Onondaga Golf and Country Club head professional Ryan Hammerle, PGA does his best to maintain a healthy work-life balance for himself and his staff which isn’t always easy when the golf season starts.
It’s just one of the many challenges a PGA Professional faces especially during the summer months. Hammerle, the 2020 CNY PGA Merchandiser of the Year (Private), has embraced those challenges to elevate the golf experience at Onondaga Golf and Country Club.
Here’s what he had to say about the improvements he’s made at Onondaga GCC and what he’s looking forward to heading into a new season.
What improvements you have made are you most proud of?
Hands down the biggest improvement so far has been the newly renovated pro shop. In March of 2020, we fully renovated the pro shop and gave it a bright new look. The new pro shop has been a huge hit with the membership and their guests. The changes have allowed for merchandise to really pop as it’s displayed, I was so pleased with the work that was done. No doubt the biggest improvement so far.
What is the biggest challenge being a club professional?
Time can be the biggest challenge of a club professional. Once the snow melts and the golf season ramps up, a club pro’s schedule becomes busy throughout the week and especially weekends and summer holidays. It can be difficult at times being away from family and friends due to certain obligations. But having a good staff and team allows me to map out a schedule that gives everyone an opportunity to enjoy both their work and life.
What are you most excited about for this upcoming season?
I’m extremely excited that OGCC will be hosting the New York State Amateur this August for the first time since 1961. Onondaga is an old school golf course that will challenge all aspects of your game. I look forward to seeing New York’s top amateurs take on the course while at the same time showcasing to all what a beautiful facility Onondaga is. Bill Moore and his NYSGA Staff are great to work with and that’s an added bonus for what should be a great event here at OGCC.
What do you enjoy most about being a PGA Professional?
I truly enjoy that my office is a golf course. It’s enjoyable to be at the golf course every day with the opportunity to help others enjoy the game of golf just as much as I do. Whether it be a short game lesson or helping you find that new putter, I look forward to adding to the overall golf experience of the membership and their guests every day.