Q&A with President Abby Black

Getting to know the IGA Board of Directors’ new President

By: Shane René, Administrator of Media & Communications

The Idaho Golf Association’s board of directors assembled last month to elect a new executive committee. Serving three year terms, IGA board members act as ambassadors of the IGA’s mission to engage, enhance and grow the Idaho golf community and oversee our vision to enrich the lives of every Idaho golfer. They are all people for whom the continued development of golf in Idaho matters a great deal.

Among those board members is Abby Black, a member of The Club at SpurWing and an accomplished IGA Championship player as a former Tournament of Champions winner and the reigning Women’s Four-Ball champion. You’ll be sure to see her out at many IGA events this year, but she’ll be competing as the new president of the IGA board of directors for the very first time.

We caught up with her last week to help you get to know our new president.

Tell us about your professional/occupational background, and how you found your way to Idaho.  

I grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma and played collegiate tennis for the University of Kansas. After graduating, I coached the women’s tennis team at the University of Tulsa. At the time, I envisioned a future in collegiate coaching, but an opportunity to transition into athletic administration came along early in my career. I accepted a position at Washington State University, where I served as an Assistant Athletic Director and received my Masters degree. 

After spending five years in Pullman, I made a significant career shift and joined TitleOne in Boise—an employee-owned title and escrow company that had just opened its doors. I was immediately drawn to the strong team culture and collaborative environment, which reminded me of the team dynamics I loved in sports. I spent the next 23 years at TitleOne in a variety of leadership roles before retiring in 2023. 

What motivated you to seek the seat of President of the IGA Board of Directors?   

I've been involved with the IGA as a player for many years and have always enjoyed participating in their events. Over a year ago, I joined the IGA Board, which gave me a deeper understanding of the organization. So, when the opportunity arose to step into this role, I was eager to jump in and support both the IGA and the incredible staff behind it.  

What are you most encouraged by when you look at the state of Golf in Idaho?   

The game is growing, our membership numbers are growing, and the level of competitiveness and talent is growing.   

Looking forward to the end of 2027, what do you hope to see by then?  

We have a newly created Strategic Plan, and our vision is to enrich the lives of every Idaho golfer.  If we could do that, it would be special. 

Favorite golf course in Idaho and why?  

Tough question, but I'd probably say Elk Horn. The scenery is stunning, and the course is challenging in several ways. Plus, it's where I won my first Tournament of Champions, so it holds a special place for me. 

Favorite golf course not in Idaho and why?

 I'm not sure it was my favorite, but it was probably the most incredible experience. Last year, my husband and I with some great friends played the Old Course at St. Andrews. 

You’ve played in IGA Championships for many years. How have those experiences enriched your connection to the Idaho golf community? 

I've met so many great people through golf—friendships I likely wouldn’t have made without the game. 

Is there anything else you want the Idaho Golf Association to know about you? 

I served on the First Tee of Idaho’s Board years ago, and it gave me an appreciation for the incredible impact they have on kids, teaching them life skills through the game of golf. 

How do you like to spend your time when you’re not on the golf course?

My husband Will and I love to travel and explore new places. I also enjoy playing pickleball. We have two amazing daughters—Juliet, who’s married to our son-in-law, Wes, and Annalea.