Southwest PGA Welcomes Staff Member Cesar Balgañon II

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - February 11, 2026 – The Southwest PGA is proud to announce the addition of Cesar Balgañon II as Director of the Southern Arizona Chapter PGA.

In this leadership role, Balgañon will spearhead daily operations for the Southern Arizona Chapter, driving programs and services that align with the strategic mission of both the Chapter and the Southwest Section. His responsibilities include the management and coordination of a robust tournament schedule featuring more than 30 annual events.

"We are thrilled to welcome Cesar to the Southwest PGA," said Bernie Eaton, Executive Director of the Southwest PGA. "He brings a rare combination of leadership, operational insight, and a genuine passion for player development. Cesar’s strong connection to the Tucson golf community and his commitment to growing the game make him a tremendous addition to both the Section and the Southern Arizona Chapter."

Balgañon, a PGA Member since 2024, joins the Section staff after a distinguished tenure at Sewailo Golf Club in Tucson. He began his career at Sewailo in 2018 as an assistant professional before transitioning into a teaching professional role, where he became a key advocate for expanding golf accessibility across Southern Arizona and within the Pascua Yaqui Tribal community. During his time at the club, Balgañon advanced into leadership positions, serving as Interim General Manager and later as Assistant General Manager for nearly two and a half years. He ultimately stepped down from management to focus fully on teaching while returning to the University of Arizona to continue his education.

"Joining the Southwest PGA as Director of the Southern Arizona Chapter is both a personal and professional honor," said Balgañon. "Growing up in Tucson as a Pascua Yaqui Tribal member, I have a deep appreciation for the leaders who dedicate their time to serving on our Board and committees. I look forward to building strong relationships with our Section staff and contributing to the continued advancement of what I believe is the best Section in the PGA."

Balgañon built a model player-development ecosystem rooted in inclusion, mentorship, and community engagement. His programs, ranging from PGA Junior League and PGA HOPE to beginner clinics and youth mentorship initiatives, have introduced hundreds of new players to the game, including more than 150 Pascua Yaqui Tribal youth since 2018. In 2025, he launched several new initiatives, including Get Golf Ready beginner clinics, Short Game Boot Camps, and Opportunity League sessions supported by PGA REACH.

In recognition of his impact, Balgañon was named the 2025 Southwest PGA Player Development Award recipient, honoring a PGA Professional who has demonstrated extraordinary contributions to player development. He has also been recognized as the 2022 Southwest PGA Southern Arizona Chapter Assistant Professional of the Year, the 2025 Southern Arizona Chapter Player Development Award recipient, and the 2025 Southern Arizona Chapter Patriot Award recipient.

Please join the Southwest PGA in welcoming Cesar. He can be reached at cbalganon@pgahq.com.