10/28/2026
We want to take a moment and recognize one of our own, Jay Eccleton. MGCA announced him as the 2026 Recipient for the Lyle Leek Distinguished Service Award! We couldn't be more proud! Congrats Jay!
Courtesy of MGCA - michigangca.org:
The Lyle Leeke Distinguished Service Award is presented to individuals who have displayed distinguished service to the MGCA and the golf industry in the state of Michigan. It is named in honor of Leeke, one of the founders of the MGCA.
Eccleton, a Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS), celebrated his 26th year at The Emerald in 2026 where he and his wife Katie are on the management team of the mid-Michigan public golf course that was the MGCA’s Golf Course of the Year in 2022.
Throughout his career he has had a lasting commitment to MGCA and the broader golf community through leadership, education, advocacy, and service. He has served for 15 years on the MGCA Scott Family Educational Support Foundation and currently serves on the Michigan Golf Course Association Board of Directors.
A frequent presenter at MGCA Business Conferences, Eccleton generously shares his experience and practical ideas to help fellow golf course owners and operators succeed. He was also an early participant and supporter of MGCA’s Registered Apprenticeship Program, helping develop the next generation of golf course superintendents.
Eccleton has also served other leading golf organizations. He was a founding board member of the Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association (MiGCSA) and its president in 2011-12. He was named the Golf Association of Michigan’s Golf Course Superintendent Award of Merit winner in 2015, and he also worked on the state’s Water Use Advisory Council representing golf’s interests at the state level.
His involvement in golf started with his family at an early age. His parents owned a golf course in Stockbridge and were early members of what is now the MGCA, and today with Katie, he tirelessly promotes the benefits of golf while allowing The Emerald to host significant charitable events and youth and high school tournaments.
