KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C. -- Seven months ago, Stephen Youngner was named PGA head professional at The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island (S.C.) Golf Resort. But, Youngner is anything but a rookie on the island. His entire professional career has featured the Resort's logo on his chest, and anyone needing sage advice should consult him when attempting to play one of America's more challenging layouts.

Stephen Youngner, PGA head professional
Youngner, 37, will serve as Host PGA Professional for the 68th Senior PGA Championship, May 24-27, 2007, when The Ocean Course will entertain the strongest field in senior golf.

"We have a unique Resort in that there are five courses that are diverse in design and topography, all distinctive," said Youngner. "They are spread out across the island and have each been well received for their playability and the challenge they present – both to the amateur and professional. The Ocean Course has matured tremendously in the 16 years since the Ryder Cup was played here.

"It is not as penal as it once was, but the Course's challenge will always be determined by the wind and the condition of the wind. The Ocean Course does not have a prevailing wind. The set-up for any event is determined by the wind, and you truly have to be prepared for anything."

In 2003, architect Pete Dye returned to The Ocean Course and added collection areas around the greens. Additionally, last July there was a major teamwork effort that enabled the Resort to deal with the ravages of nature.

In 1999, Hurricane Floyd intervened to spoil the aesthetics by cutting a channel parallel to the beach. Erosion became a major threat and the Resort, the town of Kiawah Island and the Kiawah Island Community Association teamed to complete a beach refurbishment. A new channel was designed perpendicular to the beach, ensuring a stronger foundation for The Ocean Course.

"We have regained the beach," said Youngner. "It was a great team effort."

Youngner, who began his professional career as Kiawah Island Golf Resort's Osprey Point in 1997, became that course's first PGA assistant professional in 1999. He moved to the Resort's Oak Point Golf Club and remained there until 2006, when he was named PGA head professional at The Ocean Course.

Youngner oversees a 105-member caddie corps at The Ocean Course, along with a staff of 12 starters/player assistants; and seven assistants in the golf shop.

"The caddie program has been a tremendous success and truly added to the total golf experience," said Youngner, a native of Brunswick, Ga. "There are no houses on The Ocean Course, and when you can be with a caddie out there, it is an overall experience that most golfers are certain to enjoy."

While there are many players in the 68th Senior PGA Championship who are familiar with course changes over the past few years, Youngner said those same players should not be lured into believing The Ocean Course is a quick study.

"The Ocean Course has evolved over the years for the better," he said. "It is going to be exciting to host the Senior PGA Championship, and five years later, we'll have a PGA Championship here."

* The 68th Senior PGA Championship field will feature the first appearance in the Championship by two-time PGA Champion Nick Price (1992, '94). In addition to Price, the 156-player field commitments currently feature four other PGA Champions – Hubert Green (1985), Larry Nelson (1981, '87), Gary Player (1962, '72) and Dave Stockton (1970, '76).
* Defending Champion Jay Haas will be joined by six past Champions: Hale Irwin (1996, ‘97, ‘98, 2004); Gary Player (1986, ‘88, ‘90); Mike Reid (2005); Tom Wargo (1993); Allen Doyle (1999) and Tom Watson (2001).
* There are 12 major Champions in the field including: Irwin, Player, Watson, Green, Tom Kite, Nelson, Jerry Pate, Price, Bill Rogers, Scott Simpson, Craig Stadler and Stockton.

Begun in 1937, the Senior PGA Championship is the oldest major Championship in senior golf. It was first played at Augusta (Ga.) National Golf Club at the invitation of the legendary Bobby Jones, and has since become the most prestigious title in senior golf -- with a past Champions roster that features virtually all the greatest players in golf.

Tickets to the 68th Senior PGA Championship are available by calling 800-PGA-GOLF (800-742-4653) or by visiting www.seniorPGA2007.com.

The PGA of America is the world's largest working sports organization, comprised of 28,000 men and women golf Professionals who are the recognized experts in growing, teaching and managing the game of golf, while serving millions of people throughout its 41 PGA Sections nationwide. Since its founding in 1916, The PGA of America has enhanced its leadership position in a $62 billion-a-year industry by growing the game of golf through its premier spectator events, world-class education and training programs, significant philanthropic outreach initiatives and award-winning golf promotions. Today's PGA Professional is the public's link to the game, serving an essential role in the operation of golf facilities throughout the country.