Columbia Association (CA) is pleased to welcome Rodney Green as the new general manager at Hobbit’s Glen Golf Club and Fairway Hills Golf Club. Joan Lovelace, current general manager, will stay on board as head golf pro and director of player development, devoting her time to golf instruction. Green’s first official day at CA will be Monday, May 10.
Green comes to the Columbia community with over 25 years of experience coordinating and managing golf courses in various locations across the United States. He most recently served as the director of golf at The Country Club at Woodmore in Mitchellville, Maryland.
Ironically, Green worked at Hobbit’s Glen while in high school and won the Medal Play Club Championship in 1984 and the Match Play Club Championship in 1985. He went on to earn his B.S. degree in counseling education from South Carolina State University, where he attended on a full golf scholarship. In 1995, he was elected to Membership to the PGA of America and in 2020 had the distinct honor of becoming a member of its Quarter Century Club. As a Columbia native, having the opportunity for his career to come full circle is a “dream come true.”
What age did you start playing golf?
Eight years old.
Who is your golf idol?
My dad and uncle were both PGA Golf Professionals. I watched them growing up and I knew that a career in golf was going to be in my future.
What’s your favorite golf course?
Bandon Dunes in Bandon, Oregon.
What do you love most about the game of golf?
It’s an awesome way to network and build relationships. I’ve met some of the most interesting people in the world and some of my most lasting friendships were established on the golf course.
What’s your best golf memory?
I caddied on two separate occasions in a PGA Tour event and Tiger Woods was in the group. To be able to spend 18 holes up close and personal with Tiger is one of the most awesome experiences I’ve ever had. Becoming a 25 year member of the PGA is another accomplishment that I’m very proud of.
To learn more about Rodney, check out this Q&A below from the MAPGA Newsletter:
What’s a surprising fact that not many people know about you?
While I’m not great at it, two of my favorite hobbies are playing the guitar and the piano.
What are you most looking forward to in this new role?
My career in the hospitality industry has given me great insight into how to provide a high level of customer service and discovering ways to enhance the guest experience. I look forward to utilizing those skills in this new role. And I look forward to coming back home. I grew up in Columbia and worked at Hobbit’s Glen while in high school. To be able manage the same course that grew up on is a blessing!
Current GM, Joan Lovelace, is excited to hand the torch to Green and spend her time focused on teaching.
“I’m excited for my next chapter in life as the head golf professional and player development coordinator for CA Golf. I feel very lucky to be able to share my passion with students of all levels. Every day is a joy to work with players who want to improve their skills.” -Joan Lovelace
