North Tidewater News

Adam Relan, PGA Director of Golf and General Manager at Bide-A-Wee Golf Course in Portsmouth, Virginia, has been named the 2024 Middle Atlantic PGA Section's PGA Professional of the Year. This award is considered the highest honor for a PGA professional and takes into account several criteria including overall performance, service to the MAPGA, leadership ability, promotion of golf, professional image, and ability to inspire fellow professionals.

Relan's recognition comes on the heels of his 2023 MAPGA Player Development Award. His contributions to player development are well noted at his facility and within the section, particularly among junior golfers. Additionally, he was recently awarded the 2025 PGA of America’s National Patriot Award. This award honors those who demonstrate patriotism and commitment to the United States through golf while showing strong moral character and leadership. Recipients typically have a history of supporting U.S. Armed Forces members.

He is actively involved in programs such as the PGA Jr League and PGA HOPE, serving as a coach for his league team and as a lead instructor for the Tidewater Chapter's PGA HOPE program. Relan organizes instructional clinics and golf events aimed at fostering enjoyment and growth in the sport for players of all levels.

In his role with military veterans, Relan serves on several committees including the National PGA HOPE Committee and chairs both the MAPGA Player Development Committee Co-Chair and PGA HOPE Committee Chair. He is deeply committed to promoting initiatives like Patriot Golf Day within his community.

Throughout his career, Relan has held various management roles at prominent golf facilities across the Mid-Atlantic region. He has also occupied leadership positions in governance at both section level and within MAPGA’s Southern Chapter along with board positions in related organizations.

Relan attended Mississippi State University before transferring to Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina where he graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Professional Golf Management. He lives with his wife Abbey; they have been married for 20 years and have two children: Ames and Ana Grace.