The echoes of Amy Yang’s triumphant victory at the 2024 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship may have faded across Sahalee Country Club, but the impact of this prestigious event lingered well into Monday for a group of eager local high school students.
These bright minds gathered to participate in PGA WORKS Beyond the Green, an enlightening career-exploration initiative hosted alongside PGA of America Championships.
PGA WORKS Beyond the Green isn’t just another seminar; it’s a beacon of opportunity designed to inspire and educate students from historically underrepresented backgrounds about the diverse career avenues within golf and beyond.
Against the backdrop of Sahalee’s lush greens, young women from Shoreline High School, the First Tee — Greater Seattle, and Seattle Parks and Recreation immersed themselves in a day brimming with insights from industry leaders.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome from Kennie Sims, PGA, Senior Director of the PGA of America REACH Foundation.
Following the introduction, the stage was set for a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Coach Shayain, an esteemed LPGA Certified Golf Instructor and Entrepreneur, and Addie Parker, a renowned freelance writer contributing to Golf Digest and the LPGA.
Their theme, “A Bold Life,” challenged attendees to embrace authenticity and confidence while exploring unconventional career paths within golf.
Parker emphasized the importance of broadening horizons within the golf industry, noting, “Beyond the Green is doing a really good job of providing exposure, especially today in a room full of young women.”
The panellists, including trailblazers like Jeehae Lee, CEO of Sports Box Tech, and Sirene Blair, PGA Associate focusing on Recruiting and Member Engagement for the PGA of America, shared invaluable insights on leveraging diverse skills for success in golf’s expanding $102 billion landscape.
Thurshari Gooneratne, Community Manager at Chase, led a discussion on financial education, urging students to grasp the limitless opportunities available within the industry.
“I hope they find a mentor or advocate who will support them in their careers,” Gooneratne expressed optimistically.
Jennifer Clyde, Co-Owner of Fore All, engaged students in a Fireside Chat, offering a glimpse into her entrepreneurial journey within women’s golf apparel.
Her brand not only connects women across the industry but also serves as a testament to innovation and inclusivity.
The pinnacle of the day was a meet-and-greet with esteemed guests Renee Powell, PGA/LPGA Hall of Fame member and the first African American woman to join the PGA of America, and Mariah Stackhouse, a distinguished LPGA Tour Professional.
Powell’s words resonated deeply with the participants: “No matter what career you choose, getting involved in golf can always be a wonderful stepping stone.”
PGA WORKS, powered by the PGA of America REACH Foundation, stands as a strategic force in diversifying the golf industry’s workforce.
Through fellowships, scholarships, career exploration events like Beyond the Green, and the renowned PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship, this initiative continues to inspire and engage talent from diverse backgrounds, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive future for golf.
In conclusion, the 70th KPMG Women’s PGA Championship not only celebrated athletic prowess but also ignited aspirations and possibilities for the next generation of golf industry leaders through PGA WORKS Beyond the Green.
