Every year, the Southern Ohio PGA gathers to celebrate its best people. Not simply the professionals who run golf shops, teach lessons or guide clubs, but the men and women who carry the heartbeat of the game in their hands. They are the culture builders, the teachers, the leaders, the quiet fixers, the patient listeners. They are the reason golf in Southern Ohio feels like more than a pastime. It feels like a community.
This year’s award winners remind us that golf’s greatest impact doesn’t show up only on a scorecard. It appears in the way a staff learns to trust its leader, the way a junior golfer beams with new confidence, the way a Veteran finds connection again standing with a club in their hand.
The 2025 Southern Ohio PGA Award Winners celebrate the men and women whose influence stretches far past the fairways.
Golf Professional of the Year: Andy Montgomery, PGA
Director of Golf at Kinsale Golf and Fitness Club
At Kinsale Golf & Fitness Club, Andy Montgomery has built a culture defined by warmth and trust, qualities that you feel the second you walk on property. That impact stretches across the Southern Ohio PGA Section as well, through his revitalization of the tournament program and his deep commitment to PGA REACH Southern Ohio initiatives like the Birdie Bash. Montgomery’s honor feels less like a career milestone and more like a reflection of the environment he creates everywhere he goes.
Teacher & Coach of the Year: Gene Powell, PGA
Director of Instruction at Four Bridges Country Club
With a scientist’s precision and a mentor’s touch, Gene Powell, PGA, has transformed Four Bridges Country Club into a powerhouse of player development. His programs blend biomechanics and long-term coaching models along with genuine care for students of every level. Powell’s influence resonates across the entire landscape of the PGA of America as well, as his educational programming has shaped thousands of aspiring PGA Professionals through the PGM University Program.
The Teacher & Coach of the Year award is presented by GOLFTEC.
Bill Strausbaugh Award: Rob Karnes, PGA
Director of Golf at NCR Country Club
There’s a plaque that hangs on the wall of Rob Karnes’ office that’s older than the building it resides in. It’s small and humble, the kind of thing a 12-year-old might have put on their dresser or desk.
It reads: “You gotta wanta. So learn proper techniques then practice, practice, practice”.
Karnes leads with the kind of steadfast conviction born from a lifetime of mentorship, modeling the “you gotta wanta” philosophy passed down by his grandfather. At NCR Country Club, he’s built a culture rooted in integrity, support, and shared purpose. His influence is measured not in trophies, but in the people and careers strengthened by his guidance.
Golf Executive of the Year: Jeff Grant, PGA
CCM, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer at NCR Country Club
At NCR Country Club, excellence doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of vision, collaboration and steady leadership, all qualities that define Jeff Grant. Under his direction, NCR has flourished, with a growing membership and a continuous elevation of the club’s national presence, all without losing its community feel. His business acumen and collaborative spirit, empowers his team to thrive and advance in their careers. His impact is seen in the energy of NCR’s grounds and the people who bring the club to life each day.
Patriot Award: Jeff Olson, PGA
Director of Golf at Wedgewood Golf & Country Club
Jeff Olson has become a steady force for Veterans in Central Ohio and a leading voice for PGA HOPE Southern Ohio. He doesn’t seek recognition for what he does, he seeks connection. Jeff’s clinics have created a lasting community where Veterans reconnect through golf and camaraderie, proving again and again that meaningful change often begins with the simplest of moments. A handshake, a smile, a life changed thanks to a renewed sense of purpose.
Private Merchandiser of the Year: Justin Armour, PGA
Head Golf Professional at New Albany Country Club
At New Albany Country Club, Justin Armour has transformed merchandising into an elevated member experience and the results have been extraordinary. What happens when you blend fashion and function with world class hospitality? A golf shop that serves its membership by being a hub of activity where curated collections and personalized service make it a true extension of the club’s identity. Armour’s creativity and member-focused mindset set a new standard for private-club retail in Southern Ohio.
Public Merchandiser of the Year: Derrick DeHart, PGA
Head Golf Professional at Dayton Country Club (previously with The Golf Club at Stonelick Hills)
Derrick DeHart decided it was time to make the most of the fact that the Golf Club at Stonelick Hills is one of Ohio’s best public golf destinations. That meant a 180 on branding and fresh displays. Extraordinary sales growth soon followed. DeHart’s clear understanding of what resonates with golfers created a welcoming, well-curated retail environment that made every guest feel like a regular. A true craftsman, that attention to detail made all the difference and is why Stonelick continues to be in prime position to capitalize on its standing in the landscape of Ohio public golf.
Player Development Award: Ben Chandler, PGA
Mark McDonald Golf Academy (Previously with the Cincinnati Recreation Commission)
Ben Chandler took one look at the instruction capability at Cincinnati Recreation Commission facilities and knew there was room for improvement. In just a short time, thanks to his tireless efforts and comprehensive programming, CRC facilities quickly became hubs for learning the game, perfectly timed with the post-COVID golf boom. From beginners to high-performing players competing across the country, Chandler’s instructing influence has the dexterity to touch every aspect of the game, regardless of someone’s ability or background.
Youth Player Development Award: Chris Yoder, PGA
Director of Youth Player Development at Scioto Country Club
One of the renowned junior golf coaches in the country, Chris Yoder’s impact on youth golf grows by the day. His efforts turned Scioto Country Club into a national model for junior golf, growing participation fivefold and fostering a culture built on competitive excellence and fun. Those same qualities define his impact with his PGA Jr. League team, which competes on a national championship level, while also making sure they use their significant success to give back to their communities. Yoder’s work proves that junior golf thrives when young players feel both inspired and supported.
Professional Development Award: Jeff McEldowney, PGA
GOLFTEC Dublin
For nearly two decades, Jeff McEldowney has made professional growth the centerpiece of his work at GOLFTEC Dublin, creating opportunities for aspiring and current PGA Professionals to refine their craft and advance in the industry. His programs elevated the standard for mentorship in the Section and continue to impact dozens of Professionals across Central Ohio. Success for Jeff comes in many forms but his biggest impact isn’t just about helping colleagues navigate the golf industry, it’s about providing a foundation for consistent, positive professional growth that’s the hallmark of a fulfilling career.
Assistant Professional of the Year: Hannah McCrabb, PGA
Assistant Golf Professional at NCR Country Club
At NCR Country Club, Hannah McCrabb is the steady, reliable presence who brings structure, and energy to every corner of operations. Her rapid rise within the PGA of America and the Southern Ohio Section stems from her drive to learn and lift others. McCrabb’s passion and purpose is a common denominator across all of NCR and showcases her invaluable influence at one of Ohio’s premier golf facilities.
Associate of the Year: Adam Taulbee
Assistant Golf Professional at Elks Run Golf Club
Adam Taulbee’s dedication at Elks Run Golf Club shines through in his leadership and commitment to learning. That tireless drive transformed the operation in a short period of time and turned the workplace culture at Elks Run into a place where everyone feels valued. Taulbee’s recognition reflects a professional on the rise, grounded in service and genuine love for the game.
Sales Representative of the Year: Jenny Gleason
Director of Women’s Golf at Scioto Country Club (previously with XXIO)
With a competitive background that includes time on the LPGA Tour and three Symetra Tour wins, Jenny brought rare insight to her role in golf sales. Her approach, rooted in relationships and integrity, also had the backing of her tremendous playing career. Her reliability and care made her a trusted partner throughout the Section, supporting facilities with consistency and enthusiasm. Now the Director of Women’s Golf at Scioto, she continues to elevate the game from every angle.
Deacon Palmer Award: Tod Hecht, PGA
Tod Hecht’s story is one of profound resilience, shaped by a stroke that nearly ended both his playing and teaching careers, and by the courage that carried him back. A mainstay across Central Ohio golf, Tod’s unwavering dedication to service and connection continues to have a profound impact on anyone lucky enough to come within his considerable reach. Tod perfectly embodies the spirit of the Deacon Palmer Award with his exceptional perseverance and an unwavering love for the game.
