John Goodchild has served as the Executive Director of the Vermont Golf Association since 2019, bringing nearly two decades of experience in the golf industry and a deep connection to the Vermont golf community.
Prior to joining the VGA, John spent three seasons as the PGA Professional at Country Club of Barre from 2016 to 2019. Before that, he served as the PGA Professional at Williston Golf Club from 2005 to 2015, where he played an integral role in developing programs, supporting members, and growing the game at the club level.
Throughout his career, John has built a reputation for his leadership, dedication to the game, and commitment to serving golfers across Vermont. As Executive Director of the VGA, he oversees the organization’s championships, membership services, course rating programs, and initiatives designed to support Vermont’s clubs and golfers of all ages.
John’s experience working directly with golfers and clubs throughout the state gives him a unique perspective that helps guide the VGA’s mission to promote, protect, and grow the game of golf in Vermont.
Max Naumann joined the Vermont Golf Association in 2026 as the organization’s Tournament Director, where he oversees the planning and execution of VGA championships and competitions across the state.
Originally from Peosta, Iowa, Max developed a passion for the game early in life. He attended Hawkeye Community College, where he was a member of the golf team before continuing his education at Iowa State University, earning a degree in Public Relations.
Prior to joining the VGA, Max gained valuable experience in competitive golf administration through internships with both the Iowa Golf Association and the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA). These opportunities provided him with hands-on experience in tournament operations, player services, and championship management at both the state and national levels.
As Tournament Director, Max works closely with host clubs, volunteers, and players to deliver high-quality championship experiences while supporting the VGA’s mission to promote and grow the game of golf throughout Vermont.
Braedon Fox, PGA has served as the Communications Director for the Vermont Golf Association since 2022, leading the organization’s media, storytelling, and digital presence across Vermont’s golf community.
Braedon attended Florida Gulf Coast University, where he studied Professional Golf Management and minored in Entrepreneurship. During his time in college, he gained valuable experience as a golf operations intern at several premier facilities, including The Quechee Club, Lancaster Country Club, and Audubon Country Club, where he developed a strong foundation in golf operations and member services.
After graduating, Braedon was elected to membership in the PGA of America in 2020. He went on to serve as an Assistant Golf Professional at Butterfield Country Club for two years, continuing to build his experience in the golf industry before transitioning into a media and communications role.
In addition to his work with the VGA, Braedon is an accomplished photographer and videographer who contributes to the digital media teams for many of golf’s biggest events. His work has included coverage of the 2023 PGA Championship, 2024 PGA Championship, 2025 PGA Championship, 2023 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, 2025 Junior Ryder Cup, and the 2025 Ryder Cup, among other major championships.
Through his work with the VGA, Braedon focuses on growing the visibility of Vermont golf by telling the stories of its players, championships, and clubs while continuing to expand the organization’s digital reach.
Andrew Ristaino joined the Vermont Golf Association in 2026 as the organization’s Member Services Coordinator, where he supports member clubs and golfers across the state while helping enhance the overall member experience.
Andrew attended Castleton University, where he studied Marketing and developed a strong foundation in communication, customer service, and business strategy. Prior to joining the VGA, he worked at Graybar as a Sales Representative, where he built valuable experience in relationship management, client support, and problem solving.
In his role with the VGA, Andrew assists with member services, GHIN support, and day-to-day communication with golfers and clubs throughout Vermont. His background in sales and marketing allows him to connect with members while helping ensure the VGA continues to provide a high level of service to the Vermont golf community.