GOLF, Ill. – February 12, 2026 – The Illinois PGA Section has announced its slate of Special Award winners for 2025. Nick Papadakes, PGA (Onwentsia Club), has been selected as the 2025 Illinois PGA Professional of the Year and headlines the 14 Illinois PGA Members who won awards in this cycle. With the exception of the Bill Heald Career Achievement Award, these awards are based on the past five years of a member’s contributions, with the 2025 awards placing special emphasis on the 2025 and 2024 seasons.
The following are the 2025 Illinois PGA Special Award Winners:
Professional of the Year – Nick Papadakes, PGA (Onwentsia Club)
Teacher of the Year – Connie DeMattia, PGA (Cantigny Golf)
PGA Executive of the Year – Randy Bolstad, PGA (Willow Crest Golf Club)
Assistant Professional of the Year – Robert “Bobby” Schmelter, PGA (Mistwood Golf Club)
Youth Player Development Award – Eva Rogers, PGA (Medinah Country Club)
Player Development Award – Charles Lynch, PGA (Play Better Golf Academy)
Bill Strausbaugh Award – Mark Labiak, PGA (Ruth Lake Country Club)
PGA Professional Development Award – TJ Sullivan, PGA (Golftec – Oak Brook)
Bill Heald Career Achievement Award – Gary Binder, PGA (KemperSports Management)
Merchandiser of the Year (Private) – Chris Gumbach, PGA (River Forest Country Club)
Merchandiser of the Year (Public) – Michael Campbell, PGA (Village Links of Glen Ellyn)
Deacon Palmer Award – Phil Kmak, PGA (PGA Life Member)
Distinguished Service Award – Karl Bollnow, PGA (Riverside Golf Club)
Patriot Award – Tyler Wollberg, PGA (Pine Meadow Golf Club)
“We are fortunate to have such an outstanding group of PGA Professionals that make up the Illinois PGA Section. Selecting a handful of members for these prestigious awards is never easy, but these professionals have shown extraordinary dedication to growing and improving the game of golf for everyone within the boundaries of the Section,” said Carrie Williams, Executive Director of the Illinois PGA Section. “This year’s Special Award winners, selected by a committee of their peers, exemplify all that PGA Professionals have to offer as experts in the business and game of golf.”
Professional of the Year
Nick Papadakes, PGA, Head Golf Professional at Onwentsia Club, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award — the highest honor bestowed upon an Illinois PGA Member. This prestigious distinction recognizes a PGA Professional whose career reflects the very best in leadership, service, integrity and commitment to the game. For more than 20 years, Papadakes has exemplified excellence in every facet of the profession, from elevating club operations and member experiences to mentoring the next generation of PGA Professionals.
A past Illinois PGA President (2020–2022) and longtime Board and committee leader, Papadakes has dedicated over 14 years to serving the Section and the PGA of America, including National roles on the PGA of America Mentoring Taskforce, Employment Committee and Awards Committee. At Onwentsia, he has modernized programming, significantly increased participation, and cultivated a culture rooted in tradition, hospitality and the professional development of his staff. His impact extends well beyond his club through championship leadership roles, and unwavering advocacy for the growth of the game at both private and public facilities. Just one of many charitable initiatives he leads and hosts raises more than $2 million annually for Lurie Children’s Hospital.
Widely respected as a mentor, ambassador and model PGA Professional, Papadakes embodies the highest standards of the Association and the enduring values of the Illinois PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award.
Papadakes is now an eight-time Illinois PGA Special Award winner, garnering recognition as the Professional Development Award (previously the Horton Smith Award) winner five times (2012, 2015, 2018, 2020, 2021), and the Bill Strausbaugh Award winner twice (2017, 2024). He was also selected by the PGA of America as the National Professional Development Award winner in 2024.
Teacher of the Year
Connie DeMattia, PGA Director of Instruction at Cantigny Golf, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Teacher of the Year Award. For more than 36 years, DeMattia has combined elite playing experience with a deeply holistic coaching philosophy to build one of the most respected instructional programs in the region. Under his leadership, the Cantigny Golf Academy has grown revenues by 200% since its inception and now delivers more than 2,400 private lessons annually while engaging over 20,000 juniors in the past decade alone through a structured, progressive development model.
DeMattia’s innovative “Club Team” Periodization Program integrates technical skill development, sports science, mental performance, and competitive preparation, guiding young athletes through a comprehensive, year-round pathway that has helped produce numerous Division I collegiate golfers and state champions. He is also a nationally recognized educator and contributor to major golf publications and media outlets. Through sustained leadership, mentorship of fellow professionals, and an unwavering commitment to developing both golfers and young people, DeMattia exemplifies the highest standards of the Illinois PGA Teacher of the Year Award.
DeMattia is now a two-time Illinois PGA Teacher of the Year (2010), a recipient of the Illinois PGA Youth Player Development Award (2019), and a past recipient of the Illinois PGA Player Development Award (2020). He was also selected by the PGA of America as the National Youth Player Development Award winner in 2024.
PGA Executive of the Year
Randy Bolstad, PGA, Director of Golf Operations at Willow Crest Golf Club at Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Executive of the Year Award for his exceptional leadership, vision, and sustained impact on resort and multi-facility golf operations. Throughout a distinguished career that includes executive roles with premier hospitality and management companies such as Marriott International, Hilton, and Kemper-affiliated properties, Bolstad has consistently elevated operational performance, strengthened financial outcomes, and enhanced the guest and member experience. His expertise as both a business consultant and on-site executive has influenced resort properties nationwide, while his steady leadership has built high-performing teams and cultures of excellence.
A past Vice President and Secretary of the Illinois PGA, Hall of Fame Chair, and longtime contributor to key Section committees, Bolstad has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving the Association and mentoring fellow Professionals. A three-time PGA Professional Development Award recipient and 14-time Illinois PGA Merchandiser of the Year – Resort honoree, his career reflects innovation, integrity, leadership, and a deep dedication to growing the game. His impact reaches far beyond a single facility, embodying the very best qualities of a PGA Golf Executive.
This award marks the 18th career Illinois PGA Special Award for Bolstad.
Assistant Professional of the Year
Robert “Bobby” Schmelter, PGA, First Assistant Golf Professional at Mistwood Golf Club, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year Award for his outstanding leadership, professionalism, and service to the game. Over the past eight years at Mistwood, Schmelter has played a vital role in overseeing daily operations, executing premier member events, elevating merchandising initiatives, and leading the highly successful PGA Junior League program. An active Illinois PGA Member and Assistants’ Committee participant, he has mentored associates through the Professional Golf Management education process while inspiring junior golfers and staff alike. Widely respected by members and colleagues for his integrity, communication, and steady leadership, Schmelter exemplifies the qualities of a model PGA Professional.
This marks the first career Illinois PGA Special Award honor in Schmelter’s career.
Youth Player Development Award
Eva Rogers, PGA Teaching Professional at Medinah Country Club, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Youth Player Development Award for her transformative approach to and measurable impact in junior golf. Through the creation of structured developmental pathways—including Operation 36, Li’l Chippers, Elite Chippers, High School Prep, and Elite Player Development—Rogers has engaged more than 240 juniors annually since arriving at Medinah, increased junior rounds by 22 percent, and driven significant program growth and retention. Previously a national finalist for the PGA of America Player Development Award and a recognized leader throughout the industry, she extends her influence through national publications, mentorship initiatives, community partnerships, and PGA LEAD (Leadership, Equity and Development) program involvement. Her passion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to empowering young athletes embody the very spirit of the Youth Player Development Award.
The 2025 Youth Player Development Award is Rogers’ second career Illinois PGA Special Award after winning the Player Development Award in 2024.
Player Development Award
Charles Lynch, PGA, Founder of Play Better Golf Academy (PBGA) and Director of Instruction at Oak Brook Golf Club, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Player Development Award for his extraordinary impact on growing the game across Chicagoland. Through the expansion of PBGA to multiple year-round locations and the development of structured junior, adult, family, and women’s programming, Lynch reached more than 1,100 program participants in 2025 alone while driving facility engagement. A past Illinois PGA Teacher of the Year (2006) and 18-time nominee, Lynch continues to mentor fellow professionals, implement innovative “green-to-tee” instructional models, and elevate player retention and satisfaction—exemplifying leadership and excellence in player development.
This marks the second special award recognition for Lynch (Teacher of the Year 2006), and the first time he has won the Player Development Award.
Bill Strausbaugh Award
Mark Labiak, PGA, Head Golf Professional at Ruth Lake Country Club, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Bill Strausbaugh Award for his exceptional mentorship, leadership, and service to the Association and his community. Over a distinguished 31-year career as a Head Golf Professional, Labiak has mentored and guided numerous assistants, with 12 former Assistant Professionals advancing to become Head Golf Professionals. A past Illinois PGA President (2018–19) and longtime Board and committee leader, he has also championed and participated in charitable initiatives including Birdies for Charity, Folds of Honor, and the annual Guns-n-Hoses outing supporting local first responders. A previous Illinois PGA Golf Professional of the Year (2020) and Private Merchandiser of the Year (2022) recipient, Labiak’s integrity, service, and commitment to elevating fellow professionals exemplify the spirit of the Bill Strausbaugh Award.
Labiak is now a three-time Illinois PGA Special Award winner.
PGA Professional Development Award
T.J. Sullivan, PGA, Director of Instruction at GOLFTEC – Oak Brook, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Professional Development Award for his outstanding and ongoing commitment to education within the PGA of America. A Master PGA Professional in Teaching & Coaching and one of the youngest in Illinois Section history to earn the distinction, Sullivan has served in numerous leadership roles including Chair of the Teaching & Coaching Committee and currently serves as Chair of the Professional Development Committee. Through planning and delivering Section education programs, mentoring aspiring PGA Members, contributing to industry articles and media content, and serving the Section, he continues to elevate the standard of PGA professional education and modeling a path of lifelong learning.
Sullivan has now won this award three times, previously winning in 2022 and 2023.
Bill Heald Career Achievement Award
Gary Binder, PGA, Executive Vice President at KemperSports, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Bill Heald Career Achievement Award in recognition of more than four decades of exemplary service to the game and the Illinois PGA. From his early leadership as Head Professional at Wilmette Golf Course and Westmoreland Country Club to his impactful executive tenure with KemperSports, Binder has demonstrated unwavering integrity, mentorship, community engagement, and a commitment to growing the game through junior golf. He also actively advances the Illinois PGA Foundation’s mission to positively impact communities through the game of golf and currently serves as Foundation Secretary. A past Illinois PGA Executive of the Year (2021) and Deacon Palmer Award (2023) recipient, his career reflects a lifelong dedication to elevating the profession and positively influencing countless golf Professionals and golfers throughout the Section and beyond.
This award marks the third career Illinois PGA Special Award for Binder.
Private Merchandiser of the Year
Chris Gumbach, PGA, Head Golf Professional at River Forest Country Club (RFCC), is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Merchandiser of the Year Award – Private. Over a 32-year tenure at RFCC, including 20 years as Head Professional, Gumbach has transformed the club’s golf shop into a model of sustained growth and operational excellence. Under his leadership, annual sales increased from $306,000 in 2005 to a projected $810,000 in 2025, consistently outperforming budget projections while maintaining disciplined inventory controls and meticulous annual buying plans. His hands-on merchandising approach, innovative annual sale events, expanded premium and lifestyle product offerings, and unwavering focus on member satisfaction—reflected in a 94% approval rating—have elevated both the retail experience and financial performance of the River Forest golf shop.
Gumbach adds to his impressive resume of Illinois PGA Special Awards, having previously won both the 1999 Assistant Professional of the Year and 2018 Golf Professional of the Year Awards.
Public Merchandiser of the Year
Michael Campbell, PGA, Head Golf Professional at Village Links of Glen Ellyn, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Merchandiser of the Year Award – Public. Through a strategic, data-driven merchandising philosophy and a commitment to presentation and customer experience, Campbell has transformed the golf shop into a welcoming, organized, and financially impactful space. With monthly display rotations, collaborative staff training, and a focus on balanced, seasonal inventory, he has driven significant growth—achieving more than $210,000 in 2024 gross sales with projections nearing $276,000 in 2025—while enhancing the overall guest experience at one of the Illinois PGA’s busiest public facilities.
The 2025 Public Merchandiser of the Year honor is the second Illinois PGA Special Award of Campbell’s career, after winning the 2005 Illinois PGA Assistant Professional of the Year.
Deacon Palmer Award
Phil Kmak, PGA Life Member and instructor at PGA TOUR Superstore in Vernon Hills, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Deacon Palmer Award for his extraordinary resilience, integrity, and lifelong service to others. Overcoming severe vascular challenges and more than 70 medical procedures, Kmak has continued to mentor and teach golfers, support fellow PGA Professionals, develop operational innovations for Illinois PGA facilities, and serve as a motivational voice within the medical community. His perseverance, leadership, and unwavering commitment to inspiring others—both within the game and beyond—exemplify the true spirit of the Deacon Palmer Award.
The 2025 Deacon Palmer honor marks the first Illinois PGA Special Award of Kmak’s career.
Distinguished Service Award
Karl Bollnow, PGA, Head Golf Professional at Riverside Golf Club for 29 years and a PGA Member for more than four decades, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Distinguished Service Award. A lifelong ambassador of the game, Bollnow began his career as a caddie at Riverside in 1971 and went on to serve in multiple leadership roles before becoming just the fifth Head Professional in the club’s 132-year history. Throughout his 42 years of PGA membership, he has served on Section committees, hosted numerous Illinois PGA and USGA events, and championed junior golf, women’s programming, and caddie development—helping 70 caddies earn the Evans Scholarship and supporting more than 200 Riverside Memorial Caddie Scholarships. His integrity, loyalty, and decades of selfless service to his club, community, and the Illinois PGA exemplify the true spirit of the Distinguished Service Award.
The Distinguished Service Award is Bollnow’s second career Illinois PGA Special Award, who previously won the Bill Heald Career Achievement Award in 2013.
Patriot Award
Tyler Wollberg, PGA, General Manager and Head Golf Professional at Pine Meadow Golf Club, is the recipient of the Illinois PGA Patriot Award for his outstanding commitment to serving military personnel and veterans through the game of golf. A dedicated leader in PGA HOPE programming, Wollberg has helped impact more than 180 service members by leading instructional clinics, hosting the Illinois PGA Veterans Play Day for over 100 participants, supporting the Veterans Golf Association, and raising nearly $8,000 for veteran-focused initiatives. Through his leadership, advocacy, and unwavering support, he continues to create meaningful opportunities and memorable experiences for those who have served our country.
This marks the first career Illinois PGA Special Award in Wollberg’s career.
About the Illinois PGA/Illinois PGA Foundation
The Illinois Section of the PGA of America is a professional organization serving men and women golf professionals in northern and central Illinois who are recognized experts in growing, teaching, and managing the game of golf. The Illinois PGA is responsible for the administration of competitive golf tournaments, educational opportunities, support programs, and growth of the game initiatives. With over 760 members and associates, the Illinois PGA is one of the 41 regional Sections that comprise the PGA of America. The Illinois PGA Foundation focuses its community efforts on promoting the goodwill and growth of the game with an emphasis on activities that benefit youth. Foundation initiatives include: GolfWorks Illinois, youth-based Scholarship funds, PGA HOPE (Helping our Patriots Everywhere), Illinois PGA Birdies for Charity, and the Illinois Golf Hall of Fame. For more information about the Illinois PGA and the Illinois PGA Foundation, please visit www.ipga.com and join us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
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CONTACT:
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