"This committee seems to be focused on continuing to expand more of the business component."

The Brunswick News' Dave Jordan interviews incoming USGA Executive Committee member Diana Murphy, who tells us how Fred Ridley and Walter Driver ushered her onto the committee.

Diana Murphy: "Reg and I both were completely stunned by the way this happened. I have been involved with watching Reg run the organization. After his tenure, I was asked to join the communications committee and was on that committee for about six years and got involved with basic marketing and communications and the public relations side of the USGA. But we were actually having dinner with the vice chairman of the nominating committee and I honestly thought he was talking to Reg about potential candidates. He turned to me and said 'what about you?' I really thought he was kidding at first. It was not something that I had ever even thought about."

You're not alone!

I interviewed with that group and it became clear they were looking at adding not just the traditional committee members who have a very strong involvement in regional golf throughout the U.S., but this committee seems to be focused on continuing to expand more of the business component.

Because that's been working so well.

So, obvious question, how did you get introduced to golf and how is your game?

My father was from England, and he played golf growing up and taught my brother how to play, (then) my brother taught me how to chip and putt in the back yard. I've only been playing the game seriously for 20-25 years, I guess. Reg and I tend to play once a week together. That's my regular game if I have one. I don't play on a regular basis and I miss that. I'm hoping to do better now. I have been told that is a prerequisite.

So much for the business component taking priority.

You never see an ugly golf course, never interact with obnoxious people on the golf course. It is a very civilized walk in the park -- and you try and hit a little white ball.

The things you learn in the Brunswick News!