The past PGA of America president will lead 12 of the nation’s top junior golfers against Europe in Ireland in September 2027.
Jim Richerson, general manager of The Riviera Country Club and The Riviera Tennis Club in Pacific Palisades, has been named captain of the 2027 United States Junior Ryder Cup Team, bringing a proven record of international team leadership to his next assignment.
Richerson previously guided American teams to victories in the 2022 Women’s PGA Cup and 2024 PGA Cup. Now, he will lead six boys and six girls against Europe in the 14th Junior Ryder Cup, scheduled for Sept. 14–16, 2027, at Ballyneety Golf Club and Adare Manor in Ireland.
“I am incredibly honored to serve as Captain of the 2027 United States Junior Ryder Cup Team,” Richerson said. “The U.S. continues to produce a wealth of exceptional junior talent and 12 of those individuals will proudly represent our country on a global platform next September.”
For Southern California golfers, Richerson is a familiar figure through his leadership at Riviera. His influence also extends nationally: He served as the 42nd president of the PGA of America from 2020–22 and was inducted into the association’s Hall of Fame in 2025.
His path to the presidency included becoming the first Wisconsin PGA Section member elected to national office when he was named secretary in 2016. He subsequently served as vice president before assuming the presidency during a period of substantial growth in golf participation.
The three-day Junior Ryder Cup will open with foursomes and four-ball matches at Ballyneety Golf Club. Singles matches will follow at Adare Manor, also the host venue for the 2027 Ryder Cup.
The United States holds an 8–4–1 record in the junior competition, most recently defeating Europe in 2025. Eligible American players must be U.S. citizens in the high school graduating class of 2028 or younger. Qualification began with the 2026 Junior PGA Championships at PGA Frisco in Texas.
“I cannot wait to watch the qualification process unfold,” Richerson said, “and expect an outstanding match against the European Team in 2027.”
