Northern California PGA (NCPGA) Hall of Famer Jerome “Jerry” Thormann has reached a momentous milestone in 2026, as it marks his 50th year as a member of the PGA of America, the world’s largest working sports organization.
This half-century achievement acknowledges five decades of dedication, passion and positive impact on others through the game and sport of golf. It also follows Thormann’s 2023 induction into the NCPGA Hall of Fame, another coveted distinction, recognizing his significant accomplishments and contributions to the game and the association.
“Reaching 50 years with the PGA is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the lifelong relationships and cherished moments that golf has brought into my life,” Thormann said. “I am grateful for the opportunities to contribute to a game I love, and with the lucky chance to inspire the next generation, whether recreational golfers or PGA apprentices and members. Giving back, and encouraging others, is what it’s all about.”
Thormann, a longtime resident of Felton, joined the PGA of America in 1972, where he’s continued to be a driving force in his role as a PGA golf professional. He’s worn “numerous hats” throughout his career—from golf manager to mentor and from coach to community leader, and more. He has volunteered on NCPGA committees and boards, serving twice as president of the association and five years as secretary of the section’s senior division.
Special distinctions are nothing new for Thormann, as he was bestowed the prestigious NCPGA Golf Professional of the Year Award (1990), NCPGA Horton Smith Award (1991) for his contributions to member education and professional development, and NCPGA Apprentice Player of the Year (1974).
Throughout his career, Thormann’s involvement in the community includes 40-plus years as coach, assistant coach and technical adviser for the local San Lorenzo Valley High School boys golf team. He’s led numerous junior golf clinics and camps, as well as being on the lesson tee with golf enthusiasts of all playing abilities.
As a forward-thinking pro, early in his career he helped create a program for golfers with physical challenges, helping turn disabilities into abilities.
“Jerry Thormann’s 50-year commitment as a PGA member tirelessly serving the golf community while promoting the highest standards of professionalism and mentoring more than a generation of golf professionals, has earned him tremendous respect throughout the golf industry,” said Len Dumas, NCPGA Hall of Famer and president of the California Alliance for Golf (CAG). “We extend heartfelt congratulations to Jerry on this career milestone.”
Thormann is a graduate of California State University Fresno with a BA in English literature (1971) and where he competed as a collegiate athlete on the Men’s Golf team. He started his golf career at Airways Municipal GC (Fresno) and had a golf membership at nearby Sunnyside CC where he held the course record of 63. Next, he headed north, accepting teaching assignments at DeLavega GC (Santa Cruz) and Dixon Landing GC (Milpitas).
When the head golf pro position became available at the 36-hole Sunol Valley GC (Sunol), Thormann accepted the assignment, serving there from 1981-95. He also served as head golf pro at Valley Gardens GC (Scotts Valley) followed by a long tenure as head pro at Sunken Gardens/Sunnyvale Municipal GC (Sunnyvale) located in the Heart of Silicon Valley.
In addition to being a member of the PGA, the NCPGA and its senior division, Thormann is a member of the California Alliance for Golf (CAG) and a founding member of Doctor’s Orders: Play Golf.
Not only is Thormann a legend in golf, he is energetic and has an overall zest for life. He is an alumnus of Lambda Chi Alpha, a member of Shriners International and Past Master of the Masonic Lodge. Most may not know, he is also an ordained minister and enjoys time singing as a member of a cappella group.
