One of Maryland’s most celebrated golf leaders, a PGA of America Hall of Famer with a proven passion for mentoring juniors, is taking the helm of the state’s most important new junior golf initiative.
Lutherville, Md. (December 17, 2025) – The Maryland State Golf Association (MSGA) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Bob Dolan, PGA, as the inaugural coach of Team Maryland. This announcement comes on the heels of the official launch of Team Maryland, a new initiative through the United States Golf Association’s (USGA) U.S. National Development Program (USNDP) to foster junior golf excellence throughout the state and the District of Columbia.
“Bob Dolan has long been a trusted friend and steadfast supporter of the MSGA. He has distinguished himself as a professional, a player, and a mentor to generations of golfers,” said Sinclair Eaddy, MSGA president. “After a remarkable career at Columbia Country Club, we are excited to see him begin his next chapter guiding the state’s top junior players. His leadership and insight will be invaluable as we build Team Maryland and advance our statewide player development program. We are truly fortunate to have someone so widely respected for both his integrity and his lasting contributions to the game.”
Team Maryland aims to identify, develop, and support the state’s brightest young golf talent by offering them elite training, coaching, and competitive experiences. The team, which will be named in late 2026, will comprise five boys and five girls. A selection committee will oversee the team selection criteria and the operation of Team Maryland, in accordance with guidelines provided by the USNDP.
Dolan, renowned for his passion and technical expertise, has accumulated a remarkable array of accolades throughout his career, including 28 years as Columbia Country Club’s Head Professional. He received the PGA of America’s National Youth Player Development Award in 2000, as well as Middle Atlantic PGA (MAPGA) honors, including PGA Professional of the Year in 1997 and MAPGA Junior Golf Leader in 1998.
In addition to his time at Columbia Country Club, Dolan is also a founding member of the First Tee of Greater Washington, D.C., where he served on the Executive Committee as chair of the Program Committee. He was instrumental in establishing the Columbia Country Club Honorary Scholarship, which is awarded to selected participants of the First Tee of Greater Washington, D.C. Dolan has collaborated with other organizations, including the Neediest Kids Charity and Golf in Schools.
“Bob leads with integrity, character, and a deep belief in developing young people the right way,” said Kelly Newland, PGA, MSGA executive director. “He sets a high standard for our athletes and for this program. His leadership will shape the foundation of Team Maryland for years to come.”
Dolan’s impressive resume is bolstered by additional awards, including a national recipient of the PGA of America’s Bill Strausbaugh Award, as well as a multiple-time recipient of the MAPGA section’s Bill Strausbaugh Award. The award recognizes PGA Professionals who have shown outstanding integrity and commitment to mentoring their fellow PGA Professionals. In 2023, Dolan was inducted into both the MAPGA and the PGA of America’s Hall of Fames, a deserving honor for his outstanding leadership and the lasting impact he has had on the region’s golf community, especially among juniors.
As the coach of Team Maryland, Dolan will play a pivotal role in mentoring and guiding the state’s top junior golfers, focusing on competition readiness, course strategy, and personal growth. The coach will ensure that the athletes are equipped to compete at the highest levels while fostering a positive, competitive team culture.
“I am truly honored to receive this opportunity from the Maryland State Golf Association,” said Bob Dolan, PGA. “I look forward to developing the next generation of young golfers in Maryland and the District of Columbia through this new initiative. It is a privilege to be part of their growth and success, and I am excited to contribute to the future of golf with Team Maryland.”
For more information about Team Maryland, please visit the Team Maryland webpage.
MSGA Mission
To serve, grow, and advance the game of golf in Maryland and the District of Columbia.
