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Florida A&M, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Power Through 2026 PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Florida A&M University and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi emerged as dominant forces at the 2026 PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship, showcasing the depth and talent of minority-serving collegiate golf programs during the prestigious national event held at The Park in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Florida A&M captured the Men’s Division I title in commanding fashion, finishing 12 strokes ahead of North Carolina A&T State University. The Rattlers were led by standout sophomore Sascha Robinson, who delivered a remarkable final-round 6-under-par 65 to secure individual medalist honors. Florida A&M posted rounds of 280, 287, and 277 to finish at 8-under-par 844 overall.

Head coach Mike Rice, who also competed on Florida A&M’s 2000 championship team, praised his squad’s focus and consistency throughout the tournament. The victory marked another milestone for the historic HBCU golf program, which also won the event in 2024.

On the women’s side, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi continued its impressive run at the championship by capturing another team title through balanced scoring and overall depth. Unlike many championship teams built around a single star player, the Islanders relied on consistent performances across the lineup, with players finishing between seventh and 11th individually to secure a nine-shot victory over defending champion North Carolina A&T.

Coach Chris Adams credited the team’s chemistry and versatility as key reasons for the program’s sustained success. The championship represented yet another major achievement for the Islanders, who have established themselves as one of the premier programs in collegiate women’s golf.

The PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship, founded in 1986, remains one of the most culturally significant events in collegiate golf. Designed to highlight student-athletes from historically underrepresented communities and minority-serving institutions, the tournament continues to serve as both a competitive platform and a gateway to career opportunities within the golf industry.

Held at The Park in West Palm Beach from May 4-6, the 2026 championship featured teams and individuals from across the country competing in men’s and women’s divisions. The event was televised nationally on Golf Channel and once again demonstrated the growing strength and visibility of HBCU and minority collegiate golf programs.  

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One of the First: Lessons I Learned While Overcoming the Challenges of Integration

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

One of the First, Lessons I Learned While Overcoming the Challenges of Integration by Ralph Stokes is a reflective, experience-driven work that explores resilience, adaptation, and personal identity through the lens of overcoming significant life and social challenges tied to integration.

Rather than presenting a traditional narrative or structured academic analysis, the book leans into a memoir-style approach, drawing on personal reflection and lived experience. Its central theme revolves around how challenges—particularly those connected to transition, belonging, and adjustment—can become formative moments that shape character, discipline, and perspective.

Written with Chris McKinney and a foreword by Sylvester Croom, the writing of this book is direct and accessible, favoring clarity over complexity. Readers are guided through a series of lessons that emphasize perseverance, self-awareness, and the importance of reframing hardship as part of a broader personal development journey. This makes the book especially relevant for those seeking motivational insight grounded in real-life experience rather than abstract theory.

One of the First, Lessons I Learned While Overcoming the Challenges of Integration is a concise, reflective read aimed at readers interested in personal growth, resilience, and real-world lessons drawn from lived experience. It does not attempt to overwhelm with complexity, but instead focuses on distilled insights intended to encourage reflection and forward movement.

In a crowded motivational genre, the book stands out for its grounded tone and emphasis on lived experience as the foundation for learning and transformation. 205 pages, Available in paperback and Kindle on Amazon.com

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Golf’s Gender Pay Gap

by Michael W. Cooper, Ph.D.
written by Michael W. Cooper, Ph.D.

I recently made a Facebook post commenting on pay disparities between the PGA and LPGA tour’s. My post was on a Monday, the day after Nelly Korda received $375,000 for winning the LPGA Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba, while Cameron Young earned $3.6 million for his PGA TOUR Cadillac Championship victory, nearly 10x more than her.

I watch a lot of golf. Love the game. In fact, I’ve made my living working in the golf industry, most of it trying to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion. That’s been my occupation, vocation and advocation. That’s why I was surprised that some respondents to my post took offense to my diversity and inclusion reference. It was almost as if: How dare you mention that phrase?  

Some took the time to explain how the pay disparities are related to sponsorships, marketing, and lack of promotions, rather than diversity and inclusion. It’s simple economics, in their opinions. I get that. Yet nothing to do with diversity and inclusion. I don’t get that.

None of the female respondents seemed to disagree with my diversity and inclusion reference. Some wrote that they noticed the disparities too. Another, who I know, a female who once competed on the LPGA Tour, agreed and called the situation “unfortunate.” One hundred percent of the opposing posts were from men, which is probably not too surprising. One gentleman in particular wrote: “GFY.” Wow…such hostility! I didn’t take his advice, but he did motivate me to write this article.  

I try not to become overly consumed with social media. While it can be extremely informative, it also can be a significant waste of time. Studies have also proven that too much social media can negatively impact attitudes and normal behaviors. But I do like, share, and post occasionally. When I do, I get a handful of friends acknowledging the post and the occasional comment. This one was different, as several responses came from strangers or individuals I hadn’t heard from in years.  

Some of the respondents asked me to name one sport with equal pay for men and women. I mentioned tennis, an example I have used for more than 15-years, dating back to 2010, when I served on the World Golf Foundation Diversity Task Force, created by Steve Mona. Steve was the organizations CEO at the time.

Steve Mona recruited a cross-section of talent to serve on the initial Diversity Task Force. Back then, golf was not the only sport represented. Major League Baseball had a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion at that time, as did hockey and NASCAR. One of our most dedicated committee members was D.A. Abrams. He was the Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer for the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and author of Diversity & Inclusion: The Big Six Formula for Success.

Abrams and I became close and I sought his counsel on many occasions. Because of him, I did a deep dive into tennis’ intentional focus on inclusion, with origins going back to 1973, led by the legendary Billie Jean King. Her advocacy led to equal pay for men and women at the US Open, and eventually all four major tennis championships (https://tennisuptodate.com/faq/the-history-of-womens-fight-for-equal-pay-in-tennis-and-how-close-they-are-to-achieving-it-now).

It pleases me that golf’s intentional focus on diversity and inclusion continues, and recent data from the National Golf Foundation reports significant increases on rounds played over the past five-years, in large part due to more females, people of color, and younger participants. Golf leaders created Make Golf Your Thing, a coalition of industry organizations united to help increase diversity, equity, and inclusion in the game, and its workforce.

The USGA has led the charge to higher prize monies in women’s golf, helping to increase purses from a total of $89 million in 2022 to $130 million in 2025, including record monies in the US Women’s Open, KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, and each of the other three major golf events for women.  

Things are definitely getting better! But do not beat me up when I state that golf still has a long way to go to reach the vision to: “Make golf look like America” related to DEI.

I love golf, as I wrote earlier in this article. If you are still reading this article, then you probably do too. Perhaps you just love playing the game. That’s great! Keep playing and loving it. But many of us follow the business of golf. Those of us who do applaud the golf industries serious commitment and investments in diversity, equity, and inclusion. My hope is to see these trends accelerate and continue moving forward.

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Second Annual James Black Memorial Golf Classic Drives Opportunity Beyond the Fairways

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

(photos: AV Olivieri Photography)

The 2nd Annual James Black Memorial Golf Classic, held at Highland Creek Golf Club, continues to serve as more than just a golf tournament—it is a platform dedicated to community empowerment, youth development, and economic growth. Inspired by the legacy of James Black, the event brings together business leaders, community partners, golfers, and supporters committed to creating meaningful opportunities both on and off the course.

A major focus of this year’s tournament is promoting financial literacy and entrepreneurship, with an emphasis on connecting youth and families to resources that encourage long-term financial wellness and small business development. Through collaboration with local small business partners and sponsors, the tournament highlights the importance of community investment, economic sustainability, and mentorship within underserved communities.

The event also provides valuable exposure and networking opportunities for participating businesses and sponsors, reinforcing the importance of supporting local enterprises that help strengthen the economic foundation of the community. By combining golf, education, and community engagement, the James Black Memorial Golf Classic continues to honor a lasting legacy while creating pathways for future success.

Special thanks to our sponsors: Olive 360 Behavioral Health, EU AUTO, and Medium Rare Strategy, Smooth Bar and Lounge, Black Bytes Podcast and Lawson Communications Solutions and Gentle Shepherd Care. Learn more about the annual James Black Memorial Classic and the James Black Foundation by visiting Jamesblackfoundation.org

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Clark Atlanta Makes Major Move With Hire of Women’s Golf Pioneer Erica Payton

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Clark Atlanta Announces the Hiring of Erica Payton as Head Women’s Golf Coach

ATLANTA, Ga. – Clark Atlanta University Athletics has announced the hiring of Erica Payton as the inaugural head coach of its women’s golf program.

“Erica Payton embodies championship excellence,” said Director of Athletics Dr. Jerel Drew. “A Hall of Fame golfer from Jackson State University, her legacy is built on discipline, dominance and an unwavering commitment to greatness. She brings not only experience, but the mindset of a true champion—one who will inspire, develop and elevate our student-athletes to compete, lead and win at the highest level.”

Payton is a lifelong golfer, collegiate coach and passionate leader dedicated to developing student-athletes both on and off the course. With a competitive background spanning middle school through college, she has built a strong foundation rooted in discipline, leadership and performance.

Her transition into coaching began during graduate school, where she spent two years mentoring student-athletes while refining her approach to player development, team culture and recruiting. Most recently, Payton served as an assistant coach at Millsaps College, where her philosophy emphasizes competitive excellence, personal growth, accountability and opportunity.

As a proud HBCU graduate, Payton is committed to expanding access and representation in the game of golf, particularly for young women and underrepresented student-athletes. Her work is driven by a vision to grow the sport through leadership, mentorship and the creation of meaningful opportunities for future generations.

“I’m proud to have played a role in connecting Clark Atlanta University with Erica Payton as they build out the women’s golf program,” said Shasta Averyhardt, a member of the Epson Tour and former LPGA Tour player. “Her background speaks for itself. Her experience at the junior, amateur and collegiate levels, including her time at Jackson State University, gives her a strong understanding of both high-level competition and the HBCU environment. Additionally, her experience as an assistant coach at Millsaps demonstrates her ability to develop players and contribute to a winning culture.”

A 2023 inductee into the Jackson State University Sports Hall of Fame, Payton is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She remains active in community service through her involvement with the Junior League.
The daughter of longtime Jackson State golf coach Eddie Payton and the niece of Pro Football Hall of Famer Walter Payton, she carries forward a proud family legacy of athletic excellence, leadership and impact.
—-
Follow Clark Atlanta Athletics 

For complete coverage of Clark Atlanta athletics, please follow the Panthers on social media at @cauathletics (Twitter), CAUAthletics (Facebook), and @cauathletics (Instagram).

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No One Is Surprised Tiger Woods Will Miss Major Championships

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Few in the golf world appear surprised that Tiger Woods is not expected to compete in either the U.S. Open or the U.S. Senior Open as he continues recovering from ongoing physical and personal challenges. Recovery, Not Golf, seemingly remains the Focus for Tiger Woods.

According to United States Golf Association chief executive Mike Whan, expectations remain low that Woods will return to competition this summer. Woods has reportedly been receiving treatment in Switzerland following his March arrest near his Florida home on charges related to driving under the influence after a car crash.

Authorities reportedly discovered two prescription hydrocodone pills in Woods’ pockets at the time of the arrest. The medication has been used to help manage pain stemming from multiple surgeries and years of injuries that have taken a toll on his body and career.

Now 50 years old, Woods is eligible to compete on the Champions Tour, where the physical demands are generally lighter than on the PGA Tour. That sparked speculation he could return at the U.S. Senior Open at Scioto Country Club in July, shortly after the U.S. Open at Shinnecock.

Still, Whan made it clear he would be shocked to see Woods tee it up at either championship this year.

“I’d be super surprised,” Whan told Sports Illustrated when asked about Woods potentially playing in the U.S. Open.

Whan acknowledged that while Woods’ presence would be a boost for the tournaments and for golf fans, the larger concern remains Woods’ health and well-being rather than his return to competition.

He also pointed out that Woods has overcome difficult situations before and still has time ahead of him to compete in future USGA events if he chooses.

At this stage, however, many around the sport believe Woods focusing on recovery instead of rushing back into tournament golf is the expected and sensible outcome.

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Caribbean Golf Association Welcomes Bermuda and St. Lucia as Full Members

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Bermuda has officially become a full member of the Caribbean Golf Association after a unanimous vote during the organization’s Annual General Meeting held at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic alongside the 30th Caribbean Golf Classic.  

The Bermuda Golf Association had spent several years pursuing full membership and previously participated as an associate member in Caribbean Golf Association events. During the meeting, Bermuda officials presented their vision for the future of golf on the island and outlined how the country could contribute to the regional golf community. Delegates voted unanimously to approve Bermuda and Saint Lucia as full members.  

Caribbean Golf Association president Sidney Wolf welcomed Bermuda into the organization and said the addition reflected the continued growth of golf throughout the region. He praised Bermuda’s commitment to development and said the organization looked forward to the island’s participation in future championships and regional initiatives.  

Craig Brown, president of the Bermuda Golf Association, said the move marked an important milestone for Bermuda golf. He noted that the island had maintained a longstanding relationship with the Caribbean Golf Association and believed the timing was right to advance to full membership after two years of active involvement. Brown said the decision would create more meaningful competitive opportunities for Bermudian golfers while strengthening regional ties.  

Founded in 1987, the Caribbean Golf Association includes member nations such as the Bahamas, Barbados, Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands. The organization hosts five annual championships for junior, amateur, and senior golfers across the Caribbean.  

Bermuda’s growing involvement in Caribbean organizations has also paralleled wider discussions about the island’s regional identity and participation in Caribbean affairs. In recent months, Bermuda has explored stronger ties with CARICOM and other regional bodies as leaders continue discussions about economic, sporting, and cultural cooperation throughout the Caribbean.  

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Trump Golf Course Project Faces Toxic Debris Controversy

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Debris from the demolition of the White House East Wing that was dumped at a nearby public golf course has reportedly tested positive for lead, chromium, and other toxic metals, according to an interim report commissioned by the National Park Service. The material was transported to the historic East Potomac Golf Links in Washington, D.C., where the Trump administration is planning major renovations to transform the public facility into what officials described as a “world-class” golf destination.  

The report, prepared by Jacobs Engineering Group, found traces of hazardous substances including PCBs, pesticides, petroleum byproducts, arsenic, and other contaminants in soil samples collected at the golf course. More than 30,000 cubic yards of excavated debris from the East Wing demolition had reportedly been transferred to the site by April after dumping operations began in October 2025.  

The East Wing was demolished as part of President Donald Trump’s plan to build a 90,000-square-foot ballroom on White House grounds. Initially promoted as a privately funded $400 million project tied to national security upgrades, the ballroom’s estimated cost has reportedly increased significantly due to added security requirements.  

The Department of the Interior defended the disposal process, stating that the soil was tested multiple times and met all legal safety standards. Officials maintained that all required procedures were followed before the debris was relocated to the golf course.  

Environmental advocates and preservation groups, however, have raised concerns about public health risks and environmental oversight. The nonprofit DC Preservation League filed lawsuits challenging both the dumping of debris and the administration’s broader redevelopment plans for the golf course and surrounding public land. The group argued that the contamination could pose hazards to golfers, nearby residents, and the environment.  

The controversy has become part of a larger debate over Trump’s efforts to reshape public spaces in Washington, D.C. In addition to the golf course redevelopment, critics have objected to proposals involving the Kennedy Center, the National Mall, and other landmark areas in the nation’s capital.  

A federal judge recently ordered the government to provide notice before removing additional trees at the golf course while litigation continues. Preservationists and local residents have argued that the historic East Potomac Golf Links, which opened in 1921 and has long been known as an affordable public course, could lose much of its public character under the planned redesign.  

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Tiger Robotics Earns FIRST® Rising All-Star Award at 2026 World Championship

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

A student robotics team from Philadelphia achieved a major milestone on the global stage during the 2026 FIRST Robotics Competition World Championship, earning recognition for its promise and rapid development in its very first season.

Tiger Robotics, also known as Team 10979, received the FIRST Rising All-Star Award, an honor that highlights emerging teams demonstrating exceptional potential, resilience and long-term impact within the international FIRST community. The award, introduced in 2025, goes beyond typical rookie recognition by identifying teams already building a strong foundation for future success.  

The team is made up of 22 high school students from across Philadelphia who participate through the TGR Learning Lab. Drawing members from a wide range of schools and backgrounds, the program provides hands-on experience in engineering, programming and collaborative problem-solving, helping students develop both technical and leadership skills.  

During a three-month competition season, the students designed and built a custom robot named Tinker Tiger, engineered to compete in complex, high-pressure gameplay challenges. Along the way, team members gained experience in mechanical design, coding, computer-aided design, fabrication and communications, while also strengthening teamwork and confidence.  

Their path to the world championship was already notable. In their debut season, Tiger Robotics earned Rookie All-Star honors at two district competitions, securing a place at the global event held in Houston, where top teams from around the world compete annually.  

At the championship, the team not only competed against elite programs but also connected with industry professionals and explored emerging technologies, gaining exposure to a broader engineering community. Their performance and presence reflected both technical ability and professionalism on an international stage.  

Tiger Robotics is the only FIRST Robotics Competition team based in West Philadelphia, and its presence is helping expand access to STEM education and career pathways for local students. Participants benefit from mentorship, internships and opportunities to guide younger learners, creating a pipeline for future innovators.  

The team’s inaugural season has established a strong foundation, with its world championship recognition serving as an early indicator of long-term potential. Their success underscores the impact of providing students with access to resources, mentorship and real-world challenges in science and technology.  

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Winners of $40,000 Coca-Cola HBCU Sports Production Grant Announced

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

The Coca-Cola HBCU Sports Production Grant Administered by NATAS Names 2026 Student Winners 

New York (May 5, 2026) – The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) has announced the Gold & Silver Circle Honor Society inductees and NATAS Foundation scholarship recipients who will be celebrated at the  47th Annual Sports Emmy® Awards and the 47th Annual News & Documentary Emmy® Awards taking place May 26-28 in New York City. NATAS has again partnered with Coca-Cola to reward three winning student entries with the Coca-Cola HBCU Sports Production Grant at the 47th Annual Sports Emmy® Awards. 

The NATAS Foundation, in partnership with Coca-Cola, is proud to announce the three winning entries for the 2026 Coca-Cola HBCU Sports Production Grant. The $40,000 grant program, now in its fifth year, recognizes outstanding student storytellers at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) who are passionate about sports, storytelling and media production. These winners will help make up the next generation of sports media creators, bringing to life the voices, pride and impact of HBCU athletics.

View below a video of ceremony host Roy Wood Jr. surprising the deserving students

Winners were notified by ceremony host Roy Wood Jr. and NATAS Foundation Cochair Danielle Mannion, and will be flown to New York to receive recognition and connect with industry professionals at the 47th Annual Sports Emmy® Awards on May 26. This year saw a record number of submissions, up by 88%, driven by the efforts of a volunteer HBCU Advisory Committee made up of sports and media industry leaders including Roy Wood Jr., Drew Watkins (Warner Bros. Discovery), Howard Bryant (CBS Sports) and more. 

Comedian Roy Wood Jr.

Winners of the Coca-Cola HBCU Production Grant administered by the NATAS Foundation:  

  • First Place: Stevie Jackson, Mateo McIntosh, Makai Brown and Ian Chamberlin (Morehouse College)
  • Second Place: Darnell Walker-Jones, Charmiana Delphonse and Rowan Mumford (Florida A&M University)
  • Third Place: Sanaiyah Baines-Butler and Tia Jarvis (Delaware State University)

“The NATAS Scholarship Committee is proud to support tomorrow’s media professionals with this financial assistance and deserving platform,” said NATAS Foundation Cochair Barbara Williams Perry. Cochair Danielle Mannion added, “this year’s student submissions from across the country impressed our team of judges with their creativity and passion, and we’re excited to celebrate these bright minds together in May.” 

NATAS Foundation Scholarship Recipients: 

  • Jim McKay Memorial Scholarship presented on May 26 at the Sports Emmys
    • Thomas Gamba (Mineola, NY)
    • Named for sportscaster Jim McKay (1921-2008), this scholarship is awarded to a student pursuing a career in sports television and is funded by ABC/ESPN, CBS, FOX, HBO, and NBC.
  • Mike Wallace Memorial Scholarship presented on May 27, News Night of the 47th News & Documentary Emmys
    • Santiago Campos (Washington, DC)
    • Named for news correspondent Mike Wallace (1918-2012), this scholarship is awarded to a student pursuing a career in television journalism and is funded by a grant from CBS News. 
  • Doug W. Mummert Scholarship presented on May 28, Documentary Night of the 47th News & Documentary Emmys
    • Cameron Kirkegaard (Grand Junction, CO) 
    • This scholarship is awarded to a student pursuing a career in the television industry who has made a positive impact through community service. 

The Gold & Silver Circle Honor Society recognizes exceptional individuals who have made significant and impactful contributions to the television industry and their respective fields. Inductees to the Gold & Silver Circle have performed distinguished service and exhibited inspirational careers for 50 and 25 years respectively. 

2026 Sports Inductees, Gold & Silver Circle 

Gold

  • Howard Katz (Former Senior Vice President, Broadcasting for the NFL) 

 Silver 

  • Kenny Albert (Play by Play Announcer, NBC Sports) 
  • Steve Anderson (Executive Vice President, ESPN – retired) 
  • Pete Macheska (Producer, FOX Sports) 
  • Suzanne Smith (Director, NFL on CBS; Coordinating Producer, “We Need To Talk”) 
  • Hannah Storm (Anchor and Host, ESPN) 

2026 News Inductees, Gold & Silver Circle 

Gold

  • Mary Laurence Flynn (Senior Producer, NBC News) 
  • Fountain Jones (Sr. Technical Director/Vision Mixer/Audio Engineer, CBS; and, formerly Recording and Mixing Audio Engineer, ABC)
  • Jim Murphy (Former Senior Vice President, CNN) 
  • David Sloan (Senior Executive Producer, ABC News) 
  • Kerry Smith (Senior Vice President, ABC News) 
  • Mary Walsh (Producer, CBS) 

Silver

  • Fredricka Whitfield (News Anchor and Journalist, CNN) 

2026 Documentary Inductees, Gold & Silver Circle 

Gold 

  • Susan Lacy (Documentary Film Director and Producer; Creator and Executive Producer of PBS American Masters) 

Silver 

  • Patricia Aufderheide (University Professor, School of Communication, American University, Washington, D.C.) 
  • R.J. Cutler (Filmmaker / President and Founder of This Machine Filmworks) 
  • Sally Jo Fifer (Former President and CEO at Independent Television Service/ITVS) 
  • Vicente Franco Izquierdo (Cinematographer / Director, Franco Productions) 
  • Renee Tajima-Peña (Documentary filmmaker and professor at the University of California, Los Angeles/UCLA) 

About the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences

The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) is a service organization dedicated to the advancement of the arts and sciences of television and the promotion of creative leadership for artistic, educational and technical achievements within the television industry. It recognizes excellence in television with the coveted Emmy® Awards for News & Documentary, Sports, Daytime and Children’s & Family programming, as well as achievements in television Technology & Engineering.

NATAS membership is made up of National members joined by more than 18,000+ broadcast and media professionals represented in 19 regional chapters across the country. Beyond awards, NATAS has extensive educational programs including its National Student Production Awards for outstanding journalistic work by high school students, as well as scholarships for aspiring filmmakers and broadcasters.

For more information, please visit the website at http://www.theemmys.tv/ 

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PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship Brings PGA of America Golf Professionals Clay Myers and Justin Martin at The Park Full Circle

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – MAY 02: Clay Meyers, PGA coaches kids in Youth Day activities during the PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship at The Park on Saturday, May 2, 2026 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Ryan Lochhead/PGA of America)

PGA Head Professional Clay Myers and PGA Director of Coaching Justin Martin Reflect on Championship’s Impact

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (May 5, 2026) — The PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship Presented by Chase and Kohler Co. has been a beacon of opportunity since 1986, when it was known as the National Minority Championship. The PWCC is being held this week at The Park in West Palm Beach Fla., and as always, its primary mission is to provide high-level, competitive opportunities for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and other minority-serving institutions that were often disincluded from other collegiate championships.

But there’s a secondary, yet still critical, mission—opening doors to careers in and around the golf industry for participating student-athletes. That ethos isn’t lost on Clay Myers, The Park’s PGA Head Golf Professional, and Justin Martin, its PGA Director of Coaching. Both once competed in the Championship, and their first time hosting the PWCC is a chance to reflect.

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL – MAY 11: Bill Cioffoletti during the Career Expo at the 2017 PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship held at PGA Golf Club on May 11, 2017 in Port St. Lucie, Florida. (Photo by Montana Pritchard/PGA of America)

Myers first experience with the Championship came in 2011, when he was a senior and team captain at Jackson State University.  While playing at PGA Golf Club, he met the late PGA Director of Golf and Master Professional Bill Cioffoletti, who passed away from cancer in 2022.

“I don’t know what drew me to him at that time, but he told me how great the PGA is and how we need more great golfers and people in the Association,” said Myers.

Cioffoletti, who was on the Association’s education faculty for more than two decades, told Myers about the PGA Professional Golf Management Program. He was intrigued, but wanted to first give playing professionally a go.

Following graduation, Myers played the mini tours and appeared on Golf Channel’s “Big Break The Palm Beaches” at PGA National. Six years later, after marrying, starting a family in Dallas and looking for more stability, he turned to the PGM Program and was unexpectedly reunited with Cioffoletti.

“Once I got my assistant pro job at Cedar Crest and got into level one of the PGM Program, Bill Cioffoletti was my instructor,” said Myers. “I just felt like he was really there for me when a lot of people weren’t. He was really in my corner.

“That was certainly a full-circle moment for me and he got to see me graduate and get my PGA Membership. He was the greatest.”

This week it’s Myers’ turn to serve as a mentor to the student-athletes in the PWCC. This is the fifth time he is serving as a PWCC ambassador, and will do so alongside 11 other PGA of America Golf Professionals from around the country, connecting participants to industry leaders who can help guide their careers.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – MAY 02: A general view of kids and staff participating in Youth Day activities during the PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship at The Park on Saturday, May 2, 2026 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Ryan Lochhead/PGA of America)

“Our goal is to meet all the players and coaches and be their representation and show there is a career after college golf, even if you still want to play golf,” Myers said. “I can’t express enough how much the PGA and being a Member has changed my life for the better. I’m still able to do all the things I wanted to do in golf and hopefully I can encourage and inspire these participants in the tournament to do the same.

“We want to show them ‘there is a place for you,’ and the PGA is there if they want to make this a career.”

Martin competed in the PWCC four times (2004-06, 08) while attending Hampton University—which dropped its golf program in 2020 due to COVID—but says the Championship was the highlight of every golf year.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – MAY 02: Justin Martin participates in activities at Youth Day during the PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship at The Park on Saturday, May 2, 2026 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Ryan Lochhead/PGA of America)

“It gave me an opportunity, along with other minority and Black golfers, to go play a top-of-the-line Championship,” said Martin, a 10-year PGA Member. “Back when I played it, it was held annually at PGA Golf Club, and it was our favorite event of the year. It was our major, we all wanted to play well.”

As an Ambassador this year, Martin will encourage participants to take advantage of all the PWCC has to offer.

“My goal then was to play (professionally),” said Martin. “We had a career fair that was part of our events, as well, and in hindsight I wish I had taken better advantage. To be able to have that aspect now and let kids know about the careers in the game as the industry has vaulted forward over the two decades since I played in the tournament, there’s a lot more options in the industry now.”

Martin’s first time as a PWCC Ambassador was at Shoal Creek in 2023, helping introduce the game to local kids during the PWCC’s Youth Day and mentor the student-athletes throughout the week. Now he gets to do it again at his own facility.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – MAY 02: A general view of kids and staff participating in Youth Day activities during the PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship at The Park on Saturday, May 2, 2026 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Ryan Lochhead/PGA of America)

“If you had told me in my last PWCC in 2008, 18 years down the line, that I’d have been a PGA member for a decade, helped open two different facilities, been named to Golf Digest’s Best Young Teachers in America List, met the people I’ve met, helped the beginners I’ve been able to help, I would have said, ‘You’re absolutely kidding.’”

That’s the kind of life-changing effect the PWCC—and golf—can have. Which is why when the opportunity to host it at The Park, Martin was all-in.

“Any time I get a chance to talk to the youth who are figuring out what their path is, I try to let them know there is a path in this game for them.”

And like Myers, Martin was influenced by Bill Cioffoletti.

“He did so much for this particular event, even back when I played, telling the story of the PGA of America, letting all of us know that the Association was there for us, as well. He had a really big part in that. When he passed away, I was devastated because, again, he meant so much to all of us.”

It’s now up to Clay Myers and Justin Martin to open doors, act as mentors and help create the next generations of the game’s leaders through their involvement with the PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship.

The second round of the PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship is underway, live scoring can be viewed HERE. The Championship is broadcast on Golf Channel from 4-7 p.m. EST. Spectators are welcome and can also follow the action by following @pgaworkscollegiate on social media.

About PGA WORKS
PGA WORKS is a strategic initiative designed to broaden the golf industry’s workforce and beyond. Funded by the PGA of America REACH Foundation, the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the PGA of America, PGA WORKS leverages fellowships, scholarships, career exploration events and the PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship to inspire and engage talent from all backgrounds to pursue key employment positions across the golf industry. For more information, visit PGAREACH.org/PGAWORKS, follow @PGAWORKS on X, formerly known as Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

About PGA of America REACH Foundation

The PGA of America REACH Foundation is the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the PGA of America. The mission of the Foundation is to positively impact the lives of youth, military and underserved communities by enabling access to PGA of America Golf Professionals, PGA Sections and the game of golf. For more information on the PGA of America REACH Foundation, visit PGAREACH.org, follow @PGAREACH on Instagram, X and find us on Facebook.

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ObituariesSlider

David O. Swanson, Wiley College Golf Coach Passes Away

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff
October 5, 1970 – April 1, 2026

David O. Swanson, a devoted father, mentor, and passionate lover of the game of golf. His legacy as a golfer in Chicago started in Bob-O-Links Junior Golf Club to Q-School to Head Coach at Wiley College.

A true student of the game, David didn’t just play golf—he lived it. His love for golf went beyond the course, shaping the way he connected with others and the way he approached life: with patience, focus, and integrity. He shared that passion with countless people, leaving behind not just memories, but lessons that will carry on.

David was a Chicago-based entrepreneur, golf instructor, and certified Illinois law enforcement officer whose career reflected a unique blend of public service, athletics, and business leadership. With a strong commitment to community impact and diversity, he built a professional path that bridged sport, service, and entrepreneurship.

He was the founder and chief executive officer of Medal Wear Golf Apparel, a Black-owned golf apparel and accessories brand headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. After launching the company in January 2021, he focused on creating stylish, performance-driven golf wear while advancing a broader mission to preserve and strengthen diversity within the game of golf. His work in the golf industry extended beyond apparel, as he was also an active golf instructor dedicated to growing the sport and making it more inclusive for future generations.

Prior to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Swanson served with distinction in the Chicago Police Department from July 2001 to February 2010. During his nearly nine-year tenure in law enforcement, he developed a reputation for discipline, leadership, and a strong sense of duty to the community he served. His experience in policing informed his leadership style, emphasizing accountability, resilience, and service.

Swanson’s educational background included studies at Tuskegee University, where he pursued an associate’s degree in biology and was a member of the men’s baseball program. He also attended City Colleges of Chicago–Olive-Harvey College, continuing his academic development in general studies.

David was the proud and loving father of three sons, Jordan, Jaden and Justin who were the center of his world. He carried himself with strength, wisdom, and a quiet dedication to those he loved. Whether through guidance, support, or simply his presence, he left a lasting impact on his family and all who knew him.

Across all facets of his career, David demonstrated a consistent dedication to empowerment, whether through mentoring aspiring golfers, building a purpose-driven brand, or serving his community. His work reflected a passion for creating opportunities, promoting representation, and leaving a lasting impact both on and off the golf course.

He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

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