Michigan PGA Announces 13 Award Winners for 2025
Golf Professional of the Year
Glenn Pulice, PGA
Royal Oak Golf Center
Selected by his peers, this prestigious honor is awarded to the professional who has demonstrated outstanding qualities of leadership and strong moral character. The individual must also maintain a substantial record of service to the Association and game of golf, and be well-regarded as a model PGA of America Golf Professional.
He played a key role in the multimillion-dollar renovation of Royal Oak Golf Center, which now hosts numerous community golf events. He is in his 21st year as Director of Golf for the Midnight Golf Program.
Golf Executive of the Year
Josh Richter, PGA
Boyne Resorts
As one of the highest distinctions awarded by the PGA, recipients must demonstrate exceptional leadership, vision, courage, and strong moral character, along with a significant record of service to both the Association and the game of golf.
As the Senior VP of Golf Operations, Richter leads his team in hosting numerous events annually including the Michigan Section’s Tournament of Champions, Adidas State Pro-Am, and Drive, Chip & Putt local qualifiers. He is an active board member for the First Tee – Northern Michigan and began his term of Board President in January 2024.
Teacher & Coach of the Year
Jimmy Wisinski, PGA
Kent Country Club
Wisinski is honored for his overall impact on teaching and coaching along with his innovative and special teaching programs he has implemented.
Of the 385 members at Kent Country Club, Wisinski taught over 265 different members in 2024. He utilizes different platforms, such as the Coach Now app and website, to maintain open communication with students. By doing so, he fosters a culture of accountability and develops both a mental and technical process with each lesson. Wisinski is also in his second season as a contributor to PGA.com where he delivers content for all of their social media channels.
Bill Strausbaugh Award
Dave Kendall, PGA
Washtenaw Golf Club
Since 1979, the Bill Strausbaugh Award is presented to a PGA Professional who by their day-to-day efforts, have distinguished themselves by mentoring their fellow PGA Professionals in improving their employment situations and through service to the community
Distinguished Service Award
Dave Kendall, PGA
Washtenaw Golf Club
This award honors outstanding individuals who display leadership and humanitarian qualities, including integrity, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm for the game of golf.
Since becoming a PGA Member, Kendall has dedicated his career to helping others learn the game and build their own legacies. He is recognized not only for the length of his teaching career but also for his unique approach, which weaves life lessons into his instruction.
Patriot Award
George Bowman, PGA
Oakhurst Golf & Country Club
Bowman has been selected by the Michigan Section PGA as the recipient of the Patriot Award. Bowman is honored for personifying patriotism through the game of golf and demonstrating unwavering commitment and dedication to the men and women who have valiantly served and protected the United States of America.
Assistant Golf Professional of the Year
Ryan Bayer, PGA
Kent Country Club
Merchandiser of the Year-Private
Wally Sierakowski, PGA
Red Run Golf Club
Merchandiser of the Year-Public
Wes Blevins, PGA
Eagle Crest Golf Club
Merchandiser of the Year-Resort
Jackson Davison, PGA
Golf Club at Harbor Shores
Player Development
Kelly Plaisier, PGA
RedWater Golf
Professional Development
Jimmy Wisinski, PGA
Kent Country Club
Youth Player Development
Raquel Bryant, PGA
Thousand Oaks Golf Club
