New Man in Charge at TPC Deere Run

The start of a new golf season brings new leadership to TPC Deere Run, home of the John Deere Classic and one of the Midwest's finest courses. 

Todd Hajduk (pronounced HY-DUKE) is Deere Run's new general manager and director of golf. He arrived in January from TPC Las Vegas, where he had spent the previous seven years as head golf professional and director of business development.

"It's very exciting to be here at TPC Deere Run, the site of a PGA TOUR event that's getting better every year," Hajduk said.  "In addition to hosting the pros, it's also fun to be associated with a premier golf course where every day players of varying skill levels can enjoy themselves in a natural setting and a friendly atmosphere that are second to none."

Unusually warm weather in March has translated into some 1,000 rounds of golf already this season - compared to only a couple of hundred rounds in March 2011.  That means a head start on making this year's budget numbers and a bit of a cushion against potential bad weather later this season.

Todd is no stranger to PGA Tour pros, a number of whom live in Las Vegas and would practice and play at TPC Las Vegas.  So, when the John Deere Classic comes to town July 9-15, he will know a number of the guys - and not just from seeing them on TV.

Todd's challenge at Deere Run will be to attract more local and regional players to a spectacular destination golf course. That'll mean introducing the course to more players in the Chicago area and its large population of avid public fee golfers while maintaining its loyal local following.

A change in leadership also means other changes and improvements are coming.  Stay tuned.  Todd promises changes will be coming soon.