By Jon Johnson/Gila Herald
SAFFORD — The Mount Graham Golf Club has officially named Gila Valley native Aaron Medina as its new General Manager. Medina, who previously served as the course’s assistant general manager and pro shop manager, takes the helm to oversee total operations, including golf course maintenance, pro shop management, and the Double ‘R’ Bar & Grill.
Medina brings more than six years of management experience across hospitality, customer service, golf operations, and team leadership. A graduate of Pima High School, Medina continues to give back to local athletics as the head golf coach for the Pima High Roughriders, who utilize the course as their home training ground.
“I am honored to step into the role of general manager at Mount Graham Golf Club after having the privilege of serving as assistant general manager,” said Medina. “Mount Graham is a special place, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead its next chapter. I look forward to working alongside our staff and community as we take the course to the next level.”
Course Infrastructure & Municipal Support
Owned by the City of Safford and managed under contract by Indigo Sports (a subsidiary of Troon), the 18-hole, par-72 municipal facility serves as a vital recreation hub for Safford, Thatcher, and Pima. It hosts high school teams, Eastern Arizona College programs, local golf associations, and major charity events like the annual Justin Gaethje “Swing for the Kids” Tournament.
- Irrigation & Water Usage: The course relies on recycled effluent supplied directly from the Safford Wastewater Facility. Usage reached 190 million gallons in 2023 and 160 million gallons in 2024. Half of the 18 holes still use a historic quick-coupler manual sprinkler system. City officials have evaluated long-term CIP plans to transition the full course to an automated irrigation system, estimated between $3 million and $5 million.
- Recent Capital Upgrades: Safford has made steady investments into the facility, reallocating CIP funds for driving range enhancements—including 20 covered bays valued at over $213,000. Other ongoing site additions include a fleet of GPS-enabled electric carts on a 5-year lease, expanded kitchen capacity at the Double ‘R’ Bar & Grill, and a dedicated outdoor wedding venue adjacent to the 18th hole.
For tournament schedules or dining menu details, visit Mount Graham Golf Club.
