Mike Whan, the CEO of the United States Golf Association (USGA), recently revisited Coldstream Country Club in Ohio, where he began his career in golf four decades ago.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Returning to Coldstream Country Club after nearly 40 years, Whan marveled at the changes the club had undergone since his time there. Sitting at a high-top table in the bar area, he reminisced about his journey in the golf industry.
From Ohio to the USGA
Having dedicated 95% of his adult life to golf, Whan’s passion for the sport was fueled by his experiences at Coldstream Country Club. His introduction to golf began with a job on the grounds crew, where he learned the ropes of course maintenance under Superintendent Cal Gruber’s guidance.
Hard Work and Passion
Whan’s early days at Coldstream involved tough, hourly work, including edging, weeding, and raking bunkers. Despite the challenges, his love for golf blossomed during his time at the club.
Perks of the Job
As the CEO of the USGA, Whan now enjoys perks like playing at prestigious courses and attending events like the Masters. However, his fondest memories trace back to his days of free golf at Coldstream and friendly competitions with fellow grounds crews.
A Career Fueled by Passion
Whan’s career in golf took a unique turn when he transitioned from a job at Proctor & Gamble to Wilson Sporting Goods’ golf division. Embracing his passion for golf, Whan embarked on a journey that led him to various roles within the industry.
A Multifaceted Journey
From working on the grounds crew to overseeing manufacturing and later leading the LPGA to unprecedented growth, Whan’s career path has been anything but conventional. His current role at the USGA reflects his commitment to advancing and sustaining the game of golf.
Roots of Passion
Despite the twists and turns in his career, Whan’s love for golf can be traced back to his days in Cincinnati. Watching the grounds crew prepare the course for tournaments sparked his passion for the sport and set him on a path to success in the golf industry.
Whan’s journey from a young grounds crew member at Coldstream Country Club to the CEO of the USGA is a testament to the impact of passion and dedication in the world of golf.
By: Shelby Dermer
Title: USGA CEO Mike Whan: A Journey Back to His Roots in Golf
Sourced From: golfweek.usatoday.com/2024/04/22/usga-ceo-mike-whan-coldstream-country-club/
Published Date: Mon, 22 Apr 2024 18:00:00 +0000
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