Phoenix Golf Scene Gets Revved Up with New Leadership at Papago Golf Club
Phoenix, Ariz. – Big changes are in the air at Papago Golf Club, and golf enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement! The iconic City of Phoenix municipal golf course has just welcomed new faces at the helm: Zach Amsler steps in as head golf professional, while Derek Crawford takes on the role of tournament director. This dynamic duo is expected to take the club’s operations and tournaments to a whole new level.
The New Head Golf Professional
Let’s start with Zach Amsler. Amsler has been part of the Papago Golf Club family since 2020 and knows the course like the back of his hand. He spent the last two seasons working as the club’s tournament director, and now he’s ready to steer the ship as head golf professional. With a degree from Eastern Kentucky University’s Professional Golf Management Program, Amsler became a Class A member of the PGA of America in 2020, which means he’s not just a pretty face; he’s well-trained and dedicated to the game.
But Amsler’s journey in golf began much earlier. At just 14 years old, he started out as a caddie at Moraine Country Club in Ohio, paving the way for his impressive career. He has worked at various golf clubs across Ohio, Indiana, and Florida before making Phoenix his home. Now, Amsler is fired up to grow the game and strengthen the community at Papago. “Being the head golf professional at such a prestigious course is a dream come true,” he stated.
Introducing the Tournament Director
Now let’s turn our attention to the new tournament director, Derek Crawford. With over 40 years in the golf industry, Crawford brings a wealth of experience and relationships to the Papago Golf Club team. Fun fact: he’s actually the identical twin brother of the club’s general manager, Daryl Crawford! Talk about keeping it in the family!
Derek and Daryl first teamed up as kids in the bag room at Orange Tree Golf Resort in Scottsdale. Their paths crossed again at PING, where they were both tour reps—Derek working on the PGA TOUR and Daryl advancing the European Tour. Having led operations at various clubs in the Phoenix area, including Raven Golf Club and ASU Karsten Golf Course, Derek is well-equipped to manage and market the tournaments at Papago.
“I’m incredibly excited with our key additions. We have high expectations for both of these leaders,” said Daryl Crawford. And who could blame him? With Amsler and Crawford on board, the future looks bright for this historic golf venue.
Papago’s Rich History and Bright Future
Owned by the City of Phoenix and managed by Troon, Papago Golf Club has earned its stripes. Named one of the “30 Best Municipal Golf Courses in America” by GOLF Magazine in 2021, this stunning course sits in the heart of Papago Park, surrounded by breathtaking desert landscapes and the iconic Papago Buttes. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw away from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
Originally designed by the talented William Francis (Billy) Bell in 1963, the course has hosted numerous prominent events, including the U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship and an LPGA tournament. Papago is not just a municipal course; it’s the proud home of Arizona State University’s men’s and women’s golf teams, who practice at the state-of-the-art Thunderbirds Golf Complex.
In recent years, Papago’s revitalization has included new facilities like the Lou Grubb Clubhouse, featuring the trendy Lou’s Bar & Grill. They’re not stopping there—coming in 2025 is the new Arizona Golf House, aimed at uniting various Arizona golf associations and nonprofits under one roof.
Conclusion
With this new leadership, along with exciting developments lined up for the near future, Papago Golf Club is set to be the talk of the town for all golf lovers. Golf is more than just a game here; it’s about community, history, and pushing the boundaries of what a municipal course can be. For anyone looking to enjoy the game in a stunning setting, Papago is definitely the place to be!
