Women's History Month Featuring Nikki Prichard, PGA
Join us this Women's History Month as we highlight the six women who serve on the Southern California PGA Board of Directors.
WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH INTERVIEW
Nikki Prichard, PGA
Director
Arrowood Golf Course
Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in golf, and how did you get started?
– I grew up playing basketball, believing my height made it my calling—until everyone else started catching up. My dad, a former baseball player turned golfer, set up a net in our backyard, and I’d watch him hit balls for hours. Eventually, I gave it a try myself and instantly fell in love with the game. My grandparents had a house in Palm Desert, and every visit meant driving my grandpa’s golf cart around, deepening my passion for the sport. I played high school and college golf, earning a full scholarship to the University of Nevada-Reno. After graduation, I moved back to Southern California to pursue a professional golf career. To save money on practice, I applied for jobs at courses across San Diego—just for the free range balls and playing privileges. That led me to Arrowood Golf Course in Oceanside, where I started by helping with clinics and working in the shop, unknowingly beginning my journey in leadership. Over time, I realized I found more fulfillment in leading a team than in winning tournaments. I progressed from Golf Shop Manager to Head Golf Professional, then Director of Golf after earning my PGA Membership, and now I serve as the Assistant General Manager. It has been a really fun journey filled with growth and learning!
Q: What does it mean to you to serve on the SCPGA Board of Directors?
– Giving back is at the heart of everything I do. My father has always said to me “Make a difference in someone’s life today” and I try to live up to that every day. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors—leaders who served on the Board and made a lasting impact on my journey. Their influence has inspired me to serve as well. My passion lies in mentorship and developing future leaders. There’s nothing more fulfilling than watching Associates become Members and then seeing them step up to make their own impact. As PGA Members, growing the game of golf is our mission, and for me, the most meaningful way to do that is through service.
Q: What advice would you offer girls everywhere who are thinking about pursuing a career in the golf industry?
– Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone—it’s where real growth happens. When I first became Shop Manager at Arrowood, I found myself leading a team of retired veterans and accomplished businessmen—as a 22-year-old woman. It was intimidating, to say the least. But I quickly learned that respect is earned by showing respect, demonstrating knowledge, and proving you’re there to help. The same held true when I stood in front of a room full of award-winning golf professionals to run for the Board of Directors. Terrifying? Absolutely. But I did it because I knew I had something valuable to offer the SCPGA—and my actions had already shown others that, too. Always do the right thing, choose the harder right over the easier wrong, and get involved!
Q: What does it mean to you to be part of the 27% of women in the golf world in the United States? How does that number continue to grow?
– I’m incredibly proud to be part of the 27% of women in the golf industry, and I’m committed to helping that number grow. Women bring a valuable and unique perspective to the game, and increasing our presence only strengthens the industry. While working in a male-dominated field can feel intimidating, it shouldn’t be a barrier. The key is empowering more women to pursue opportunities in golf—when more talented women apply, and the best candidates are chosen, that percentage will naturally rise. Since becoming a PGA Member in 2019, I’ve already seen tremendous progress. The SCPGA Women’s Section tournaments have gone from a handful of strong players to highly competitive fields. Additionally, our Board of Directors now has six women serving, providing excellent representation. The momentum is there—we just have to keep encouraging more women to step into the industry and make their mark.
Q: How do you think the golf industry can continue to support and encourage more women to pursue careers in the sport?
– The golf industry can better support and encourage women by welcoming those without traditional golf backgrounds. At Arrowood, we’ve had several women with little to no prior golf experience who have made a significant impact on our operation. Expanding opportunities to individuals with diverse skill sets and perspectives will only strengthen the industry. Additionally, there’s a need for greater education and awareness about women in leadership roles. Too often, golfers are surprised to see women in leadership positions at courses, and that perception needs to change. By actively promoting the success of women in the industry, we can help normalize and inspire more female leadership. Finally, outreach is key. Connecting with high school, college, and junior golfers to highlight the career opportunities in golf—and the impact they can have—will help attract more women to the industry and ensure its continued growth.
Q: Can you share a memorable experience or achievement in your golf career that has been especially meaningful to you?
– Three moments stand out as especially meaningful in my golf career.
a. The first was winning the Women’s Section Championship in 2022. I hadn’t even planned to play until one of my mentors, Ed Winiecki, called me and asked why I hadn’t signed up. That extra push was a powerful reminder of why I became a PGA Member in the first place—because of my love for the game. I signed up at the last minute and ended up winning! It was an unforgettable experience.
b. Another defining moment was giving my speech when running for the Section Board of Directors. Speaking in front of a room full of accomplished PGA Professionals was nerve-wracking, and I had no expectations going in. When I was elected by my peers, it was both humbling and inspiring—proof that stepping outside my comfort zone was worth it.
c. Lastly, being honored with the 2024 SCPGA Bill Strausbaugh Award for mentorship was incredibly rewarding. My goal every day is to make a difference in someone’s life and receiving recognition for something I’m so passionate about was truly special.