The Southern Texas PGA Impact on its present, past and invests in the future golfers.
Southern Texas PGA Builds on Its Past, Strengthens Its Present and Invests in the Future
The Southern Texas PGA’s impact throughout 2026 can be seen across every corner of the game: in the history it continues to honor, the championships it continues to stage and the future it continues to build through junior golf, education and opportunity. Across Southern Texas, the Section’s work reflects a larger story of past, present and future coming together through PGA Professionals, young players, partners, facilities and supporters who continue to move the game forward.
Morgan’s induction recognizes more than four decades of leadership, mentorship and service to the game. Best known for his nearly 30-year tenure at Austin Country Club, Morgan helped uphold one of Texas golf’s most storied traditions while shaping the careers of countless PGA Professionals and players. A respected leader within the game, Morgan served as President of the Southern Texas PGA and currently serves on the PGA of America Board of Directors. His legacy is rooted in professionalism, mentorship and the values that continue to guide the game.
River Oaks Country Club’s recognition further reflects the Section’s connection to Texas golf history. Established in 1923 and originally designed by Donald Ross, River
Oaks has long stood as one of the state’s most storied venues. Later renovated by Tom Fazio, the course blends classic architecture with modern championship standards and has hosted premier amateur and professional events for generations. Its legacy is tied to names such as Ben Hogan, Byron Nelson and Babe Zaharias, along with the lasting influence of the Burke and Harmon families.
While the Section continues to honor the past, its present remains defined by championship competition and the success of Southern Texas PGA Professionals. The first Southern Texas PGA Major Championship of the year, the Huntington Bank Spring Classic, was contested at Golfcrest Country Club and featured strong fields in both the Open and Senior Divisions. Jesse Droemer, PGA, Teaching Professional at Riverbend Country Club, captured the Open Division title after a dramatic playoff, while Steve Jurgensen, PGA, Teaching Professional at Westwood Golf Club, claimed the Senior Division title.
The Major season continued in May at Big Easy Ranch with the Omega Transactions Memorial Championship. Challenging weather tested the field throughout the two-day event, but Carlos Sainz Jr. rose to the occasion to win the Open Division at 7-under-par. In the Senior Division, Omar Uresti, PGA, matched that total to earn another Southern Texas PGA championship victory. Both performances reflected the competitive depth, patience and resilience that continue to define the Section’s membership.
That success has also extended beyond Section championships through the First Community STPGA Team. Built to support and celebrate Southern Texas PGA Professionals competing at the highest levels of PGA of America competition, the team represents the strength of the Section on the national stage. Through the support of First Community, STPGA Professionals continue to showcase their talent while representing their facilities, communities and fellow PGA Members with pride.
The national spotlight grew even brighter in 2026 when Jesse Droemer, PGA, followed his Huntington Bank Spring Classic victory by capturing the 2026 PGA Professional Championship. With the win, Droemer became the fifth Southern Texas PGA Member to claim the prestigious national title, bringing recognition to the Section and adding another chapter to its proud competitive tradition.
The future of the game is equally strong through Southern Texas PGA Junior Golf, one of the Section’s most significant areas of impact. With more than 4,700 active members, the program currently stands as the largest junior golf membership program among all 41 PGA of America Sections. Through its structured four-tour pathway, STPGA Junior Golf provides opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels, allowing juniors to progress from introductory competition to elite-level events.
The demand for junior golf opportunities continues to rise across Southern Texas. Through the first half of 2026, STPGA Junior Golf has already hosted more than 9,100 rounds of competitive golf. Each round represents more than a number on a participation report. It is a chance for young players to learn sportsmanship, integrity, perseverance and respect while building confidence through the game. As participation grows, STPGA Junior Golf remains a national model for player development and youth engagement.
The Section’s investment in the future also extends beyond the course through PGA REACH Southern Texas and its scholarship program. For the 2026-2027 academic year, PGA REACH Southern Texas awarded $386,000 across 71 scholarships to 62 deserving student-athletes. These scholarships provide meaningful support to students pursuing higher education while recognizing academic achievement, leadership and a lasting connection to the game.
Since the scholarship program was established in 1999, more than 700 scholarships totaling over $3 million have been awarded throughout Southern Texas. A major contributor to this year’s efforts was the Hannon-Fields Champions Society, which provided $137,500 toward 26 scholarships. Additional support came through the Charlie Epps Scholarship, J.L. Lewis Scholarship, Insperity Invitational Scholarship and numerous other funds, all helping students pursue opportunities that will benefit them long after their competitive golf careers have ended.
Together, these efforts show how the Southern Texas PGA’s work reaches across generations. The Section honors those who helped shape the game, celebrates the PGA Professionals competing and leading today, and creates pathways for the young players and students who will carry golf into the future. Whether through Hall of Fame recognition, championship performance, junior golf participation or educational support, the Section’s impact continues to extend far beyond any single tournament or program.
The accomplishments of 2026 serve as a reminder that the game’s greatest influence is not measured only in trophies, rounds played or scholarships awarded, but in the people whose lives are shaped through golf. Through the combined efforts of PGA Professionals, volunteers, partners and supporters, the Southern Texas PGA remains dedicated to growing the game, preserving its legacy and building a stronger future for golf throughout the region.
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