PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague will step down from his role to provide “increased care” for his mother and mother-in-law in New York, the association announced Wednesday.
Further details regarding their health were not immediately available.
“At my daughter’s wedding last month in upstate New York, it became clear that my family needs me nearby to assist with the care of my mother and mother‑in‑law,” Sprague, a PGA of America Hall of Famer, said in a news release. “Focusing on family has become my priority, and the best decision for me is to step away from my role as CEO and return home to be with them.
“Serving as CEO of the PGA of America over the past year has been an incredible honor, and I will always be grateful for the trust placed in me by the Board and thank them for their understanding. I also want to thank our staff for their tireless dedication. Their passion and commitment inspire me, and I know the Association will continue to thrive as it carries forward the proud mission of serving our members and growing the game,” he added.
The PGA of America said it expects to name a new CEO “in the coming weeks,” during which Sprague will serve in an advisory role. The association said its Board and Officers “fully supported” Sprague’s decision after he informed them in early December.
Sprague’s departure comes just over a year after he was appointed as the PGA of America’s CEO in December 2024, replacing Seth Waugh, who stepped down in June of that year.
He previously served as president of the association from 2014-16 and was elected an officer in 2010, according to the release. He also served as a board member from 2008-10 after joining the PGA of America in 1993.
Sprague was inducted into the PGA of America Hall of Fame in 2019.