About Courtney Connell

ABOUT THE HOST

Leadership & Service in the Game

Courtney Connell’s life and career have been deeply rooted in the game of golf. From his early days as a caddie to becoming a PGA Master Professional, Courtney has spent decades building relationships, mentoring players, serving the golf industry, and helping grow the game at every level.

A respected leader throughout Texas and the PGA of America, Courtney is best known for his 17-year tenure as PGA Head Golf Professional at Mira Vista Country Club in Fort Worth, where he became widely recognized for his passion for hospitality, member experience, mentorship, and community involvement. Throughout his career, he has remained committed not only to the traditions of golf, but to the people and stories that make the game meaningful.

Courtney has served in numerous leadership positions within the Northern Texas PGA and nationally through the PGA of America. He is a Past President of the Northern Texas PGA and a former Board Member of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame. His dedication to service, education, and player development has earned him respect throughout the industry, including being named the 2022 Northern Texas PGA Golf Professional of the Year, as well as recognition as a National Award Winner in the Merchandiser – Public category.

Beyond the golf shop and tournament operations, Courtney has remained actively involved in initiatives that support the future of the game, including PGA HOPE, PGA Jr. League, junior golf development, charitable fundraising, and mentoring the next generation of players and golf professionals. He believes golf has the unique ability to create lifelong friendships, shape character, and positively impact lives far beyond the course.

Before beginning his professional career, Courtney played collegiate golf at Abilene Christian University, where he was a four-year varsity letterman and team captain for the men’s golf team from 1983–1985. He later competed as a member of the Texas Joe Black Cup Team and served as the winning captain of the 2022 team.

Today, Courtney continues to serve the game through leadership, storytelling, and relationship-building as the host of Fairways & Friends, a podcast dedicated to sharing the people, personalities, traditions, and unforgettable stories that make golf so special.

Outside of golf, Courtney’s greatest joy comes from spending time with his wife, their seven children, and ten grandchildren.

Your HOSt

A Lifetime in Golf

SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF THE GAME

Giving Back Through Golf

Throughout his career, Courtney has remained committed to organizations and initiatives that use golf to create mentorship, opportunity, leadership, and lasting community impact.