In the inaugural edition of our "Get to Know FSGA Staff Member" series, we’re featuring Brian Nichol. As many of you know, Brian is the Director of Junior Golf,
dedicating much of his time to the growth and development of the Florida Junior Tour, along with various other initiatives to support junior golf across the state. Interested to learn more about Brian's journey with the FSGA and how he first got started? Read along!
Going back to the beginning, Brian’s earliest golf memories come from the Korn Ferry Tour event that his father ran in Knoxville. Like many at that age, most of what he remembered was the ice cream that was stationed in Volunteer Central. Once he was old enough, he spent hours around the short game area the week prior to the tournament, and was immediately hooked. Years later, Brian started playing competitively, where he competed in many FJT events and even the 55th Boys’ Junior Championship that he qualified for.
Moving into college, Brian went to the University of Florida where he became a team manager for the football team, but his love for golf never faltered. He continued playing when his busy schedule allowed, and eventually became an intern for the FSGA after graduating. Immediately following his internship, he joined the FSGA staff full time in 2020.
Since being on staff, Brian’s favorite FSGA experience has been going to officiate the U.S. Girls’ Championship. The highlight of the trip, however, came after his duties were complete, when he had the chance to follow several Florida players as they competed for a spot inside the cutline for match play. Watching players like Remi Bacardi, Sophia Dyer and Charlotte Cantonis all play their last nine holes under par to qualify for the round of 64, Brian felt a great sense of joy seeing these players accomplish their goals on the national level. “Seeing each and every one of the FJT players who are able to accomplish such great heights in this game really makes me grateful to be a part of the FSGA and Florida Junior Tour on a daily basis,” Brian explained.
As we look ahead to the rest of this year, junior golf in Florida is set to make history. For the first time ever, the 71st Boys’ Junior Championship and the 66th Girls’ Junior Championship will be held simultaneously at Streamsong Resort, utilizing all three of its golf courses. Over 250 of the state’s top junior golfers will compete at the same time for two prestigious State Championships. “I don’t know if much is going to compare to the experience we are going to have this year at Streamsong Resort,” Brian said when asked what he is most looking forward to this year. His honorable mention would be the opportunity to go for three consecutive victories with the South Team at the Junior Florida Cup later in August.
Keep your eye out for the next edition of “Meet the FSGA Staff Member” next month as we will learn more about Tournament Director, Matthew Marquez!
