KEN PIZZICA, PGA
TSPGA Hall of Fame | PGA Master Professional | Life Member
Longue Vue Club Head Professional 1971-2004, Director of Golf 2005-2007, now Golf Professional Emeritus
What is your go-to Music? ’50s Doo Wop and ’60s Motown.
What is your go-to type of Movie?
The Godfather, James Bond, and Indiana Jones.
What is your go-to Food? Italian and Chinese.
Where were you born/raised? Penn Hills, PA
Tell us about your family. - Are you married, and do you have any children?
Married to Flo, 54 years. I have two sons: Rob and Jon, and Six Grandkids: Sienna, Robbie, Jon Jr., Colton, Ben, and Zoe.
If you could play a round of golf with any three people (alive or deceased), who would they be?
My Father and sons, Rob and Jon. If golf Professionals, Arnold Palmer, Ben Hogan, and Jim Ferree.
KEN PIZZICA, PGA MEMBER
Tell us something that people might be surprised to know about you.
US Army Vietnam Veteran. 15-month tour of duty in Thailand.
How do you spend your time away from the course?
Attending Grandchildren’s sports and activities.
What is the best part of your game?
Driving.
What is your best round of Golf?
65 at the Longue Vue Club.
Name two favorite golf courses that you've played, and what makes them unique to you?
Seminole Golf Club and Chicago Golf Club. Great classic designs.
What initially drew you to the game of Golf, and how did you get started?
Started caddying at the Longue Vue Club and worked in the Pro Shop for Willie Beljan. Played two years on the Penn Hills High School Golf Team and fell in love with the game and the golf business.
KEN PIZZICA, PGA
How long have you been a PGA member, and what made you decide to pursue a career in the PGA of America?
I have been a PGA Member for 57 years and a PGA Life Member. Earned PGA Master Professional/teaching status in 1994 (#133). Who has had the biggest influence on your life or career, and why?
Probably in my career, Willie Beljan. He hired me as his first assistant at age 17 and mentored me in a private club learning environment. It was then that I wanted to become a PGA member in my future and get involved in the TSPGA.
What’s your favorite part of working with your members, students, or clients?
My favorite and rewarding part is teaching members and students the game that I have studied and passed on. Still teaching and learning today. What advice would you give to aspiring PGA Professionals entering the industry today?
Work hard on your playing ability, study hard on your teaching knowledge, and find a mentor to improve your teaching. Work hard to become a PGA member. Get involved in the TSPGA by volunteering for committees in the section.
KEN PIZZICA, PGA
What does being a PGA of America Member mean to you?
The PGA of America letters 'PGA' after my name gave me the recognition of an exclusive organization that had educated and supported me, and promoted the game of golf. The TriState Section (Best Section) gave me an opportunity to volunteer and get involved. Proud to be a 57-year member.
What does “Growing the Game” mean to you?
Growing the game means that I have passed on golf to my two sons and six grandkids through teaching, with the hope that they find it to be a lifelong enjoyment.
Special awards, achievements, or recognitions you’re particularly proud of?
TSPGA past President, Secretary, Treasurer, Executive Committee, Tournament Chair, Junior Chair, TSPGA/Wendy’s Children’s Hospital Pro-Am Chair.
Twice TSPGA Golf Professional of the year, Dapper Dan Golf Professional of the year, and Penn Hills High School Hall of Fame. TSPGA Hall of Fame. Master Professional Status, 1994.
WINS: TSPGA Long Drive Sectional and Regional, St. Clair Open, Foxburg Presidents Cup, Phillip Dupre Open, Tri-State Open, and National Master Professional Team Championship.