A Night to Remember: 2025 PGA National Awards in Frisco, TX
The 2025 PGA of America Awards Ceremony was a night of celebration, honor, and reflection—held at the stunning new PGA Headquarters in Frisco, Texas. Among the evening’s honorees was Michael Jacobs, who received the 2025 PGA National Award for Contributions to Education, one of the association's most prestigious recognitions.
This award—formerly known as the Horton Smith Award and now titled the Professional Development Award—represents one of the two foundational pillars of PGA membership, the other being the Bill Strausbaugh Award for excellence in employment. Together, these awards reflect the very essence of the PGA Professional: education and opportunity. The names may evolve, but the values remain.
Celebrating with Friends, Peers, and Legends
Michael’s table was a gathering of some of golf’s finest minds, talents, and supporters. Sharing the moment with him:
CJ Nafus, PGA Director of Instruction at Roxiticus Golf Club
Nick Biondi, PGA Teaching Professional at Radley Run Golf Club
Rick Silva, Top 100 Teacher and PGA Owner of Movement 3 Golf
Bernie Najar, PGA Director of Instruction at Caves Valley Golf Club
Matthew Rudy, acclaimed writer from Golf Digest and Sports Illustrated
Pei-Cheng Chen, Michael’s longtime student and rising professional, recently advancing again in PGA Tour Q-School
Brian Manzella, PGA Director at English Turn Golf Club and the Manzella Golf Academy
Steve Elkington, legendary tour player and 1995 PGA Champion, as well as two-time Players Champion at Sawgrass (1991 & 1997)
This circle of support speaks volumes—not just about Michael’s impact on golf education—but about the respect and admiration he has earned across the industry.
A video tribute:
The PGA went above and beyond to make the evening special. From the heartfelt tribute video to the on-stage panel discussion featuring Michael Jacobs and fellow award winner Jason Epstein (Bill Strausbaugh Award recipient from Congressional Golf Club), the night honored not just individual accomplishments but the spirit of mentorship and growth.
As the evening wrapped up under the Texas sky, one thing was clear: the future of PGA instruction is bright. For Michael Jacobs, this moment was both a celebration of what’s been achieved and an inspiration to continue leading, teaching, and pushing the boundaries of golf education.
Congratulations again to Michael and to all of this year’s PGA Award winners. We’ll cherish this night for years to come.
