Lexington Parks & Recreation golf receives national recognition by PGA for exceptional junior program
News release provided by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
Lexington Parks & Recreation’s golf program, also known as Play Golf Lex, has received multiple recognitions from the national and state Professional Golf Association (PGA) for excellence in junior programming.
The program received two Game Changer Awards at the National PGA Show event in Orlando last month. The junior program was voted as a Top 25 National PGA Junior League Program for the third year in a row. It was also recognized as the #1 largest PGA Junior League program in Kentucky for the second year in a row.
“We are so proud to offer great facilities and programs at our golf courses around Lexington,” Lexington Parks & Recreation Director Monica Conrad said. “Golf, which has seen a lot of growth in popularity recently, is an important part of our offerings through Parks & Recreation. We understand that a robust youth program grows the game and welcomes more people into the sport and are so proud of our team for all their amazing work to develop it each year.”
As the Junior Golf Manager, John Dickson oversees junior golf developmental programming, including the department’s PGA Jr. League and Play Golf Lex Junior Golf summer camp. Under John, the PGA Jr League has been voted a top 25 program in the country (2022, 2023 & 2024) and recognized as the #1 largest PGA Junior League program in Kentucky twice (2023 & 2024). John also assists in daily operations at Kearney Hill Golf Links, assists with teaching the Play Golf Lex Adult Golf Classes, and teaches individual golf lessons.
“Our junior program we have built speaks volumes to the support we have,” said John Dickson, Golf Manager for Lexington Parks & Recreation. “This is far more important than golf. We have the privilege of watching and being of part of youth development and introducing new people to the game. If they don’t have clubs, balls, or anything else required, we provide it for them. Golf is a game that brings people together and teaches you so much. I’m proud to be a part of a dedicated and passionate team that is always looking for new opportunities for growth.”
In addition to recognitions for the junior program, within the last year Lexington Parks & Recreation golf also received recognition from Kentucky PGA for two staff – John Dickson (2024 Youth Player Development Award) and Whitney Paul (2024 Merchandiser of the Year, Public).
“We could not be prouder of our golf team for their excellent work and well-deserved recognition,” said Justin Mullannix, Golf Manager for Lexington Parks & Recreation. “Our team is dedicated to excellent service and offering programs and play for all ages and skill levels. We want everyone to feel welcome at our courses and know that having a robust junior program encourages lots of new youth to give golf a try.”
For a full list of programs, course details, upcoming tournaments and events, and other information, interested players can visit playgolflex.com. Financial assistance is available for qualifying households interested in participating in programs and events.
Parks & Recreation, a division of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government, oversees the programing, maintenance, and development of over 100 city parks and natural areas, six pools, five golf courses, community centers, recreational programs, and three arts venues. To find out more, follow @LexKYParks on Facebook and Instagram, or sign up for the email newsletter.
News release provided by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
