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!
Darren Black – Topgolf (4/21/25)
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 for food, drinks, and social events, and it’s Darren who ensures golf is part of that experience. Without his presence, both Topgolf and the broader golf community would miss key opportunities to grow the game through these interactions.
Darren engages a unique demographic—many of his students are picking up a golf club for the first time, and he’s often the first PGA Professional they meet. That introduction not only sparks a connection to the game, but it also drives repeat visits and inspires new golfers to explore area courses. Beyond the bays, Darren’s commitment to community shines through his longtime support of initiatives like the First Tee, Folds of Honor, PGA HOPE, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, where he participates annually in the 100-Hole Marathon fundraiser. He also supports local high school programs, reinforcing his belief that being a PGA Professional means giving back well beyond the tee box.
Craig Welty – Skagit Golf & Country Club (4/1/25)
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 in golf—his father, Carl Welty, previously served as Head Pro, and his mother still lends a hand at the club—Craig continues to grow the game in meaningful ways. Under his management, the golf shop has experienced nearly 300% growth. His dedication extends beyond the course, as he supports local youth by hosting the Burlington-Edison high school golf teams, leading the Skagit Junior Camp, and serving as an assistant coach at Western Washington University.
Craig’s connection to the community runs deep—he grew up just off the fifth hole and began his golf journey hitting balls from his dad’s garage. Today, his influence is felt across the region, especially through his work with junior golfers. The Skagit Junior Camp, a volunteer-led initiative, funds scholarships for participants who exemplify integrity and strong character. His approachable and respected presence is summed up perfectly by a student who noted that Craig is “always saying hello or shaking hands with people” during lessons. Off the course, Craig remains active in the community, volunteering at his children’s school, performing in local theater to support his daughter, and coaching his son’s soccer team. His commitment to both golf and family makes him a true pillar of the community.
Leslie Guzman – First Tee Greater Seattle (3/26/25)
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 top 25 nationally and top 3 within the Western Washington Chapter. Her commitment to excellence and passion for the game shines through in everything she does.
More than a skilled program leader, Leslie is a powerful role model who inspires youth, families, and colleagues alike. She brings a unique ability to create inclusive, impactful programs that resonate with participants from all backgrounds, fostering a lasting love for the game. As a full-time staff member, Leslie is deeply committed to reaching youth who need support the most, training volunteers and staff, and driving innovation that helps the chapter grow. Her dedication is truly changing the game—both at First Tee and throughout the community.
Ben Talbot – First Tee South Puget Sound (3/5/25)
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 led to high participant retention and record engagement in the South Puget Sound community.
Ben fosters relationships with PGA Professionals and community members across five counties and 13 golf facilities. Through his efforts, The First Tee – South Puget Sound delivers well-coached sessions and day camps while educating PGA Professionals on coaching diverse participants.
Ben collaborates with 10 organizations and 83 schools, including Boys & Girls Clubs, Tacoma Rescue Mission, and Special Olympics. He provides opportunities for underserved youth to experience golf while promoting life skills education. His partnerships enhance coaching education, participant development, and community outreach.
Jack Kelly – Glendale Country Club (2/19/25)
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 a Pro Fridays, golf schools, and junior programs like PGA Jr. League—ensure that everyone has a place to learn and enjoy the game.
Beyond the club, Jack shares his expertise with a wider audience through social media, where his instructional content has attracted nearly 50,000 Instagram followers. He also gives back to the community, organizing initiatives like a canned food drive, where he provided free lessons in exchange for donations to a local charity. Jack’s dedication to instruction and community outreach continues to make a lasting impact at Glendale and beyond.
Daniel Tomson & Pete Brooks – Bear Creek Country Club (2/5/25)
These professionals at Bear Creek Country Club have made an impact on the juniors and families that frequent their programs by helping juniors learn life skills like cooperation, perseverance, etiquette, and course management.
The PGA Jr. League provides structured time for kids to learn more about the game of golf as well as develop social skills while celebrating individual and team successes. Daniel and Pete worked hard for everyone feel included and get to know one another which parents were very grateful.
Outside of their junior instruction, both Daniel and Pete have built relationships with all members through daily interactions, lessons, and events that play a pivotal role to the success to the club operations and programs.
Thank you both for your commitment to your members, the chapter, and your community!
