“ There was truly a lot of sweat equity that went into this ,” said Kennedy .
2024 celebrates Kennedy ’ s 26th year as head golf professional / GM at Eagles ’ Landing . He is only one of a handful of GMs in the greater KC area who have worked at the same course for that many years .
( 2015 photo ) Jay Kennedy , PGA served as President of the Midwest Section PGA from 2014- 2015 and then as Honorary Past President from 2016-2017 .
Over the years , Kennedy ’ s commitment to the game has only grown stronger . As a member of the Midwest Section PGA , he has played in numerous events and served on various committees , leaving a lasting impact on the organization . He ascended through the leadership ranks within the Board of Directors for the Section , acting as Secretary from 2010- 2011 , Vice President from 2012- 2013 , President from 2014-2015 , and Honorary Past President from 2016-2017 . Kennedy became a board member again in 2018 and currently serves as the Chairman of the Awards Committee .
he ’ s on the course teaching a lesson , planning a tournament , or simply enjoying a round with friends , Kennedy embodies the spirit of golf and serves as a shining example of what it means to dedicate oneself to a lifelong pursuit of excellence .
“ Those of us who do this do it because we have passion for the game , a love of playing it , a desire to grow the game , and just being outdoors ,” he explained . “ You can ’ t just turn that off . That ’ s how you stay in this business as long as we have .”
Additionally , his accolades are many , including the John E . Jacobson Award he received in 2011 for outstanding service on the Section ’ s Board of Directors and the Golf Professional of the Year for the Section in 2012 . Further , Kennedy has volunteered at countless events and junior championships , which all speak to his unwavering dedication to the sport .
Away from the course , Kennedy enjoys spending time with his two children and indulging in his love for cycling . But make no mistake — golf remains a strong cornerstone of his life . For Kennedy , the game is not just a profession but a passion that fuels his drive to succeed and inspires him to improve continuously . He sees himself as a part of the golfing world for many years to come , cherishing the opportunity to share his love for the game with others and make a meaningful contribution to the sport he holds dear .
Reflecting on his journey , Kennedy remains grounded and grateful for the opportunities golf has provided him . From his early days working as a ball picker to his current role as general manager / head golf professional at Eagles ’ Landing Golf Course , Kennedy ’ s unwavering dedication and love for the game have been constants throughout his life .
As he looks towards the future , Kennedy ’ s passion for golf shows no signs of waning . He continues to inspire those around him with his commitment to excellence and genuine love for the sport . Whether
Jay Kennedy celebrates his 26th year as head golf professional / GM at Eagles ’ Landing . He is only one of a handful of GM ’ s within the greater KC area working at the same course for that many years . Eagles ’ Landing has transformed into one of KC ’ s top rated courses under his leadership . ( Photo by Bill Cromwell )
For those who know him best , it ’ s clear that Kennedy ’ s journey is far from over — there are still many more holes to play , lessons to teach , and memories to make . His story is , in many ways , just getting started , a testament to the enduring power of golf and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for those who are willing to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to the game .
Ann Butenas is a contributing writer for the Midwest Section PGA . For more information about the Midwest Section PGA , call 816.229.6493 or visit www . midwest . pga . com .
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