Philip Shoemaker, Jr., Golf Course Superintendent   Phil holds a degree in Turfgrass Management from Rutgers University, plus over 30 years of practical experience in all facets of golf course maintenance.  He first arrived at Desert Highlands in 1982 to assist with the construction of the first Jack Nicklaus signature championship desert golf course.  He coordinated and set up the inaugural Skins Game played at Desert Highlands in 1983, and did the same for the second game in 1984.  Before returning to Desert Highlands in 1999, Phil provided his expertise to several prominent golf courses, including Tournament Player’s Club of Scottsdale, AZ, Loxahatchee Club, Jupiter, FL, and Desert Mountain Properties also in Scottsdale, AZ.  In 1995, Phil relocated to supervise the renovation of 100 acres of golf course – a $1.6 million project in compliance with Jack Nicklaus and environmental specifications and standards. Phil’s professional memberships include the Cactus & Pine Golf Course Superintendent Association and the Golf Course Superintendent Association of America.