Shows
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comCarlos Astiazaran’s Breakout Win at the North & South AmateurJoin host amateurgolf.com for a deep dive into the 125th North & South Men’s Amateur Championship at Pinehurst No. 2—one of amateur golf’s most storied and demanding events. This episode explores the tournament’s historic legacy, the unique challenge of Pinehurst’s famed crowned greens, and the brutal match play battles that defined this year’s championship. Chris profiles the remarkable journey of Carlos Astiazaran, who entered match play as the 31-seed, survived marathon showdowns, and delivered a dramatic playoff birdie to claim the Putter Boy trophy. Learn about his clutch Mexican National Amateur win earlier this summer, his...2025-06-2905 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comGil Hanse on Baltusrol, Tillinghast, and the Art of Golf RestorationIn this special episode of Architects of the Game, we sit down with renowned golf course architect Gil Hanse inside the historic clubhouse of Baltusrol Golf Club. Just hours after walking the newly restored Upper Course during Media Day, Gil reflects on how he and partner Jim Wagner approached the restoration of both of Baltusrol’s iconic A.W. Tillinghast designs.From expanding greens and recapturing lost hole locations to uncovering the original dual green on the 14th hole, Hanse shares his philosophy on honoring tradition without rewriting it. This conversation offers rare insight into how one of...2025-06-2612 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comThe Northeast Amateur: A True Test at WannamoisettIn this kickoff episode of the AmateurGolf.com Podcast’s Major Preview Series, host Brian takes you deep inside one of amateur golf’s most prestigious events—the 63rd Northeast Amateur Invitational at Wannamoisett Country Club (WAHN-uh-moy-sit). With exclusive insights powered by data and AI, Brian breaks down the history, course strategy, elite field, and what it’ll take to win. From defending champ Anthony Delisanti to rising stars like Ben James and Miles Russell, this preview gives you everything you need to watch—and who to watch—for one of the summer’s...2025-06-1503 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comBritish Amateur 2025 Preview: Royal Challenges, Rising Stars, and Seb Cave's SurgeIn this special preview episode, Anna from AmateurGolf.com breaks down everything you need to know about the 130th Amateur Championship at Royal St George’s and Royal Cinque Ports. From course insights and historical context to the star-studded field and Seb Cave’s red-hot form, this five-minute audio primer sets the stage for one of amateur golf’s most prestigious events. Tune in for storylines, contenders, and the legacy behind the links.Follow our live coverage at Amateurgolf.com2025-06-1303 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comThe $10,500 Bet: How a Golfer Saw Bobby Jones' Greatness ComingIn this special episode from AmateurGolf.com, We tell the almost unbelievable true story of PGA Tour pro Bobby Cruickshank — the man who bet on Bobby Jones in 1930 and walked away with a fortune.After just nine holes watching Jones play, Cruickshank was convinced he was witnessing history in the making. So he placed a bold wager: Bobby Jones to win the British Amateur, British Open, and U.S. Open in the same year. Spoiler alert: He did.What followed was a legendary payout, a swirl of myths involving the IRS and the New York Ti...2025-06-1007 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comChampionship Week Heat Check: Why Sunnehanna Still Sets the StandardIt’s one of the biggest weeks in amateur golf—and while the U.S. Open and Southwestern Invitational grab national headlines, Kyle and Ana go deep on the Sunnehanna Amateur. Recorded on June 9 with a fresh look at the 2025 field, historical data, scoring trends, and weather impact, this 5-minute episode gives players and fans everything they need to know. Who’s in, who’s not, what the numbers tell us—and why Saturday is the round that separates contenders from champions. Powered by insights from the AmateurGolf.com archives.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGol...2025-06-1002 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comFrom Munis to Majors: Amateur Legends Who Conquered U.S. Open QualifyingEvery summer, thousands of hopefuls tee it up in U.S. Open local qualifying — chasing a dream only a handful will realize.In this episode, AmateurGolf.com dives into the inspiring true stories of golfers who made the leap from everyday courses to the biggest stage in golf. From Ken Venturi’s heat-stricken triumph in 1964 to Spencer Levin’s breakout at Shinnecock, and Beau Hossler’s unforgettable run at 17 years old — these aren’t just great rounds, they’re testaments to belief, grit, and the magic of qualifying.You’ll hear about:2025-06-0904 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comInside the 2025 Southwestern AmateurJoin AmateurGolf.com for a deep dive into the 110th Southwestern Amateur, held June 11–14 at Desert Mountain’s Outlaw Course. From Kristoffer Kuvaas’s electric playoff victory in 2024 to rising stars, course strategy, scoring trends, and what makes this historic event one of the most coveted in amateur golf—this is your essential preview. Premium subscribers get unmatched access to our player database, scoring archives, and rankings tools.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2025-06-0704 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comThe Dogwood Invitational | Major Insights: A Preview of Amateur Golf’s Elite StageWelcome to Major Insights, the podcast series that previews the most prestigious events in amateur golf. In this episode, we spotlight the Dogwood Invitational, one of the game’s premier proving grounds held at Druid Hills Golf Club in Atlanta.From legends like Webb Simpson and Brian Harman to rising stars lighting up the leaderboard today, the Dogwood is where bold play meets timeless tradition. We break down what it takes to win, recap standout performances, and preview the action for 2025.🎧 Whether you're chasing titles or fo...2025-06-0413 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comCalifornia’s Next Golf Icon? Inside the Poppy Ridge Transformation🎙️ AmateurGolf.com Podcast: Jay Blasi and the New Era of Poppy RidgeJoin us on-site in the heart of Livermore wine country for a special playing preview of the newly reimagined Poppy Ridge Golf Course. In this episode, we sit down with renowned golf course architect Jay Blasi—whose resume includes the 2015 U.S. Open host Chambers Bay—for an in-depth conversation about the vision, process, and transformation behind the project.Jay walks us through what makes this new 18-hole layout—and the accompanying 9-hole course—a game-changer for NCGA members and public go...2025-05-3013 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 83: Amateur golfer and Nick Dunlap's caddie Hunter HamrickHunter Hamrick was on Nick Dunlap’s bag for his historic win on the PGA Tour in 2024. Before that wild win, Hamrick has had quite a relationship with the game of golf. He played on the 2012 Alabama team that lost to Texas in the National Championship. He played professionally for nine years and then returned to Alabama as an assistant coach in 2021, where he met Dunlap. During this podcast, we talk about Hamrick’s recent win in the NIT at the Country Club of Birmingham before diving into that incredible 2012 National Championship, which was loaded with talent, and his expe...2024-11-1340 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 82: October Amateur Golf Recap and storylinesSean Melia and Justin Golba recap the highlights of amateur golf in October, discussing key performances, upcoming events, and notable news in college golf. They explore the CGAA Hall of Fame announcements, the latest updates from PGA Tour U, and the shakeup in men's fall rankings. Then Sean and Justin each bring three stories from October to discuss. Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-10-2442 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 81: Ryan Ewers of Supreme GolfRyan Ewers, co-founder of Supreme Golf, joins Sean Melia to discuss the evolution of the company, the impact of COVID-19 on golf pricing, and consumer preferences in the golf industry. They explore tee-time pricing trends across the U.S., the importance of value and convenience for golfers, and the rise of membership programs. Ryan shares insights on the global golf market and the future of golf pricing.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-10-1836 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comMike Yagley : Cobra Golf VP of Innovation and AIIn this episode, Pete Wlodkowski visits with Mike Yagley, VP of Innovation and AI at Cobra Golf. They explore Mike's journey into the golf industry, the intricacies of product development, the importance of fitting for golfers of all levels, and the revolutionary impact of 3D printing in golf club design. The discussion highlights the engineering challenges and innovations that drive Cobra Golf's commitment to enhancing player performance through technology. They touch on the innovative design and performance of modern golf clubs, particularly focusing on the benefits of 3D printing technology and the unique characteristics of Cobra Golf's products. H...2024-10-111h 02
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 79: Evan Beck wins the U.S. Mid-AmSean and Justin discuss recent events in the world of amateur golf, including Evan Beck's impressive victory at the US Mid-Am, highlights from the US Senior Women's Am, and the results of the Junior President's Cup. They also delve into college golf performances, particularly Ben James' success, and the current rankings in PGA Tour U. The episode wraps up with a preview of upcoming tournaments and a discussion about the future of golf events at Erin Hills.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebook2024-09-2733 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 78: Weekly recap and U.S. Mid-Amateur previewSean and Justin discuss the latest happenings in amateur golf, including recent tournament results, highlights from the Crump Cup, and a preview of the upcoming US Mid-Am Championship. They delve into player performances, course conditions, and the importance of broadcasting amateur events. The conversation also touches on notable players and their stories, as well as predictions for the Mid-Am Championship.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-09-1944 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 77: Colorado Amateur Champion Colin PraterColin Prater, a three-time Colorado Amateur champion and participant in the US Open, shares his journey in golf, from his early days playing various sports to his experiences in college golf and transitioning into teaching. He discusses the challenges of competing at high levels, including the US Open at Pinehurst, and reflects on the importance of enjoying the game. Colin also shares insights on caddying for John Smoltz and his recent victory at the Colorado Amateur, as well as his preparations for the upcoming Mid-Am Championship.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.com2024-09-1744 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 76: College golf results and U.S. Women's Mid-AmateurSean and Justin discuss various topics in the world of amateur golf. They cover college golf results, the US Women's Mid-Am, and professional players like Luke Clanton, Ben James, and Wenyi Ding transitioning from college to the PGA Tour. The discuss the challenges and opportunities for college golfers in earning points and exemptions for professional events. It highlights the dilemma faced by players like Luke Clanton and Ben James, who have to decide between playing for their college team or pursuing a professional career.The conversation also touches on the importance of winning events and earning exemptions...2024-09-1139 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 75: College golf storylines with Marcus ElMarcus El from Clippd/Scoreboard is this week's guest to talk college golf storylines:We touch on:Gordon Sargent's senior yearDynamic Duos across the countryConference realignmentLive ScoringStanford's continued dominance and recruiting classPGA Tour U and PGA Tour AcceleratedAmateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-09-0550 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 74: Curtis Cup Captain Catriona MatthewCatriona Matthew joins the podcast to talk about her week at Sunningdale as the Great Britain and Ireland Curtis Cup team captain. She discusses her team's success, what she's learned from her past experiences on Curtis Cup and Solheim Cup teams, Sunningdale as a host course, and the pivotal moments that helped her team capture the Curtis Cup. Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-09-0322 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 73: GB&I wins Curtis CupSean and Justin discuss the recent amateur golf events, including the Curtis Cup, U.S. Senior Amateur, and Junior Players Championship. They dive into the weekend at Sunningdale, including the stars who led GB&I, the players USA left at home, and how GB&I upset USA in the Curtis Cup. Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-09-0232 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 72: Weekly Recap - Lottie Woad wins low amateur at AIG Open ChampionSean and Justin discuss the ongoing US Senior Amateur Championship and the impressive performances of amateur golfers in professional events, including Lottie Wode's performance at the AIG Women's Open and Jacob Skov Olesen's performance in the DP World Tour. Florida State's Luke Clanton and Lottie Wode won the McCormick Medal, making it the first time a college has swept the medal. The McCormick Medal is awarded annually to the leading player in the World Amateur Golf Ranking. Whistling Straits is announced as the host for three future USGA events. Wenyi Ding, a rising sophomore at Ari...2024-08-2642 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 71: Jose Luis Ballester is first Spaniard to win 2024 U.S. AmateurSean and Justin recap Jose Luis Ballester's U.S. Amateur win over Noah Kent. They touch on the final match, the TV coverage, the week in general, and some other topics of interest like Jimmy Ellis winning medalist honors, Gordon Sargent losing in the Round of 64 again, the futures of Ballester and Kent, the summer schedules of the final four players.They wrap up with other news from the week including the Senior North & South, British Boys' and Girls', Lottie Woad's big award, and the schedule for the week.Amateur Golf Links:2024-08-1943 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 70: Evan Thompson of Dual SportEvan Thompson joins the podcast to talk about qualifying for the U.S. Amateur and launching his company Dual Sport, built to help athletes who play more than one sport. Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-08-1330 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 69: Rianne Malixi completes rare double + Clanton notches top 5Sean and Justin discuss the recent happenings in amateur golf. They talk about the Rianne Malixi v. Asterisk Talley rematch and Luke Clanton's impressive performance at the Wyndham Championship. They also touch on the PGA Tour University points system and the challenges faced by amateur golfers transitioning to the professional level. They also discuss the announcement of the USA Curtis Cup team and the upcoming US Amateur Championship. Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-08-1246 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 68: 2024 U.S. Amateur PreviewSean and Justin preview the 2024 US Amateur and dive into the course conditions and disparity in length between Hazeltine and Chaska Town Course, the players to watch, and the changes in the qualifying process. They also mention the different age tiers of players in amateur golf and the potential matchups to look forward to. They cover the recent dominance of American players and the potential for international players who could win this year. They wrap up with their picks for the tournament and mention some standout players to watch. Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.c...2024-08-0748 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 67: Ian Gilligan wins marathon Western Am and U.S. Women's Am PreviewSean Melia and Justin Golba recap a quiet yet crazy week in amateur golf. They discuss the Western Amateur, the US Women's Amateur, and the US Women's Senior Open. They also talk about the selection process for the Curtis Cup team and highlight some notable players and storylines for this week's U.S Women's Amateur field. Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-08-0450 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpidode 66: A month in Scotland with Pete WlodkowskiSean catches up with AmateurGolf.com founder Pete Wlodkowski at the tail end of his month-long trip to Scotland where he was played a ton of golf all over the country. He shares highlights from the trip, where he's stayed over the course of the month, his favorite courses, villages, and the wonderful surprises that tend to find travelers when they spend an extended time in a country.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-08-0144 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 65: Trevor Gutschewski wins U.S. Amateur + amateurs in the OlympicsSean and Justin discuss various topics in amateur golf, including Trevor Gutschewski's U.S. Amateur win and a slew of other events during a busy week in amateur golf. They compare US Junior and US Amateur finalist, as Sean thinks the US Junior might be a better indicator of future success. They also speculate on what the US Olympic golf team would look like if it consisted of amateur players instead of professionals. The conversation explores the idea of making golf in the Olympics more interesting and engaging. The hosts discuss the possibility of including amateurs in th...2024-07-2943 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 64: Rianne Malixi wins U.S. Girls' Junior and Wenyi Ding takes Southern AmSean and Justin discuss the week in amateur golf. They talk about the Open Championship, the US Girls Junior, the Southern Amateur, and other tournaments happening around the world. They highlight the performances of players like Callum Scott, Rianne Maliksi, and Wenyi Ding. They also mention upcoming events like the US Junior Amateur and the Pacific Coast Amateur, among a bevy of events this week.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-07-2129 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 63: July 15 recap: Trans-Miss, Pacific Northwest Am, Senior AmateurSean and Justin recap the week in golf including the Trans-Miss, Pacific Northwest, US Adaptive Open, and British Senior Amateur. The first three members of the US Curtis Cup team have been selected. They wrap up with a preview of the U.S. Girls Junior, Women's Western, New England Amateur, and Southern Amateur, among others. They also talk about the British Junior Open and the British Open, highlighting the presence of amateur players in the final men's major of the year. They make predictions for the low amateur at the British Open and dis...2024-07-1542 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 62: Auburn Tiger Billy DavisBilly Davis joins the podcast to discuss the first days on campus at Auburn, the facilities, playing team golf, and Billy's recent trip to Japan. They also talk about the games he plays on the course to create stress and pressure. He shares his journey of Monday qualifying for a PGA Tour event and the nerves he felt during the round. Billy reflects on the lessons he learned from playing on the PGA Tour and the level of competition he faced. He also talks about his goals for the future and the areas of his game he is...2024-07-1237 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 61: US wins Palmer Cup and Summer of Clanton ContinuesSean and Justin discuss the recent news and events in amateur golf. They talk about the US team winning the Palmer Cup on foreign soil, Luke Clanton's impressive performance in the John Deere Classic, and the decision he faces about turning pro or staying in college. They also hit on the Magnolia, US National Team debut scrimmage, North & South Junior, and the Elite Amateur Cup rankings They wrap up with a discussion of upcoming tournaments, including the Pacific Northwest Am, Trans-Miss, British Senior Am, IMG Junior World Golf Championships, and the Evian Championship.A...2024-07-0839 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 60: Two American Amateurs win in Europe + North & South recapSean and Justin discuss this week's events in amateur golf, including the European Amateur Championship, the Women's Amateur Championship, and the North & South Championships. They also highlight the upcoming tournaments, such as the Magnolia, the North and South Junior, the Mexican National Amateur Championship, and the Palmer Cup. They also touch on the topic of amateurs playing in professional events, such as the Rocket Mortgage Classic, and the potential for amateurs to participate in the Olympics.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-07-0135 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 59: The Northeast Am and Amateur ChampionshipIn this episode of the Amateur Golf Podcast, Sean and Justin discuss the Northeast Amateur at Wannamoisett CC in Rhode Island and the Amateur Championship at Ballyliffin in Northern Ireland. They highlight the winners, Anthony Delisanti and Jacob Skov Olesen, and discuss their impressive performances. They also mention other notable players in the tournaments and discuss upcoming events such as the North & South, the European Amateur Championship, and the US Senior Open. They also mention Charlie Woods qualifying for the US Junior and the George C. Thomas Mid-Amateur Championship at LACC.Amateur Golf Links:2024-06-2436 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 58: Shipley earns U.S. Open Low Am and results from around the countrySean and Justin discuss the US Open and amateur golfers' performances in the tournament. They highlight the impressive performances of amateur golfers Neal Shipley and Luke Clanton. The conversation then shifts to other amateur golf events happening around the country, including the Sunnehanna and the men's and women's Southwestern Amateur. They also mention upcoming events like the Northeast Amateur and the Rice Planters. The episode concludes with a discussion about the British Amateur and the new format for US Amateur qualifying.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitter2024-06-1735 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 57: 15 Amateurs at U.S. OpenSean and Justin examine some interesting amateur storylines at the U.S. Open and then discuss some other amateur results from the week, including the Dogwood, St. Andrews Links, and Jackson Koivun at the Memorial. They also discuss the new Global Amateur Pathway to the DP World Tour, which was announced this week, and review the amateur golf schedule for the week.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2024-06-1038 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 56: World Golf Competition Co-Founder Jon KerrJon Kerr, co-founder of the World Golf Competition, discusses the creation of a global amateur golf tournament that aims to provide a unique and luxurious experience for participants. The tournament allows players of all abilities to compete on some of the world's most prestigious courses, with the opportunity to progress through multiple rounds and ultimately reach the world final. The long-term goal of the tournament is to create a global golf network and promote the growth of the sport. The World Golf Competition aims to build a community and become a fixture in the golfing...2024-05-2253 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 55: Scott Tomasello on the Myrtle Beach World AmateurScott Tomasello, tournament director of the Myrtle Beach World Amateur, joins the podcast to discuss the event and the golf scene in Myrtle Beach. Scott shares his journey into organizing golf tournaments and talks about the growth and evolution of the Myrtle Beach World Amateur over the years. He highlights the event's inclusivity, with players of all skill levels and ages participating. Scott also mentions other events that take place in Myrtle Beach throughout the year, including junior tournaments and the recent Myrtle Beach Q event.Myrtle Beach World AmateurPromo code in the episode for $50...2024-05-1440 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 54: Wake Forest star Rachel KuehnRachel Kuehn discusses her experiences in the Curtis Cup, winning a national title, and personal growth as a golfer. She shares her pinch-me moments and the unique dynamics of playing in the Curtis Cup on home soil and away matches. Rachel also talks about the importance of team bonding and the motivation to defend their national title. She reflects on her own growth as a golfer and offers advice to her younger self. Also, Rachel discusses the impact of the Augusta National Women's Amateur and her mental preparation for the ANWA. We dive into her favorite an...2024-03-2544 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 53: Gasparilla with Palma Ceia Dir. of Golf Joe HodgeJoe Hodge, the Director of Golf at Palma Ceia Country Club, discusses his background and history at Palma Ceia, including winning club championships and playing in the US Open in 1978. He talks about the appeal of the Gasparilla tournament and the unique aspects of the event, such as the open qualifier and member involvement. Joe also shares insights into the challenges and scoring trends of the Palma Ceia golf course. The Gasparilla is one of the most popular events on the Mid-Amateur calendar year in and year out.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.c...2024-02-2034 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 52: Jordan Perez on latest college and amateur newsIn this episode, Sean and Jordan discuss recent news in amateur golf, including Nick Dunlap and Caleb Surratt turning pro. They analyze Dunlap's decision and his impressive amateur career. They also discuss Surratt's move to LIV Golf and the valuation of amateur golfers. Then they review recent amateur golf events, including the Latin American Amateur Championship and some college results. They also preview the Masters invites for amateurs and discuss the potential impact on their careers. The episode concludes with a discussion on women's college golf and the upcoming Curtis Cup. The pod wraps up with a P...2024-02-081h 29The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 51: USGA's Scott LangleyScott Langley, Senior Director of Player Relations at the USGA, discusses his golf experience, journey to the PGA Tour, and his current role at the USGA. He shares insights into course setup for the US Open and the importance of player feedback. Scott also highlights the US National Development Program and the efforts to unify and improve junior golf in the United States. The conversation covers various topics related to golf, including the US Open, development programs, national teams, and the performance of American golf. The guest emphasizes the importance of investing in American golf and hopes to see...2024-01-3053 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 50: David McLay-KiddDavid McLay-Kidd discusses his experience returning to golf courses he has previously designed, the process of refining and improving courses, and the importance of balancing challenge and playability. He also talks about the design considerations for different handicaps and the role of roll and drama in golf. David shares insights into his current project, Loraloma in Austin, Texas, and the challenges and opportunities of working with space and constraints. He also discusses the use of a basketball to test slopes and reflects on the impact of Bandin Dunes on his career. In addition, he shares his exp...2024-01-231h 01The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 49: Recapping the 2023 year in Amateur Golf w/ Jordan PerezJordan Perez joins Sean as they recap the year in amateur golf. They each brought five stories from the year and discussed their impact.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2023-12-141h 04
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 48: Erick MoralesErick Morales is one of the founders and organizers of the Devil's Elbow Invitational, a new Mid-Am event in the Dominican Republic that grants the winner an exemption to the Corales Punta Cana PGA Tour event. Morales is a decorated amateur himself, having finished second in the inaugural Mexico Mid-Am last year, and he recently played in the US Mid-Am at Sleepy Hollow. In addition, he has played in PGA Tour events and made the cut in one of them. The best man in Morales' wedding was Rafa Campos, who recently benefited from the Shad Tuten penalty. C...2023-10-3148 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 47: Jordan Perez on the start of the college seasonJordan Perez joins Sean Melia to talk through her reporting on the Spikemark and Golfstat issues that are plaguing college golf right now. The two also touch on the Walker Cup, Rose Zhang's Solheim Cup performance, and dive into the college season. They go through the eight teams that made it to match play on the men's and women's sides in 2023 try to figure out who won't make it back this season and some contenders that might replace them.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebook...2023-09-261h 33
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 46: 2022 Crump Cup champion Stephen BehrStephen Behr arrived at Pine Valley in 2022 for his first Crump Cup and left on Sunday as the champion. The former Clemson standout has had an impressive amateur career. He made the decision after college to pursue a career and remain an amateur. It wasn’t an easy choice, as his father is a club professional. During this podcast, Behr talks about life as an amatuer golfer and how he’s building a schedule each year to ensure he’s finding ways into contention. Finally, we wrap up with a discussion about his week at Pine Valley for the...2023-09-1947 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 45: Walker Cup preview with Jordan PerezJordon Perez joins Sean Melia to talk about the Walker Cup. First, they catch up on some lingering thoughts from the U.S. Amateur on both the women's and men's side. Then they go through some storylines from this week's Walker Cup, team selections, alternate shot pairings they'd like to see, and what improvements they would make to the Walker Cup.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2023-08-311h 08The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 44: Walker Cup member Stewart HagestadStewart Hagestad is one of the most decorated amateurs of this generation. He's competed in dozens of USGA events and has won 2 U.S. Mid-Amateur championships (2016 and 2021). He's also competed in six professional majors. His best finish was a T36 in the 2017 Masters, where he earned low amateur honors.The 32-year-old from Newport Beach, California will compete in his fourth straight Walker Cup, an incredible achievement that puts him into the same category as Bobby Jones, Francis Ouimet, and Jay Sigel as players who have competed in that many Walker Cups. It's likely, given the youth of...2023-08-2941 min
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 43: Minnesota Open and Amateur champion Caleb VanArragonCaleb VanArragon has had quite a summer in Minnesota. The fifth-year senior at Valparaiso won the Minnesota State Open by 9 shots and backed that up with a 12-shot victory in the Minnesota State Open. Those two performances gained him some attention, and he received a last-minute invite to the 3M Open. During his interview with Justin Golba, VanArragon talks about what helped him get on such a heater, competing alongside the world’s best, and how he hopes to continue the momentum into the fall. Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.com2023-08-2424 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 42: US Amateur preview and Gordon SargentSean Melia is joined by new writer and editor on the site, Justin Golba, to talk through some storylines of the US Amateur Championship which kicks off on Monday, August 14. Who will earn Walker Cup spots? How has the Elite Amateur Series impacted the summer season? Can an international win at Cherry Hills?Then Justin has Gordon Sargent on to talk about his summer, competing at the US Open, what he's learned playing in pro events, and his Walker Cup selection.NOTE: We recorded this before Michael Thorbjornsen's announcement that he would not be playing...2023-08-1055 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEp. 41: Henry ShimpHenry Shimp played his college golf at Stanford where he won the 2019 national championship. His life is a bit different after graduating in 2022. He’s in the real world, working, traveling, and battling injuries, but he still plays golf at a high level. He qualified for his sixth US Amateur championship this summer. We talk about a bunch of topics: his qualifying mindset, the long two days (and 38 holes) at Wild Horse in Nebraska in July, playing in the Amateur Championship at Royal Lytham and St. Annes, his experience at Stanford, how college golf has changed, and we end wi...2023-08-011h 04The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 40: Mike McCoyMike McCoy’s resume would take too long to read through in its entirety. The Iowa Golf Hall of Famer has played in more than 60 USGA events. In his 38th USGA appearance, McCoy won the 2013 US Mid-Am, which opened a plethora of doors for the already decorated golfer. He played in The Masters and was also named to the 2015 Walker Cup team. McCoy’s excellence across many decades earned him the honor of captaining the 2023 Walker Cup team. The event at St. Andrews is fast approaching, and McCoy was kind enough to talk with us about his experience playing in t...2023-07-2641 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 39: U.S. Open Women's Open amateursGolf Digest's Kent Paisley joins Sean and Jordan to discuss the landscape of women's golf heading into the U.S. Women's Open at Pebble Beach. They talk Rose Zhang, primetime golf, the amateurs in the field, and what challenges female golfers face as they leave amateur golf for the professional ranks.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2023-07-041h 06The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 38: Maxwell Moldovan from the 2023 U.S. OpenAfter a heartbreaking result at Springfield's Final Qualifying site, Maxwell Moldovan got the phone call he hoped for and learned he had a spot in the 2023 U.S. Open field. Moldovan woke up bright and early to talk with Sean (who was on the road recording from his car) about his week and what he learned in last year's US Open and how he plans to do things in his preparation this year at LACC.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2023-06-1526 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 38: Maxwell Moldovan from the 2023 U.S. OpenAfter a heartbreaking result at Springfield's Final Qualifying site, Maxwell Moldovan got the phone call he hoped for and learned he had a spot in the 2023 U.S. Open field. Moldovan woke up bright and early to talk with Sean (who was on the road recording from his car) about his week and what he learned in last year's US Open and how he plans to do things in his preparation this year at LACC.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2023-06-141h 02The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 37: Putting a bow on college season and who turned pro with Jordan PerezSean and Jordan wrap up the NCAA college season with some final thoughts on the men's Division 1 national championship at Grayhawk. They look through the PGA Tour U grads and try to project what their first 12-18 months might look like. Then they discuss Rose Zhang's pro debut victory along with amateurs who qualified for the Men's and Women's U.S. Open.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2023-06-101h 11The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEp 36: NCAA Women's reactions and Men's previewSean and Jordan are joined by David Tenneson (@CGolfBook) to react to Rose Zhang's individual National Championship and Wake Forest's match play triumph. They also have some flowers for USC who made it to the final match.Then, at the 12:30 mark, they turn their attention to the men's national championship. David outlines the work he's doing to collect the history of college golf dating back to 1896. He gives us some incredible trends he's noticed over the last decade, too. They talk about the regional shocks and surprises and pick out some storylines they are looking forward to f...2023-05-251h 12The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 35: NCAA Women's PreviewSean and Jordan talk storylines at Grayhawk for the women's NCAA National Championship. They also try to put Rose Zhang's two years at Stanford into perspective and discuss her place in the pantheon of great college athletes in any sport.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2023-05-1957 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 34: Men's Regional PreviewJordan Perez and Sean Melia share some of their favorite storylines leading into the men's NCAA Division 1 regional stage and also try to pick some teams that might surprise us and make, or miss, nationals at Grayhawk.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2023-05-1227 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 33: NCAA Women's Regional storylines with Jordan PerezJordan Perez and Sean Melia dive into some of the storylines that have piqued their interest in the lead up to the NCAA Women's Regional. Then they see if they can identify teams that might crash the party and leap the top five seeds in the regions and punch their ticket to Grayhawk.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2023-05-0533 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 32: Jeronimo EsteveJeronimo Esteve recently won the 2023 Coleman, it was, in his words, “his biggest victory” and he joined us to share his thoughts on the event. He gives some incredible descriptions of holes and shots at Seminole that made my palms sweat. Over the years, Esteve’s name has been at or near the top of some elite amateur leaderboards. From the Gasparilla to the Crump Cup to the U.S. Mid-Am and The Coleman, he enjoys the competition and gives some excellent insight into his mindset as he came down the stretch at Seminole battling Stewart Hagestad and Ev...2023-05-0346 minThe Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 31: College golf with Golfstat's Marcus ElJordan Perez and Sean Melia open the pod by discussing amateurs at Chevron, Florida's SEC victory, other college results.Then (27:00), Marcus El of Golfstat joins to discuss life as the Director of Ops for the company, its connection with college golf, and then we pick his brain about the current college scene as conference championships wrap-up and regionals and nationals loom on the horizon.Amateur Golf Links:AmateurGolf.comSubscribeInstagramTwitterFacebookYouTube2023-04-261h 27
The Amateur Golf Podcast by AmateurGolf.comEpisode 30: Heather Daly-DonofrioHeather Daly-Donofrio’s role as the USGA Managing Director for Player Relations and Development has kept her quite busy over the last year. She has spearheaded the creation of the USGA’s National Player Development. A program that many felt was a long time coming. After research and discussions with people around the world, Daly-Donofrio and her team rolled out their plan this winter. Daly-Donofrio is a perfect fit for this job, as she started playing the game at 15 and managed to find her way to college at Yale and then played on the LPGA Tour. She has an unde...2023-04-2045 min