Met PGA FORECAST - 2022 Year End Edition

Chris Kenney, PGA Chris Kenney, PGA

The Patterson Club | A Letter From the President

Each year, the last few months of our Met PGA season are filled with great playing opportunities and the recognition of the successes and contributions of our fellow Met PGA members. September is championship month, with our Assistant, Senior, and Section Championships all played in succession. Andrew Svoboda of Engineers CC started things off with a win at the Assistant Championship at Bethpage Red. The following week, Del Ponchock of Hudson National GC won in a playoff over Phil Cardwell of Rockville Links CC in the Met PGA Senior Championship at Burning Tree CC. The month culminated with Alex Beach capturing the Lincoln Met PGA Championship at The Bridge, earning him the Rolex Met PGA Player of the Year Award in the process. Our newest event, The Silvercrest Cup, brought excitement and significant prize money in a tour championship style shootout at the end of the month. As we moved into October, the tournament focus was about team golf, Pro-Am’s, travel, and special recognition events. The culminating event, and one of my favorite evenings of the year, came in November as we gathered at the historic Westchester Country Club to celebrate our section award winners. As you turn the pages, you will read and learn more about these events.

This past fall, I was honored to accept the Nominating Committee’s presentation of me to serve a third term as President of our section. The opportunity to work with so many talented golf professionals and the amazing team that we have at the Met PGA Headquarters as we plan for today and the future of the section is an experience that is extremely rewarding. As you look at your own career, I would strongly suggest that you consider your own involvement in the future of the section. Find something that you are passionate about and get involved. Start by getting involved in a committee, or by volunteering for a program. I promise that you will grow as a professional and get more out of it than you could imagine. In addition to growing as a professional, the friendships that you develop can be some of the deepest and most valued that you will have in your career. Whether you are interested in volunteering for a program, or serving on a committee, you can contact the section office to make them aware.

As I mention involvement, I would like to recognize and thank a few people for their service and contributions to the section as they leave their positions.

John Guyton has served on the Board of Director’s and the Tournament Committee over the past three years and has been a valuable voice in both.

Heath Wassem has served our section as a committee member, member of the Board of Directors, President, and Nominating Chair. Throughout Heath’s many years of service, he has had the growth of the Met PGA and Met PGA member at the forefront of his mind.

In addition, I would like to welcome Nick Yaun as a new member of the Board of Directors, and Brian Crowell and Craig Thomas as new members of the Nominating Committee. It is also my pleasure to announce that Dave Fusco will be the new Chairman of the Nominating Committee.

With the winter months ahead, we will all look forward to spending time with our family and friends as well as taking the time to plan for the 2023 season and invest in ourselves. The Education Committee has put together a fantastic offering of presentations that I hope you will be able to attend and learn from. A couple of other upcoming events are the National Teaching and Coaching Summit on January 22nd and 23rd and the PGA Show being held January 24th – 27th.

As I close on the 2022 season, I would like to thank the Met PGA Team - Jeff, Kelli, Kaitlin, Dan, Steve, Emily, Chris, Noah, and Shannon, for the sincere passion that they bring to our section and their tireless pursuit of the advancement of section initiatives. I would also like to thank the Officers and Members of the Board of Directors – an amazing group of professionals that are committed to advancement and creating initiatives for the future growth of our section.

Wishing you and your family much happiness and success in 2023!

CHRIS KENNEY

The Journey of

JERRY CHYLKOWSKI

Assistant Professional at The Connecticut Golf Club, Jerry Chylkowski has had a unique pathway to golf. In 1988, Chylkowski immigrated from Poland to the United States where he worked in a factory and part-time in a restaurant to make a living. One day, the owner of the restaurant invited Chylkowski to the course for his very first golf outing. Although he needed a few mulligans, it was here that he came to the realization that he was in love with the game of golf and all it encompasses.

Although Chylkowski had to balance four jobs and worked a whopping 95 hours per week, he wanted to do anything he could to stay involved with golf so he learned how to build and repair golf clubs. At the age of 42, he quit his factory job in the middle of the 2008 financial crisis leaving him with no income. Chylkowski used this as an opportunity to pursue his passion as he went to The Connecticut Golf Club to meet with Head Professional, Rod Loesch, to inquire about any job opportunities. Loesch recognized Chylkowski’s passion for golf and immediately offered him his first job in the golf industry, cleaning golf clubs and golf carts.

Chylkowski’s hard work and dedication to golf led him to achieve a promotion to Assistant Professional at The Connecticut Golf Club and on October 6, 2017, Chylkowski passed the Playing Ability Test to rightfully earn the title of PGA Professional. He still continues learning and improving his skills and teaching methods and in 2021, he earned his Certificate of Achievement for completing the American Development Model (ADM).

The American Development Model was designed by sports scientists to help support a lifetime affinity to sports, and to develop athletes to their greatest potential. These principles

“It’s Never Too Late”

align physical and psychological development to stages, delivering appropriate skills and exercise at the appropriate time. “The ADM is so important in showing how golfers can be developed for success,” said Chylkowski.

The 63-year-old continued, “It’s never too late to start as long as you love what you do…You can always find something you enjoy while helping other people and I love to be a PGA Professional.”

PGA.Coach is the ultimate coaching resource that teaches PGA Professionals about ADM, and how to apply the concepts to coaching golf. ADM is essential for growing the sport and vital to you and your employer’s success. The PGA.Coach Certificate and PGA Coach app will allow PGA Professionals to evolve and adapt to the changes in the game and a new generation of players. Plus, PGA Members will be eligible to earn 3 MSR credits.

Westchester Country Club hosted our 2022 Special Awards Dinner where 12 individuals were recognized for their outstanding achievements in all areas of the golf industry. Emceed by PGA Member and General Manager of Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point, Brian Crowell, the dinner highlighted each of our award winners’ accomplishments. This year’s slate of recipients included an outstanding group of individuals, spearheaded by our 2022 Met PGA Professional of the Year, Carl Alexander of Golf Club of Purchase. Carl is the epitome of what it means to be a PGA Professional and we were honored to showcase his career and share the love he has for the industry to all those in attendance. Also recognized for their achievements in their craft this year were the following honorees: Teacher of the Year, Anthony Cancro (Pine Hollow Club), Bill Strausbaugh Award, Tim Garvin (South Fork CC), Sam Snead Award, Gene Bernstein, Professional Development Award, John Hobbins (Greenside Golf Academy), Deacon Palmer Award, Lee Kaiser (Long Island National GC), Patriot Award, Ed Kelly (Cherry Valley Club), Player of the Year, Alex Beach (Westchester CC), Youth Player Development Award, Anthony Rodriguez (First Tee of Metropolitan NY), Player Development Award, Nick Novak (Golf Performance Center), Merchandiser of the Year in the Private sector, Kirk Satterfield (Westhampton CC), and Merchandiser of the Year in the Public sector, Doug Jansen (Brentwood CC). Click here to view videos of all honorees

Click here for Award descriptions

Player of the Year Award Patriot Award

Deacon Palmer Award Professional Development Award

ED KELLY CHERRY VALLEY CLUB

ALEX BEACH WESTCHESTER CC

JOHN HOBBINS GREENSIDE GOLF ACADEMY

LEE KAISER LONG ISLAND NATIONAL GC

Sam Snead Award Bill Strausbaugh Award

Teacher of the Year Award Professional of the Year Award

TIM GARVIN SOUTH FORK CC

GENE BERNSTEIN

ALEXANDER

ANTHONY CANCRO

HOLLOW CC

MEMBER MILESTONES

Metropolitan PGA partner, Morell Studios, once again sponsored the Morell Studios “Member Milestone” Awards for the 2022 season. New Member Award winners were recognized including Daniel Bigbie, Kevin Boldrighini, Cian Curley, Austin Delbaggio, Richard Dorso, Brian Favia, Kulen Flanigan, Benjamin Franjione, Patrick Gilbride, Hunter Hoffman, Trevor King, Matthew Kraus, Joseph O’Toole, Joseph Salowitz, Patrick Schwarze, Noah Sparrow, Daniel Szabo, James Tovar, John Wheeler, and Shea Wolfle.

Morell Studios also helped us in honoring the Met PGA’s more tenured PGA Professionals of the Quarter Century Club including Steve Haggerty, Forrest Hamlin, Steven Lee, Shelby Lowman, Gene Mulak, Joseph Munzer, Nathan Oberhofer, Victor Romano, Kent Thomas, and JoAnn Walker, along with Half Century Club honoree, Thomas Nigro.

Morell Studios is committed to creating the highest quality award and recognition products for the golf industry and corporations. The company has enjoyed over 40 years of experience providing best-in-class custom awards, shadow boxes, recognition panels, and Hole-In-One awards. Their creations are museum quality and feature rich textures to compliment both traditional and contemporary decor. To learn more about Morell products, or send a thank you note, visit their website at www.morellstudios.com or contact Carl Mistretta at carlm@morellstudios.com.

PLAYERS OF THE YEAR

“Any club professional that puts themselves out there by playing on a competitive level should be commended, regardless of how they finish. It is hard to keep your game up while teaching, working at a club, and having a family life. I’m very thankful to have friends and colleagues to push me to be better. For me, this award means a lot and not just on a playing level. I sustained a major leg injury last November. I didn’t start walking until January, went through major PT and didn’t play golf until March. I didn’t know if I was going to be able to compete this year or not. Needless to say, I am very grateful!”

“To be named player of the year means so much because the award doesn’t belong entirely to me, it belongs to the members at the Mill River Club and my family. I am so grateful for a supportive membership and family that allows me the opportunity to compete in Met Section and national events. It is a true honor to have my name listed alongside so many talented PGA professionals, male and female. I am proud to be a member of the PGA of America and a part of the finest Section in the country.”

Our Met PGA Players of the Year saw great triumphs in their 2022 campaigns. Check out what each player had to say about their season!

WENDY MODIC | FENWAY GC

LIZ CARON | MILL RIVER CLUB

Senior Player of the Year Standings

Player of the Year Standings

Senior Women’s Player of the Year Standings

Women’s Player of the Year Standings

Assistants Player of the Year Standings

“It is an honor to be recognized as the 2022 Senior Player of the Year award in the Met section. It is an honor to be recognized for any playing accomplishment, but even more so in our section where there are so many outstanding players and the competition is so fierce. Thank you to John Reeves who has been working with me on my swing this season. A special thank you to Metropolis Country Club and our membership for supporting and encouraging our professional staff to compete and represent the club.”

“Thank you to the Met PGA for the honor and privilege of being named Met PGA Assistant Player of the Year! This is the best section in the country with amazing players and incredible golf courses that we are lucky enough to compete on! I love playing in the events!”

ALEX BEACH | WESTCHESTER CC

“Player of the year is always a goal of mine at the beginning of each year. It’s a huge honor especially in this section, and isn’t something I take lightly. The season can feel like a blur at times between work and all the tournaments/travel, but this is a point where I can sit down and reminisce, proud of all the hard work and good play that went into this. Although it’s an individual award, it’s impossible to do alone and I must thank my personal team and my coworkers at Westchester CC for their assistance in making moments like this possible.”

ALEX BEACH | WESTCHESTER COUNTRY CLUB

To hear more from Alex Beach on his incredible 2022 season triumphs, view his Special Awards Video by clicking the link on page 10.

ANDREW SVOBODA | ENGINEERS CC

CRAIG THOMAS | METROPOLIS CC

KEEPING UP WITH THE PROS

Individuals in the Section making an impact on local and national levels.

Shaun Powers Wins at Home

“Shaun Powers used his home course advantage to claim the 2nd Westchester Senior Open Championship Presented by Lexus at Fairview Country Club... READ

Farrell Wins LI Senior Open in a Playoff

Metropolitan Golf Association MGA

“This is Farrell’s second career win at this event, the first coming in 2020 at Cold Spring Country Club. With the support of Steve Madden, Farrell was awarded a check for $3,700... READ

Young Earns PGA Tour Rookie of the Year

PGA TOUR PGA TOUR

“Young, a 25-year-old native of Scarborough, New York, and a 2021 Korn Ferry Tour graduate, will receive the Arnold Palmer Award for winning Rookie of the Year. He was selected...READ

Westchester CC Utilizes Summit Golf Brands Many Offerings

PGA of America

“When Westchester Country Club in Rye, New York, hosts a tournament of other event, PGA Director of Golf Ben Hoffhine often turns to Summit Golf Brands ...READ

Bill Milgrim - A PAT Tale of Perserverance

Metropolitan Golf Association MGA PGA Magazine PGA of America

“PGA Professional Bill Milgrim of Melville, New York, shares a story of motivation, grit and a little luck on how he passes his Playing Ability Test. After 14 tries, eveything finally aligned.” READ

Angela Aulenti Named to LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame

LPGA Communications LPGA

“Angela Aulenti is a recognized leader in the game who is committed to teaching others about the opportunity to pursue their dreams through golf...READ

Lisa Goulian Twiste

A Family’s Love for Golf Leads Them to South Florida for a Championship

“I’m fortunate to have known a number of PGA Master Professionals throughout my career. Those were professionals I always looked up to and tried to learn from. To now be in the shoes of those..” READ

“For the Ballo boys, golf is more than a competitive endeavor this week. Mike and Peter grew up in a PGA family. Both father Mike Sr., and mother, Page, are PGA Professionals...” READ

Keith Stewart, PGA PGA of America

PGA Master Professional Brian Crowell Featured in Golf Today

M. James Ward Golf Today

Tom Avezzano Named to Westchester County Sports Hall of Fame

Dave Donelson Westchester Magazine

Championship

Del Ponchock Captures Met PGA Senior Championship

Del Ponchock, PGA, of Hudson National Golf Club captured the 2022 Metropolitan PGA Senior Championship at Burning Tree Country Club in a playoff against Phil Cardwell of Rockville Links Country Club. He finished the championship with rounds of 67-70–137, 7-under-par. Ponchock led five other Metropolitan PGA Senior Professionals to compete in the 34th Senior PGA Professional Championship presented by Cadillac at Twin Warriors and Santa Ana Golf Clubs in Santa Ana Pueblo, N.M.

Entering the final round, Ponchock trailed one stroke behind defending champion, Carl Alexander of Golf Club of Purchase. After a tough three bogeys on the front 9, Ponchock entered the back firing. He managed consecutive birdies on holes 10 and 11, and another pair on holes 15 and 16, going bogey free on the back. Ponchock’s clutch par putt on 18 forced a playoff with Cardwell.

The pair settled for pars on the first two playoff holes. The last playoff hole found Ponchock with a 6-foot birdie putt, sinking it for victory.

“It feels great. Phil’s been playing really really well all year. We battled it out for two holes, I missed a putt and he missed a putt, luckily I made a short putt on the third hole to win...I’m looking forward to competing and representing the Met Section in New Mexico.”

PHIL CARDWELL ROCKVILLE LINKS CC

Senior PGA Professional Championship

PGA Members joining Ponchock and Cardwell in New Mexico included (in order of qualification): Dave Fusco of Patriot Hills GC, John Schmoll of Burning Tree CC, John Bushka of Aspetuck Valley CC, and Carl Alexander of Golf Club of Purchase. Frank Bensel, Mark Brown, Tom Joyce and Craig Thomas earned an exemption.

Craig Thomas Finds Success in New Mexico

A month after the playing of the Met PGA Senior Championship, 10 Met Section Professionals made their way to Twin Warriors and Santa Ana Golf Clubs in New Mexico to compete for a spot into the 2023 KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship.

The field featured Carl Alexander of Golf Club of Purchase, Frank Bensel of Century CC, John Bushka of Aspetuck Valley CC, Phil Cardwell of Rockville Links CC, Dave Fusco of Patriot Hills GC, Jim McCann of Spook Rock GC, Del Ponchock of Hudson National GC, John Schmoll of Burning Tree CC, Craig Thomas of Metropolis CC, and Scott Wise of North Hills CC.

After four days and a final round that included some nasty weather, Craig Thomas remained consistent and finished tied for 17th, earning him a spot in the 2023 KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship at PGA Frisco! This will be the first time the event heads to PGA of America headquarters in Frisco, TX.

www.met.pga.com

CRAIG THOMAS METROPOLIS CC

ALEX BEACH LINCOLN MET

Bridgehampton, N.Y. — The Bridge Golf Club played host to the 96th Lincoln Met PGA Championship. Head Professional, Jeff Warne and his staff, and Superintendent, Gregg Stanley, welcomed 106 of the finest professional golfers in the Section to Bridgehampton, NY for the Sections most competitive event of the year.

Gregg Stanley, shared his excitement in hosting the championship for the first time and what goes into preparing for the week ahead. “We can’t say enough about hosting this premier event for the Met PGA members and showcasing the golf course…We tried to get the course ready as quickly as possible early in the year and work on holding it there throughout the season.

“There will be a lot of scoring opportunities for the player driving it well,” said The Bridge Head Professional, Jeff Warne. “Hopefully the setup will allow us to have a great Championship where its firm, its fast, and we get to see the elite players in the section separate themselves from the pack”.

The 54-hole stroke play event saw several lead changes throughout the competition, but with a stellar final round back 9 performance in rainy and windy conditions, Alex Beach of Westchester CC managed to hoist the Joseph J. Lannin trophy for the first time in his career. ...

On the opening day of competition, Paul Selvaggio of Westchester Country Club and Dylan Newman of Brae Burn Country Club shared the lead with scores of 5-under par 67. Selvaggio compiled five birdies, and most notably, an eagle on the eighth hole while Newman put together six birdies, including a trio of birdies on the final three holes, to conclude the round.

BEACH CLAIMS MET PGA TITLE

After the second round of play, the duo of Jared Marschall of Winged Foot Golf Club and Cian Curley of Noyac Golf Club emerged to split the top spot with two-day totals of 5-under par 139. Marschall collected six birdies including backto-back birdies on the last two holes to secure a second-round score of 2-under par 70. Following a double bogey and a bogey on the first two holes, Curley displayed resilience and sank seven birdies, including four on the back nine, to earn a 3-under par 69. Marschall and Curley were accompanied by 60 others who made the cut to compete in the final round.

ANDY SVOBODA ENGINEERS CC

In the final round, Beach kickstarted his push to victory with an eagle on the par-5 10th hole, before making consecutive birdies on holes 16 and 17 to clinch the title by one stroke over Andy Svoboda of Engineers Country Club. With the victory, enough points were earned to name Beach the 2022 Met PGA Rolex Player of the Year.

The win for Beach came on the heels of representing the United States in the 30th PGA Cup where he earned his team a full point by securing a 1-up win over David Higgins en route to the 15.5-10.5 victory.

Thanks to our tournament sponsor, Lincoln Motor Company, our Professionals competed for a $100,000 prize purse. We appreciate the longtime dedication Lincoln has to the Met Section and their valued efforts in supporting our Professionals on the course and on the road.

For many years “Lincoln” and “Pro Am” have rolled off the tongues of golfers in our area as though they were one word. We value this identity as we promote and put on our Pro Am series each and every year.

“The Mitch”

This annual event held at Innis Arden Golf Club celebrates the life and impact of William A. Mitchell. “The Mitch” serves as an opportunity to award scholarship dollars to those Associates pursuing PGA Membership. Over the past five years, more than a dozen applicants have received funds to help offset the cost of PGA education. Congratulations to Thomas Green from Unionvale on recieiving a William A. Mitchell scholarship to help with his PGA membership journey.

OVERALL CHAMPIONS

Team Innis Arden

Gary Murphy, Dod Wales, Jared Eglowsky & Catherine McEvoy

RESULTS

New york state open pro-am

OVERALL CHAMPIONS

RESULTS

whitey voight

OVERALL CO-CHAMPIONS

Jimmy Farrell, Chris Feneli, Michael DiMaiolo, Blake Wolk & Chris Tortorello

Paul Selvaggio & Ryan Coughlin (Westchester CC) Alex Beach & Daniel Hallissey (Westchester CC)

The Whitey Voight Pro-Am honors the legacy of Elmer “Whitey” Voight, Head Professional at Sunningdale Golf Club from 1930 -1973, although his affiliation with Sunningdale dates back farther. His natural sense of leadership, his devotion to Sunningdale and its members, and his dedication to growing the game in the Met Section will always be remembered by everyone that knew him. As former Sunningdale President Eugene Morganthau once said, “It’s easy to replace a golf pro. It’s impossible to replace Elmer Voight”.

PRO LADY

Some of the finest female amateur golfers in the section teamed up with their club professionals at the 2022 Pro Lady Championship hosted this year by Meadow Brook Club in Jericho, NY. The Pinehurst format event proved that home course advantage is legitimate as Meadow Brook Head Professional, Matt Dobyns and his partner Brooke Cooper managed a 7-under par total to top the leaderboard.

HOFFHINE MEMORIAL

(Meadow Brook Club)

RESULTS

The Met PGA is extremely grateful to be a part of the Hoffhine Memorial Pro-Am at Westchester Country Club. The 18-hole Stableford event included a 50-team field that featured some of the area’s strongest professionals and amateurs.

Home course advantage seemed to be a major factor on the West Course as three teams from Weschester CC finished at the top of the leaderboard! It was the home team of Mike Ballo and John Hiller that ultimately claimed victory with a final stableford score of 31, edging collegues Paul Selvaggio and his partner Doug Beney, and Alex Beach and his partner Mark Mumford.

Peter Kampmann of Manhattan Woods GC found success in the overall Pro division, finishing with a stableford point total of 40.

As part of the victory, the champions received their trophy and infamous bottle of wine donated by Ghost Cellars.

RESULTS

travel Pro-Ams

atlantic city

LAS VEGAS

OVERALL CO-CHAMPIONS

Tyler Jaramillo, Todd Emmerman, Jon Simon & David Rosenberg (Fenway GC)

Peter Ballo, Chris Polidoro, Dave Donofrio & Jeremy Saunders (Connecticut GC)

OVERALL CO-CHAMPIONS

Team Old Westbury (Mike Meehan, Jeff Markowitz, John Bretschneider, Andrew Parker)

Team Colonial Springs (Kirk Oguri, Larry Weissman, Mike Napodano, Paul Petrsoric)

RESULTS RESULTS

Our largest and most anticpated Pro-Am of the year is “The Augie” Met PGA Championship Pro-Am. Preceded by the Lincoln Met PGA Championship, the sections largest fundraising event is led by Augie Hoerrner, board member of the Met PGA Foundation. Professional and Amateur golfers alike came together at the Bridge Golf Club to celebrate a day of “Giving Back Through Golf”.

This year’s celebration honored amateur golf enthusiast, Rich Friedman, chairman of Goldman Sachs Asset Management and board member of The Bridge, and PGA Professional, David Young, 35-year member of the PGA and Head Professional of the robust Sleepy Hollow CC.

Rich Friedman is a golf enthusiast himself and proud member of The Bridge. Rich and his wife Susan, and the whole Friedman family have given back in many many ways through their philanthropic efforts involving the Richard A. and Susan P. Friedman Foundation. Their fundraising efforts involve a wide range of community groups including youth, education, health and much more.

During David Young’s time at Sleepy Hollow, he has shown a true dedication to the game. There has been constant growth of tournament rounds, increase in participation of the Sleepy Hollow junior program, growth in PGA Junior League, Junior Interclub, PGA HOPE and has expanded playing opportunities for women with weekend tournaments and more tee times. David has received the Ely Callaway award in 2002, the Horton Smith Award in 2005, Senior Player of the Year in 2012 and Professional of the Year Award in 2019.

The support received through donations, contributions, and auction sales was overwhelmingly generous and we thank those who were apart of the success!

Augie” OVERALL CHAMPIONS RESULTS

Mike Ballo, Mark Seigerman, Eric Woods & Harris Cohen

Charlie Robson, David Young, Rich Friedman & Augie Hoerrner

TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP

Gardiner’s Bay Country Club and Noyac Golf Club played host to the 36-hole 2022 Met PGA Team Championship. The first round was played at Gardner’s Bay, with the second round finishing at Noyac.

The team of Paul Selvaggio of Westchester CC and Patrick Schwarze of Wykagyl CC made a total of eight birdies, their most important during final round play on hole 17 at Noyac that propelled them to win by one stroke over Peter Ballo of The Connecticut GC and Pat Clark of Wee Burn CC.

The duo of Mike Diffley of Pelham CC and Mike Gilmore of Winged Foot GC found plenty of success during the duration of the tournament, culminating in a first place finish in the Senior Division.

Before and after play at Noyac GC, professionals had the opportunity to win a cash prize courtesy of ARGOLF! A putting competition was set up on the putting green at Noyac where teams of professionals played 9 mini golf holes to determine a champion. Congratulations to Joe DiDomenico and Mitch Gray on winning the ARGOLF Team Putting Championship for the second year in a row!

Toptracer was on site as well, showcasing their latest in technology on the brand new Toptracer Range at Noyac. Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin competitions were set up on the range for Professionals to showcase their skills! Pat Clark of Wee Burn CC placed first in the longest drive competition and Cody Smith of Old Oaks CC won Closest to the Pin! Each winner received a $250 Visa Gift Card!

PRESENTED BY

QUALIFYING EVENTS

Long Island PGA Championship

Winner: Matt Dubrowski

Runner-Up: Phil Cardwell

Westchester PGA Championship Winner: Paul Selvaggio Runner-Up: Del Ponchock

Metropolitan PGA Championship Winner: Chris Trout Runner-Up: Tom Cooper

Lincoln Met PGA Championship Winner: Alex Beach Runner-Up: Andrew Svoboda

The Section and Silvercrest Asset Management Group, an investment advisor providing asset management and family office services to high-net-worth individuals and select institutional investors, partnered to create the Silvercrest Cup, a new tournament series for Metropolitan PGA Professionals.

Beginning this season, the series included four qualifying events and culminated in a $30,000 Silvercrest Cup final hosted at Tamarack Country Club in Greenwich, CT. The Silvercrest Cup champion received $15,000, one of the most lucrative winner’s checks on the Section’s tournament calendar. In addition to the final purse, each qualifying event included a bonus pool of $3,000, to be shared between each qualifier’s champion and runner-up, as well as a $10,000 contribution to the section foundation. Congratulations to the inaugural 2022 Silvercrest Cup Champion, Tyler Jaramillo of Fenway Golf Club.

RESULTS

Women’s Match play championship

Senior Women’s Player of the Year, Wendy Modic, had no easy feat to the top of the leaderboard at the 2022 Women’s Match Play Championship.

Modic saw Kammy Maxfeldt of Birchwood Country Club in round one, going on to earn the win 5&4. She would then face three-time Senior Women’s Player of the Year recipient, CJ Reeves of Century Country Club, who defeated Jenny Sullivan of Westchester Country Club in her first-round match. Modic used her consistent play to earn the hard-fought victory 4&2.

To secure her first Women’s Match Play victory, Modic would now have to get through 2021 Women’s Match Play Champion and two-time Women’s Player of the Year honoree, Liz Caron of Mill River Club. The final match was held at the historic Piping Rock Club. The Charles Blair Macdonald course features a gentle, steady slope on the front nine, with more dramatic elevation changes on the back, always leading to an exciting finish, and an exciting finish it was. Third ranked Wendy Modic would find success at Piping Rock defeating top ranked Caron, 2&1. Modic earns her first Women’s Match Play Championship victory, adding another highlight to her already incredible season.

SQUIRE CUP

The annual Gene Borek Squire Cup honors the late Gene Borek for his endearing qualities as a leader, his professional performance, and his well-renowned playing ability. 12 Assistant Professionals in the Section were chosen to compete based on the qualities that Gene Borek possessed, their devotion and dedication to the game of golf in our area, and their involvement in growing the game in the community.

This year’s event was hosted by Century Country Club to pay tribute to Nelson Long, the Club’s long-time and accomplished Head Professional who will be retiring at the conclusion of the year. Long spearheads a team of highly recognized Head Professionals in the section to compete against the 12 chosen Assistant Professionals for a day of comrarderie and competition. In the end, the team of Assistant Professionals managed to retain the Squire Cup!

FARLEY CUP

The John Farley Cup is a celebration of the service and dedication of John Farley, our long-time Tournament Director who passed away suddenly in 2008. This event features the top 12 players from Long Island competing against the top 12 players from Westchester (to include Fairfield and Upstate counties as well). The top 10 players with the most points on the Met PGA Player of the Year list in each jurisdiction and the top 2 seniors with the most points on the Met PGA Senior Player of the Year list in each jurisdiction after the conclusion of the Met PGA Championship will earn a spot on their respective teams. This year, the event was held on Long Island at the prestigious Deepdale Golf Club in Manhasset, New York. Thanks to Summit Golf Brands, our teams of Professionals were dressed in comfort and style: Team Long Island represented Zero Restriction, while Team Westchester sported BDraddy. As the action came to a close, Team Long Island earned bragging rights and took home the Farley Cup trophy! With the win, each professional on Team Long Island recieved a pair of Maui Jim Sunglasses! Team Long Island is now one ahead in overall victories over Westchester.

CHAMPIONS

(Top

LONG ISLAND

(Bottom

(Bottom

WESTCHESTER

left to right) Tom Cooper, Danny Balin, Matt Dobyns, Jesse Fitzgerald, Reid Howey, Cian Curley

left to right) Jimmy Farrell, Mike Sweeney, Andy Svoboda, Mike Meehan, Paul Dickinson, Connor Costello

(Top left to right) Casey Pyne, Chris Trout, Alex Beach, Craig Thomas, Peter Ballo, Peter Kampmann

left to right) Greg Bisconti, Frank Bensel, Dave Fusco, Del Ponchock, Kevin Ausserlechner, Paul Selvaggio

Assistants corner

BOARD

Tyler Lower President Mike Ballo Secretary Carly Newman Treasurer Dan Hemme 1st Vice President Chris Gabriele 2nd Vice President

TYLER LOWER ASSISTANTS PRESIDENT

This time of year is always a great time for reflection. With the new year on the horizon, we have a lot to look forward to. Thank you in large part to the Board and the Assistants section wide that made this year great. This season, Assistants of the Met Section performed phenomenally on course in section wide tournaments, were special award winners, and flew the flag well for the PGA of America. I would like to take this time to thank my fellow Board Members: Mike Ballo, Carly Newman, Dan Hemme and Chirs Gabriele for their time and dedication throughout the year. Assisants 1st Vice President, Dan Hemme, was recently appointed Head Professional at Innis Arden Golf Club. We could not be more excited for Dan on his new position and wish him the best of luck as he transitions to his new role. With that being said, there will be an open spot on the Board come April for those that are looking to get involved. We will conduct elections in the spring at the Assistants Spring Meeting.

The Board and I faced some challenges getting the Town Hall initiative off the ground, however, we saw significant change in participation when the meeting was held in person. Overall, we learned that if more people make the time to play in events and be present at the meetings, we have a much better chance of getting information shared. The in-person session conducted at Woodway went very well as we came together to share ideas. We learned a great deal about what leads to some of the woes we experience as a section, whether it be lack of tournament sites, lack of entries, lack of engagement, or just overall performance. The feedback received was valuable and we urge our Assistants to please make these initiatives a priority if you want to see change.

As we jump into the new year, I hope all our Assistants develop a plan to educate themselves over the cold months on something new, challenge themselves to get a certification, or learn a new skill. Our section offers some fantastic opportunities to further our development

as Assistants. Please visit the Education page on our section website to view all the upcoming educational opportunities. Developing goals for yourself and bettering the programs you are involved with is a must in this business. If you are starting a new position, make sure you can show your body of work from the past that will reflect better compensation moving forward. This will also give you the ability to elevate yourself and not become complacent if you are staying at a job or have been at a club for a while.

We as a Board are looking forward to reaching out to all of you to host tournaments and to encourage you to get involved. Be on the lookout for a survey coming after we enter the new year. If you have an idea, share it! We would love to hear from all of you. I’m around all winter in Harlem so please feel free to reach out. I really look forward to representing all of you in 2023.

All the best.

Tyler J Lower PGA Bridge Golf Harlem

Dan Hemme Named Assistant Professional of the Year

Dan Hemme of The Patterson Club is the recipient of this year’s Assistant Professional of the Year Award. Hemme has been the Lead Assistant at The Patterson Club since 2019 and since has made a positive impact on not only the club, but the Section as a whole. His engaging, dependable and can-do attitude was recognized by his fellow peers who elected him on to the Met PGA Assistants Board in April of 2022. He also became a member of the Met PGA Education Committee.

Hemme is dedicated to his members, dedicated to teaching and growing the game in the Section, and dedicated to bettering his peers. His election to the Assistants Board this year is a true testament to his character and passion for the Met PGA.

Congratulations to Dan on this well deserved honor and his recent appointment as the new Head Professional at Innis Arden Golf Club.

MET ASSISTANT CHAMPIONSHIP

Andy Svoboda claims

2022 National Car Rental Metropolitan PGA Assistant Championship

The National Car Rental Met Assistant Championship supported by Srixon, Cleveland Golf, XXIO and Asics was held once again at Bethpage State Park - Red Course where Andy Svoboda of Engineers Country Club battled through two days of rainy and windy conditions and defeated 141 other Assistants by compiling a two-round total of 8-under par 132. With the victory, Svoboda earned himself a spot in the 46th National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship at PGA Golf Club’s Wanamaker Course in Port St. Lucie that was held from November 17 - 20.

Joining Svoboda to compete in Florida were the following Assistant Professionals (in order of qualification): Casey Pyne, Dylan Newman, Isaac Kim, Mike Ballo, Peter Ballo, Matt Dubrowski, Peter Kampmann, Brandon Holden, Shea Wolfle and Connor Costello. The duo of Alex Beach and Frank Bensel earned an exemption into the Assistant PGA Professional Championship.

Eleven out of thirteen of our participating section professionals made the cut into the weekend, with four finding their way into the top 15 after final round play. Svoboda finished the tournament T4 at 2-under par, while Mike Ballo finished T6 at 1-under. Congratulations and great playing by all of our section competitors.

AssisTant-Assistant Match play championship

AssisTant team championship

The Assistant-Assistant Match Play final concluded at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club where Chris Gabriele of Sleepy Hollow CC and David Abolt of Meadow Brook Club went on to defeat Dylan Newman and Drew Billard of Brae Burn CC 3&2.

Westchester Country Club played host to the Assistant Team Championship where Tyler Fieser and Chris Fischer of Meadow Brook Club topped the leaderboard at 9-under par, two strokes ahead of the team of Alex Beach and Frank Bensel, and Matt McAdow and Jeff Calais.

Travelling the Fairways is delighted to congratulate Andy Svoboda of Engineers CC, Dylan Newman of Brae Burn CC, Casey Pyne of The Stanwich Club, and Mike Ballo of Westchester CC on becoming their top 4 finish in the 2022 Met PGA Assistant Player of the Year Race. After the success of the 2021 winner’s Race to the Emerald Isle trip to Ireland last month, we are proudly continuing our sponsorship of the Met Section and are thrilled to announce that the 2022 winners have won a trip to Scotland, the Home of Golf! With a legacy that spans six centuries, there is no finer place to play a round of golf than the country that gave the game to the world.

The Race to the Home of Golf itinerary includes a land package of 4 rounds of golf, deluxe accommodation and dedicated driver and transport for the duration of the trip. The foursome have the opportunity to also bring along three amateurs each, to make their mark as they walk the fairways designed by golfing legends of the past.

The Winners Trip…

After reaching the top four PGA Assistant players of the year for 2021, Scott Ford and Dylan Newman won a complimentary trip to Ireland to play some of the best courses Ireland has to offer – Royal Co. Down, Portmarnock Golf Club, The Island and Royal Dublin. Following their trip, the winners gave some fantastic feedback, thank you.

“I couldn’t believe how organized and prepared you guys were from pickup at the airport to scheduling an unbelievable four rounds of golf. I had an awesome time and can’t wait to see you guys again! Thank you” - Dylan Newman

“An absolutely fantastic trip, playing some of the best golf courses in the world! Everything was organized and run top notch. Thank you for a wonderful experience.” – Scott Ford

Eilidh Watson, Travelling the Fairways Travel Specialist accompanied the group in Ireland for the duration of the trip and even managed to play alongside Dylan and Scott on all 4 courses. “We are thrilled to have hosted the guys in Ireland, and hope that we will see them and their fellow Met Section Professionals very soon.”

CHAIRMAN

Charlie Robson

BOARD

Augie Hoerrner

Dave Scialabba

FOUNDATION

The success of the Met PGA Foundation is solely based on our members support and participation in our programs and 2023 was a record year for us on many fronts. This last year we had over 341 Professional/Associates help advance our mission throughout our three pillars of Youth, Military, and Inclusion. We are proud to share this success with each and every one of you and we thank our Met PGA Foundation Champions from 2022. We look forward to growing our list of Champions in 2023!

YOUTH

The Met PGA Junior Tour had 1,165 members this season compete in 78 tournaments from May-October. The tournaments featured vast opportunities for all abilities from our 9 Hole Tour for those newer to the game, to the Players Tour which features 18-hole events for intermediate players, and our Future Series two-day events for our highest skilled players. Junior League continues to grow each year in the Met Section with now 105 programs, 95 PGA Captains and over 2,100 kids participating. We also completed 6 Local and a Sub-Regional Drive, Chip & Putt Qualifiers this season. A special congratulations to our two local qualifiers, Alexandra Phung and Ava Estrella, who have advanced to the finals at Augusta National GC next spring.

MILITARY

PGA HOPE classes were back in full swing this season with 162 veterans graduating this year helping us eclipse our 1,000th veteran served this July! Thank you to all our PGA HOPE teachers that donate their time to the program and have such an incredible impact on our veterans. We need more instructors and are planning a PGA HOPE Instructor training for the Spring. Please get involved!

Over 200 veterans also competed in our PGA HOPE Military League in 2022 featuring a spring and fall season. There were 16 teams of veterans captained by PGA Professionals at local golf courses that played home and away matches over the two seasons. VetWorks continued to pair veterans with employment opportunities at golf facilities throughout the Metropolitan area if you have any opportunities for our veterans please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office.

INCLUSION

PGA Professionals continue to provide golf lessons in our Golf in Schools Program for school golf teams of the Public School Athletic League throughout the five boroughs of New York. We need more instructors – contact us on who to get involved. The Metropolitan PGA continued to support the efforts of the First Tee Metropolitan NY with a donation of $50,000. We also continue to work closely with the First Tee to provide an on ramp free of charge to their juniors looking to play in tournament golf through our scholarship program. Over 20 full scholarships were provided to First Tee kids to play on the Junior Tour in 2022.

FUNDRAISING EVENTS

For the first time in history, the Metropolitan Section PGA Foundation raised over half a million dollars in donations thanks to the dedication of our members, and their clubs who continuously support us. We are proud to share this success with each and every one of you and we thank our Met PGA Foundation Champions from 2022 and we look forward to growing our list of Champions in 2023!

Brian Crowell, PGA Rich Jones, PGA Heath Wassem, PGA Ed Fitzmaurice

Zach Barrett, Peter

Bohen, Jeff Bohr, Mark

Bruggemann,

Callioras,

Champions of the Foundation

Cancro,

Carazo, Phil Cardwell, William Carney, Jamison Carr, Andy Carracino, Gabe Carr-Harris, Anthony Casalino, Ellen Ceresko, Michael Chernack, Jerzy Chylkowski, Vincent Cirino, Pat Clark, Stephen Clark, Drew Clayton, Chris Cohen, Joe Condomitti, Joseph Connerton, Alfred Consoli, Colin Corrigan, Matt Corso, Peter Cowan, Cian Curley, William Dantone, Kevin Daraio, Frank Darby, James Darcy, Michael Davis, Samuel Defranceschi, John Deigan, Lou DeKerillis , Anthony DeStefano, Michael Diffley, Jeff DiMarco, Michael DiMeglio, Marco DiNardo, John DiPilato, George Dixon, Matt Dobyns, Joseph Dolezal, Steve Donnelly, Rich Dorso, James Doyle, Matt Dubrowski, Peyton Durham, David Einstein, Steve Elias, Joseph Elliott, Casey Epstein, Robert Everett Jr., Philip Eyre, Brian Fallon, James Fatsi, Brian Favia, Steve Feder, Christian Ferrandino, Brittany Ferrante, Chris Fischer, Alex Fisher, Jesse Fitzgerald, Larry Flammia, Kulen Flanigan, Xavier Fleming, Eden Foster, Salvatore Frasca, Thomas Freed, Mark Fretto, Dave Fusco, David Gagnon, Mal Galletta, Max Galloway, Craig Garcia, Tim Garvin, Timothy Gaskin, Ryan George, Ronald Gerhold Jr., James Giampaolo, Brian Giordano, Michael Girardi, Paul Glut, Tommy Glynn, Jonathan Gold, Tristin Goodwin, Martin Granda, Thomas Green, Bob Greenstein, Robert Guido, Pat Gunning, Steve Haggerty, Michael Hanrahan, Eric Hartstein, James Hazen, Robert Heering, Theodore Heins, Peyton Hemme, Thomas Henderson, Dan Henry, Thomas Herzog, Dennis Hillman, John Hobbins, Richard Hofer, Benjamin Hoffhine, Brandon Holden, Thomas Holmes, Reid Howey, Alexander Hume, Kelly Hunt, Ryan Ilardi, Walter Janeczko, Jonathan Janik, Tyler Jaramillo, Andrew Jenkins, Michael Johnson, Kevin Johnston, Rich Jones, John Jordan, Steven Kaufmann, Edward Kelly, John Kennedy, Jamie Kilmer, Henry Kilroy, Isaac Kim, Steve Kladis, Scott Klemme, Roger Knick, Jon Kudysch, Rob Labritz, Adam Laird, Patrick Langan, Nico Langelotti, Harvey Lannak, Beau Lardner, David Larger, Michael Laudien, Justin Lawler, Rick LeBeau, SooYoung Lee, Chang Lee, Jacob Lehman, Bill LePosa, Kevin Lisi, Matt Livolsi, Daniel Lockhart, Adam Lockwood, Kevin Loftus, Madeleine Lorenz, Alix Lowe, Thomas Lucas, Gerald Mackedon, Jamey Magas, Charles Mallo, Phillip Manceri, Michael Mancz, Jared Marschall, Charles Martella, Patrick Massi, Kammy Maxfeldt, Patrick McCarthy, Colin McConchie, Daniel McCracken, James McIntosh, Chris Mclaughlin, Sharon McQuillan, Mike Meehan, Tanner Megal, Charlie Meola, Rick Meskell, Bob Miller, Robert Miller, Mandy Milne, Robert Mistretta, Wendy Modic, Stephanie Molloy, Fred Moore, Samantha Morrell, Aaron Mueller, Richard Mueller, Garrett Murphy, Dylan Newman, Carly Newman, Taylor Nickerson, Rick Nielsen, Matt Noel, Leigh Notley, Nick Novak, Nate Oberhofer, Thomas O'Hare, James Ondo, Marcus Opheim, Bill Osetek, John Papp, Thomas Paulino, Lindsay Paulino, Carly Peters, Jonathan Phillips, Adrian Ponce, Del Ponchock, Charles Poole, Robert Posillico, Casey Pyne, Sean Quinlivan, Kevin Quinn, Adam Rainaud, Joseph Raitano, Michael Rapisarda, C J Reeves, John Reeves, Amber Richardson, Patrick Robertson, Victor Romano, Alexander Ruxer, Pierce Ryan, Sean Sage, Kevin Samela, Kramer Samuelson, Jordan Sanyshyn,

Gerard Scheer Jr., Charles Scheffing, Casey Schermick, Patrick Schwarze, Gary See, Philip Servider, Timothy Shifflett, Thomas Sialiano, Matthew Sim, Jane Sirmons, Matt Sita, Kevin Smith, Cody smith, Kenton Smith, Alexander Smith, Doug Solow, Ryan Sonnenschein, Andrew Sorber, Parker Soule, Lucas Spahl, Dale Spina, Daniel Sposato, Kevin Sprecher, Michael Springer, Tim Stafford, Eric Steindel, Cary Stephan, Dave Stevenson, John Stoklosa,

Mets Night at Citi Field

The Metropolitan PGA Section Foundation is pleased to welcome New York Mets All-Star Second Baseman, Jeff McNeil to our Board. The MLB Star announced his partnership with The Foundation at Citi Field with a pre-game donation presentation to the Cohen Children’s Hospital on Long Island and Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital in Westchester. These funds were raised by the participants of the inaugural Met PGA Birdie Bash held in August. McNeil has always been an avid golfer, competing in tournaments throughout his life and has seen first-hand the positive impact golf can have on an individual. McNeil looks forward to helping the Foundation in its mission to serve the Metropolitan New York golf community and provide services and programs to children and veterans throughout the region, saying “I’m honored to be joining The Metropolitan PGA Section Foundation and inspired by the work that they do. Being able to give back to the community through one of my favorite sports, golf, made joining the board an easy decision.”

Fall Graduation

Seventy-four veterans were welcomed into the PGA HOPE Family this fall at The Woodside Club. PGA Head Professional, Paul Glut, and his staff welcomed our veterans for a day of golf and comaraderie with help from our section Professionals and PGA HOPE Alumni. Our Alumni were essential, preparing brand new sets of Callaway golf clubs for each of our graduates to use during play, and to continue using in years to come. Each group was paired with Section Professionals who have been pivotal in teaching our new graduates the skills and etiquette to use on the course during the six weeks of classes prior to graduation day. Thank you to our class host sites, The Woodside Club, Spook Rock Golf Club and Mosholu Golf Club for opening up their doors to our veterans, staff and Professionals during the duration of the fall. We look forward to seeing this new graduating class continue to spread the joy of the game with our past alumni, and their fellow graduates in the future.

Q&A

Home Course: Old Westbury G&CC, Old Westbury, NY

Q. What do you like the most about playing golf?

“I love every aspect of the game of golf, whether it’s the competition, the different courses that I have had the opportunity to play on, or the sense of accomplishment that I feel after I play a good round. I also love the golf course itself, being outside on a nice day and playing golf with my brother, Jack, and also with my friends. Golf has taught me patience and also challenges me to control my emotions when I am playing, which has helped me in many other aspects of my life outside of golf.”

Q. What part of the DCP competition do you like to practice the most

“I like to practice the drive part of the DCP competition the most. My favorite club is my driver because I feel the most comfortable with it; I know it usually goes straight into the fairway and if I miss, it is not a big miss. However, I grew almost 5 inches this past year and now have to change my driver…so we will see if I still feel the same way!”

Q. If you could choose to play golf with a dream foursome, who would the other three people be?

“Tiger Woods, Jason Day, and Jordan Spieth!”

Q. What food would you serve at your Champions Dinner at Augusta National?

“Foie gras terrine, roast duck with raspberry sauce, and for dessert bananas foster and ice cream sundaes.”

Metropolitan National Qualifiers

ALEXA PHUNG

Forest Hills, NY

AGE GROUP: 12 - 13

Home Course: Bonnie Briar CC, Larchmont, NY

Q. What do you like the most about playing golf?

“Spending time with my siblings Amelie and Leo, and exploring new golf destinations.”

Q. What part of the DCP competition do you like to practice the most

“Putting. Putting is exciting as I’m not the longest hitter off the tee. Putting gives me the chance to be competitive.”

Q. If you could choose to play golf with a dream foursome, who would the other three people be?

“Siblings Leo and Amelie, and Marine veteran, Harvey Silverman. Harvey will be joining me as my chaperone at the National competition in April. It was always his dream to make it to Augusta. ”

Q. What food would you serve at your Champions Dinner at Augusta National? “Calamari as an appetizer, lobster and asparagus for the main course, and cheesecake with fresh strawberries for dessert.”

Q. Do you have any pre-competition superstitions?

“I never celebrate until it’s over.”

JUNIOR TOUR

It is our honor to recognize the exceptional accomplishments from our 2022 Junior Tour season with the Season Recap Video. This year we had over 1,200 young aspiring golfers compete in over 80 events. None of this would be possible without the support of our PGA professionals. Thanks to their generosity and passion to give back and grow the game, we are able to have the greatest impact for junior golfers of all ages and abilities.

Congratulations to all of our Junior Tour competitors on a spectacular season!

Fall Future Series!

Eisenhower White - September 10th - 11th

Owen Jessop - Westhampton CC Emma Lee - Westchester CC

Boys Champion Girls Champion

Bethpage Red - September 24th - 25th

Mark Yan - Trump Hudson Valley Madison Chen - Harbor Links GC Boys Champion Girls Champion

Beekman GC - October 8th - 9th

Gavin Girard - St. George’s G&CC Arabella Lopez - Redding CC

Boys Champion Girls Champion

Eisenhower White - October 15th - 16th

Gavin Girard - St. George’s G&CC Madison Chen - Harbor Links GC

Boys Champion Girls Champion

Matt DiFiore - Eisenhower Park Nina Choe - Pelham CC Girls Champion Boys Champion

Youth Roadmap

DRIVE CHIP & PUTT

The Drive, Chip and Putt Championship is a Nationwide junior golf skills competition aimed at growing the game. It is a joint initiative by the PGA of America, Masters Tournament, and USGA and is open to juniors ages 7-15. Locally, we host numerous qualifiers for the Championship.

INTERMEDIATE PLAYERS 18 HOLE TOURNAMENTS

Entry Fees: $65 per event

One day 18 Hole tournaments throughout the summer offering an intermediate level of competition.

Divisions: Boys 12-14, Boys 15-18, Girls 14-18

PGA JR. LEAGUE

PGA Jr. League brings family and friends together around fun, team golf experiences with expert coaching from PGA and LPGA Professionals. The program focuses on fun, recreation, goodhealth, and sportsmanship for boys and girls ages 17 and under to learn and enjoy the game of golf. PGA Jr. League utilizes a popular scramble format that creates a nurturing enviornment for learning and development.

ADVANCED & COLLEGE BOUND PLAYERS 36 HOLE TOURNAMENTS

Entry Fees: $215 per event

Two-day 36 Hole tournaments throughout the summer and fall. Open to advanced players looking to take the next step toward collegiate level and gain meaningful exposure.

Divisions: Boys 12-18, Girls 12-18

PLAYERS

MET PGA JUNIOR TOUR

Consisting of over 1,200 members, the Junior Tour hosts 80+ tournaments per season for junior golfers of all abilities from the ages of 10-18. In addition, members are able to take advantage of special foundation programming including: rules seminars, college golf prep, and other special opportunities.

INTRODUCTORY LEVEL

9 HOLE TOURNAMENTS

Entry Fees: $50 per event

One day 9 Hole tournaments throughout the summer and is a vehicle for new players to develop their games and gain an introduction to competitive golf.

Divisions: Boys 10-13, Girls 10-13, Girls 14-18

Fairways to Success

Met PGA Foundation grants financial assistance to juniors who would otherwise not be able to take full advantage of our programming. For those continuing to college, we offer scholarships as well as guidance on the college golf recruitment process. Fairways to Success provides members with mentorship, playing, and practice privileges at facilities that may otherwise be inaccessible to them. Our internship program allows Junior Tour alumni the opportunity to gain work experience in the industry and help build their resume.

Met PGA Junior Tour Member, Andrew Chen, Gives Back to the Foundation

Andrew Chen, accomplished golfer on the Met PGA Junior Tour, raised $10,000 for the Met PGA Foundation over the summer in his own charitable golf event. Hear from Andrew below on the details of his fundraising efforts:

Q How did you get introduced to golf?

“I got into golf because of my dad, we were both really interested in Tiger Woods who was a human highlight reel and from there my love for the game has blossomed. I started playing in the Met PGA when I was six years old at Westchester Country Club and that’s just an amazing place.”

What made you want to give back to the Met PGA?

“Since I’ve been playing for so long and I’m so grateful for everything that the Met PGA has given me, I wanted to give back. You know what they say when you help one person you help everyone and that’s something I like to live by. The Met PGA has given me the opportunity to play competitive golf, develop new friendships, and watch people grow and that’s just something that I really enjoy and it’s something I want to give back to.”

What motivated you to put together a fundraiser?

“I’ve always wanted to give back to others because it’s just something I like to do and having the platform and the ability to do so I might as well take that opportunity and make something of it.”

How has being a part of the Junior Tour impacted your life?

“There are a countless number of people who I’ve met and people I’ve befriended on social media and we keep in touch every now and then and it’s something that will probably go on years after college. Maybe now and then we can link up and play a few rounds.”

Is this an event you see yourself doing again?

“For sure, this is something I’d like to do year after year if I could and I’d like to open it up to more than just family and friends.”

What’s your dream job and aspirations for the future?

“I don’t know exactly what I want to do, that’s up to me in the future, I just hope it gives me a lot of time to play golf!.”

SPOTLIGHT

Doug Beney

JUNIOR | ST. JOHN’S GOLF TEAM

Golf has been such a huge part of my life. It has given me opportunities that I never would have imagined. Playing golf has helped shaped me into the person I am today, and it has taught me many values that I will hold on to for the rest of my life. Through traveling to different places around the world to play, golf has been a journey that I am blessed to be a part of.

Starting golf at the age of twelve was not the easiest considering it was a late start compared to others. After playing for a year, joining the Met PGA Junior Tour opened a new world of golf for me. Being able to play in tournaments every summer through the Met Section was a great way to start tournament golf. During my time playing in tournaments, my golf game got a lot better. One of the best things about playing in all the Met Section junior events was meeting a lot of other junior golfers who are still to this day some of my best friends. The Met Section offers great competitive junior golf tournaments for every kid who wants to play, and it opens up opportunities for the future.

I am currently a junior playing golf for a Division I school, St John’s University. Being a collegiate golfer now, I owe a lot of my success to the Met PGA. Playing on their tour allowed me to develop skills that I still use today. It taught me about the game of golf in a competitive setting, along with attributes like course etiquette, the rules of golf, and personal integrity. Golf brings everyone to a low point during a round no matter what and learning how to bounce back is something everyone needs to learn how to do. Having good discipline and a strong work ethic is very important and something I learned while playing on the junior tour.

Advice to Juniors

“Golf is just a the game. Everyone wants to be like Tiger and be the best, but it won’t happen overnight. Staying patient and learning from the bad days is just as important as having great days. Don’t compare yourself to others because everyone learns and grows at a different pace. Do what makes you happy, whether it’s golf or something else. You won’t know what you want to do until your older so keep trying new things and never give up.”