The JGAA would like to welcome new Tournament Director Mckenzie O’Brien. Originally from Iowa, Mckenzie played on the college golf team at Eastern Illinois where she graduated with a degree in Business Management. She then earned her Masters at Clarke University (Iowa) where she was the Graduate Assistant Coach for the Men’s and Women’s Golf Teams. Prior to the JGAA she was an intern for the USGA at the 2023 US Open at Los Angeles Country Club.
Get to Know Mckenzie:
Hometown: Davenport, IA
College/Graduation Date: Eastern Illinois University 2021; Clarke University 2022
Major: Business Management; Business Administration
Favorite Teams: Iowa Women’s Basketball, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Blackhawks
Favorite Course you’ve visited: Pinehurst #2
Favorite Course you’ve played: TPC Deere Run
Were you involved in golf before working with the JGAA?: I played golf at the division 1 level in college. Then was a graduate assistant golf coach for both the men’s and women’s team in grad school. Later worked for the USGA at the 2023 U.S. Open in Los Angeles overseeing 3,500 volunteers.
What’s your favorite golf memory: Caddying for my former teammate in the U.S. Adaptive Open and winning in 2023.
Who is your favorite PGA TOUR Pro? Why?: Zach Johnson. He is from the great state of Iowa.
What are some of your favorite hobbies: Pickleball, hiking, going to sporting events.
