2011 PGA Golf Professional of the Year - Chip Essig

Every year we head down to Orlando for the PGA Merchandise Show. We usually setup in the Golf Business Network Clubhouse, and spend our time meeting with clients, potential clients, and checking out all of the latest and greatest in the world of golf. If you have never been to the PGA Merchandise Show, it’s pretty much EVERYONE in the golf industry coming together to show off what’s new. There is even a driving range on the show floor so you can hit all the new clubs. The PGA Show takes place at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.

This year was special for us. We got in on Monday, and had meetings all week… but the highlight of our trip came when client and good friend Chip Essig won the 2011 PGA of America national award for PGA Golf Professional of the Year. This award is the highest annual honor bestowed by the PGA of America.

On Thursday, January 26th we watched Chip receive his award in the Orange County Convention Center Chapin Theater. The program didn’t only feature Chip, but also the following recipients:

• Mike Malaska – PGA Teacher of the Year
• John Rogers – Horton Smith Award
• Robert Dolan Jr. – Bill Strausbaugh Award
• Rick Grayson – PGA Junior Golf Leader
• Brian Bain – President’s Plague

Chip is a graduate of Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management with a degree in accounting. Chip is currently serving as the President of the Indiana Section PGA Board of Directors.

Essig Golf Management

Chip is the co-owner of Essig Golf LLC, a golf course management company that has three facilities in the Indianapolis area. The courses include Hickory Stick Golf Club, Heartland Crossing Golf Links in Camby, and Pebble Brook Golf Club in Noblesville.

Essig has been a member of the Indiana PGA Section board since 1998. Since 2000, he has been a board member of the Indiana Golf Foundation, a member of the USGA Men’s Amateur Public Links Committee, and has served since 2001 as a board member of the IGA/PGA. Needless to say, Chip is a true professional and is surrounded by the game on every level.

Internet Solutions Provider

We have had the pleasure of working with Chip and Essig Golf Management for several years as their preferred Internet solutions provider. We have designed and developed the website for Essig Golf Management as well as all three courses. We have worked closely with Chip and his staff to provide a solution that fits their needs as well as offering them continuous support on their Internet marketing solutions. From helping them utilize social media solutions such as Facebook and Twitter, to building and massaging content to help their courses “get found” online, we have built a lasting relationship with Chip.

Chip Essig most certainly deserves this award for many reasons and we couldn’t be happier, but above everything, we want to admonish Chip on his focus on character, faith and family. Furthermore, Chip is proof that someone can live an unselfish, giving and Christ-centered life on a day-to-day basis and still be successful in the world of golf and in business.

Chip, you’re an inspiration to us all and we look forward to working with you in the future.

Below you can see a video, powered by STREAMOTOR, of his acceptance speech. Congratulations Chip!