SIOUX FALLS, SD (Press Release) – The Board of Directors of the South Dakota Golf Association is pleased to announce that Dean Zahn, from Aberdeen, has been hired as the SDGA Director Competitions starting January 1, 2025. Dean will be replacing Eric Gannon, who passed away unexpectedly earlier this year.

Dean comes to the SDGA staff with a deep understanding of the Association, having served on the Board of Directors, as well as his most recent position as Vice-President of the SDGA Junior Golf Foundation. He has been instrumental in guiding the Association’s activities over the past 20 years, and was elected to the South Dakota Golf Hall of Fame in 2018.

Dean was elected to membership in the PGA in 1992, and has served Moccasin Creek Country Club in Aberdeen as PGA Assistant Professional, Head Professional, Director of Golf, and General Manager since 1992. He has served on the Minnesota Section PGA Board of Directors, and was awarded several section awards including PGA Golf Professional of the Year in 2002. Dean has a distinguished playing career as well, winning the Dakota Open twice and competing on the national stage at USGA Sectional Qualifying for the US Open and the National Senior Club Professional Championship. Dean is a certified Coach with First Tee — South Dakota, and has been a tireless supporter of junior golf in Aberdeen and across South Dakota.

“Dean checks all of the boxes when it comes to what the SDGA needs to continue conducting quality Championships and events. His experience, dedication, enthusiasm, and leadership will only make the SDGA better,” said Tom Jansa, SDGA Executive Director. “Dean is known throughout the area as the consummate PGA professional with extensive experience in managing Championships and providing players with great experiences.”

“I am truly excited and honored to be joining the SDGA and to work alongside a talented team and dedicated Board of Directors in delivering top-level Championships and events,” said Dean. “The SDGA’s mission of growing the game of golf in South Dakota and conducting high-caliber Championships, junior events, and helping member clubs provide outstanding services to their members is a mission I am eager to embrace.”