2023 AWARD WINNERS: Michigan Golf Course Association Honorees
Jeff Hoag, owner and general manager at Scott Lake Golf & Practice Center in Comstock Park, and Carey Mitchelson, the director of operations at College Fields Golf Club in Okemos and executive director of the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation, headline the 2023 Award Winners honored on Nov. 28 by the Michigan Golf Course Association (MGCA), at its annual Business Conference and Vendor Fair at FireKeepers Casino Hotel in Battle Creek.
Hoag received the Matthews Lifetime Achievement Award, given to an individual or organization that over the span of a lifetime has provided steadfast leadership, outstanding service, and continuous commitment to the Michigan golf industry. In 2023, Hoag celebrated his 50th year in the golf industry. Over the years he has expanded Scott Lake from an 18-hole facility to 33 holes of golf with a state-of-the-art practice facility.
Carey Mitchelson received the Lyle Leeke Distinguished Service Award, presented to individuals who have displayed distinguished service to the MGCA and the golf industry in the state of Michigan. He is the director of operations at College Fields in Okemos, and also serves the game of golf as the executive director of the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation. He was instrumental in helping create a successful new MGCA program – the Registered Apprenticeship/Golf Course Maintenance Technician.
Kari Kahanec was honored with the John Dodge CARPE DIEM Award, for being a team member of a MGCA member course who demonstrates creativity and success as defined by the legacy of the late John Dodge. It includes a grant award from the MGCA Scott Family Educational Support Foundation.
Maple Hill Golf earned the Dul Family Player Development Award, for demonstrating creativity and success in growing the game by developing new golfers and new rounds and overcoming perceived barriers. Their youth development programs have been led for many years by Jason Sanchez. Maple Hill will also receive a grant award from the Scott Family Educational Support Foundation to support continued golf programming for kids, women and beginners.
MGCA members are owners and operators of golf courses in Michigan.
