SUMMIT AGENDA 2025
The Westin Lake Las Vegas
September 16-18, 2025
Please note – all information in the agenda is subject to change as we continue to add more speakers.
Agenda
Agenda
Day 1–Tuesday, Sept. 16
7:30 am - 12:00 pm
The Connection Classic: Golf Outing sponsored by Ryan, LLC Property Tax Consulting
Tee off your morning at the stunning Reflection Bay Golf Club, where breathtaking views meet meaningful connections. This interactive outing is more than a round — it’s a unique opportunity to build relationships, explore innovation, and have fun!
• A scenic and challenging round at one of Nevada’s premier courses
• A boxed lunch to keep you fueled on the course
• Leading vendors stationed at various holes to showcase cutting-edge products
• Prizes for the winning team
Note: This is a ticketed event with limited availability and sells out quickly—so secure your spot early!
1:00-2:00 pm
Clubhouse Kick-off
Operations Track sponsored by Heritage Golf Group
Step into the heart of the Summit at the Grand Opening of The Clubhouse — your go-to destination for connection, collaboration, and caffeine. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned Summit veteran, this is your official invitation to kick things off with coffee, treats, and great company.
The Clubhouse is more than just a lounge — it’s a vibrant hub where ideas flow, conversations spark, and the industry’s top solution providers are ready to show you what’s next. Explore the latest innovations, tools, and services that are shaping the future of golf course operations— all in a relaxed, welcoming space designed for meaningful interaction.
New to the Summit? This is the perfect place to meet fellow attendees. Arrive at 1pm for a short tour and to connect with other new attendees.
Returning guest? Come reconnect, recharge, and help welcome the next wave of industry leaders.
The Clubhouse is more than just a lounge — it’s a vibrant hub where ideas flow, conversations spark, and the industry’s top solution providers are ready to show you what’s next. Explore the latest innovations, tools, and services that are shaping the future of golf course operations— all in a relaxed, welcoming space designed for meaningful interaction.
First Day — Breakout Sessions
2:00 - 3:00 pm
Unlocking Profitability: Best-in-Class Strategies from Top Municipal Operators
What’s driving success at the nation’s most profitable municipal golf courses? Find out in this dynamic panel session featuring leaders from the top 25% of performers in Greenlight Advisors’ 2024 Municipal Golf Study.
You’ll hear firsthand from municipal golf executives who are setting the standard
for operational excellence and financial performance. They’ll share the real-world strategies, key metrics, and innovative practices that have helped them thrive—even in challenging markets.
• Benchmark your performance against national leaders
• Discover proven tactics to boost profitability and efficiency at your course
• Learn how top operators manage staffing, pricing, capital improvements, and community engagement
• Get exclusive access to join the 2025 Greenlight Advisors National Municipal Golf Study and Benchmarking Program
Andrew Peterson, President, Alamo City Golf Trail / City of San Antonio
Mark Mattingly, Executive Vice President, Landscapes Golf Management
Eric Rein, Golf Operations Supervisor, Palm Beach County, Florida
Phillip Martin, Senior Vice President, Troon
Michael Suglich, CPA, Founder, Greenlight Advisors
Bonus: Attendees will be invited to join Michael Suglich and other panelists on Day 2 of the Summit for a personalized discussion during breakfast on the metrics that matter. Bring your questions and be prepared to discuss your courses’ individual needs.
Operations Track sponsored by Club Caddie
Pricing Strategies Workshop
Everyone knows about the unexpected spike in demand in golf for the past five years and the boost in rates and revenue that have come. But what’s in store for 2026, as economic uncertainty tops the critical issues on-course owners’ minds? This session will discuss the outlook, strategies and tactics for the coming year, as well as dive into some efforts in state legislatures to curb the rise of dynamic pricing tools.
Jay Karen, CEO, National Golf Course Owners Association
Lee Finkel, Vice President of Operations, CourseCo
John Brown, CEO, GreatLIFE Golf
Chris May, SVP, Supreme Golf Solutions
Owner Track sponsored by foreUp Golf
Inside the Deal: Buying & selling today
Whether you’re looking to acquire your next property or preparing to sell, understanding the current market is essential. In this candid session, Jeff Woolson, golf ’s leading broker, leads a powerhouse panel of the industry’s most active buyers and dealmakers. Together, they’ll unpack the latest trends, share real-world success stories, and offer practical advice for navigating today’s dynamic golf course transaction landscape.
• What’s hot: Which types of properties are selling now—and what’s expected to move next
• Market metrics: Pricing trends, deal velocity, and what’s driving valuations
• Actionable insights: How to position your course for sale or make a smart acquisition in today’s climate
• Get exclusive access to join the 2025 Greenlight Advisors National Municipal Golf Study and Benchmarking Program
Jeff Woolson, Vice Chairman/Managing Director, CBRE
Andy Crosson, Managing Director, Arcis Equity Partners
Jimmy Han, Principal of Business Development, Century Golf Partners
Jordan Peace, Senior Vice President, Concert Golf
3:15 - 4:15 pm
Technology Track sponsored by Inrange Golf
Big Data: Driving golf course profitability
An inside look at the key business matrices and numbers that drive golf course profitability. This panel will examine the stats and figures that can help optimize your business. Learn what to measure, how to interpret and how you can use these data points to assist decision making for long term golf course profitability.
John Brown, CEO, GreatLIFE Golf
JJ Keegan, Golf strategist, JJ Keegan+
Jake Gordon, CEO & Co-founder, Noteefy
Bryce Voisin, Chief Revenue Officer, GolfBack
Operations Track
Trends in private club programming & amenities
Creative programming ideas, from unique events to inclusive offerings that attract diverse demographics, boost retention, and drive revenue. Join industry leaders to uncover how innovative programming can redefine your club's value proposition and keep members coming back.
Frank Vain, Chairman, McMahon Group
Jim Oliver, COO, Heritage Golf Group
Mark Blais, Director of Membership, Anthem Country Club
Jeffrey Denzak, Partner/Owner, Swaback
Owner Track
Sealing the Deal: How to buy with confidence
You’ve explored what’s selling — now it’s time to learn how to buy with confidence. In this essential follow-up session, a diverse panel of experts will walk you through the real-world mechanics of successful acquisitions. From negotiation tactics to financing fundamentals, this session is packed with practical insights and hard-earned lessons from the field.
• Secrets to successful negotiations and how to structure a winning deal
• The current lending landscape for golf properties: what’s available, what’s changing, and what lenders are looking for
• Tips for a smooth acquisition from legal, financial, and operational perspectives
Matt Martin, Partner, Addison Law Firm
Rick Zrbanek, Senior Managing Director, Cushman & Wakefield
Chris Karamitsos, Senior Managing Director and Partner, Leisure Investment Properties Group
Tom Bennison, Chief Development Officer, Invited
Adam Rieck, Partner, Addison Law Firm
4:30 - 5:30 pm
🔑 State of the Industry Keynote
Sponsored by Aliant Insurance Services, Inc
The Deep Dive: Golf Industry Intelligence 2025
Join us for a data-rich session that builds on 30+ years of in-depth and independent analysis. Led by thought-leader and provocateur Jim Koppenhaver, this experienced panel will explore the state of the golf industry, moving beyond the simplistic “winners and losers” narrative to uncover deeper insights and actionable takeaways.Join us for a data-rich session that builds on 30+ years of in-depth and independent analysis. Led by thought-leader and provocateur Jim Koppenhaver, this experienced panel will explore the state of the golf industry, moving beyond the simplistic “winners and losers” narrative to uncover deeper insights and actionable takeaways.
• Current trends and recap of 2025 season
• Industry metrics on revenue trends, rate patterns, utilization, and more
• Operational insight on how to capitalize on current trends
Jim Koppenhaver, President & Founder, Pellucid Corp.
Mike Beverly, President & CEO, Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
Jim Hinckley, Founder & CEO, Century Golf
Stuart Lindsay, Principal, Edgehill Golf Advisors
End of 1st Day Breakout Sessions
5:30 - 7:00 pm
A Toast to the Future Networking Mixer
Sponsored by EPR Properties
Join us for the most anticipated gathering of the Summit. This highenergy reception brings together the brightest minds and most influential voices in the golf industry for an evening of connection, conversation and celebration.
Enjoy an open bar, chef-curated hors d’oeuvres and the rare opportunity to mingle with speakers, sponsors and fellow attendees in a relaxed and intimate setting. Whether you’re reconnecting with longtime colleagues or forging new partnerships, this is where relationships are built. No agenda. No pressure. Just great people, great conversations and a toast to the future of golf.
Day 2–Wednesday, Sept. 17
7:30–8:30 am
The Early Bird Roundtable
Breakfast, Brew & Big Ideas sponsored by KemperSports
Join James Cronk and your peers for breakfast, coffee and an engaging discussion on practical ideas to help you grow revenues, reduce expenses, and build high-performing teams. Cronk, co-founder of an online training platform for clubs, will focus on the issues that matter most to attendees. So bring your questions and appetite. This idea share is only open to golf course owners and operators.
James Cronk, Partner, The Toolbox Team & Founder, Golf Industry Guru
8:45 - 9:45 am
🔑 Morning Keynote
The New 19th Hole: Where Golf Meets Entertainment
Entertainment golf offers tremendous revenue growth and player development for traditional courses. In this forward-looking keynote, golf ’s most innovative voices come together to show how entertainment can reshape your business. Whether you’re looking to enhance your course’s appeal, attract a broader demographic or stay ahead of industry trends, this session will deliver inspiration and practical takeaways.
• Maximize profitability for all facility types
• Innovative strategies for engaging new audiences
• Future challenges and opportunities in the entertainment golf landscape
Don Rea, Owner/Operator, Augusta Ranch Golf Club; President, PGA of America
Ian Blunt, Global Brand Manager, Inrange
Hoyt McGarity, CEO and President, 8AM Golf
Peter Barry, Director of Global Sales, Toptracer
Mike Zisman, Executive Chairman, GolfGenius
9:45 - 10:15 am
The Clubhouse Turn sponsored by KemperSports
Meet the industry’s leading solution providers, along with exciting new companies making their debut in the Clubhouse. Whether you are looking for tech solutions, products to help drive revenue, or experts, the Clubhouse is the place to connect with the leaders behind the companies. Baked goods and coffee provided by KemperSports.
Second Day — Breakout Sessions
10:15–11:15 am
Technology Track
Tech’s evolving role in facility management: Operations, agronomy and yield management
Amidst a surge in golfer participation and a proliferation of new technology solutions, golf facility operators must navigate an always changing landscape of tools and services aimed at optimizing operations. The landscape is often clouded by steep learning curves, struggles in integrating disparate solutions and a customer base split between desires for frictionless high-tech solutions and those seeking a tactile experience. This panel will take a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities presented by the newest technology.
Jon Last, President, Sports and Leisure Research Group
B.K. Browne, CEO, SpeakSport
Bodo Seiber, CEO, Tagmarshal
Jaime Sharp, Director of Product Management, foreUP and taskTracker
Jeff Miller, Director of Agronomy, The Santaluz Club
Operations Track
Best practices in golf course operations
Back by popular demand, this cornerstone session continues to evolve with fresh insights and proven strategies from some of the industry’s most respected operators. Dive into the core principles and emerging innovations that define successful golf course operations today.
• Building and sustaining a strong service culture across all touch points
• Harnessing technology and gamification to enhance both guest experience and operational efficiency
• Smart infrastructure reinvestment and sustainable asset management
Mark Mattingly, Executive Vice President, Landscapes Golf Management
Matthew Czisny, Director of Revenue Management, Arcis Golf
Monica Davis, Vice President, KemperSports
Wade Beacham, Vice President, Alliant Insurance Services
Owner Track
How Trophy Clubs Change Hands
Trophy golf clubs rarely hit the market—and when they do, the process is anything but ordinary. These elite properties demand discretion, expertise, and strategic finesse. In this session, hear from professionals who have been directly involved in some of the industry’s most high-profile transactions. Learn what it takes to navigate these complex deals, from valuation to closing, and gain insights into how the most coveted clubs quietly change hands.
Jordan Peace, SVP, Concert Golf
Chris Karamitsos, Sr. Managing Director, Leisure Investment Properties Group
Chris Laver, Former Owner, Club at Pasadera
Ann Liguori, President, Ann Liguori Productions
Breakout Sessions
11:30–12:30 pm
Technology Track
Casablanca E, H
Cutting-Edge Golf Technology: What’s powering golf’s future
AI. Automation. All-in-one platforms. Every vendor claims to have the next big thing—but what’s actually moving the needle for golf course operators? This panel cuts through the buzzwords and brings together operators, technologists, and insiders to explore the real innovations reshaping how golf is played, managed, and monetized.
Jason Pearsall, CEO, Club Caddie
Allison George, General Manager, Toad Valley Golf Course
Leah Steele, VP of IT, Invited
Jay Warnock, Director of Sales, New Business, foreUP
Operations Track
Casa G
Data for decision making and the member experience
Data isn’t just a back-office tool — it’s a strategic asset. This session brings together leaders from private clubs, multi-course and resort operations, simulator venues, and top tech providers to explore how data can drive smarter decisions and better experiences.
• Leveraging data to streamline operations and increase revenue
• Enhancing the member journey through personalized, data-informed service
• Building integrated systems and consistent processes for efficiency and billing accuracy
• Empowering staff at every level with accessible, actionable insights
Colin Read, CEO, Whoosh
Brian Fraser, Senior Director of IT, The Olympic Club
Adeel Yang, Co-Founder & CEO, Dryvebox
TJ Wydner, Regional Operations VP, KemperSports
Aarya Tikekar, Lead/Strategic Accounts, Lightspeed
Owner Track
Casa F
Renovation in a Demanding Market
In today’s high-cost environment, golf course renovations require more than vision — they demand strategy, creativity, and precision. Award-winning architect Forrest Richardson leads a discussion with a team of experts who’ve successfully navigated the challenges of modern renovation. Through real world examples, they’ll share how to maintain quality and value while managing rising costs, member expectations and operational realities.
• How to package a renovation project for maximum value
• How to communicate effectively with members and guests
• The 10 essential steps to renovation success
Forrest Richardson, Principal Golf Course Architect, Forrest Richardson Golf Course Architects
Mark Logan, Construction & Agronomic Consultant, Greenlynx Golf
Mark Luthman, President, Touchstone Golf
Ashley Garcia, Director of Golf, Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa
Cory Blair, Sales, Business Development Manager, Capillary Flow
12:30 - 2:00 pm
1:15 - 1:50 pm
Lunch Break
Baraka Room
Take this time to relax, recharge, and enjoy lunch at your own pace — whether you’re dining solo, catching up with colleagues, or exploring local options. Looking for something special? Reserve your seat at Golf Inc.’s Awards Banquet.
Optional luncheon
Golf Inc. Awards Banquet
Celebrate excellence in the golf industry at the Golf Inc. Awards Banquet, where we honor the standout achievements of 2025. Join us as we recognize this year’s honorees across our most prestigious competitions, including: Clubhouse of the Year, Renovation of the Year, Golden Fork Awards, The Hilda Allen Award for Women in Leadership, and more!
Enjoy time to network before and after the 30-minute awards presentation, all while sharing a meal with peers in a celebratory setting.
StubHub for Golf
Booth #30
After lunch, stop by for cookies and hear how Golf District is bringing the StubHub model to golf. With prepaid, non-refundable tee times, courses boost revenue and eliminate no-shows. Golfers gain unparalleled access and flexibility to resell if plans change, while courses keep control of pricing and own their customer data—with integrity.
Josh Segal, Co-CEO and Founder, Golf District
Narayanan Sankanarayanan, CTO, Golf District
Breakout Sessions
2:00 - 3:00 pm
Technology Track
Casablanca E, H
The automated golf course: How autonomous mowers, drones and other tech is changing golf
Explore the cutting edge of golf course maintenance and monitoring in this session focused on automation. From autonomous mowers that keep fairways pristine to drones that provide real-time aerial insights, technology is transforming how superintendents manage turf, labor, and efficiency. Hear from leaders in the field—including equipment manufacturers, drone innovators, and course operators—who are pioneering these tools on the ground. Learn what’s working, what’s next, and how automation is reshaping the future of golf course management.
Kris Strauss, Executive Vice President, Global Sales & Marketing, Troon
David Plaster, Vice President, Golf and Sports, Husqvarna
Monica Fedri, Experience Project Manager, RealFood Hospitality, Strategy and Design
Operations Track
Casa G
7 Breakaway Branding Strategies To Supercharge Your Brand’s Success and Create A Brand Story That Sticks
New game-changing ideas and strategic initiatives designed to inspire you to rethink, reimagine and reignite your brand.
• A fresh look, deep-dive to truly understand what are you ‘really selling’
• Identifying levers that drive value creation
• Be recognized as an ‘only’
• Build your brand’s success in terms of driving brand leadership, igniting consumer loyalty, and propelling business growth
• Create an obsessed purpose-driven culture to be known as a good brand citizen, a brand ‘doing good’
Larry Gulko, Brand Architect & Strategist | Growth Advisor
Dave Bisbee, CEO, Back on Course Golf
Bob Baldassari, Founder, Re-Imagine Golf LLC
Michael Leemhuis, Chairman/CEO, Clubworks
Owner Track
Casa F
Development Playbook in 2026: Building the Next Generation of Golf Courses
This session is tailored for developers and investors, eager to understand what it takes to launch a successful project in today’s market. Explore the characteristics of financially viable developments and get practical guidance for navigating the early planning stages. The panel will share insights on site selection, design philosophy, financial modeling, and the evolving expectations of today’s golf consumer.
BR Koehnemann, Director of Corporate Communications, KemperSports
Mark Freemott, Executive Vice President, KemperSports
Jay Blasi, Principal, Jay Blasi Design
Matthew Welter, Founder, Dormy House
Breakout Sessions
3:15 - 4:15 pm
Technology Track
Casablanca E, H
AI: Unleashing the potential at your course
Over the last few years, a host of AI tools have come to market promising to maximize everything from time to revenue. In this session, join technology leaders to learn the AI tools impacting courses and clubs today. This session will be focused on the practical application of AI technology, and attendees can expect to leave with a list of ideas to implement immediately.
Ross Liggett, Founding and Managing Partner, Metolius Golf
Justin Binke, Director of Revenue and Sales, Founders Group International
Chad Pettingil, General Manager, The Ledges Golf Club
Operations Track
Casa G
Revenue Solutions: Greens fess, range, pro shop and F&B
Explore innovative and proven strategies to maximize revenue across key golf facility profit centers: greens fees, driving range operations, the pro shop and food & beverage services. Panelists will share insights on pricing models, bundling offers, upselling techniques and customer experience enhancements that drive revenue growth. Whether you’re managing a public course, private club or resort facility, this session offers actionable solutions to boost profitability across the board.
Rachel Carter, Senior Director of Membership, National Golf Course Owners Association
Daryl Crawford, General Manager, Papago Golf Club
Cathy Harbin, Owner, Pine Ridge Golf Course
Spencer Potter, Founder, ClubGrub
Jonathan Wride, CEO, TenFore Golf
Owner Track
Casa F
Golf’s new labor paradigms: Best practice
For the past several years, labor costs and management challenges have dominated the top concerns of facility operators. How are they adapting and evolving best practices in these areas.
Jon Last, Founder & President, Sports and Leisure Research Group
Tom Bugbee, COO, CourseCo Golf Managment
John Easterbrook, Chief Membership Officer, PGA of America
End of 2nd Day Breakout Sessions
4:30 - 5:30 pm
CEO Keynote
Casablanca E, H
The Future of the Golf Industry: Leadership Perspectives
As the golf industry continues to evolve in response to shifting demographics, economics, and changing consumer expectations, what lies ahead for course ownership, operations, and investment? This forward-looking session brings together the most influential leaders in the business for a rare, behind-the scenes look at how top decision-makers are navigating today’s challenges and positioning their organizations for long-term success. Whether you’re an owner, operator, investor, or industry partner, this session offers invaluable perspective on the trends and strategies that will define the next decade of golf.
David Pillsbury, CEO, Invited
Steve Skinner, CEO, KemperSports
Jim Hinckley, CEO, Century Golf
Peter Nanula, CEO, Concert Golf Partners
Mike Whitton, Partner, Troutman Pepper Locke
5:30 - 7:15 pm
Sunset Social
Lower Nuala
Sponsored by Thompson Golf Management
Unwind and connect at our signature Sunset Social. With the sun setting over Lake Las Vegas and the energy of the industry’s best and brightest in the air, this is your chance to build meaningful relationships that extend beyond the Summit. Sponsored by Thompson Golf Group, mingle with fellow golf industry professionals over cocktails, wine, and a delicious selection of appetizers.
FINAL DAY | Day 3–Thursday, Sept. 18
7:45 - 8:45 am
The Early Bird Roundtable
Baraka Room
James Cronk, Partner, The Toolbox Team & Founder, Golf Industry Guru
9:00 - 10: 00 am
Closing Keynote
Casablanca E, H
The House Advantage: Winning with data in business, blackjack and golf
What can losing $100,000 in two hands of blackjack teach you about business? In this captivating keynote, Jeff Ma — the real-life inspiration behind the book Bringing Down the House and the film 21 — shares unforgettable lessons from his time as a member of the famed MIT blackjack team. Through gripping storytelling and sharp insights, Jeff explores themes of risk, resilience, teamwork and decision-making under pressure. But the session doesn’t stop at the casino. Jeff transitions into a powerful discussion on how golf course operators and industry leaders can harness the power of data to drive smarter decisions. He’ll reveal how to avoid common cognitive biases, embrace a data-driven mindset and use analytics to gain a competitive edge — whether you’re managing tee sheets, pricing strategies or capital investments.
Jeff Ma, Chief Digital Officer, Troon
10:00 - 10: 45 am
Clubhouse: The Last Shot
sponsored by Troutman Pepper Locke
Casablanca E, H
This is your last chance to explore the latest innovations, tools, and services in the golf business. The Clubhouse features a dynamic showcase of the most influential vendors — alongside exciting new companies making their debut. Whether you’re looking to upgrade equipment, discover sustainable solutions, or simply stay ahead of industry trends, this is your opportunity to engage directly with the people behind the products. Baked goods and coffee provided by Troutman Pepper.
Breakout Sessions
10:45 am -11:45 am
Technology Track
Casa G
Marketing 2030: How AI will change marketing over the next 5 years
AI impacts all business areas, but marketing & communication are being disrupted the most. From graphic design to search engine optimization, AI is forcing marketers to rewrite their playbook. In this session, learn how the leading golf marketers are evolving current practices and preparing for a future with AI.
Ross Liggett, Managing Partner, Metolius Golf
Scot Wellman, Vice-President Sales & Marketing, Landscapes Golf Management
Jason Pearsall, CEO, Club Caddie
Del Ratcliffe, Chief Operating Officer, Pinnacle Golf Properties; President CourseRev.ai
Operations Track
Casa F
Membership Success: Lessons from fast-growing clubs
What sets fast-growing golf clubs apart? This session dives into the strategies and traits that are fueling membership booms across the country. From innovative marketing tactics and digital outreach to irresistible incentives and personalized onboarding, discover how top-performing clubs are attracting—and keeping—members. Panelists will share real world examples, including the most effective channels for reaching new audiences, creative offers that convert interest into commitment, and proven methods for building long-term engagement. Whether you’re looking to grow your membership base or strengthen retention, this session offers practical insights you can put into action.
Ryan Doerr, President & CEO, Strategic Club Solutions
Rick Coffey, Vice President of Business Development, Capstone Hospitality
Ricky Potts, Jr., Executive Director of Marketing & Communications, The Lakes Country Club
12:00 am -1:00 pm
Roundtable Luncheon
Baraka Room
19th Hole
Wrap up your Summit experience with a candid, collaborative conversation led by James Cronk. This exclusive roundtable is your chance to reflect on key takeaways, share actionable insights, and discuss what ideas you’re ready to implement back at your course. Designed specifically for golf course owners and operators, this session offers a valuable opportunity to exchange perspectives, ask questions, and leave with a clear sense of direction—and inspiration. Designed specifically for golf course owners and operators, this session offers a valuable opportunity to exchange perspectives, ask questions and leave with a clear sense of direction — and inspiration.
James Cronk, Partner, The Toolbox Team & Founder, Golf Industry Guru
End of Conference
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