golf, Lucile’s game traveled and traveled well en route to her capturing the 1933 Women’s Western Amateur over reigning U.S. Women’s Amateur Champion Virginia Van Wie. Just a year later, she became the first Iowa woman to be named to the Curtis Cup Team, the pinnacle of amateur golf for women.

Continuing to add to her Hall of Fame career, she made the team yet again two years later in 1936, but was unable to participate due to her wedding. Seven years after her final Iowa Women’s Amateur title, Mann proved she belonged with the best of the best as she won her second Women’s Western Amateur and lone Trans-Mississippi Women’s Amateur. Mann became the fifth woman inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame when she was enshrined in 1995.

Iowa has long been home to many talented women’s golfers who excel both at the state and national levels. Ann Casey Johnstone wasn’t born a household name but quickly became one after claiming her first Iowa Women’s Amateur in 1941, which would kickstart an impressive two-decade-long run in amateur golf. Ten years following her first victory in the event, Johnstone captured her second state title. The wait for her third wouldn’t take nearly as long as she reeled off four more between 1954 to 1959.

Her record of six Iowa Women’s Amateur titles, which has been matched by just one other player, Corkey Nydle, made her a household name in Iowa. But she was also known across the country after recording a quarterfinal, two semifinals, and a runner-up finish at the U.S. Women’s Amateur between 1956 and 1960. In 1958, she joined the aforementioned Lucile Robinson Mann as Iowans selected to represent the United States on the Curtis Cup team. It would be the first of three call-ups for Johnstone as she was also selected in 1960 and 1962.

Continuing to dive further into the history of the Iowa Women’s Amateur, one will see the name Corkey Nydle (pictured right) time and time again. Nydle’s reach extends beyond her competitive career, one that lasted nearly 50 years, as she was also a board member for the I.W.G.A. for over 30 years. Corkey proved that age is nothing but a number after collecting her first Iowa Women’s Amateur title in 1953 at the young age of 17. She did so again, 19 years later hoisting the trophy at Crow Valley Country Club in Bettendorf. Even more impressive than the gap between her first and last was the fact she claimed five of them in 10 years beginning in 1963. An intricate part of the history of women’s golf in Iowa led to Nydle being a member of the inaugural class of the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 1989. Corkey played her 46^th and final Iowa Women’s Amateur in 2003, proving once again that age is nothing but a number.

With the shift from match play to stroke play, the door opened for new records to be created each time the championship teed off. No single championship record stands out more than the performance Kristin Paulson put on in 2011 as she captured her second straight title after firing a staggering 14-under par 202. Sunnyside was no match for the soon-to-be senior at Iowa State as she turned the course into a personal playground.Firing at pins and raking in birdie after birdie, Paulson turned in a dazzling nine-under-par 63 in the second round. Her second round saw her jump not only into the lead but into the IGA record books as the lowest single round in championship history.

Now, 2024 marks more than just the 100^th playing of this great championship. It is also a celebration of the history of women’s golf in Iowa. Over the next 20 weeks leading up to the championship, we will be celebrating the stories and lives of 100 women who have made lasting impacts on the course as well as in their communities. Check in each Wednesday for a new release.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE IOWA WOMEN’S AMATEUR HOMEPAGE (heck, might as well bookmark it!)

Next week on Women’s Wednesday…

It’s all in the family. Golfers hear and say often that their family got them into the game. Numerous family members and sisters have added their names to the Iowa Women’s Amateur trophy in its 100-year history. But who was the first? We take a look at the sisters who built their careers alongside each other and took sibling rivalry to a whole new level.