Eleven education sessions included:
- Stories and secrets of success from NFL legend and commentator Phil Simms.
- An insightful look at what makes Augusta National Golf Club stand out, from Jim James, CCM, chief club and hospitality officer, and Kevin Bozada, CCM, CS, senior director of club and hospitality.
- A look at the future of H-2B and other employment-sponsored immigration programs from Keith Pabian, founding partner, Pabian Law.
- Congressman Mike Carey (R-Ohio) on what's happening on Capitol Hill and what it means for private clubs.
- Panels on executive transitions, government relations and thriving amidst change.
- A rousing and educational wine tasting class with renowned sommelier, author and teacher Kevin Zraly.
The Excellence in Club Management® Awards, opening and networking roundtable lunches and Chair's Reception and Dinner offered inspiration and amazing fare, the vendor exhibit was busy, and as usual, networking went on around every corner.
See photos here and save the date for 2026, April 19-21 at Ocean Reef Club, Key Largo, Fla.
The association's
2025-2026 Board of Directors and Executive Committee were named during the Conference. This year's Board is led by Chair Michael McCarthy, Addison Reserve Country Club; Vice Chair Joel Livingood, Interlachen Country Club; and Secretary/Treasurer Tom Wallace, KOPPLIN KUEBLER & WALLACE. NCA thanks departing Chair Luke O'Boyle, Chevy Chase Club, and Board members Matt Cary, National Democratic Club; and Nick Sidorakis, formerly with Southern Hills Country Club, for their commitment and service to NCA.
NCA unveiled a new website at the end of the National Club Conference, featuring easier-to-use navigation, resources, simplified event sign-up and more. Check it out at
nationalclub.org; if you haven't already, you'll need to reset your password for member-only content.
NCA and CMAA released the second edition of
Private Club Governance: A Handbook of Principles and Best Practices in April. The new edition features additional resources and information for private clubs striving for excellence in governance. NCA members can download their
free copies here.
Things stayed busy right up until the Conference kicked off, too. NCA co-hosted a fundraiser for Congressman Rick Allen (R-Ga.) in early April; Allen represents the district that includes Augusta National Golf Club and Augusta Country Club.
President & CEO Joe Trauger spent April 8 advocating for private clubs on Capitol Hill, talking about relevant issues, including potential changes to the tax code, with:
- Rep. Ron Estes (R- Kansas)
- Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.)
- Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.)
- Rep. Beth Van Duyne (R-Texas)
- Rep. Greg Steube (R-Fla.)
Trauger then addressed the Grey Oaks Country Club Board of Directors April 15, where Don Emery was recognized for his Excellence in Club Management® award.
