Monterey, CA — Julius Thaxter Arterberry has achieved the prestigious designation of PGA Class A Certified Professional, marking a major milestone in his journey as a golfer, mentor, and leader in the sport. With the PGA of America representing 29,000 members nationwide, fewer than 18,000 are active professionals, and less than 0.5% are Black males a testament to the significance of this achievement. Julius will officially receive his PGA Membership Pin on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the PGA Members Annual Gathering in Monterey, CA.
His mentor, family friend, and fellow PGA Class A Member, Willie Toney (Head Golf Pro at Bing Malone Golf Sacramento, form Assistant Pro at the Olympic Club San Francisco), will have the honor of pinning him in a ceremony that symbolizes this momentous accomplishment. Currently serving as Director/Assistant Golf Professional at Serrano Country Club in El Dorado Hills, Julius plans to build on this achievement by competing in professional golf qualifying events, with aspirations of one day winning at the PGA Tour level.
Alongside his professional ambitions, Julius is committed to making golf accessible to all, particularly underserved communities. Through his company, Arterberry Golf, Inc., Julius offers golf lessons at little to no cost, requiring only travel expenses. He is leading a collaborative initiative to place golf simulators in underserved Sacramento communities such as Meadowview, Del Paso Heights, and Oak Park. These simulators will host free clinics and mentorship programs, giving inner-city youth access to golf and its opportunities.
Julius is the proud father of 14-year-old Sebastian Arterberry, who plays basketball at Christian Brothers High School, Sacramento. He draws strength and inspiration from his family, including his father, Thaxter, and his brother, Sterling Arterberry, a graduate of the University of San Francisco School of Law and former collegiate basketball player. Julius’s Christian faith, nurtured through his membership at Calvary Christian Center Church, keeps him grounded in humility and gratitude.
“Receiving my PGA Class A Certification is an honor beyond words,” said Julius. “It’s a culmination of the love and support I’ve received from my family, mentors, and community. I dedicate this achievement to my mother, whose memory continues to guide me, and to the future of golf, which I hope to make more accessible and inclusive.”
PGA Class A Professionals enjoy lifetime access to major tournaments like the Masters and Ryder Cup, opportunities to qualify for the PGA Championship, and continuing education programs to stay at the forefront of the game. Julius’s achievement highlights his skill and passion while setting an example for others to pursue their dreams.
