Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina Junior Golf Association (SCJGA) announces hiring of native South Carolinian, Mark Elam as Tournament Coordinator. A graduate of the University of South Carolina, Elam earned a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with a direct focus in Club Management. Gaining experience through multiple internships and club staff roles through numerous courses within the state, Elam officially took a position in golf administration in 2019 with the Golf Association of Michigan (GAM). During his stint with the GAM as an Assistant Tournament Director, Elam focused on conducting events throughout Michigan. Originally from Columbia, South Carolina, Elam is excited to be back in his home state, but close to family and friends. Elam elaborated on his excitement of joining the SCJGA Team, ready to hit the road to assist one of the best junior golf programs grow and see some of the courses in South Carolina on his bucket list. “The South Carolina Golf Association is where I’ve always wanted to work, particularly the SCJGA. South Carolina is home for me and is where most of my friends and family are. It means more to me that I can help grow the game of golf in the same place I grew up playing,” expressed Elam.
Little did the SCJGA know when they hired Elam, his first day in the office would be postponed two months due to unprecedented times attributed to the outbreak of the Coronavirus. Elam would learn quickly how the SCGA, SCJGA and SCJGF rapidly respond and adapt to change, as the entire staff adopted a “work from home” schedule to keep serving golf courses, club staff, members, volunteers and donors.
Excited to add another a dynamic member to the SCJGA, Executive Director Biff Lathrop expressed, “we’re very excited about the opportunity to bring Mark on board to join our Golf Association team. Mark brings with him a wealth of knowledge from his past work experience in the golf industry and we’re looking forward to being a part of his career path into Tournament Operations.” Elam’s official title is Tournament Coordinator and will work closely with SCJGA Assistant Director Michael McKee, who started with the Association back in June of 2019. Sr. Director of the SCJGA, Justin Fleming acknowledged Mark’s passion for junior golf stating, “Mark exudes the passion for the program we need to kick-start into the 2020 summer, especially after recent times. He will make a great addition to the staff and I look forward to the creativity he will bring to help us continue our mission to provide the best product to the junior golfers of South Carolina”.
The SCJGA will begin the 2020 summer season with the South Carolina Golf Association Junior Championship Presented by the Heritage Classic Foundation on June 8th at Tradition Golf Club in Pawleys Island. For all up-to-date information including news and highlights, follow the SCJGA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
