Doubled AGA's championships during his 9-year tenure
HOOVER – The Alabama Golf Association is searching for a new leader. The AGA announced Tuesday that Andy Priest will be stepping down as executive director in November. He has headed the Alabama association for nine years.
Priest will to assume the same position with the Carolinas Golf Association based
in Southern Pines, North Carolina effective on Jan. 1.
“Since November 2015, I have held the privilege of leading the Alabama Golf Association as its executive director,” Priest said.
“The growth and transformation of the organization has been due to the incredibly hard-working professional staff, unwavering support from the AGA’s executive committee and board of directors, the generosity of so many volunteers that have given their time and treasure to bettering the association, along with our member clubs, and partner organizations. ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ and its wonderful people will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Andy Priest leaves a legacy in Alabama
During his tenure, Andy Priest doubled the AGA’s championship program; moved the office to a new headquarters in Hoover; increased membership by 75 percent; established the Alabama Golf Foundation; introduced a junior golf program; co-founded the Elite Amateur Golf Series; directed the Southern Golf Association day-to-day operations and championships, including the Southern Amateur; served as head rules official for the SEC Men’s Golf Championship;and officiated several major events including USGA championships, Masters Tournament and Augusta National Women’s Amateur.
Andy Priest also served two terms on the 12-member Allied Golf Association Council which works closely with the USGA regarding AGA/USGA relations.
“The executive committee and I are disappointed to see Andy go,” said AGA President, Walker Grant. “But, we are filled with sincere gratitude for his excellent leadership of the AGA for the past nine years. Andy’s consistent performance and dedication are the pillars of the AGA’s success during his tenure as executive director. I would personally like to thank Andy for his relentless efforts and commitment to the organization and wish him the very best in his new endeavor.”
Grant added, “Although Andy will be difficult to replace, the executive committee and I are dedicated to finding the next executive director to continue the success and future of the AGA.”
The search for the next Alabama Golf Association executive director will begin later in July with an anticipated start date this fall.
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Featured image courtesy of the Alabama Golf Association.
