Section Award Winner Spotlights - Andrews & Wilkins Claim Pro-Pro Match Play Title - Jagoe Takes Hudson Cup - Barrett & Warren Capture ...
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- Section Award
Winner Spotlights
- Andrews & Wilkins Claim
Pro-Pro Match Play Title
- Jagoe Takes Hudson Cup
- Barrett & Warren Capture
Pro-Assistant Championship
- Women’s Golf Week & MORE
nepga.com | May 2021 | 1
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TABLE OF
CONTENTS
4 6 11
Letter from NEPGA Letter from NEPGA 2021 Patriot Award
President Allan Belden Executive Director Mike Spotlight - Peter Doherty
Higgins
13
2021 Player
14 23
Development Award Section Roundup Women’s Golf Week
Spotlight - Eric Barlow
24 27 29
PGA REACH O’Connor marks 35 years Membership & Chapter
New England at Far Corner Golf Roundup
2 | May 2021 | nepga.com
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NEPGA
OFFICERS
Allan Belden, PGA Mike Bradshaw, PGA Chip Johnson, PGA Ron Bibeau, PGA
President Vice President Secretary Honorary President
allanbelden@gmail.com pgapro@kirkbrae.com chip.johnson@hatherlycc.com rbibeau@coegolfcars.com
NEPGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dave Tiedemann, PGA David Bennett, PGA Doug VanWickler, PGA
District Director District Director District Director
Rhode Island Vermont Maine
(401) 322-2107 (802) 244-1800 (207) 787-2890
dtiedemann@shgcri.com dbennett@countryclubvt.com dvanwickler@thewoodlands.com
Jeff Martin, PGA Joanne Flynn, PGA Mark Aldrich, PGA
District Director District Director District Director
MA Eastern New Hampshire MA Central
(617) 698-0909 (603) 434-2093 (508) 853-5087
jeffmartinpga@gmail.com joanne@windhamcc.com markaldrichpga@gmail.com
Lou Rivers, PGA Dave Donnellan, PGA
Dan Gillis, PGA District Director District Director
Senior Director MA Southern Cape Cod
(978) 692-4606 (508) 543-4661 (508) 362-2606
dangillis.nlcc@gmail.com lourivers@pga.com daviddonnellan@pga.com
nepga.com | May 2021 | 3
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FROM THE PRESIDENT
Allan Belden, PGA
President
New England PGA
NEPGA Officers
President
Allan Belden, PGA
Vice President
Mike Bradshaw, PGA
Greetings,
Secretary
Chip Johnson, PGA
I hope this message finds you all in good health and spirits as the
Honorary President 2021 season is now well underway. As we approach the summer
Ron Bibeau, PGA
solstice, we are also now finally beginning our return to some
Board of Directors
normalcy. A little over one year removed from the start of the
Central Massachusetts pandemic certainly seems like a world away from where we were in
Mark Aldrich, PGA
2020. At this time last year, we were all managing golf operations
Cape Cod with single rider carts, no shotgun starts, mandatory tee time
Dave Donnellan, PGA
intervals and in some cases no driving ranges. What a difference a
Eastern Massachusetts year makes! As restrictions begin to ease and numbers of infections
Jeff Martin, PGA
are now rapidly declining the thought of getting ‘back to normal’
Southern Massachusetts could not come soon enough. I hope all NEPGA Professionals take
Lou Rivers, PGA
pride and will now maybe exhale a bit as we can look back and
Vermont
David Bennett, PGA say, ‘we made it.’
Rhode Island
Dave Tiedemann, PGA The silver lining from this pandemic is that golf has seen a
resurgence in play that has allowed for substantial growth in all
Maine
Doug VanWickler, PGA aspects of the golf business. The demand for golf is extremely high
right now and many of the new golfers are here to stay. And that
Seniors
Dan Gillis, PGA retention can be attributed to the work you all did last season in
providing exceptional service in the middle of a global pandemic.
4 | May 2021 | nepga.com
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“At this time last year, we were all managing
golf operations with single rider carts, no
shotgun starts, mandatory tee time intervals
and in some cases no driving ranges. What a
difference a year makes!”
I never thought I would have through golf, please contact myself or Michael Packard, PGA
to ‘sanitize’ a golf cart; but at the Section office. We need and want your help to make
we did it to keep our players 2021 a huge success.
safe and now we can all reap
the benefits of their positive I am very much looking forward to seeing everyone in person
experiences post-COVID. at our Fall meetings and award banquets. Best wishes for a
Tee sheets are full at daily great 2021 season to all our NEPGA members.
fee courses and wait lists
are now the norm at private
facilities. Much of that can Allan Belden, PGA
be directly attributed to the NEPGA President
hard work of our NEPGA Director of Instruction
members during the 2020 Salem Country Club
season. Kudos to all of you!
We are gaining traction
with our fundraising efforts
for the NEPGA Foundation.
Please get involved with our
fundraising efforts when
you can. The lives that we
are able to impact through
the different pillars of the
foundation are immense. I
know many of our members
are unaware how to get
involved. If you have an
interest in impacting lives
nepga.com | May 2021 | 5
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FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Progress. It has
been a long road, but
we all have made
so much progress.
“This Memorial Day
Social media does
a wonderful job of
weekend, golfers
reminding us where
we were one year
ago, six months
from around the
ago, or even a short
few weeks ago. We country will have
the opportunity to
Mike Higgins certainly have come
Executive Director a long way. The days
New England PGA went by tediously
slow, but the year
went by fast. At least that is how it felt for
me. The New England PGA has slowly but
honor Americans
surely stayed the course, and for the most
part we are back to normal at our events.
who made the
We are still going to provide and encourage
a safe atmosphere at all our events, but I
am excited about the normalcy that has
ultimate sacrifice
returned.
when they play
This May edition of the Full Swing comes
out right before Memorial Day weekend,
which signifies the unofficial start to
their round of golf.”
summer. The golf season has been in full
6 | May 2021 | nepga.com
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significantly impacts the lives of our nation’s
heroes and their families through golf.
Some facilities are encouraging golfers to add
an extra dollar (or more) to their green fees, they
are putting a collection box on the counter or on
the first tee, and some are even having events to
support Patriot Golf Day. I encourage any facility
or PGA Professional who is conducting some sort
of fundraising effort this weekend to share your
success with our Foundation Director Michael
Packard, PGA at mpackard@pgahq.com. We
would love to share photographs and success
stories from this weekend!
swing for a few months already for
many facilities, but we cannot forget As you know the tournament season is here. All
what Memorial Day truly signifies. our chapters are now in full swing, and this past
Memorial Day is a solemn day of week I was fortunate to interact with over 150
remembrance for everyone who has NEPGA Professionals at the Acushnet Golf Pro-
died serving in the American armed Assistant Championship. This upcoming week
forces. The holiday, originally known there will be another 80 PGA Professionals
as Decoration Day, started after the playing in the Pro-Am Championship. I have
Civil War to honor the fallen Union tried, and always will continue to try to attend
and Confederate soldiers. as many tournaments as possible. There is
no greater opportunity to interact with PGA
This Memorial Day weekend, golfers Professionals from throughout the Section. There
from around the country will have is always a conversation to be had, whether it be
the opportunity to honor Americans a discussion about an event, a conversation about
who made the ultimate sacrifice employment, or simply learning how things are
when they play their round of golf. going at your facility.
For the first time, Patriot Golf Day
will be held in conjunction with the I hope if there is ever anything I can help you with,
holiday that commemorates our that you will please pull me aside at an event, or
fallen military members. simply give me a call at the Section office. I am
happy to help any way I can.
Many of you already know that
Patriot Golf Day raises money for Have a wonderful holiday weekend and a
Folds of Honor, but contributions successful start to your summer!
also go to support PGA HOPE
(Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), Respectfully,
which is part of the PGA of
America’s PGA REACH Foundation. Michael J. Higgins
The New England PGA Foundation Executive Director
funds 10 NEPGA HOPE Programs New England PGA
throughout New England, and
nepga.com | May 2021 | 7
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10 | May 2021 | nepga.comFULLswing
“It’s humbling honestly. To be
recognized for working with
our veterans is an honor.”
PATRIOT AWARD
PETER DOHERTY
ATKINSON RESORT & CC
NEPGA: When did you decide to become a be an incredible honor to host such a program
PGA Professional, and why? for those who have sacrificed so much for us.
PETER DOHERTY: It wasn’t until I was in my
early 20’s. I had finished a degree in Criminal NEPGA: What does it mean to be recognized
Justice and learned about a golf school in with the NEPGA Patriot Award?
California. Once there I thought, how could PETER DOHERTY: It’s humbling honestly. To be
I ever do anything else? I was offered an recognized for working with our veterans is an
opportunity to come back home and work at honor. I have an amazing team here at Atkinson
Atkinson for long time friend Joe Healey and I that are always willing to help out with clinics
haven’t looked back. and I certainly wouldn’t have won this award
without them.
NEPGA: Who inspired or mentored you?
PETER DOHERTY: My dad first introduced
me to the game as a young child and kept
me involved in the game competitively.
Professionally it was Joe Healey. He gave me
my first opportunity and really taught what it
took to be a true PGA Golf Professional.
NEPGA: What other interests do you have
outside of golf?
PETER DOHERTY: I love spending time with
my family. I have a wife of 20 years and two
boys who are teenagers so I’m trying to enjoy
as much time with them as I can. I also love
reading and watching hockey.
NEPGA: What motivated you to bring the PGA
HOPE program to Atkinson?
PETER DOHERTY: Bob Beach got me
motivated to work with veterans in general and
when I learned of an opportunity to be one of
four hosts for PGA HOPE, I jumped on it. I have
the facility and staff for it and thought it would
nepga.com | May 2021 | 11FULLswing NEPGA: Are there any people who have contributed to your success that you would like to recognize? PETER DOHERTY: My entire teaching staff should have credit with this award, especially Tom Smith who works diligently with our veteran community. My Head Professional Sean Chipman does an amazing job helping run our day-to-day operation which allows me to work more closely with these programs. NEPGA: What accomplishments do you have as a golf professional that you are most proud of? PETER DOHERTY: I would say I’m most proud of the Joseph F. Healey Memorial golf tournament we started. Joe was my mentor and after his passing in 2011, we started a memorial golf tournament in his name to raise scholarship money for local high school seniors and college students. Joe always gave back to juniors so it was our way of honoring him. We have an amazing board who works really hard to put this event on every year and to date, we’ve raised over $60,000 in scholarships. NEPGA: What challenges have you faced over the last year and how have you been able to overcome those challenges? PETER DOHERTY: Like everyone in our industry, we had to adapt to COVID restrictions. We worked daily with the N.H. Golf Association on what was expected from us and from there, it was just training staff. We’ve incorporated some service features that our members and guests love like outside check- in and an online merchandise buying choices. These are features we will continue to offer long after COVID is over. 12 | May 2021 | nepga.com
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“Make it fun,
and less is more!”
PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AWARD
ERIC BARLOW
WINCHESTER CC
NEPGA: When did you decide to become a NEPGA: Are there any people who have
PGA Professional, and why? contributed to your success who you would
ERIC BARLOW: Before working at Winchester like to recognize?
Country Club, I spent many years in and out of ERIC BARLOW: There are so many people that
the golf business. My dream was to play on the have contributed to my success, but to name
PGA Tour, but after many years of trying and a few: Steve Mann, Jim Salinetti, Tom Tobey,
not making it, I decided to become the best Frank Mattei, and Adam Hemeon.
PGA Professional I can be.
NEPGA: Have you found a successful recipe
NEPGA: Who inspired or mentored you? for teaching or is it a case-by-case basis for
ERIC BARLOW: I would say my dad. I have each individual?
always been a motivated person, worked hard ERIC BARLOW: Make it fun, and less is more!
and always pushed myself. But growing up
watching how hard he worked and when he did
something he gave it his all. I always wanted to
be like him.
NEPGA: What other interests do you have
outside of golf?
ERIC BARLOW: Fishing.
NEPGA: What motivates you as a golf
professional?
ERIC BARLOW: I would say my love for the
game. This game has taught me so much and
brought me so much enjoyment. I feel like it’s
my job to now pass that on to all my students.
NEPGA: What does it mean to be recognized
with a NEPGA Section Award?
ERIC BARLOW: This means everything to be
recognized by my peers.
nepga.com | May 2021 | 13FULLswing
ANDREWS AND WILKINS CAPTURE PRO-PRO
MATCH PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP
LINCOLN, R.I. - For the first time in nearly two years,
professionals from across New England descended
upon Kirkbrae Country Club on May 10th and 11th for Pro-Pro Match Play Qualifying Round Results:
the Pro-Pro Match Play Championship.
1. Bob Bruso & Patrick Beahn -6
RELATED LINKS: 2. James Antonelli & Chip Johnson -5
FINAL LEADERBOARD 3. Greg Farland & Frank Leja -4
DAY 1 RECAP | DAY 2 RECAP David Baluik & Ed Kirby -4
DAY 1 PHOTOS | DAY 2 PHOTOS
5. Eric Barlow & Todd Scarafoni -3
The first day of the tournament began with an 18-hole John Paesani & Greg Yeomans -3
best ball qualifying round with 27 teams vying for just Bill Andrews & Dan Wilkins -3
eight spots in the match play bracket. With a playoff
for the eight match play slots looking increasingly Scott Hickey & Christopher Hulme -3
likely, five of the final 11 groups to hand in cards came
in below the cut line - putting eight teams at -3 or
better (listed to the right) - and avoiding a playoff
altogether.
With the morning chill lifting for the afternoon’s
quarterfinal matches, eight teams teed off of 1 for
their second 18 of the day.
The tournament’s top-seed, Blackstone National’s
Bob Bruso and Patrick Beahn, squared off against
Newport National’s Christopher Hulme and Cyprian
Keyes’ Scott Hickey and left with a 5&4 victory.
The remaining quarterfinal matches all ended with
2&1 victories; Bill Andrews (Portsmouth CC) and Dan
Wilkins (Laconia CC) defeated the second seed team
14 | May 2021 | nepga.comFULLswing
of James Antonelli (Marshfield CC) and Chip Johnson (Hatherly CC), David Baluik (Glocester CC) and Ed
Kirby (The Aquidneck Club) defeated the The Bay Club’s Greg Yeomans and John Paesani, Eric Barlow
(Winchester CC) and Todd Scarafoni (Bass Rocks GC) knocked off the team of Greg Farland (Marlborough
CC) and Frank Leja (New Seabury).
The afternoon shootout, an alternate shot winner-take-all event for the non-qualifying teams, saw Tom
Rooney, PGA (LeBaron Hills GC) and Rob Bradley, PGA (Brockton CC) take the crystal after posting a
score of -3 over six holes. The duo outlasted Jeff Martin, PGA (Wollaston GC) and Bryan Kienke, PGA
(Cohasset GC) for the victory.
On the second day, Bruso doubled his team’s lead to two-up over Barlow and Scarafoni with a chip-in
birdie on the par-3 ninth. Bruso and Beahn added another birdie to go three-up through 12 and finished
with a 3&2 win to move to the Championship. In the second semifinal, Andrews and Wilkins rattled off
four straight birdies to start the back nine to turn an all square match to a three-up lead and eventual 4&2
victory.
In the Championship Match, Bruso and Beahn exploded out of the gates with a pair of birdies to take a
three-up lead through four holes. After settling in for a stretch on the front, Wilkins made a par on the
challenging 8th hole to cut the lead to two where it remained at the turn.
“We were definitely down, but we’ve played a lot of golf together and we looked at each other and said
‘Hey, you know we played a lot, let’s just hang in there and battle back,’” said Andrews on the early deficit.
“If we could maybe get it to where they were one up maybe they’d start thinking about us a little bit
because we definitely weren’t putting any pressure on them at the start.”
Andrews carded a birdie on 11 and Wilkins followed with a birdie on 12 to bring the match to even, where
it remained until the 16th hole. From the middle of the fairway on 16, Andrews put his approach inside of
five feet and made the putt for their first lead of the match.
Down for the first time in the match with two holes
to play, Bruso and Beahn were unable to convert
Championship Match: birdie putts on 17 and 18 to bring the match back
(7) Andrews / Wilkins def. (1) Bruso / Beahn – 1 up to even and extend to extra holes. Steady pars
from Andrews and Wilkins on the finishing holes
secured the win.
Semifinal Matches:
(1) Bruso / Beahn def. (5) Barlow / Scarafoni – 3 & 2 Thank you to Kirkbrae Country Club General
Manager Mike Bradshaw, PGA, and Superintendent
(7) Andrews / Wilkins def. (2) Baluik / Kirby – 4 & 2 Pete Wood along with the entire KCC staff
for hosting the NEPGA Pro-Pro Match Play
Championship. The NEPGA would also like to thank
Quarterfinal Matches: its Pro-Pro Match Play Championship supporting
(1) Bruso / Beahn def. (8) Hickey / Hulme – 5 & 4 partners: Jack Jolly & Son, Maui Jim, Nexbelt, the
PGA Tour, Prize Possessions, and Summit Golf
(5) Barlow / Scarafoni def. (4) Farland / Leja – 2 & 1 Brands.
(7) Andrews / Wilkins def. (2) Antonelli / Johnson – 2 & 1
(3) Baluik / Kirby def. (6) Yeomans / Paesani – 2 & 1
nepga.com | May 2021 | 15FULLswing
DEUCES WILD!
BEST COURSES
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16 | May 2021 | nepga.comFULLswing
JAGOE GOES UNDER PAR TO WIN 2021
HUDSON CUP
MARSHFIELD, Mass. – Nick Jagoe, PGA Marshfield CC’s thick rough made scoring a challenge
(Wanumetonomy G&CC), fired a two-under 68 despite limited wind throughout the day. Jagoe was
to finish three shots clear of Cameron Taylor, PGA the lone player to play the back nine under par and
(Portland CC) in the 2021 Hudson Cup on Monday, just two other players – Joey Porello, PGA (Boston
May 13 at Marshfield CC. GC) and Aaron Harper, PGA (Ipswich CC), finished
the back at even.
RELATED LINKS: FINAL LEADERBOARD | PHOTOS
Thank you to Marshfield Country Club Director of
Jagoe opened his round with a pair of birdies in the Golf James Antonelli, PGA, Head Golf Professional
first five holes and made the turn at one-under 34. Alec Vozzella, PGA, Superintendent Tom Harrington,
Jagoe carded three birdies in the next four holes to and the entire MCC staff for hosting the 2021 Hudson
move to four-under through 13 holes before a pair of Cup. The NEPGA would also like to thank its Hudson
bogeys coming in pushed his score to -2. Cup partners, Turtleson and Kirk & Matz, represented
by Jeff DiBona.
Taylor’s one-over round of 71 placed him in solo
second place with The Bay Club’s John Paesani, PGA
firing a 72 for solo third. A trio of players finished
with three-over 73s to claim a share of fourth: Troy
Miller, PGA (New Seabury on Cape Cod), Anthony
Bacigalupo, PGA (Worcester CC), and Shawn Warren,
PGA (Falmouth CC).
“I probably struck the ball as well as I have in a while,
I think I ended up hitting 15 greens out there which
always makes it a little bit easier,” Jagoe said. “I had
a good winter down in Florida playing and practicing
and coming up and continuing that, it’s good to get
off to a good start. I hope that this momentum keeps
carrying over, so far it seems like it’s working.”
nepga.com | May 2021 | 17FULLswing
BARRETT AND WARREN FIRE 64 FOR 2021
ACUSHNET GOLF PRO-ASSISTANT CHAMPIONSHIP
MATTAPOISSET, Mass. - The Falmouth CC team of Gentle); and The Wianno Club (Steindel / Fossa).
Sean Barrett, PGA and Shawn Warren, PGA posted
a best ball score of 64 (-7) to win the 2021 NEPGA 97 two-man teams and 154 total players competed in
Acushnet Golf Pro-Assistant Championship on the Acushnet Golf Pro-Assistant Championship on a
Monday, May 24 at The Bay Club by three shots. picture-perfect day at The Bay Club.
RELATED LINKS: LEADERBOARD | PHOTOS Thank you to The Bay Club General Manager Greg
Yeomans, PGA, Head Professional Ben Egan, PGA,
“Anytime you’re in a two-man event I think having Superintendent Pat Meehan, and the entire Bay Club
two putts at birdie makes things a lot easier,” Warren staff for hosting the 2021 NEPGA Acushnet Golf Pro-
said. “We were both right there and able to make par Assistant Championship. The NEPGA would also like
to free up the other guy; it was a lot easier than last to thank its presenting partners: Titleist and FootJoy,
year with the nice weather and having a couple looks as well as its supporting partners: Kirk & Matz and the
at birdie on every hole.” PGA Tour.
The Falmouth team carded five birdies and an eagle
to get to -7. The team posted birdies on holes 2 and 6
to turn at -2 before adding three birdies and an eagle
on the back 9 for 31. Warren’s eagle came on the 12th
hole, which played as a 529-yard par-5. Warren made
the seven-foot eagle putt after putting his six-iron
onto the green from 188 yards out. The eagle also
marked the lone skin of the tournament.
The Alpine CC team of Nate Adelson and Mason
Talley finished in solo second after carding a 4-under
68 with five birdies and one bogey.
Four teams finished at -3 for a share of third placeS:
Cohasset GC (Kienke / Potty); Boothbay Harbor CC
(Penman / Andrews); Mt. Pleasant GC (Jenkins /
18 | May 2021 | nepga.comFULLswing
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nepga.com | May 2021 | 19FULLswing
NEPGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS APPROVES SHORTS
RESOLUTION FOR SUMMER 2021
The New England PGA Board of Directors the host course(s), beginning the day before the
conditionally approved a resolution from event and continuing through the completion.
the Tournament Committee to give male Appropriate slacks are required for all male
professionals the option to wear shorts at Professionals (no jeans or shorts or cargo pants are
NEPGA events in the months of July, August, permitted). Female professionals are permitted to
and September. The Board of Directors will wear culottes, walking shorts, or golf skirts.
seek feedback on the new policy this fall.
i. Male professionals will be allowed to wear shorts
Professionals are still required to wear pants at NEPGA events between the dates of July 1 -
at certain section events including the NEPGA September 30 (no cargo or denim shorts will be
Championship, Seniors Championship, and permitted). During this time period the tournament
Assistants Championship. Furthermore, committee has selected events where shorts will not
professionals must continue to abide by facility be permitted; the NEPGA Championship, the Seniors
dress code requirements and each host site Championship and the Assistants Championship
may disallow shorts at their discretion. will all require pants. Additionally, the host site
has the ability to disallow shorts being worn by
Dress Code (updated as of May 17, 2021) Professionals while on property. These instances will
The following Dress Code applies to all NEPGA be posted on tournament pages and communicated
members and Associates for all sanctioned to registered Professionals upon entries closing. All
events conducted under the jurisdiction of PGA Professionals that request a practice round
the NEPGA, unless otherwise approved by the from a NEPGA tournament host facility should
NEPGA Tournament Committee. This dress inquire with the host professional on their shorts
code shall be in effect for all stipulated rounds policy. Professionals will not be permitted to play in
and during the use of all practice facilities at shorts in tournaments that require full length pants.
WARREN AND VENEZIO RECEIVE KORN FERRY TOUR
EXEMPTIONS FOR JUNE’S LIVE+WORK IN MAINE OPEN
A pair of NEPGA professionals - Shawn Warren
(Falmouth CC) and Dan Venezio (Portland CC) -
received sponsor exemptions into next month’s
Korn Ferry Tour Live+Work in Maine Open,
scheduled for June 21-27 at Falmouth CC.
Both players have experience at the highest
levels of professional golf with both previously
qualifying for the PGA Championship in past
years.
Warren is the reigning Section Champion,
claiming the 100th NEPGA Section
Championship last summer at Myopia Hunt
Club. Venezio is consistently near the top of the
NEPGA leaderboards
June’s Korn Ferry Tour event marks the first time
the Tour has visited New England in over 20
years.
For more information on the Live+Work in Maine
Open, please visit https://www.themaineopen.
com.
20 | May 2021 | nepga.comFULLswing
MANCHESTER COUNTRY CLUB (Vt.) INTRODUCES
NEW PREMIER JUNIOR GOLF PROGRAM
Story provided courtesy of Manchester CC
MANCHESTER, Vt. - Manchester CC (Vt.), one of southern Vermont’s premier golf courses
and family friendly clubs, is introducing a new Premier Junior Golf Program that will combine
professional training, instruction and competitive play.
Led by Manchester’s Head PGA Golf Professional Peter Weatherby, the program is geared toward
middle school, high school and college prep players and features top notch instruction and the
ability to transfer learned skills into competitive play situations through weekly clinics and regular
(monthly) tournaments.
The Premier Junior Program provides small group and individual coaching so players can learn
fundamentals of the rules, scoring, and etiquette of competitive golf as well as skills practice and
the ability to compete at the next level.
Starting June 9, the nine-week program which runs through August 15, includes weekly afternoon
sessions (Wednesday’s 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.) with competitive rounds included once per month.
“Our new Premier Junior Program adds a family dimension to the MCC golf experience,” said
Weatherby. “There’s a demand for golfers age 11-18 years old looking for a competitive advantage
so we are eager to introduce a fun, welcoming and organized experience where the students can
identify their own goals and take their game to the next level,” added Weatherby who brings a
modern instruction method. “Young golfers who want to improve their performance with local
events or with their course management strategies, or those looking to play collegiate golf and
obtain a scholarship, this is a great place to be.”
The MCC Premier Junior Program provides students with top notch instruction and competitive
play situations. Individual instruction and clinics are provided on Manchester’s practice range,
chipping and putting areas, as well as Manchester’s championship golf course featuring beautiful
vistas, a variety of gorgeous golf holes and outstanding playing conditions. The elevation
changes, challenging greens, and bunkers will test a golfer’s skill and reward a player with a plan.
Weatherby has instructed over the past decade and is an accomplished player with first place
finishes at the Vermont Sectional Championship in 2019, The Mountain Lake Challenge in Lake
Wales, Florida in 2017, the NEPGA Stroke Play at Montcalm Golf Club in 2018 and NEPGA Stroke
Play at Turner Hill Golf Club in 2016. Prior to joining Manchester CC (Vt.), he was at Ekwanok
CC(Vt.), the Jupiter Island Club (Fla.), The Misquamicut Club (R.I.) and the Old Sandwich Golf
Club (Mass.).
Weatherby will also help shape the golfers’ motor skills through a variety of technology offerings
including a TrackMan launch monitor. In addition to the Premier Junior Program private lessons
are also available with the pros. MCC’s Premier Junior Program is open to members and the
public. In addition to the MCC *Premier Junior Program*, Weatherby will oversee *Manchester
Junior Sport camps which will include golf, tennis, and fishing.
nepga.com | May 2021 | 21FULLswing
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR DRIVE,
CHIP, AND PUTT QUALIFIERS
New England Local Qualifiying Kicks off June 5
AUGUSTA, Ga. – The USGA, Masters Tournament and PGA of America
recently announced that registration for 2021-2022 Drive, Chip and Putt
qualifying is now open on DriveChipandPutt.com.
Local qualifying began May 1, 2021, and will continue throughout the summer
with 330 events in all 50 states for boys and girls, ages 7-15. The full schedule of qualifying events includes
10 notable venues set to host regional qualifiers this fall for participants who advance. These regional
venues, featuring several USGA and PGA Championship
sites, include: Medinah Country Club, Oak Hill Country
Club, Colorado Golf Club, Quail Hollow Club, TPC River
Highlands, Pebble Beach Golf Links, TPC Scottsdale,
Alotian Club, The Bear’s Club and Oakland Hills Country
Club.
Prioritizing the health and safety of participants and
everyone involved, all qualifying events will follow
protocols to mitigate the risk of COVID-19. These
include wearing face coverings, social distancing and
minimizing spectators; additional protocols are detailed
on DriveChipandPutt.com.
“Drive, Chip and Putt serves as a fun and engaging gateway
to the game of golf for junior golfers across America to
showcase their skills,” said PGA President Jim Richerson.
“We’re proud of the PGA Professionals who will host these qualifying events, as Drive, Chip and Putt returns
nationwide. Through a special partnership with the Masters Tournament and USGA, the PGA of America is
excited to grow the game at the grassroots level through Drive, Chip and Putt.”
Top performers at the local level will advance through subregional and regional qualifiers in July/August
and September/October, respectively. From these qualifiers, 80 finalists – 40 boys and 40 girls – will earn
an invitation to compete in the National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club on Sunday, April 3, the eve
of the 2022 Masters Tournament. Qualifiers are conducted by all 41 sections of the PGA of America across
the country.
For more information and to register, please visit: DriveChipandPutt.com.
New England DCP Qualifying Schedule
DATE SITE STAGE
June 5 Biddeford Saco CC (Saco, Maine) Local
June 12 Button Hole (Providence, R.I.) Local
June 19 Cyprian Keyes GC (Boylston, Mass.) Local
June 24 Cranberry Valley GC (Harwich, Mass.) Local
July 1 Pease GC (Portsmouth, N.H.) Local
July 6 The Bay Club (Mattapoisett, Mass.) Local
July 13 Windham CC (Windham, N.H.) Local
July 21 Granite Links GC (Quincy, Mass.) Local
July 29 The Kwini Club (Shelburne, Vt.) Local
August 8 Renaissance GC (Haverhill, Mass.) Sub-Regional
August 11 LeBaron Hills (Lakeville, Mass.) Sub-Regional
22 | May 2021 | nepga.comFULLswing
PGA REACH New England is excited to Renaissance, The Bay Club, Brookline Golf
partner with the Lincoln Motor Company Course, and Granite Links.
and Mohegan Sun to promote Women’s Golf
Week. Get involved with the week and share your
experience on social media using the hashtag
With the support of New England PGA #womensgolfweek and tagging the NEPGA.
Professionals and facilities across New
England, this initiative is designed to increase CLICK HERE for more information on
outreach and communication to our female Women’s Golf Week and a complete list of
demographic and help grow the game registered facilities in New England!
through fun, instruction, social engagement,
competition, and outdoor wellness.
WOMEN’S GOLF WEEK HEADLINE
The inaugural Women’s Golf Week begins EVENTS:
this Monday, May 31 and continues through
Sunday, June 6! Join the celebration at June 1 - Renaissance (Haverhill, Mass.)
partner facilities across New England and
get involved with the game! June 2 - The Bay Club (Mattapoisett, Mass.)
June 3 - Granite Links GC (Quincy, Mass.)
The week is headlined with four signature
June 4 - Robert T. Lynch GC (Chestnut Hill, Mass.)
Lincoln Motor Company events spread
across public and private facilities, including
nepga.com | May 2021 | 23FULLswing
ROUNDS FOR REACH PGA HOPE
PGA REACH New England is excited to
announce upcoming starting dates for
our PGA HOPE programs starting in June.
The flagship initiative of our Military Pillar,
PGA HOPE introduces golf to veterans
with disabilities to enhance their physical,
mental, social and emotional well-being.
UPCOMING PGA HOPE PROGRAMS:
PGA HOPE – Bedford (Fridays, 1 p.m.)
PGA HOPE – Lakeville (June 4, 5 p.m.)
PGA HOPE – Bangor (June 10, 5:30 p.m.)
PGA HOPE – Lincoln (June 29, 5 p.m.)
PGA HOPE – Worcester (June 30, 12 p.m.)
A special thank you goes out to all the
Rounds for REACH is an online Spring
PGA Professionals who are hosting PGA
Auction that supports PGA REACH New
HOPE programs in 2021.
England, our charitable foundation and all
of its programs across three main pillars
- Youth, Military and Diversity & Inclusion. These programs join the PGA HOPE -
Launched on April 19th, the auction Atkinson program at Atkinson Resort &
continues through Monday, May 31 with a CC, which began in mid-May and enters
goal of raising $30,000! its fourth year of operation under Director
of Golf and 2021 NEPGA Patriot Award
Our auction items are unique experiences recipient Peter Doherty.
being offered by PGA recognized facilities
across New England, in one of two CLICK HERE for more information on PGA
categories - A playing experience WITH HOPE New England.
the facility Head Golf Professional (plus
winning threesome) or a foursome with
golf cars included.
CLICK HERE to view all the golf
experiences available across New England
and to place a bid before the auction ends
Monday (5/31).
24 | May 2021 | nepga.comFULLswing
PGA REACH New England is excited to continue
its spotlight piece dedicated to sharing the
goodwill and support of local communities by
our PGA Professionals. Chipping-In trumpets
the story of individual PGA Professionals and
their efforts to differentiate their facility and
personal PGA Brand within the community.
This month, we share the story of Head Golf
Professional Matt Baran, PGA of The Ridge Club.
Matt Baran, PGA
Head Golf Professional
The Ridge Club (Sandwich, Mass.)
MB: I’d like to highlight The Ridge Club and our
charitable efforts throughout the years. For over
eight years, The Ridge Club has partnered with the
Sandwich Food Pantry. We are now passing the torch
on to Cape Kids Meals. Our Ridge Club Women’s Golf
Association has also done tremendous work on their
own to support local initiatives.
What do these organizations offer to the
community?
One in 6 children on Cape Cod are food insecure
and many of these children are school aged. Most
times these children participate in the free breakfast
and lunch programs offered at their local schools.
Weekends can be very difficult as they may eat very little until they return to school
on Monday. Cape Kids Meals provides weekend nutrition to school-aged children at
risk of not having access to enough food over the weekend. The program began at 2
schools in Dennis and has expanded to 26 schools across the Cape serving children
from Bourne to Provincetown. Cape Kid Meals partners with schools who identify
the children at risk of not having enough food over the weekend. Shelf stable food is
packed weekly at one of the packing centers and then the bags are delivered to the
schools each Friday. School personnel places the bags into the child’s backpack prior to
dismissal.
nepga.com | May 2021 | 25FULLswing
What is the most rewarding
thing about giving back to the
community?
The ability to help the people
around you especially during
COVID.
How long have you been active
with your charitable organization?
The Ridge Club has supported the
Sandwich Food Pantry for eight
years and the Cape Kids Meal
program for the last six years.
What other organizations do you
support?
The Ridge Club Women’s Golf Association raised funds for two organizations in 2020,
United Way “Reach Out and Read” along with the Sandwich Food Pantry. The RCWGA
contributed to these organizations during specific events throughout the season. The club
added a Habitat for Humanity Member Day in 2020 and will continue this initiative for
2021.
How has giving back to the community helped to raise awareness of your facility?
We try to stay local and help the community we live in. Our facility is at the forefront of
giving back to our community for nearly a decade.
Any recommendations on how someone can start to support their community?
Reach out to your local Chamber of Commerce, there are countless opportunities in every
community to get involved.
Click here for previous editions of CHIPPING IN.
26 | May 2021 | nepga.comFULLswing
O’CONNOR MARKS 35th YEAR AT FAR CORNER
GOLF
Story provided courtesy of Gary Larabee and the Salem News
A professional journey that started as an assistant for Paul
Barkhouse at Ferncroft in 1978 has reached a milestone for John
O’Connor. The former St. Mary’s of Lynn and Salem State golfer
marks in 2021 his 35th year as the head PGA professional at Far
Corner Golf Course in West Boxford.
“It’s been a wonderful, gratifying 35 years,” says O’Connor, who
is among a group of more than 25 men who learned their golf
as junior players at Larry Gannon Municipal golf course in Lynn
(previously known as Happy Valley) before becoming PGA
professionals, most of whom were inspired by the legendary
Gannon himself.
“I’ve lived all these years a five-minute drive from Far Corner in Bradford. Very nice situation, More
important than that though, is the rewarding relationship I’ve had working here with Bob Flynn
(Far Corner general manager) for many of those 35 years. We’ve been a good team running this
place.”
“I give my father all the credit in recognizing John’s potential as our PGA pro when he hired him
way back when,” says Bob Flynn, referring to father Bill’s signing on the youthful O’Connor. “He
knew how right John would be as our head professional.”
Bill Flynn certainly valued the experience O’Connor had gained working for Barkhouse (6 years),
for Spring Brook Country Club as head pro for three years in Leeds, Maine, outside Augusta, then
for Kirk Hanefeld for one year at Salem. “I learned from some of the best pros in the New England
PGA Section,” O’Connor said. ”Then I learned from the very best in Bill Flynn. He gave me what
proved to be the offer of a lifetime. He would visit us at Far Corner most every day and I learned
from him every day as his employee and his friend.
“He was my greatest mentor, whether we were just talking about the golf business, or hitting balls
together, or playing or having a drink.”
At the same time, O’Connor and Bob Flynn grew as partners, making sure the thousands of
golfers who passed through Far Corner every year had a good experience.
“The Flynn family has been so good to me I don’t know where to begin,” O’Connor said. “My job
here at Far Corner got better and better. I’ve always loved dealing with the people, working with
the public. Whether it’s a charity outing, giving lessons and clinics, running our golf leagues, it’s
always been fun; some work too, but always fun, making people happy.”
O’Connor’s reputation as an effective golf instructor is widespread. He was named NEPGA
Teacher of the Year in 2006 and many of his North Shore peers state he would be a worthy
recipient of the honor most any year.
Continued on next page
nepga.com | May 2021 | 27FULLswing O’CONNOR MARKS 35th YEAR AT FAR CORNER GOLF (cont.) Story provided courtesy of Gary Larabee and the Salem News “John’s good at everything he does,” Bob Flynn points out. “We’re fortunate to have kept him here all these years.” O’Connor ranks among the longest serving (at one club) head professionals in the region, along with Gannon, Gannon’s successor Mike Foster, former Myopia pro Bill Safrin and recently retired Tedesco pro Bob Green. Soft-spoken, polite and agreeable, O’Connor has been an excellent face for Far Corner, representing all the fine qualities a PGA professional should display. As the only 27-hole facility north of Boston, Far Corner is busy virtually all the time, a constant challenge as Flynn and O’Connor, along with course superintendent Torey Kovalesky, supervise a staff of 65. “We’ve all fit pretty well as a team all these years,” Flynn said, ”and John has always set a fine example for everyone.” “I wouldn’t change anything about my career and my years at Far Corner,” O’Connor said. “Far Corner has always been the right place for me.” He received a tragic jolt 10 years ago when beloved wife Carrol died. “Carroll was the backbone of our family,” John said. But John kept his work course steady, supported by his two daughters who have blessed him with four granddaughters. He now receives loving guidance from his companion of five years, Deb Stevens, who was widowed several years ago. “Like Carroll, Deb understands the nature of my job, and that’s a big help to me,” said John, who turns 64 in late June. Along those same lines, no one understands the job of a public course head golf professional better than John O’Connor. Far Corner’s thousands of patrons have been the beneficiary spanning the last 35 years. 28 | May 2021 | nepga.com
FULLswing
Your View From Joan Stuart
The Fairway
NEPGA Director
of Accounting
& Finance
UPCOMING PGA development concepts to coach as many as possible, as long as
possible, with the best experience possible.
DUES PROCEDURES Golf’s governing bodies (LPGA, The Masters, PGA of America,
PGA TOUR, USGA and USA Golf ) have partnered with the U.S.
In accordance with tax rules applicable to 501(c) 6 not-for-profit Olympic Committee to apply ADM to golf. The goal is to create
organizations, the PGA of America must collect annual dues. athletes that love the game, realize their potential and become
Please note that we will do so under revamped procedures that life-long golfers. To help professionals and facilities across the
take into account the significant challenges presented by the country adopt this model, we created PGA.Coach.
COVID-19 pandemic for our Members and Sections.
The PGA of America finished the billing during May for all PGA What is PGA.Coach?
Professionals with the due date extended from June 30, 2021 to PGA.Coach is the ultimate coaching resource that teaches PGA
August 31, 2021, with no late fee or suspension. Professionals about ADM, and how to apply the concepts to
coaching golf.
Those unable to pay the full dues amount by August 31, 2021,
would be moved to non-active status, and can still pay the What’s in it for me?
full dues by June 30, 2022, to “re-establish” Membership (per ADM is essential for growing the sport and vital to you and
the Bylaws), and the PGA of America will waive the late and your employer’s success. The PGA.Coach Certificate and PGA
reestablish fee. Coach app will allow PGA Professionals to evolve and adapt to
If not able to re-establish by June 30, 2022, individuals the changes in the game and a new generation of players. Plus,
would need to reinstate their Membership. If the one-time PGA Members will be eligible to earn 3 MSR credits.
reinstatement option has been previously used, approval has
already been granted for a second reinstatement for those How do I get started?
affected by COVID-19. There is no cost for PGA.Coach. Just go to www.PGA.Coach and
While PGA of America wish it was possible to waive dues for sign up for the training. After you complete the virtual training
all members, as a 501(c) 6 not-for-profit organization, IRS (which takes 2-3 hours), you will be given access to the PGA
regulations do not allow us to take such an action. The PGA Coach app. The app includes:
is constrained as an Association in many ways by the rules of
being a non-profit entity but pledge to continue to explore • Lesson planning, notetaking and assessment tools
every avenue possible towards helping our PGA Professionals for all ages and skill levels
and Sections. • The ability to create your own lesson plans using
over 150 different ADM inspired activities
If you have any questions or concerns, please call the PGA • Video and illustrated demonstration for activities
Membership Department directly at 800.474.2776 • Preset lesson plans designed by ADM experts
• Assessments for all ages and skill levels
RETHINK ABOUT We understand that time is a valuable thing, so that’s why we
PGA.COACH
made sure that you are not required to finish this training in
one sitting. Life happens, so if you do need to step away, make
Think How you Coach Golf, and Create Passionate Athletes for sure to come back and pick up right where you left off in your
Life training process.
In 2014, the U.S. Olympic Committee, in partnership with To start your journey visit www.PGA.coach.
the National Governing Bodies, created the American
Development Model (ADM) to help Americans realize their
full athletic potential and utilize sport as a path toward an
active and healthy lifestyle. The model uses long-term athlete
nepga.com | May 2021 | 29FULLswing
Your View From Joan Stuart
The Fairway
NEPGA Director
of Accounting
& Finance
2021 APPOINTMENT CALENDAR
There is still a very small supply of the 2021 Appointment calendar available. Should anyone wish to place an order, have them
call PGA Membership Services at (800) 474-2776.
COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS TO MAJOR
CHAMPIONSHIPS AND TOURNAMENTS
NOTE: Due to no or limited fan opportunities at golf events in 2020, PGA Member complimentary access policies may not be in
practice. Please contact the hosting entity for current PGA Member complimentary access policies prior to planning on attend-
ing an event.
One of the more popular benefits of PGA membership is complimentary access to golf’s biggest events. Click here to see how
you can attend any of the PGA’s spectator championships including the Ryder Cup for free. For admission to The U.S. Open, The
Open, PGA Tour and LPGA Tour events, click here.
Six NEPGA Professionals, listed above, joined the Quarter Century ranks in early May.
Congratulations to all six individuals on reaching the impressive milestone!
30 | May 2021 | nepga.comFULLswing
CHAPTER ROUND-UP
CAPE COD CHAPTER
Frazier goes under par at Pocasset Pro-Am
The Cape Cod Chapter began its 2021 season at the end of April with a Pro-Am at Pocasset GC,
where Wyatt Frazier (Woods Hole GC) fired a two-under par 70 for low pro honors. He cleared
the field by three shots with Tom Tobey (Sandwich Hollows GC) and John Paesani (The Bay Club)
sharing second place at 1-over 73.
A thank you goes out to Pocasset GC Head Professional Jeff Halunen and the entire PGC staff for
hosting the Cape Cod Chapter event.
With the Sacconnesset GC Pro-Am postponed, the Chapter returns to competition on Thursday
(June 3) with a Pro-Am at Miacomet on Nantucket Island. CLICK HERE FOR THE COMPLETE CAPE
COD CHAPTER SCHEDULE.
RHODE ISLAND CHAPTER
Two Pro-Pro teams claim victories in R.I. Chapter events
A pair of Rhode Island Chapter events took place beginning with the
season-opening Pro-Pro at North Kingstown GC. A pair of teams - North
Kingstown’s Shane Drury and Brian Owens along with PGA members
Michael Elliott and Chris Kasheta - both fired 8-under 62s for a shared
victory.
A big thank you to PGA Professional John Rainone and the entire North
Kingstown GC staff for hosting the RI Pro-Pro Scramble. The Chapter
would also like to thank the supporting partner for this event, the PGA
Tour.
At the Sakonnet GC Pro-Pro on May 18, Bill Maguire and Nick Jagoe, both
out of Wanumetonomy G&CC, combined to fire a 4-under 66 to win the
event. The duo carded an eagle on the par-5 3rd hole and added birdies on
holes 12, 13, and 18 along with a single bogey to finish atop the leaderboard.
Christopher Hulme (Newport National GC) and Todd Scarafoni (Bass Rocks GC) teamed up for a 67
to take solo second.
Thank you to Sakonnet Golf Club Head Professional Matt Alwin, Assistant Professionals Mack Murray
and RJ Soares, and Superintendent Matt Barratt for being fantastic hosts. The Rhode Island Chapter
would also like to thank Derek Travers and Callaway Golf for their support of the event and the Rhode
Island Chapter.
The R.I. Chapter continues its schedule with the Acoaxet Club Pro-Am scheduled for Monday, June
23 in Westport, Massachusetts. CLICK HERE FOR THE COMPLETE RHODE ISLAND CHAPTER
SCHEDULE.
nepga.com | May 2021 | 31FULLswing
NEW HAMPSHIRE CHAPTER
Kish takes wins in pair of Chapter events
The New Hampshire Chapter Pro-Am schedule made a stop at Manchester
CC (April 26) with 34 NHC Professionals and their amateur teams. The
weather got the best of the field on this day as the temperatures huddled
around 50 degrees with wind gusts to 35 MPH. There were a lot of winter
hats on the players heads that day.
The pro division was led by Dan Wilkins (Laconia GC) and Ryan Moseley
(Manchester CC), who both shot 73 on this tough scoring day to tie for the
top spot. Brian Moskevich (Concord CC), Steve Hausmann (Amherst CC),
and Justin Diggs (Manchester CC) shot 74s to come in tied for third.
After a week off, the circuit traveled to Wentworth by the Sea GC on
Monday, May 10. Forecasted for overcast and possible rain it was anything but that. The first team to
tee off saw the sun sneak out and calm conditionS prevail. 27 NHC Professionals participated with
their teams that day. The Professional division saw Dan Kish (Atkinson CC) best the field by 4 shots
with a 1-under 69 to take the low pro honors. His counterpart from Atkinson, Thomas Smith, came in
with a 73 to take second place in the pro contest.
The Concord Pro-Am (May 17), with a full field of 37 teams, saw a pair of professionals - Dan Kish
(Atkinson CC) and Matt Arvanitis (Southern New Hampshire University) - come in a 1-under par 69
to share low pro honors. Five additional pros came in at even par 70 for a share of third place.
The Chapter returns to competition on Tuesday (June 1) with a Pro-Am at Mt. Washington. CLICK
HERE FOR THE COMPLETE NEW HAMPSHIRE CHAPTER SCHEDULE.
MAINE CHAPTER
Roberts cards six birdies to win Brunswick Pro-Am
Don Roberts (Waterville CC) went out with 36 (-1) and came in with 34 (-2) to fire 69 and claim the
Maine Chapter Pro-Am at Brunswick CC on Monday, May 24. The longtime Waterville pro carded six
birdies, including four on the back nine, for low pro honors, edging Shawn Scott (Long Meadow CC)
by four shots. Patrick Kowker (Portland CC) tallied three birdies and an eagle to finish third at +2
alongside Mike Dugas. (Johnson W. Parks GC). No other professional in the field finished with more
than two birdies.
Eric Higgins (Webhannet GC) finished at -3, Shawn Warren finished at -2, and John Hickson (Cape
Neddick CC) finished at -1 to grab the top-3 spot in the Chapter’s Pro-Am at Prouts Neck CC (May
18). The threesome were the only players to finish the tournament under par.
The Chapter opened the 2021 slate at the Falmouth CC Pro-Am, where four professionals - Zach
Mahan (Pine Brook CC), Dan Venezio (Portland CC), Hickson, Warren all finished with 74s (+2) for
low professional honors.
Thank you to each host course and its host professionals: AJ Kavanaugh and Brunswick CC, Sean
Barrett and Falmouth CC, Chris Twombly and Prouts Neck CC. CLICK HERE FOR THE COMPLETE
MAINE CHAPTER SCHEDULE
32 | May 2021 | nepga.comFULLswing
VERMONT CHAPTER
Bennett sets course record at Neshobe
Country Club of Vermont
General Manager David
Bennett birdied the 17th and
18th holes at Neshobe CC to
complete a 10-under, course-
record round in the Vermont
Chapter Pro-Am on May 24.
Bennett tallied eight birdies and an eagle on the par-72 course in Brandon, Vermont. He earned low
professional honors in the Pro-Am, with Burlington CC’s David Jankowski finishing in second with an
impressive 4-under 68. Peter Weatherby (Ekwanok CC) and Kevin Bennison (Burlington CC) each
fired one-under 71s to share third place and round out the professionals under par.
The previous week, Jankowski and Bennison finished 1-2 in the Chapter Pro-Am at Basin Harbor (May
17), firing respective rounds of 69 (-2) and 70 (-1) as the sole pros under par.
Jim LeClair (Lake Morey CC) claimed the Chapter Pro-Am at Brattleboro CC (May 10) with a 77 (+6)
in challenging scoring conditions. Williston GC’s Todd Trono finished a shot off of LeClair to finish
second.
The Vermont Chapter opened the 2021 season with a blind draw Pro-Pro format event at Woodstock
CC (May 3). A pair of teams finished atop the leaderboard with scores of 64 (-6). Evan Carty
(Burlington CC), Curtis Goldsberry (The Quechee Club), Paul Politano (Ralph Myhre GC), Dustin
Ribolini (The Quechee Club) comprised the first winning team while Patrick Berry (Dorset Field
Club), David Christy (Life Member), Zac Temple (The Quechee Club), Peter Weatherby (Ekwanok
CC) filled out the second winning team. Both winning squads finished the round with seven birdies
and one bogey.
A big thank you goes out to the Vermont Chapter Pro-Am host professionals and the entire course
staffs: Michael Zarenek and Brattleboro CC, Kevin Casby and The Golf Club at Basin Harbor, Jon
Milne and Neshobe GC, Matthew Closter and Woodstock CC.
The Chapter continues its schedule with the upcoming Burlington CC Pro-Am (June 7) and Woodstock
CC Pro-Am (June 14). CLICK HERE FOR THE COMPLETE VERMONT CHAPTER SCHEDULE.
MASSACHUSETTS CHAPTER
Chapter returns to tournament play on June 9
The Massachusetts Chapter, which has not hosted a tournament since early April, returns to
competition with the Foxborough CC Pro-Am scheduled for Wednesday, June 9. CLICK HERE FOR
THE COMPLETE MASSACHUSETTS CHAPTER SCHEDULE.
nepga.com | May 2021 | 33FULLswing
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Happy Birthday to the New England PGA
Professionals and Associates born in the
month of May!
Toby Ahern, PGA Jeffrey Halunen, PGA Alan Nelson, PGA
Michael Albrecht, PGA Steven Hancock, PGA Gregory Nowak, PGA
Brent Amaral, PGA Kirk Hanefeld, PGA Jennifer O’Connor, PGA
Bill Andrews, PGA Mark Heartfield, PGA Dustin Olehowski, PGA
Todd Anzlovar, PGA Webb Heintzelman, PGA David Perroni, PGA
David Baluik, PGA Shawn Hester, PGA James Pollini, PGA
Matt Barrett, PGA John Hickson, PGA Kyle Puzzo, PGA
Robert Beach, PGA Eric Higgins, PGA Mike Robichaud, PGA
Kevin Bennison, PGA Christian Hoecker, PGA Todd Rollins, PGA
John Boswell, PGA Robert Iannarone, PGA Thomas Rourke, PGA
Robert Bradley, PGA Andrew Ingham, PGA Mark Senecal, PGA
Daniel Britt, PGA Robert Jarvis, PGA John Sheehan, PGA
Stephen Caruso, PGA Kevin Jean, PGA Molly Sheekey, PGA
Bill Cassell, PGA Brian Johnson, PGA John Simmons, PGA
Albert Charest, PGA John Kan, PGA Jared Slingerland, PGA
Sean Chipman, PGA Ian Kelley, PGA Sean Soares, PGA
Peter Chwaliszewski, PGA Bryan Kienke, PGA David Soucy, PGA
Stephen Clayton, PGA Jake LaMore, PGA Joel St. Laurent, PGA
William Curtin, PGA Ryan Laughlin, PGA Eric Steindel, PGA
Jim Dayton, PGA Frank LaVacca, PGA Andrew Stolze, PGA
Mike Demakos, PGA Philip Leiss, PGA Michael Sullivan, PGA
Daniel Dempsey, PGA Timothy Loch, PGA James Swarthout, PGA
Scott DeVito, PGA Thomas Lucko, PGA Zachary Sweet, PGA
Peiter DeVos, PGA Al Lupis, PGA Ryan Taraskiewicz, PGA
Justin Diggs, PGA Herbert Madden, PGA Paul Tessier, PGA
Tracy Djerf, PGA Jason Malcolm, PGA William Thibeault, PGA
Peter Doherty, PGA Scott Mann, PGA Sean Toof, PGA
Gary Dorsi, PGA Robert Mantz, PGA John Tosone, PGA
Connor Dupont, PGA Joseph McNulty, PGA Phillip Truono, PGA
Kevan Evangelista, PGA Timothy Merrill, PGA Richard Vacca, PGA
James Fairbanks, PGA Bob Miller, PGA Al Vallante, PGA
William Ferren, PGA Richard Molesky, PGA Jay Wick, PGA
Cameron Fossa, PGA Anthony Morosco, PGA Arthur Wilson, PGA
Larry Gallagher, PGA Owen Mulcahy, PGA
Christopher Gentle, PGA John Munroe, PGA
34 | May 2021 | nepga.comYou can also read
