Phoenix Welcomes New Golf Stars at Papago Golf Club

Phoenix Welcomes New Golf Stars at Papago Golf Club

Hey there, golf enthusiasts! Big news coming out of Phoenix, Arizona! The iconic Papago Golf Club has just announced some exciting changes at the top of its roster. Buckle up, because it’s time to get to know the club’s new head golf professional, Zach Amsler, and the new tournament director, Derek Crawford! Trust us, they’re ready to make a splash in the local golf scene!

Meet Zach Amsler: The New Head Golf Pro

First up, we have Zach Amsler. He might be a familiar face since he’s been part of the Papago team since 2020! Zach isn’t just a new title holder; he has been bustling around the course as the tournament director for the past two seasons. A bit about his background: he hails from Kettering, Ohio, where he first picked up his love for golf at just 14 years old as a caddy at the Moraine Country Club.

Fast forward a few years, and Zach graduated from Eastern Kentucky University in 2019. Not only did he complete the Professional Golf Management Program, but he also became a Class A member of the PGA of America shortly after! Isn’t that impressive? Zach has seasoned experience under his belt after working at various golfing clubs across Ohio, Indiana, and Florida before making his way to the sunny state of Arizona.

Now, with this new title at Papago, Zach can’t hide his excitement! “I’m thrilled to be the head golf professional at Papago. It’s a beautiful place with a rich history, and I’m excited to help grow the game of golf here even more,” shared Zach. Sounds like he’s ready to swing into action!

Derek Crawford: Tournament Director Extraordinaire

Next, let’s talk about Derek Crawford, who’s stepping in as the club’s new tournament director. Derek comes with over 40 years of experience in the golf industry. Talk about a treasure of knowledge! He’s no stranger to the world of golf, having worked at several clubs throughout Phoenix, including a stint as the general manager of the Raven Golf Club and the ASU Karsten Golf Course.

And did we mention that he’s the identical twin brother of Papago’s General Manager, Daryl Crawford? It seems the two have a knack for working together, having previously teamed up at places like PING and in the bag room at the Orange Tree Golf Resort. Talk about a golf dynasty! “I’m incredibly excited with our key additions. We have high expectations for both of these leaders,” said Daryl, sharing his enthusiasm for what’s ahead.

A Quick Look at Papago Golf Club

Now, let’s take a quick step back and remind ourselves why Papago Golf Club is such a big deal! This gem, owned by the City of Phoenix and managed by Troon, has been hailed as one of the “30 Best Municipal Golf Courses in America” by GOLF Magazine in 2021! Nestled right in the heart of Papago Park, surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, it’s just a stone’s throw away from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

The course itself, designed back in 1963 by the legendary Billy Bell, has a rich history of hosting big-time events like the U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship and even an LPGA tournament! Plus, it’s where Arizona State University’s golf teams practice. Talk about a prestigious training ground!

What Lies Ahead?

The future looks bright for Papago Golf Club with these new additions. It’s not just about golf; there are exciting developments on the horizon! In 2025, the club will unveil the new Arizona Golf House, designed to be an engaging hub for local golf associations and nonprofit organizations. Sounds like a game-changer!

So, mark your calendars and keep your eyes peeled, Phoenix. With Zach Amsler and Derek Crawford leading the charge, the Papago Golf Club is primed for some incredible moments on the fairway. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just starting out, there’s never been a better time to check out this iconic location!