John Ryan Celiberti
Assistant Director
US Open Championships
United States Golf Association (USGA)
SOUTHAMPTON, NY. Staging a golf event in general terms is a complex and detailed operation. When a major championship is played, the enormity of the task only magnifies itself even more so.
This week’s US Open returns for the 6th time to Shinnecock Hills Golf Club. Since 1986 no golf club has hosted the national championship of American golf more times – five total.
Securing volunteers is a mandatory item and it’s one where an inordinate number of important elements must be carefully organized and put into motion long before the first tee shot is struck during the opening round.
The USGA’s point person outlines the key focal points – much of which will never be seen during a telecast or fully appreciated but is essential in securing a most successful championship.
The Celiberti Story
John Celiberti began his career with the USGA as an intern in 2019 and has since risen to the role of Assistant Director, US Open Championships.
Over the years, he has worked on Championship events across the country, gaining valuable experience before taking on his current assignment on Long Island, where he is helping prepare for the 2026 US Open at Shinnecock Hills.
In his current role, he oversees critical aspects of Championship planning, including building relationships with local stakeholders, coordinating public safety efforts, engaging with the community, and ensuring compliance with municipal regulations.
His work helps lay the foundation for a successful Championship while balancing the needs of the host community.
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If someone were interested in volunteering to assist at a US Open, how does the process start and what is needed from those seeking to participate?
For the US Open, we typically open the volunteer process about 15 months in advance of the championship. Priority groups (USGA members, AGA members, club members) get priority access, and then we open it up to the general public.
How many volunteers does it take to conduct a successful US Open?
Around 4,000 volunteers are needed.
Shinnecock Hills has a seasonal membership – was the volunteer recruitment effort widened because of that situation?
While we certainly provide club members an advance opportunity to register to volunteer, we always take from the general public as well, so our process didn’t change much for the 2026 US Open.
As is standard process, club members, USGA members and local AGA members receive priority access to our volunteer program. From there, we open it up to the general public.
Besides those from Long Island and New York – where do the largest contingent of volunteers come from?
Connecticut.
Are international volunteers involved as well?
Yes.
While New Yorkers make up approximately 80% of the volunteer force this year, the Championship attracts volunteers from far beyond the local region.
For the 2026 US Open, volunteers represent 42 of the 50 states, and international volunteers are traveling from eight different countries to be part of the US Open.
In Volunteer Headquarters, a large map allows volunteers to place a pin in their hometown, showcasing the global reach of the volunteer program and the diverse backgrounds of those who come together to support the Championship.
How much of an orientation effort is carried out for the volunteers?
Once volunteers register, typically 12 to 18 months in advance, they receive ongoing communications from the USGA’s volunteer team to help them prepare for their roles.
All volunteers are required to complete Virtual Volunteer Training, which provides general Championship information as well as committee-specific instruction through a series of videos. Depending on their assignment, some volunteers also attend in-person training sessions during Championship week.
For example, Walking Scorers receive additional hands-on instruction to become familiar with scoring technology before competition begins. Training continues throughout the week as volunteers gain experience in their roles and receive guidance from committee leaders.
From the standpoint of total hours volunteered – what would be the average amount of time provided by a given person?
We ask volunteers to provide availability for 6 different shifts throughout the championship week and we will assign the volunteer to four shifts, each at about 5-6 hours.
Can volunteers request to do a specific function at the championship or are they assigned to one?
Absolutely.
While we can’t promise anything, volunteers can rank their preferences for the committees they want to serve on.
From the standpoint of gender – what’s the split among those volunteering?
For this year’s US Open — 54% Male, 46% Female at Shinnecock.
How soon after the championship concludes at Shinnecock Hills, does the process for the ’27 event at Pebble Beach commence?
It actually already has!
We opened the volunteer application process for the 2027 US Open in January of this year.
Reach out to our championship office team at 2027usopen@usga.org to get involved!
M. James Ward
A long-time member of both the GWAA and MGWA. The 68-year-old has covered all facets in golf since 1980 — including reporting on over 100 major championships and 13 Ryder Cup matches. His writings have appeared in various outlets. On a personal level, has played over 2,000 courses globally and is lead reviewer for Top 100 Golf Courses.
Previously served for 17 years as national course rating panelist for Golf Digest. Has also personally competed in USGA Championships. Resides in the metro New York City area with his wife Celeste. Favorite quote paraphrased for golf — “You are what your golf score says you are.”