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MountainGate Country Club

American Golf: Comprehensive Golf Course Management

American Golf is a full-service golf course management firm with over 50 years of experience in the industry. Our services encompass all aspects of course operations, including agronomy, sales and marketing, digital and social media strategy, merchandising, food and beverage, human resource and benefits management, accounting, capital improvement oversight, and team development.

The golf industry has experienced significant growth during the current COVID crisis in America.  Thousands of people have either returned to the game or experienced it for the first time.  The underlying question for the golf industry is “What will golf look like in a post-COVID world?”  Preparing to retain these golfers while offsetting continuing pressure from rising costs and wages is the primary operating challenge for the future.

We draw on decades of experience to implement innovative strategies that not only attracts new players to the game but perhaps more importantly retains players. This forward-thinking approach enables AGC-managed properties to consistently outperform the broader market, even in a competitive environment.

Recognizing that every golf course has unique characteristics, our approach blends a proven operational framework with the flexibility needed to adapt to each facility’s individual needs. We empower on-site management teams to tailor our systems in ways that best support their specific goals and communities.

At American Golf, we understand the importance of striking a thoughtful balance between growing revenue and managing costs responsibly. We also know that no marketing effort can succeed without a strong product foundation—our focus remains on delivering quality experiences that meet and exceed market expectations.

As a recognized leader in the golf industry, American Golf has built a talented and passionate team. We actively recruit professionals who bring deep expertise and a fresh perspective to every property we manage. Over the years, we have refined time-tested practices across key areas such as revenue management, marketing, membership programs, agronomy, and risk management, ensuring market leading success for our partners and clients.

Our services include operations, agronomy, sales and marketing, internet, online and social media management, merchandising, food and beverage, benefits administration, accounting services, construction and capital investment, and staff training.

Where Strategy Delivers Results — View Our Properties

We focus on and understand the balance of revenue development and common-sense cost containment.

At American Golf we also understand that the best promotion in the market is counterproductive if the facility fundamentals do not meet market standards. American Golf’s position as an industry leader has allowed us to develop and recruit some of the best people in the business. We seek teammates who bring expertise and innovation to the facilities we manage. Our rich history has allowed us to develop time-tested and proven practices in revenue management, marketing, memberships, agronomy, and risk management.

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American Golf
Leadership Team

Head shot of Kyle Rickman, Chief Executive Officer and President at American Golf Corporation

Kyle Rickman

President and Chief Operating Officer

Kyle Rickman

President and Chief Operating Officer

Kyle Rickman has served as the President and Chief Operating Officer of Drive Shack Inc. since August 2023. Since joining the company in January 2019, he has been instrumental in driving growth, innovation, and operational excellence across Drive Shack Inc. and its portfolio of brands. His leadership has been key to the company’s expansion and continued success.

With a deep understanding of the entertainment and hospitality sectors, Kyle has held various leadership roles within the organization, bringing strategic vision and operational expertise to every facet of the business. Prior to his tenure at Drive Shack Inc., Kyle gained extensive industry experience at Topgolf, where he contributed to the company’s growth and development. His commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and fostering innovation continues to shape Drive Shack Inc.’s future.

Head shot of Paul Ballam, Senior Vice President, Head of Real Estate & AGC Strategy at American Golf Corporation

Paul Ballam

Senior Vice President, Head of Real Estate & AGC Strategy

Paul Ballam

Senior Vice President, Head of Real Estate & AGC Strategy

Paul has been a member of American Golf’s executive committee since 2014 and has led American Golf’s national business development efforts since 2007.

In addition to his extensive involvement in numerous golf facility purchase and sale transactions, he has extensive experience negotiating and implementing golf facility leases and management agreements. Throughout his more than 20-year career with American Golf, Paul has held senior golf operations positions and has been integral to the Company’s efforts in partnering with golf course owners including numerous municipalities to provide capital improvements and professional golf management services to their constituents. Prior to joining American Golf, Paul held various management and operations positions at a wide variety of golf facilities including a municipally owned course, member-owned private clubs, and a major golf resort.

Paul earned his B.A. in History from Brandeis University where he was a co-captain of the school’s golf team

Mike Chicoine

Head of Construction and Project Development

Mike Chicoine

Head of Construction and Project Development

Mike Chicoine serves as the Head of Construction and Project Development at Drive Shack Inc., a leading owner and operator of golf-focused leisure and entertainment businesses, including American Golf Corporation, Drive Shack, and its newest concept, Puttery. With over 20 years of comprehensive professional experience in construction, development, and real estate, Mike brings a deep understanding of project execution and strategic growth. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maine and has been with Drive Shack and American Golf for the past five years, leading all construction and development initiatives since 2020.

Michael DeJordy

Vice President Private Club Division

Michael DeJordy

Vice President Private Club Division

Michael joined American golf in 2014 as the General Manager of MountainGate Country Club located in Los Angeles.

Michael came from outside the company with an extensive background in private club operations including general management and Director of Golf positions.  In 2015 Michael was promoted to Regional Manager supporting the General Managers of four private clubs in addition to his role as GM at MountainGate.  In January 2020, Michael was promoted to Vice President Private Club Division with oversight for all of American Golf’s private clubs.

Michael is a Certified Club Manager through the CMAA, a Certified Golf Professional with credentials in Ownership and Leasing, Executive Management, Retail, Golf Operations, Instruction, and General Management.   He has also achieved the title of PGA Master professional in the area of General Management.  He graduated in 2003 from Saint Petersburg College with a degree in Technology Management.

Rick Crowder

Regional Vice President – Revenue

Rick Crowder

Regional Vice President – Revenue

Rick Crowder is a seasoned corporate operations leader with extensive experience in the hospitality industry. Having served as a General Manager for has worked for American Golf from 2008 to 2018, and again from 2022 to the present, Rick has a proven track record of excellence in managing company operations and driving revenue growth.

Beginning his career in 2002, Rick led corporate operations for two different hotel ownership companies when he was not with AGC and was responsible for overseeing all operational revenue streams. His leadership and strategic vision have been pivotal in optimizing operational efficiencies and expanding revenue-generating opportunities.

Rick is also known for his expertise in negotiating complex third-party contracts. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to every business negotiation he leads. His ability to build strong relationships and ensure favorable terms for his companies has made him a trusted leader in the industry.

With his vast operational and legal expertise, Rick continues to significantly impact the companies he works with, ensuring success in an ever-evolving market.

Brian Bode

Vice President of Operations – West Coast Publics

Brian Bode

Vice President of Operations – West Coast Publics

Brian serves as Vice President of Operations supporting our Public golf courses.

Brian has been with American Golf for over 30 years in various management and regional positions. Brian is on the Board of Directors of the American Golf Foundation for several years and currently serves as AGF CFO. Brian has been a Class A Member of the PGA of America for over 30 years.

Brian holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Azusa Pacific University where he played college basketball and tennis.

Joyce Shelton

Regional VP – Publics

Joyce Shelton

Regional VP – Publics

Joyce Shelton is a highly experienced golf industry professional with over 20 years of experience in operational systems, revenue management, and leadership/change management. She has held leadership positions as a General Manager and Regional Manager at various clubs and is a member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council for American Golf Corporation, promoting safe, fair, and inclusive work environments.

Joyce also served as Assistant Director for the County of Los Angeles Parks and Recreations Golf Division, overseeing one of the country’s largest municipal golf systems, focusing on accessible golf.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree from CSU Long Beach and an MBA from Pepperdine University, making her a valuable leader in the golf industry with a broad knowledge of operational systems and a passion for excellence.

Adam Hill

Regional Manager – Los Angeles County & Ventura County

Adam Hill

Regional Manager – Los Angeles County & Ventura County

Adam Hill is a seasoned golf industry professional with over 30 years of experience in leadership management, revenue optimization, operational systems, and overseeing significant capital improvements. Throughout his career, Adam has held key leadership positions, including General Manager and Regional Manager, at various prestigious golf clubs throughout Southern California.

In addition to his management expertise, Adam actively caddied on the PGA Tour from 2001 to 2004, gaining valuable insights into the professional golf world. He studied Business Administration and Leisure Recreation Management at College of the Canyons and California State University, Northridge, where he was also a member of the men’s golf team. Adam’s diverse experience and commitment to excellence have made him a respected figure in the golf industry.

Gary Johnson

Regional Manager, Long Beach & Oso Creek GC

Gary Johnson

Regional Manager, Long Beach & Oso Creek GC

Gary Johnson attended Germantown High School, where he was a key member of the golf team, leading them to their first state championship appearance. His passion for golf led him to Windyke Country Club, where he gained experience in the carts and range department while continuing to compete. 

In 2002, Gary moved to San Diego to further his education and advance his career. He worked at Riverwalk Golf Course for five years, eventually earning a promotion to Tournament Director, a role he held for two years. 

Gary’s career continued progressing, with promotions to Assistant General Manager at Mission Trails Golf Course and then General Manager at Tecolote Canyon Golf Course. In 2011, he became General Manager at Skylinks Golf Course in Long Beach. His leadership and success led to his promotion in 2016 to Regional Manager, overseeing Skylinks and Oso Creek Golf Courses in Mission Viejo. He has held this role for 14 years, driving operational excellence and growth across both properties.

Headshot of Jackie Lowe, American Golf Corporation

Jackie Lowe

National Director of Event Sales

Jackie Lowe

National Director of Event Sales

With over 20 years of experience in event sales, Jackie specializes in driving revenue growth through data-informed strategies and innovative sales solutions. She has built a strong foundation in the wedding sector—crafting unforgettable experiences for couples. Jackie enjoys using data to uncover untapped opportunities, optimize sales performance, and increase profitability across all event types. She has led initiatives to reimagine pricing structures, streamline sales funnels, and create tailored packages that boost both client satisfaction and bottom-line results.

When she’s out of the office, Jackie enjoys watching her son play football, wine tasting, and traveling.

Sue Scharf

National Director of Event Sales

Sue Scharf

National Director of Event Sales

Sue Scharf is an accomplished Sales Leader with over 15 years of experience driving revenue growth, building high-performing teams, and delivering strategic sales initiatives across the wedding and event industry. Known for her results-driven approach, she has consistently exceeded targets and fostered strong professional relationships. Passionate about leadership, innovation, and hospitality, Sue brings a proven track record of scaling sales operations and mentoring future leaders.

When she’s out of the office, Sue enjoys spending time with her family, sunshine, strong coffee and great food.

Jorge Badel

Community Engagement Director

Jorge Badel

Community Engagement Director

Jorge joined American Golf as Community Engagement Director (CED). As CED he will be responsible for managing community relations and contractual requirements associated with community initiatives between American Golf and its landlords. Jorge most recently served as Senior Golf Director for the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation. In that role, he and his team oversaw all aspects the County’s 20 golf course system including the complex lease agreements between the County and its various lessees, contract development, compliance, capital projects and community relations. Prior to his County service, he served on the ground level in the golf industry as a general manager and golf professional at public and municipal facilities.

He is a Class “A” Member of the PGA of America. In 2022 he was bestowed an Honorary Life Member by the association. He is a Board member for the Southern California Golf Association, Serves on the PGA of America’s A Place to Play committee, the USGA’s Advocacy workgroup and is an SCPGA Advisory Committee member. Jorge believes that we must nurture and continue to build relationships with our guests and non-golfer constituent neighbors as well. Collectively, they allow us to thrive in the industry and collectively we will work together to fend off future economic and political pressures to repurpose our golf courses.

Head shot of Linda Crawford, Director of Marketing at American Golf Corporation

Linda Crawford

Director of Marketing

Linda Crawford

Director of Marketing

Linda Crawford began her career with American Golf in 1996, where she held various roles, including Food and Beverage Manager, Tournament Director, Assistant General Manager, and General Manager. In 2002, she relocated to California, where she transitioned into the IT department and became a Marketing Manager. Today, Linda is the Director of Marketing, overseeing national marketing strategies and initiatives.

In addition to her role at American Golf, Linda is an active member of the Advisory Board for the California Golf Course Owners Association (CGCOA), contributing her extensive industry knowledge and experience. Linda’s diverse background and leadership make her a valuable asset to her company and the golf community.

Matt Walker

Director of Technology

Matt Walker

Director of Technology

Matt began his career with American Golf in 1998 as a Corporate Travel Counselor with American Express, managing corporate travel planning. In 2001, he transitioned to the IT department as a System Support Specialist. By 2004, Matt advanced to the role of Lead Technical Support Specialist, and he is currently serving as the National Director of Technology, overseeing all technology operations for American Golf Corporation.

Matt holds an Associate of Arts in Business Computer Science from Condie Jr. College in Campbell, CA, as well as an ITIL Essentials certification and several other IT-related credentials.

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