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Abby Parsons Headlines 2025 Southwest PGA Award Recipients

Honored as the 52nd recipient of the Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.. – 11-18-25 – Abby Parsons, PGA Head Golf Professional at Pinnacle Peak Country Club in Scottsdale, has been named the 52nd recipient of the Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award, the highest annual honor bestowed by the Southwest PGA on a PGA Professional. A dynamic and dedicated PGA Golf Professional, Parsons embodies the Association’s highest values while continuously elevating those around her.

“I do not believe I will ever be able to find the words to express my gratitude and appreciation for being named the Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year,” said Parsons. “Joining the esteemed list of Professionals who have earned this award is an honor that I will forever cherish; however, this recognition was earned only because of the unwavering support of the people and mentors around me. I am fortunate to be a part of Pinnacle Peak Country Club surrounded by an incredible membership, leadership team, and fellow staff members that make coming to work so special. Having a career in golf is a privilege, and I look forward to continuing to give back to the game that has given me everything.”

Parsons heads the 2025 Southwest PGA Awards class for “qualities of leadership, strong moral character, and a substantial record of service” to the Southwest PGA and the game of golf. She will be honored at the Southwest PGA Awards Ceremony in February of 2026.

  • Abby Parsons of Pinnacle Peak Country Club – Golf Professional of the Year 
  • Tommi Avant of Lone Tree Golf Club – Assistant Golf Professional of the Year
  • Ben Weir of Lone Tree Golf Club – Teacher of the Year
  • Tyler Hoeft of Superstition Mountain Club – Youth Player Development Award
  • Susan Harnedy of Stone Canyon Club – Bill Strausbaugh Award
  • Cesar Balgañon II of El Conquistador Golf & Tennis – Player Development Award
  • Tim Skophammer a PGA Life Member – The Patriot Award
  • Courtney Vogel of Alta Mesa Golf Club – The Deacon Palmer Award
  • Cal Peters of Tucson Country Club – Merchandiser of the Year for Private Facilities
  • Tyce Calvert of Revere Golf Club – Merchandiser of the Year for Public Facilities

The Southwest PGA Golf Professional of the Year – Born and raised in Pinehurst, North Carolina, Parsons’ connection to the game began early. As the daughter of a PGA Professional, she developed a lifelong appreciation for the sport, and the impact PGA Members can have on their communities. Parsons attended Boston University, where she competed for four years on the women’s golf team and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism with an emphasis on broadcasting. During her collegiate career, she earned Second Team All-Patriot League honors in 2019 and was named to the Patriot League Academic Honor Roll in 2017. Following graduation, she began her career in the golf industry as a Golf Operations Intern at Whistling Straits in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, where she was named the 2nd Assistant Golf Professional two seasons later. She wintered as a PGA Associate at Coral Creek Club in Placida, Florida and earned PGA Membership in 2022. Later that year, Parsons relocated to Arizona to serve as the Lead Assistant PGA Professional at The Country Club at DC Ranch before joining Pinnacle Peak Country Club in 2023 as the PGA Head Golf Professional.        

At Pinnacle Peak Country Club, Parsons has distinguished herself through a balance of operational excellence, player development innovation, and mentorship. She created two of the club’s fastest-growing programs, the “Par-Suit: The Pursuit to Par” ladies’ development series and the Winter Junior Golf Academy, both designed to welcome golfers of all ages and abilities. These programs have strengthened member engagement and grown the club’s female and junior golf participation. Parsons plays a major role in the club’s PGA Jr. League team each spring, as well as the Summer Junior Camps, fostering a fun and competitive environment for young athletes. Equally significant is her leadership as a mentor. Parsons provides clear structure, accountability, and guidance for PGA Associates, helping them achieve PGA Membership and advance into impactful roles. Her mentorship has already contributed to the success of several Associates who have earned Class A status and moved into leadership positions.

Across the Southwest PGA, Parsons’ influence continues to grow. She serves on the Board of Directors, chairs the Communications Committee, and is an active member of the Inclusion Committee. Her work helped launch and host the Section’s podcast, giving professionals across the region a platform to share their stories and insights. She also supports charitable outreach through events such as Play for Pink, the WGA Charitable Holiday Luncheon, and the St. Mary’s Food Bank Thanksgiving Turkey Drive, strengthening the Section’s connection to its community. Nationally, Parsons is recognized as an emerging leader. She serves as vice-chair of the PGA Coach Amplification Committee, collaborates with the PGA Digital team to produce live broadcasts on PGA.com and NBC Sports platforms, and was selected as a member of PGA LEAD Cohort 10 – one of just 15 professionals nationwide chosen for this prestigious leadership program. Her expertise and growing national presence led to speaking invitations at the 2025 PGA Show, where she shared insights on personal branding and social media in the golf industry. Her leadership, defined by service, authenticity, and enthusiasm, continues to inspire colleagues, elevate fellow coaches, and open new pathways for growing the game. The Golf Professional of the Year Award marks Parsons’ first recognition in the Southwest PGA.

The Southwest PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year – Tommi Avant, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at Lone Tree Golf Club in Chandler, Ariz., is the recipient of the 2025 Southwest PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year, an honor given to him for his dedication to the game of golf, his leadership with the Southwest Section and commitment to growing the game. Avant earned his PGA of America membership in September 2023, marking a milestone in a career that began in 2019 as a PGA Associate at Arcola Country Club in Paramus, New Jersey. Since joining the Lone Tree team, he has become an essential part of the club’s operations, ensuring that members and guests experience the highest level of service and professionalism. Avant’s influence extends across all facets of golf operations, including tournament coordination, merchandising, instruction, and player development. Deeply committed to fostering the next generation of golfers, Avant plays a leading role in initiatives such as the First Tee of Phoenix, PGA Junior League, and the Chandler District High School programs. His ability to teach, motivate, and inspire players of all ages has become a defining part of his professional identity. A three-time Southwest PGA Assistant Player of the Year (2022–2024), Avant has also distinguished himself as one of the Section’s premier competitors. His thrilling victory at the 68th Southwest PGA Championship/PPC at Moon Valley Country Club, where he triumphed over a 90-player field, showcased his talent and determination. That win also earned him an exemption into the 2026 WM Phoenix Open, to be held February 5–8 at TPC Scottsdale. Avant credits his father, Greg Avant, a 31-year PGA Member, as his greatest mentor and inspiration. “He taught me what it truly means to be a PGA Professional,” Avant said. “Leadership, to me, means guiding others through example, serving with integrity, collaboration, and enthusiasm for the game.” Beyond Lone Tree, Avant remains deeply involved with the Southwest PGA, volunteering his time, mentoring young players, and representing the Section with professionalism and passion – qualities that make him a truly deserving recipient of this distinguished honor.

The Southwest PGA Teacher of the Year – Ben Weir, the PGA Director of Instruction at Lone Tree Golf Club in Chandler, Ariz., has been named the 2025 Southwest PGA Teacher of the Year for his outstanding services as a golf teacher, innovator and coach. A PGA of America member since 2012, Weir has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advancing golf instruction and coaching at every level. He holds accreditation in the PGA’s Certified Professional Program (CPP) and has both attended and led numerous seminars and workshops, covering topics from “Club Fitting to Improve Your Teaching & Student’s Performance” and “Critical Aspects of Short Game” to female instruction, building a teaching business, and coaching psychology. Since 2019, Weir is one of only 24 “on call” PGA Professionals nationally to serve as a PGA National Adjunct Faculty member for Teaching & Coaching.  His influence on instruction is widely recognized. Weir’s work spans private coaching of junior, collegiate, and professional players, mentoring PGA Associates developing teaching proficiency across the industry, all the way to coaching our current sitting President of the United States as one of his short game teachers. At the facility level, he has championed junior, collegiate, and professional development programs, created innovative drills such as advanced putting and chipping routines, developed the “Player’s Prescription” method to tailor ongoing progress, and launched the “How to Practice & Rules Program” to deepen players’ understanding of the game’s fundamentals. Weir’s impact extends beyond individual players through inclusive programming, including women’s weekly clinics like “Wine & Nine”, expanded veteran programs via PGA HOPE and Semper-Fi Golf Learning Workshops, and clinics for minority and underserved youth both nationally and internationally. His dedication to veterans was recognized in 2022 when a PGA HOPE Honor Flag was flown over the U.S. Capitol for his service and commitment to supporting veterans through golf. “My mission is to raise the bar in instruction and to give every player and teacher the tools to succeed,” said Weir. The Teacher of the Year Award marks Weir’s first recognition in the Southwest PGA.

The Southwest PGA Youth Player Development Award – Tyler Hoeft, the PGA Head Golf Professional at Superstition Mountain Golf and Country Club in Gold Canyon, Ariz., has been named the 2025 Southwest PGA Youth Player Development Award recipient. This award is presented to a PGA Professional who has made extraordinary contributions and achievements in the area of youth player development. A PGA member since 2017, Hoeft is a passionate advocate for junior golf having built thriving programs throughout his career at multiple facilities across Arizona. At Pinnacle Peak Country Club, he transformed a facility with no youth presence into a robust program with more than 60 juniors training weekly. At Seville Golf & Country Club, his innovative structure expanded participation from 15 to over 140 juniors each week. Now at Superstition Mountain, Hoeft continues his success with weekly clinics, family instruction programs, and on-course experiences that make golf both educational and fun. Since 2021, Hoeft has served on the Southwest PGA Junior Golf Committee, where he helped launch the Section’s Junior Golf website and expanded PGA Junior League Play Days. He also volunteers with the Firebirds Junior Development Series and Drive, Chip & Putt, recently hosting the 2025 Sub-Regional Qualifier. Beyond the course, Hoeft has made a profound impact as Head Volunteer Coach for Mesa Parks and Recreation Special Olympics Golf for more than a decade – growing the program to over 80 athletes and helping it become one of the strongest in the nation. “Seeing young golfers grow in skill, confidence, and character is the greatest reward,” said Hoeft. “Creating opportunities for every child to feel welcome and inspired through golf is my life’s work.” This marks Hoeft’s second Section honor, having previously received the 2017 Southwest PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year Award. He was also recognized by Arizona Disabled Sports as a two-time Volunteer of the Year in 2017 and 2018.

The Southwest PGA Bill Strausbaugh Award – Susan Harnedy, the PGA Director of Instruction at the Stone Canyon Club in Oro Valley, Ariz., is the 2025 Bill Strausbaugh Award recipient, which recognizes a PGA Professional who demonstrates exceptional character, integrity and leadership through teaching and mentoring other PGA Golf Professionals. A PGA Member for over 26 years and a cornerstone of The Stone Canyon Club since 2006, Harnedy has exemplified professionalism, character, and service throughout her career. She has mentored numerous associates and golf staff, guiding many toward PGA Membership and career advancement. Through collaboration, shared coaching insights, and consistent encouragement, she has cultivated a culture of learning, respect, and excellence among her peers. Elected to the Southwest PGA Southern Arizona Chapter Board in 2022, Harnedy has made a lasting impact through her leadership on the PGA REACH Committee, where she has served as Co-Chair and now Chair for the past three years. Her efforts have driven numerous community outreach initiatives, including PGA HOPE, Birdies for Good, Fisher House Thanksgiving meals and Ronald McDonald House Chef for a Day. Her coordination of volunteers for events such as the Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity, and The First Tee Rules Clinic has strengthened the Section’s community presence. Known for her sincerity, fairness, and integrity, Harnedy leads with authenticity and heart – values that mirror the very essence of the Bill Strausbaugh Award. Harnedy’s legacy of mentorship, integrity, and service continues to elevate her peers, inspire future professionals, and enrich the greater golf community. “I’ve always believed leadership begins with honesty, consistency, and care for others,” said Harnedy. This marks Harnedy’s second honor in the Southwest PGA, having previously received the 2021 Assistant Golf Professional of the Year Award. She was also recognized by the Southern Arizona Chapter as the 2021 Assistant Professional of the Year and 2022 Teacher of the Year.

The Southwest PGA Player Development Award – Cesar Balgañon II, PGA First Assistant Golf Professional at El Conquistador Golf & Tennis in Oro Valley, Ariz., is the 2025 Southwest PGA Player Development Award recipient. This honor bestows special recognition to a PGA Professional who has displayed extraordinary and exemplary contributions and achievements in the area of player development.  A PGA member since 2024, Balgañon spent his entire career at Sewailo Golf Club in Tucson as an assistant and teaching professional, before recently accepting the position at El Conquistador. At Sewailo he demonstrated extraordinary leadership and innovation in expanding access to golf across Southern Arizona and within the Pascua Yaqui Tribal community. He built a model player development ecosystem rooted in inclusion, mentorship, and community engagement. His programs, ranging from PGA Junior League and PGA HOPE to beginner clinics and youth mentorship, have introduced hundreds of new players to the game, including more than 150 Pascua Yaqui Tribal youth. Balgañon launched several initiatives in 2025, including Get Golf Ready beginner clinics, Short Game Boot Camps, and Opportunity League sessions supported by PGA REACH. He formerly led Sewailo’s PGA HOPE program, offering free golf instruction to disabled Veterans, and developed the Sewailo Junior Ambassador Program, empowering Tribal youth through leadership and mentorship. Beyond the course, Balgañon has used digital platforms to inspire a new generation of golfers, growing his social media audience to over 18,000 combined followers. His content educates, motivates, and connects players to the game, while his innovative “Golf & Grow Mastermind” and networking mixers blend business, community, and golf in fresh, engaging ways. A lifelong learner, Balgañon continually seeks to elevate his craft, attending national PGA Teaching and Coaching Summits and sharing knowledge with peers across the country. “My mission is to make golf welcoming for everyone,” said Balgañon. “From Tribal youth to Veterans, from beginners to aspiring professionals, I want them all to see a place for themselves in this game.” This marks Balgañon’s first Section honor with the Southwest PGA. He was previously recognized with the 2022 Southwest PGA Southern Arizona Chapter Assistant Professional of the Year Award, as well as the 2025 Southern Arizona Chapter Player Development Award and 2025 Southern Arizona Chapter Patriot Award.

The Southwest PGA Patriot Award – Tim Skophammer, PGA Life Member, has been honored with the Southwest PGA Patriot Award. This prestigious recognition is bestowed upon a PGA Professional who personifies patriotism through the game of golf and demonstrates unwavering commitment and dedication to the men and women who have valiantly served and protected the United States of America. A PGA Member for 44 years, Skophammer’s journey with PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) began in 2016 as a volunteer instructor at Aliante Golf Club. His involvement quickly deepened as he helped expand sessions to additional facilities, eventually stepping into the role of Lead Instructor for the Southern Nevada Chapter PGA following the pandemic. With Skophammer’s leadership, the program has evolved from two sessions into seven six-week programs each year, supporting hundreds of veterans and active-duty personnel annually. To keep participants engaged year-round, he established weekly supervised practice sessions at Painted Desert Golf Club, offered free of charge for 50 weeks a year. Skophammer credits the program’s success to a dedicated team of PGA Professionals, veteran alumni, and key supporters such as Craig Stoudnor, retired PGA Member and CEO of Heroes in the Rough, and Captain Will Mangum, whose leadership and veteran outreach have been instrumental. Beyond instruction, Skophammer continues to innovate by developing new sponsorship opportunities, planning play days and competitions, and exploring pro-am events exclusively for military participants. His vision is to empower local facilities to host their own PGA HOPE programs, expanding access and awareness of golf’s healing power. “PGA HOPE is the most rewarding initiative I have ever been part of,” said Skophammer. “Our mission is simple – no veteran left behind.” This marks Skophammer’s second honor from the Southwest PGA, having previously received the 2020 Player Development Award.

The Southwest PGA Deacon Palmer Award – Courtney Vogel, the PGA Assistant Head Golf Professional at Alta Mesa Golf Club in Mesa, Ariz., is the recipient of the Southwest PGA Deacon Palmer Award. The award recognizes a PGA Professional who displays outstanding integrity, character and leadership in the effort to overcome a major obstacle in their life. Following her father Kurt’s footsteps (a 30-year PGA member), Courtney earned her membership in the PGA of America in 2024. She exemplifies the core values of the PGA Professional – integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to others. Her leadership is rooted in empathy and the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of background or circumstance. She devotes her career to fostering growth, inclusivity, and belonging for members, guests, and peers alike, creating an environment where people feel valued, capable, and inspired. Despite living with a significant hearing impairment since childhood, she has transformed this challenge into a source of strength and motivation. Her resilience and adaptability have shaped a leadership style defined by patience, compassion, and authenticity. Through her example, she demonstrates that obstacles can become opportunities for connection, perseverance, and personal growth. Within her facility roles Courtney has developed and led programs that welcome golfers of all ages and abilities. Her work extends beyond the club, with outreach efforts that promote junior golf, women’s participation, and community engagement through charitable events and inclusive programming. Among her peers, Vogel serves as a collaborator and mentor, fostering a culture of support and shared success. She is deeply committed to advancing the image and impact of PGA Professionals, emphasizing that the success of one strengthens the collective. Through her leadership and example, she continues to inspire others to embrace challenges with courage and to lead with compassion, resilience, and purpose. “The Deacon Palmer Award represents service and perseverance – values I strive to live every day,” she said. “If my story inspires even one person to embrace their challenges as strengths, then I’ve made a difference.” She competed in the 2025 PGA Professional Championship after having qualified in the 2024 Southwest PGA Championship, her first year being eligible to participate. The Deacon Palmer recognition is her first award as a member of the Southwest PGA.

The Southwest PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Private Facilities – Cal Peters, the PGA Head Golf Professional at Tucson Country Club, is the recipient of the Southwest PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Private Facilities. The award recognizes PGA Professionals who have excelled in business and merchandising in the promotion of golf. Peters got his start in the golf business at the Golf Courses of Lawsonia and Oneida Golf and Country Club both in Wisconsin. He relocated to Tucson Country Club in 2022 and earned his membership in the PGA of America in 2024. Peters devotes much of his time to merchandising, ensuring that the golf shop remains organized, fresh and member-focused. “Merchandising at a private club is about more than sales, it’s about enhancing the member experience”, Peters added. “Every display, every product and every interaction should reflect the lifestyle and pride of Tucson Country Club and should always feel inviting and dynamic”. Under his leadership, Tucson Country Club has seen dramatic retail growth. Merchandise sales increased from $204,128 in 2022 (before his tenure) to $406,573 in 2024, with 2025 sales projected to reach $450,000 – a more than 120% increase since Peters took over merchandising. The club hosts approximately 25,000 rounds annually, with consistent member and guest play driving steady demand. Peters attributes this success to a boutique-style retail philosophy that emphasizes smaller, more frequent merchandise drops and a wide variety of high-quality, trend-conscious brands. “By offering a diverse mix of styles, fits, and materials, we ensure every member can find something special”, he said. Monthly display changes and flexible vendor partnerships keep the shop experience lively and engaging, encouraging repeat visits. Peters was awarded the Southern Arizona Chapter PGA Merchandiser of the Year (Private) in 2025.

The Southwest PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Public Facilities – Tyce Calvert, the PGA General Manager at Revere Golf Club in Henderson, Nev., is the recipient of the Southwest PGA Merchandiser of the Year for Public Facilities. The award recognizes PGA Professionals who have excelled in business and merchandising in the promotion of golf. Calvert earned his membership in the PGA of America in 2024 and served as the PGA Director of Golf at Revere before his promotion to GM in 2025. At Revere, with its over 90,000 annual rounds, Calvert treats merchandising as an integral part of the guest experience. “Merchandising is not a part-time responsibility; it’s a constant process woven into every day I’m on property. It isn’t just about selling, it’s brand identity, customer service, and community connection,” Calvert noted. His daily routine includes walking the shop floor, engaging with customers, and ensuring every display reflects the club’s brand and hospitality. Since taking over merchandise buying seven years ago, Revere has achieved record-breaking retail success. Gross merchandise sales reached $956,514 in 2024, a 9% increase from the prior year, with projections surpassing $1 million for 2025. Merchandise spent per player has also risen more than 11% year-over-year. Calvert’s merchandising philosophy centers on knowing the customer, anticipating their needs, and using data to drive decisions. He developed a proprietary inventory analysis and open-to-buy system now used across Western Golf Properties’ portfolio, including Legacy Golf Club. His leadership extends beyond sales, as he mentors merchandisers, establishes vendor partnerships, and coordinates eight major merchandise drops annually to keep the shop dynamic and fresh. Beyond business, Calvert integrates community impact into retail, hosting charitable events that benefit organizations such as The Animal Foundation and Toys for Tots. This is Calvert’s first award in the Southwest PGA.