Infectiously Energetic With Eli Ivey
Eli Ivey
General Manager, Pico Rivera Golf Club, California
Q: How did you first get into playing the game of golf and fast forward, what made you want to get into the business of golf as a career?
A: I was dragged to the golf course by a friend on Father’s Day 2007 at a 9-hole course while stationed in Hawaii – I was 25-year’s old. I never thought golf was for me, because I liked “real sports” and never had the opportunity to play before. By the second hole, I was bitten by the Golf Bug. Six years later, when I was departing the military, I knew that I could manage people, resources, and had a passion for the game of golf. Now I just had to figure out how I could find a new career and pay my bills while keeping my passions. I decided to get into the golf industry and drove to San Diego to attend the Golf Academy of America. Eleven years later, I am so happy that I made that choice!
Q: Tell us a little bit about your past work history and one or two things that you learned from outside the golf industry that helps you now in your day-to-day job?
A: I served nine years in the US Coast Guard. My last position was managing all operations in the Great Lakes including Search & Rescue, Law Enforcement, Drug Interdiction, Migrant Interdiction, Pollution, and much more. Every day was different, but we had to be ready at a moment’s notice to respond appropriately. One of the best lessons that I can take with me from the CG to the golf industry was our unofficial motto, Semper Gumbi – Always Flexible. Be ready to adjust whenever the situation needs a change. Do not be rigid or set to a failing plan – constantly adjust, change, adapt to your environment. This also helps you on the golf course.
Q: What is your philosophy on growing the game of golf and bringing people into the golf and hospitality industry?
A: My philosophy on growing the game as well as bringing people into the industry is to remove roadblocks and barriers. For beginners to the game, offer free or low-cost group lessons, which include clubs, to allow brand new players to learn the game without a large financial commitment. Time is usually an issue as well; my recommendation is to keep the lessons short, 25 – 45 minutes, and offer them throughout the week as well as the weekend.
Bringing new people, perspectives and experiences into the golf and hospitality industry is something that every business should be committed to. It was hard for me to make the transition into the industry because I had to start from scratch. I had a Finance and Economics degree, was a military officer and graduated valedictorian from the Golf Academy with an AA in Golf Management and I could only get a job in the cart barn – because I didn’t have “golf experience”. I was lucky to find an Assistant GM position where I could learn and grow into the professional, I am today. Professionals should help others who may be interested in the industry navigate those hurdles, in addition, provide opportunities to learn and to lead.
Q: What are some programs you hope to launch at Pico Rivera Golf Club to grow the game in the community?
A: Troon and I are still new to this property and are getting operations running smoothly. In time, we will run the PGA Programs: Get Golf Ready and PGA Hope classes. We will also offer clinics and lessons for ladies, seniors, juniors and beginners. This month, we are offering 45-minute Short Game Clinics that include a bucket of balls and a drink ticket for $20
Learn more about Troon’s DE&I Initiatives, Associates and Stories.
Follow #GolfForEveryone
For more stories on Troon’s DE&I initiative and associates