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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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