With Mike and Sean Woods, PGA Professionals at Haggin Oaks Golf Complex
Many wonder what happens after junior golf. At the Morton Golf Foundation we often hear from young golfers who dream of turning their love of the game into a lifelong career. Although it is a challenging path to becoming a touring professional, there are many more rewarding opportunities in the golf industry.
To help answer some of these questions, Morton Golf Foundation Board Member Frank LaRosa spoke with Mike Woods, PGA, Director of Golf at Haggin Oaks Golf Complex, and Sean Woods, PGA, Pro Shop Manager at Haggin Oaks. Together they shared insights into the PGA Golf Management (PGM) program, career opportunities and advice for aspiring young golfers.
What is the PGA Golf Management Program?
The PGA Golf Management (PGM) program is a college-level curriculum offered at 16 universities across the country. Students can pursue a traditional degree such as business, hospitality and tourism, agriculture or something else while completing their PGA courses and internships.
“It’s like majoring in art or business,” Mike says. “You’ll graduate with a college degree and your PGA accreditation; you’ll be set up for success both inside and outside the golf industry.”
Sean attended New Mexico State University, one of the accredited PGM schools, where he earned a degree in Business Administration with a specialization in PGA Golf Management.
The pride of a father and the passion of a son
Mike is both a PGA professional and a proud father and admits it has been a dream to watch Sean pursue a career in golf.
“Not everyone gets the opportunity to work in something they love,” says Mike. “When Sean decided he wanted to make golf his career, I couldn’t be more excited.”
Sean’s love for the game deepened in his teenage years. Initially drawn to coaching and instruction, he has since found a passion for golf operations and facilities management. “That’s one of the great things about this industry,” Sean adds. “There are so many different paths you can take, from teaching to running golf facilities to managing retail stores and tournaments.”
Learning by doing: internships and practical experience
An important part of the PGM program is practical experience. Sean has interned at courses across the country, from a resort in Idaho to a private club in New Jersey and the Meadow Club in Marin County, California.
“Every internship was different,” Sean remembers. “I worked in the store, caddyed, taught, ran junior programs and learned about merchandising. Those experiences gave me a good understanding of the golf business.”
For juniors who dream of playing professionally
Many juniors wonder if earning a PGM degree means giving up their dream of playing professionally. Sean’s answer: not at all.
“When I was in the program, my friends and I would play six or seven days a week,” he says. “And after college, there are still tons of PGA Section events and tournaments.
Guidance for parents
“Sean and I actually have the same business degree,” says Mike. “The PGM program actually adds a focus on golf management. Even if a student decides to go in a different direction after graduation, he or she still has a valuable business education.”
He also emphasizes that many programs, such as that of the State of New Mexico, participate in the Wester Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program, which offers tuition rates to California students. Additionally, scholarships are available through organizations such as the Morton Golf Foundation, The First Tee and other local youth golf programs in Sacramento.
More than a degree; It’s a community
In addition to academics and internships, Sean emphasizes the lifelong connections built through the PGM program.
“I’ve made friends all over the country; people who work at private clubs, public courses and resorts,” he says. “It’s an incredible network. Wherever you go, you always have connections in the golf world.”
Choosing the right school
For students considering the PGM route, Sean offers some advice:
- Choose a degree that suits your goals. “Some schools combine the PGM program with hospitality or agriculture, while others, like New Mexico State, focus on business. Choose what makes sense for you, both within and outside the golf industry.”
- Think about the climate. “If you like to play year-round, choose a school in a warmer region. Some northern schools have long winters, which can limit your playing time.”
- Think long term. “Even if your dream is to play on tour, it’s smart to have a degree and a backup plan. Golf careers can take many forms.”
A final word
As Mike summarizes: “The aim is for young people to grow, learn and discover what makes them happy. The PGM program gives them a foundation to do that, whether they continue to play golf or develop their skills elsewhere.”
The Morton Golf Foundation is proud to support students like Sean Woods, young professionals who are turning their passion for golf into meaningful, fulfilling careers.
If you or your junior golfer would like to find out more about scholarships, education pathways or career opportunities in golf, please visit MortonGolfFounhttps://mortongolffoundation.org/datie.org or contact our team.
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