In an inspiring, emotional and hug-filled ceremony, the PGA of America honored Scott Wilson and seven of its nearly 29,000 PGA Members Thursday night at the PGA of America National Awards ceremony at the Palm Beach County Convention Center.

Hosted by David Marr III, the event celebrated the achievements of PGA Members who have made extraordinary strides to further the game and industry.

“These award winners are the most ultimate in character and dedication,” said PGA President Suzy Whaley to a crowd of 700. “Their journeys in golf are something that we all aspire to. They’re the best of the best. These are our very highest honors. Tonight, is a celebration of greatness.”

Scott Wilson, a PGA Professional at Bay Meadows Family Golf Course, in Traverse City, Mich., is the recipient of the 2019 “PGA Youth Player Development Award,” given annually to a PGA Golf Professional who has displayed extraordinary and exemplary contributions and achievements in the area of youth player development.

A 21-year PGA Member, Wilson has played an integral role in elevating youth-player development at Bay Meadows, while also re-energizing the Traverse City Junior Golf Association’s programming.

His passion and commitment for player development is contagious: The Golf in Schools program he plays a major role in has reached more than 2,000 kids at 17 schools; Drive, Chip & Putt participation continues to increase; and the growth of PGA Jr. League has been incredible.

Starting with 28 kids upon Wilson’s arrival in 2015, PGA Jr. League now has enrolled more than 90 boys and girls at Bay Meadows. Additionally, his Junior Elite program, which takes on 18 juniors each year, is one of his most fulfilling programs: 40 graduates have gone on to play collegiate golf, including a three-time “Miss Golf” in the state of Michigan.

Wilson has twice been honored with the Michigan Section Youth Player Development Award (2017, ’19); the Player Development Award three times (2007, ‘08, ‘18); and he’s a multi-award winner for Northern Michigan Chapter. He has also been recognized on Golf Digest’s “Best Teacher in the State” list.