GROW THE GAME: BYU Golf's Future Exceptionally BRIGHT Thanks to Utah Section PGA's Outreach & Growth

Utah’s golf landscape is on the verge of transformation as the Utah Section PGA partners with the Larry H. Miller Group for Utah Youth Sports Giving Day—an initiative raising up to $150,000 in matching funds to propel the next generation of golfers. Will this push help the BYU men’s and women’s golf programs continue their ascent and keep Utah talent competing on the national stage? Devin Dehlin, Utah Section PGA head, reveals how these donations will directly expand junior access, provide equipment, and support vital programs like Drive, Chip, and Putt and the Itty Bitty Tour for ages 4-6, fostering young golfers’ development from their first swing to elite college competition. Dehlin highlights the unprecedented roster depth now anchoring BYU golf. Homegrown stars such as Kihei Akina—recent Walker Cup participant and Utah Open winner—alongside Cooper Jones, Peter Kim, and others, trace their roots back to Utah’s junior leagues. With 8 of BYU’s 10 men’s roster spots and nearly half the women’s team filled by local standouts, Utah golf has shifted from relying on national recruits to homegrown dominance. The discussion explores the influence of local mentors like the Summerhays family and the impact of coaches like Todd Miller—son of golf legend Johnny Miller—who brings both experience and a famous pedigree to the program. Additional insights cover the post-pandemic golf surge, the growing involvement of families and women, and the logistical challenges of making golf accessible amid rising costs and packed courses. Dehlin underscores the importance of lowering entry barriers to ensure every aspiring golfer has a shot, emphasizing how community donations can double their impact through the matching program. Can community support meet the $150,000 goal and set up Utah’s young talent for lasting success? Find out how you can join the drive and help fuel the Cougars’ and Utah’s path to golfing greatness at utahpga.com.