The PGA of America has named Derek Sprague, a PGA of America golf professional and former president of the association, as its new chief executive officer.
Mr. Sprague is the first person to serve the association as past president and CEO. He served as the 39th president from 2014 to 2016. He will succeed Seth Waugh, who served as CEO from 2018 to 2024.
A member of the PGA of America since 1993, Sprague has served as general manager of TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida since 2018. Previously, he served as Managing Director of Liberty National Golf Club in New Jersey (2016-17). For 26 years, Sprague served as general manager and director of golf at his hometown course, Malone Golf Club in New York, where he was involved in all aspects of the facility’s operations.
“Derek is the consummate PGA of America golf professional,” said PGA of America President Don Rea Jr. With a leader at the helm who knows the ins and outs of the association and what it means to be a member of the PGA of America, our association will thrive into the future. We would also like to thank Kelly Hay for her excellent leadership during this transition period. ”
“Throughout my career, I have prioritized uniting people around a common purpose,” Sprague said. “At a time of great change in the world of golf, it is also a great opportunity for our association and our members.I am excited to be a PGA of America Golf Professional and to serve our members and associates as a board member and officer. I have cherished it.
“It is a great honor to serve as the CEO of the Association today, working with the Executive Officers and Board of Directors to ensure the health of the Association and its relationships within the industry while advancing the professionalism of the more than 30,000 PGA Golf Professionals of America. That is my mission.”
Under Sprague’s leadership as president of the PGA of America, the association helped grow the game through player development and youth programs such as the PGA Junior League and Drive, Chip & Putt. Additionally, he co-chaired the highly successful Ryder Cup Task Force, which created the blueprint for a successful event. Sprague also served the association as PGA Vice President and PGA Secretary.
Since 1998, Sprague has held leadership roles at both the national and chapter levels. He was a member of the PGA Board of Directors from 2007 to 2010 and was also a member of many major committees. Mr. Sprague began his service to the Association in 1998 on the Northeastern New York PGA Board of Directors and served as Section President from 2003 to 2004. In 2019, he was inducted into the PGA of America Hall of Fame, receiving the highest honor.
