George McNeilly has been appointed as the new President of the Golf Travel Writers of America (GTWA), marking a recent leadership transition within the organization.
The GTWA serves as a professional association for media specialists in golf travel, including writers, editors, and broadcasters. Its core mission is to uphold strong journalistic principles, foster knowledge exchange within the industry, and deliver trustworthy and compelling content about golf experiences worldwide.
McNeilly emphasized the unique credibility of independent media professionals, stating that their unbiased perspective, free from commercial interests in golf courses, resorts, or events, surpasses that of press releases or agency content. He also stressed the importance for members to honor the organization’s legacy.
Established 21 years ago, GTWA was founded by Bruce Vittner and John Edwards out of a shared passion, with the goal of creating a dedicated platform for golf travel writers.
McNeilly noted the fast-evolving media landscape, where many reputable storytellers are no longer full-time staff. He expressed doubt that businesses seeking broader reach fully grasp the reduced staffing and budgets in newsrooms, or adequately value the extensive influence and commitment of GTWA members.
Membership offers substantial advantages to qualified media professionals, including networking with seasoned colleagues, collaborative projects, ongoing professional growth, and enhanced exposure within a community dedicated to golf journalism. It also facilitates connections between writers and key industry players, tourism boards, and global destinations.
According to McNeilly, GTWA serves as an excellent platform for professional advancement, staying current with industry trends, and enhancing one’s standing in golf media. He envisions the organization as a mark of reliability, akin to a “seal of approval,” for individuals involved in golf travel writing.
The leadership transition this year commenced with an overhaul of the bylaws and the introduction of a concise mission statement: “To inform and engage golf fans and participants with integrity wherever the sport is played, watched, attended, written about, or visited.”
While a suggestion for a new organizational name was raised by some members, it was largely dismissed by the majority.
McNeilly affirmed that writing would remain central to the organization’s activities, asserting that “The Golf Travel Writers of America” title is increasingly pertinent given their expanded reach across new platforms.
Alan Darty, publisher of Golf One Media and the newly appointed vice president, spearheaded the redesign of the association’s website. This update aims to better cater to a diverse membership, now encompassing broadcasters, podcasters, and respected influencers who align with GTWA’s objectives.
Darty described Golftravelwriters.com as a centralized resource for golf businesses to explore the high-caliber work of GTWA members and facilitate direct connections.
The GTWA executive committee includes McNeilly, Darty, Dan Vukelich (secretary), Joy Sarver (treasurer), and the president emeritus (the original author). Headquartered in Orlando, FL, the organization offers more information and membership details on its website, golftravelwriters.com.
McNeilly’s vast professional background is expected to greatly benefit GTWA. For 14 years, he has lectured on Sports Business at Full Sail University, concurrently contributing articles on professional golf, associated destinations, and related products.
Prior to his current roles, he spent over ten years as a senior executive at ESPN. His career began as an acclaimed multimedia broadcaster, producer, and writer, with significant experience covering four Olympic Games across three continents, 17 Super Bowls, and numerous major golf tournaments.
McNeilly stated that GTWA aims to be both inclusive and selective. He acknowledged the rise of multimedia contributors and the need for the organization to adapt, noting the expanding influence and numerous opportunities for members to provide value to their audiences and stakeholders.