Nodjya Cook, PGA

PGA of America Director of Instruction

Nodjya grew up in Tipton, Indiana and learned the game at age 5. As she grew, her golf game grew. Winning several Junior tournaments throughout the State of Indiana and Nationally. Nodjya was a multi-sport athlete (16 varsity letters) at Tipton High School. At the time, Tipton High School didn’t offer girls’ golf, thus she played on the boys’ team. She was recruited by several Division 1 schools. In 1986, Nodjya accepted a full scholarship to the University of Nebraska. Upon graduation (1990), she decided to turn pro and ventured to South Florida to start her career in golf. She gained her PGA Class “A” membership in (May 1997). During her time in Florida, she gained valuable experience working under Jim McLean and many other top-notch PGA Pros. Their knowledge allowed Nodjya to develop her own philosophy in being creative in developing extensive junior, group and individual programs while promoting the Game of Golf. Having played in and won several professional events throughout her professional playing career has strongly influenced her approach to youth development and her overall teaching philosophy. Competing at the highest level taught her the importance of preparation, resilience, integrity, and respect values she now reinforces daily through her Jr Golf programming. Nodjya uses her experience as a professional golfer to make instruction relatable and inspiring, while intentionally aligning lessons with the core values and life skills. Having taught over 40,000 lessons and by combining elite playing experience with the mission of Guided Course, she creates a positive learning environment where young golfers develop confidence, character, and a lifelong connection to the game. During her time as Director of Instruction at the Diplomat Resort Country Club & Spa in Hallandale Beach, Florida she authored a Bi-Weekly golf Article for the Hallandale Digest (1999-2002). Filmed a TV Show/Skins Match – “NEC Super Golf”, which aired in Tokyo, Japan for 18 weeks with Ayako Okamoto, Patti Rizzo, Karrie Webb, and Kelly Robbins. (2001). In 2007, for Nodjya’s love of promoting the game of golf, she authored a Video/CD -catering to Juniors and Women called Swing Fit 101. Nodjya is widely respected for her professionalism, credibility, and servant leadership in youth and adult golf. She represents the game with integrity, humility, and a strong moral compass, consistently placing the development and well-being of all ages at the forefront of her work.

Additional Accomplishments:

 Two-time PGA Presidents Award

 2007 Tri-Cities Sports.com Golf Professional of the Year

 2007 Tri-Cities PGA Chapter Teacher of the Year Award

 2009 Tri-Cities PGA Chapter Education Chairperson

 2009 Tri-Cities PGA Chapter Professional Development Award

 2009 Tri-Cities PGA Chapter Teacher of the Year Award

 2010 Tri-Cities PGA Chapter Professional Development Award

 2010 Tri-Cities PGA Chapter Teacher of the Year Award

 2010 Tri-Cities PGA Chapter Golf Professional of the Year Award

 2012 Tri-Cities PGA Chapter Professional Development Award

 2019 USGA Low Qualifier for the US Women’s Sr. Open Columbus, Ohio

 2019 USGA Women’s Sr. US Open Pinehurst, North Carolina

 2022 PGA Quarter Century Award (elected 05/1997)

 2025 First Tee Level 1 Coach Certification

 2025 PGA ADM (American Development Module) Certification

 2026 PGA Hope (Helping Our Patriot’s Everywhere) Certification

 2026 Indiana PGA Nominee for Jr Golf Leader

 2026 LPGA Legends Championship