Chapter Professional Spotlight

The Chapter Community Outreach & Charity Committee will be highlighting Chapter Professionals throughout the year to raise awareness about the connection between local professionals and their communities, and how they help lift communities through different events, programming, and charitable ventures. Please check out the profiles below!

  • Chapter Spotlight: Jack Whealdon
    Jack Whealdon, Tacoma C&GC – Jack is a vital part of the Tacoma Country & Golf Club operation, bringing both deep roots and a modern, player-focused approach to instruction. Having started in the bag room while playing collegiately at St. Martin’s University, Jack has grown alongside the club over the past decade, earning his PGA … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Andy Brautigam
    Andy Brautigam – Seattle Golf Club: Andy Brautigam has been an important part of the golf operation at Seattle Golf Club for the past five years, building strong relationships with both members and staff. After Nick Pollock departed to become Executive Director of the Western Washington Chapter PGA, Andy stepped into a larger role as … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Brandon Mohl
    Brandon Mohl – Rainier Golf & Country Club: The Western Washington PGA is proud to highlight Brandon Mohl, PGA Head Golf Professional at Rainier Golf & Country Club. Brandon plays a central role in the day-to-day success of the operation, helping ensure the facility runs smoothly, consistently, and with purpose. From preparing the golf shop … Read more
  • National Award Winner – Ryan Young!
    The Western Washington Chapter PGA is proud to announce that Ryan Young, Head Golf Professional at Chambers Bay in University Place, has been named the 2026 PGA of America National Player Development Award recipient. The award recognizes a PGA of America Golf Professional who has demonstrated extraordinary and exemplary contributions to growing the game through … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Christian Ballard
    Christian Ballard – Chambers Bay: Christian has been an Academy Instructor at Chambers Bay for nearly five years and has grown into a key leader at the facility. As Adult Program Coordinator, he has led the expansion of adult programming, including beginner classes, Academy memberships, monthly clinics, and veteran initiatives — helping drive a 50% … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Doug Doxsie, PGA
    Editor’s Note: Doug Doxsie will conclude his remarkable 40-year career this December, retiring from Seattle Golf Club as only the fourth Head Professional in the club’s 125-year history. Doug was kind enough to share some of his story and reflections with us as he prepares for this next chapter. Looking back to the beginning, what … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Garrett Wong
    Garrett Wong – Riverbend Golf Course: Garrett is a vital part of the team at Riverbend Golf Course, bringing a calm, professional presence that sets the tone for both staff and guests. In a fast-paced environment where flexibility and composure are key, Garrett consistently delivers. Whether he’s juggling tasks, managing a packed tee sheet, or … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Glenn Linder
    Glenn Linder – Stix & Stone Golf – Glenn is a Teaching Professional at Meadow Park Golf Course and the owner of Stix & Stone Golf, where they bring energy, enthusiasm, and a deep sense of purpose to everything they do. At Meadow Park, Glenn plays a vital role in coaching for PGA Jr. League … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Nicole Matiatos
    Nicole Matiatos – Tacoma Country & Golf Club – Nicole plays a vital role in the golf operation at Tacoma Country and Golf Club, bringing a combination of professionalism, dedication, and a consistently positive attitude. Her deep knowledge of golf operations, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable team member. Whether … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Daryl Matheny
    Daryl Matheny – Gold Mountain Daryl has been the heart of Gold Mountain for years, leading by example in everything he does—whether managing operations or handling the small details like answering phones and keeping the facility looking sharp. He’s someone everyone trusts to get the job done, leading with hard work, humility, and a team-first … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Darren Black
    Darren Black – Topgolf The Western Washington Chapter PGA proudly spotlights Darren Black, Director of Instruction at Topgolf. As the sole Topgolf facility in Washington, Darren’s role is truly one-of-a-kind within the Chapter. With around 200 employees on site, he serves as the facility’s face of golf—bridging entertainment with the game itself. Guests often visit … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Craig Welty
    Craig Welty – Skagit Golf & Country Club  This week, the WWC PGA proudly spotlights Craig Welty, Director of Golf at Skagit Golf and Country Club. Craig has made a lasting impact on the golfing community, not only through his professional leadership but also through deep personal roots at the club. With a family legacy … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Leslie Guzman
    Leslie Guzman – First Tee Greater Seattle Leslie is a cornerstone of the First Tee – Greater Seattle team, playing a vital role in player development while also managing key programs such as Girls’ Golf, PGA Junior League, and clinics for advanced participants. Under her leadership, the PGA Junior League has consistently ranked among the … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Ben Talbot
    Ben Talbot – First Tee South Puget Sound  Ben is the Director of Participant Development and continues to make a difference in our community throughout the WWC Chapter. He plays a crucial role in overseeing 30 part-time coaches across 14 facilities, effectively integrating life skills with golf instruction. His strong communication and organizational skills have … Read more
  • Professional Spotlight: Jack Kelly
    Jack Kelly – Glendale Country Club  Jack, Director of Instruction at Glendale Country Club, is a driving force both on and off the course. Combining his background in golf operations with his passion for teaching, he creates meaningful engagement opportunities for members of all skill levels. His diverse programs—Ladies Nights at the Range, Play with … Read more