Teed Up for Success: Three Northern Texas PGA Assistants Set to Represent the Northern Texas PGA at the 48th National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship

Harper Lawson • November 13, 2024

(November 14) –  With the scent of fresh grass and the promise of competition in the air, three Northern Texas PGA Assistant Professionals are gearing up for a week at the 48th National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship. Taking place November 14-17, 2024, at PGA Golf Club’s Wanamaker Course in Port St. Lucie, FL, this tournament is more than just a test of skill; it’s a celebration of dedication, perseverance and the love of the game. As these golfers prepare to represent the NTPGA on a national stage, they bring with them not just their aspirations, but also the countless years, hours, minutes and miles devoted to honing their skills on the course.


The Competition: 

A total of 132 PGA Assistant Professionals will compete in a four-day, 72-hole stroke play tournament at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, Florida. This field includes PGA of America Assistant Professionals and registered Assistant Professional Associates at level two or beyond, all of whom qualified through their local PGA Sections. After two rounds, the field will be cut to the top 70 players and ties. The champion will secure a spot in the 2025 PGA Professional Championship, while the top four finishers and ties will receive exemptions into the 2025 National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship.


Meet the Competitors:
Ben Swaffield - PGA Assistant Professional at Preston Trail Golf Club 

Ben Swaffield, originally from a small coastal town in Australia, discovered his passion for golf at a young age, inspired by legends like Adam Scott and Cam Smith. His journey took a pivotal turn when he watched the NFL with friends and thought, "how do we get to the United States?" This dream earned him a golf scholarship to Alabama State University where he competed freshman year, and later transferred to Texas State University. There, he leveraged his golf experience to secure a job offer from Cameron Doan, PGA director of golf at Preston Trail Golf Club, crediting much of his improvement to Doan's guidance.


Reflecting on his experience, Swaffield said, "I don't think I can really fathom... moving from Australia to the United States and being able to compete in a national event,” Swaffield said. “It’s  certainly something I didn't believe three years ago." 


Now thriving as a PGA professional at Preston Trail Golf Club, he emphasizes mental resilience, consistency and the importance of a supportive team in his growth as a golfer. After winning the 2023 National Car Rental Northern Texas Assistant PGA Professional Championship, Swaffield was disappointed when he wasn't eligible to qualify for nationals, a setback that ultimately became a turning point in his career. It motivated him to complete his PGA education and strive for qualification in 2024.


With renewed determination, Swaffield is looking forward to representing his Section on a national stage while remaining committed to keeping things simple and soaking in every moment of the journey.


Tristan Cottrell - PGA Assistant Professional at Bent Tree Country Club

Tristan Cottrell's journey into the world of golf has been shaped by both passion and perseverance. Growing up in a military family, he bounced between Texas and Arizona, but his heart has always been in Texas. “I’ve just always considered myself a Texan,” Cottrell says, reflecting on his roots in San Antonio. After initially dreaming of becoming a professional basketball player as a child, Cottrell quickly pivoted to golf, recognizing the height deficit and set out on his own path into the PGA industry instead.


Starting golf at age eight with encouragement from his father, Cottrell's love for the game deepened as he transitioned from a player to a coach. “What I do have a passion about is on the teaching side of the golf industry in instructing and fitting,” he said, underscoring his evolution in the sport. His collegiate golf experience at Wayland Baptist University was a wake-up call, surrounded by skilled peers that pushed him to sharpen his competitive edge. Reflecting on that time, he recalled, “I just saw how hard people worked at their golf game, and I wasn’t sure that I had the passion of practicing as much as they did,” Cottrell said. That realization made him recognize that to excel, he needed to find his own unique passion within the game.


With a recent string of impressive performances—including six top-five finishes and consistent top-25 placements—Cottrell is now set to represent the Northern Texas Section at the Assistant PGA Professional Championship in Florida. “The top goal is just to make the cut and get to play some golf throughout the whole weekend,” he said.


Ultimately, Cottrell’s journey is about more than just individual success; it’s about honoring his Texas roots and the Section that has supported him along the way. As he looks ahead to national milestones, his future in the game is filled with passion and potential.


Spencer Dillard - PGA Assistant Professional at Preston Trail Golf Club

Spencer Dillard’s journey to becoming a PGA assistant professional has been anything but conventional. Unlike many golfers who dream of turning pro at an early age, Dillard didn’t decide to pursue a career in golf until he was almost a senior in high school. It wasn’t until he enrolled in the PGA Golf Management Program at Sam Houston State University that he began to truly see the path ahead.


“I didn't really decide that I wanted to be a PGA professional till I was probably a senior in high school, maybe even college,” Dillard recalled. “I didn't fully understand or realize that I wanted to be one until after my first full year.”


Though Dillard didn’t play collegiate golf, he gained valuable experience through the PGA Golf Management program and competed in events like the Jones Cup, an amateur invitational tournament that brings together amateurs from the United States and abroad, which helped him build his tournament resilience and focus. Now, as a seasoned PGA professional, Dillard’s consistency and dedication have led to standout performances, including being named the 2024 Player of the Year and the Ben Hogan Stroke Play Scoring Average Winner in the Northern Texas Section.


One of the keys to Dillard's success has been his ability to stay grounded and focus on the process, rather than obsessing over the results.


 “It's not always a linear line between work and results,” he said. “There’s ups and downs, and it can be like a roller coaster sometimes.”


By shifting his mindset, Dillard has learned to embrace the game for what it is. 


“I've been really working on just having more fun and not being so worried about going out and playing the best that you can, just enjoying it for what it's worth, and just staying in the moment,” Dillard said.


He attributes his success and passion for the game to his ability to stay mentally and physically balanced, focusing on enjoying the sport rather than placing unnecessary pressure on himself. This mindset has been particularly valuable as he prepares for another trip to the upcoming PGA Professional Championship in Florida.


As he heads into the national competition, Dillard’s focus remains on enjoying the experience and representing the Northern Texas Section with pride. 


“We have one of the best Sections, if not the best Section in the country.” When asked about representing it on the national level Dillard said, “it’s something I take a lot of pride in.”


With his hard-earned success and deep love for the game, Dillard is not only proving his competitive mettle, but also setting an example for others, showing that success is as much about the journey as the destination.


A Strong Representation:

These three professionals not only represent their clubs, but also embody the heart and spirit of the Northern Texas PGA community. Their journeys to this Championship have been shaped by dedication, invaluable mentorship and a deep passion for the game.


The Champion, provided they’re eligible, will earn a spot in the 2025 PGA Professional Championship. The top four finishers and ties will earn exemptions into the 2025 National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship.


With the support of the entire Northern Texas PGA membership behind them, Tristan Cottrell, Spencer Dillard and Ben Swaffield are ready to take on the national stage in the Sunshine State. We wish them the best of luck as they compete!


To follow their journey and catch all the tournament updates, click HERE.

Bingaman, Shields Earn First Match Play Victories at the Duel in the Desert at Lajitas Golf Resort

By Margaret Miller • December 9, 2025
LAJITAS, Texas (December 9) – Brandon Bingaman, PGA assistant professional at Gleneagles Country Club, won the Duel in the Desert at Lajitas Golf Resort to claim the 2025 Yamaha Golf-Car Company | Srixon and Nike Match Play Championship Open Division title. Rob Shields, PGA member at The Winsford Group, claimed the Senior Division title. The No. 2-seeded Bingaman battled No. 12 Jon Antunes, PGA director of instruction at Heart of Texas Golf Academy, in a 36-hole final match for the title and $10,000. Both players began their run to the championship match back in October at White Bluff Resort, where they battled their way through the 32-player Match Play Championship bracket. “It’s incredible out here,” said Bingaman. “Jon is awesome; we couldn’t have had more fun. It’s hard, because on one hand you want to win and it's stressful, but on the other hand we were just two guys enjoying playing golf.” After playing 18 holes on Monday, their match stood at 2UP in favor of Bingaman. He continued his charge with birdies on holes 2, 3, 4, 5 and 8, extending his lead to 7UP. Antunes quickly answered back with a long putt on the 9th hole to cut into Bingaman's lead. But, Bingaman drained a birdie putt on hole 13 to end the match. He claimed his first Match Play title 7&5. Bingaman made a putter switch in between the 36-hole match. “I brought two putters with me. I’ve been flipping back and forth recently between a L.A.B Putter and a Scottie Cameron, which did me well last week. Going into this weekend, I had a good feeling [about the latter], and good feelings turned into good playing.” This is the first year that Bingaman has made it to the final match. Antunes has won the title twice, previously in 2021 and 2022. “This was my first time qualifying for [Duel in the Desert], and I was super excited because I’ve heard nothing but great things about Lajitas Golf Resort,” said Bingaman. In the Senior Division, Rob Shields, PGA Member of the Winsford Group, started the day with a 1UP lead over Billy Harris. Harris birdied the 2nd hole to tie the match, and on the next hole, he went 1UP. Shields and Harris battled back and forth on holes 4, 5, 6 and 7 before Shields won holes 8, 9 and 10. His 3UP lead was enough to take the victory on hole 16, 3&2. “I think my putting was good. I hit the fairways today, which is good because if not, you’re playing in the trees, or desert; but, it was fun. I had a good time,” said Shields. He continued by praising his opponent and friend, Billy Harris, “I’ve known Billy for a long time. He’s a good guy.” Shields earned $5,000 for his victory today and his first match play title. This year was the fourth year that the Open Division championship match was conducted in Lajitas and the second year that the Senior Division joined them. “This place is a hidden gem. It’s a great golf course, lots and lots of fun. It was a joy being out here. The elevation changes are awesome,” said Shields about Lajitas Golf Resort. The Yamaha Golf-Car Company | Srixon and Nike Match Play Championship was presented by Adventures In Golf, Lajitas Golf Resort, PGA TOUR, THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson, TPx Communications and XXIO.
Cameron Doan GY

Northern Texas PGA Announces 2025 Section Award Winners

By Molly Rawlins • November 21, 2025
2025 NTPGA Award Winners

Team NTPGA Victorious at Historic 45th Texas Joe Black Cup Matches

November 18, 2025
HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 18, 2025) – The historic 45th Joe Black Cup has concluded, and we proudly congratulate Team NTPGA on securing the victory at BraeBurn Country Club with a final score of 15.5–8.5 over Team STPGA. Team NTPGA established early momentum during Day One, delivering an impressive performance in the Four-Ball and Foursomes matches, where they earned 9.5 points to build a commanding lead. Their strong play continued into the Singles matches, where they successfully held off a determined rally from Team STPGA. Throughout Tuesday’s competition, spectators were treated to a dynamic and engaging battle, with the leaderboard frequently shifting between red and blue as both teams exchanged critical points to tie the session 6-6. This year’s event was elevated by a truly memorable “Evening of Honor,” during which we welcomed and celebrated 29 Past Captains. Their presence underscored the tradition, legacy, and camaraderie that define the Texas Joe Black Cup Matches. The evening served as a powerful reminder of the event’s rich history and the influential leaders who have helped shape its enduring significance. We extend heartfelt congratulations to Team NTPGA for their outstanding performance and to both teams for exemplifying sportsmanship, competitive spirit, and pride in their respective sections. The 45th Joe Black Cup will long be remembered as a fitting tribute to the heritage of golf in Texas, Mr. Joe Black, and the individuals who continue to elevate the game. After 45 years of competition, the Northern Texas PGA now holds a 22–21–2 lead over the Southern Texas PGA in the storied history of the Joe Black Cup Matches. The 46th playing will return to Midland Country Club on November 16–17, 2026, where Team STPGA will look to reclaim the cup and bring it back to Southern Texas. A special thank you to Club Car, Srixon, Cleveland Golf, Peter Millar, and Winston Collection for their outstanding partnership and support in creating a world-class atmosphere befitting this historic 45th edition of the Matches. To view the final results, click here .

Dillard Earns $25,000 at Jerry J. Ransom Northern Texas PGA Shootout at The Oaks

By Molly Rawlins • November 9, 2025
GREENVILLE, Texas (November 9) – Spencer Dillard, PGA head professional at Preston Trail Golf Club, claimed the Jerry J. Ransom Northern Texas PGA Shootout at The Oaks title, taking home $25,000 for the shootout win. It took two playoff holes for Dillard to best runner-up Matt Lohmeyer, PGA director of instruction at SLICGOLF, with Dillard making par on the second playoff hole while Lohmeyer made bogey after his tee shot found its way into the creek. “Playing hole nine a few times was hard,” commented Dillard. “[The shootout] is different than stroke play golf. It was like match play. You kind of saw what your opponents were in position for and what they were going to do, just trying to outlast them to the finish line. I was pretty comfortable in the shootout portion. Having Mark [Harrison] and Randy [Smith] there with the mics commenting and having some good banter kept us all relaxed. It is awesome to win that kind of money. Quite life-changing for those of us who get the chance to play for it. Thanks, Mr. Ransom, for everything you do for the Section.” Longtime NTPGA Foundation supporter Jerry J. Ransom welcomed 70 Northern Texas PGA Members and Associates to The Oaks Country Club for the second annual Shootout. The event was created last year as a way to recognize the PGA Professionals across the Section who dedicate their time and energy to growing the game through the NTPGA Foundation’s initiatives. The event was developed by Ransom in collaboration with NTPGA CEO Mark Harrison as a way to thank PGA Professionals across the Northern Texas Section while also providing exposure to The Oaks Country Club. The Oaks is a top-five nine-hole course in Texas according to the Dallas Morning News golf course rankings. The format for the event features a 9-hole qualifier, with the top three finishers and one randomly selected participant moving on to the afternoon shootout. Darren Malicki, PGA Associate at Cascades Country Club, was the first qualifier after finishing 3-under-par. Lohmeyer was the next to advance at 2-under, and finally Dillard at 1-under. Andrew Martin, PGA Associate at Tanglewood Golf Course, was the random drawing winner. The nine-hole Shootout portion of the event was played in three stages of three holes each, with one professional eliminated after every stage. After the first three holes, Martin was eliminated and landed a prize of $2,500. The scores were then reset to even par and the second three holes saw Darren Malicki bow out, but still earned $7,500. The scores again reset to even par for the final three-hole segment, where Dillard and Lohmeyer battled it out in five. The Oaks Country Club 9 Holes Par 36 3,355 yards View the final results HERE