Member Spotlight | Sam Deep III, PGA | Tri-State PGA

SAM DEPE III, PGA

Sam Depe III, TSPGA Hall of Fame Owner, Hickory Heights Golf Club

What is your go-to Music?

I like the ’60s, ’70s, & ’80s. To quote Bob Seger, “Today’s music ain’t got the same soul, I like that old time Rock and Roll!"

What is your go-to type of Movie?

Something with an actual plot.

What is your go-to Food? Italian, Syrian

What is your go-to Snack? Fresh fruit

What is your go-to Club in your bag? I would say “ Driver”, but that’s what got me into trouble.

Where did you grow up?

Bridgeville, PA

SAM DEPE III, PGA

Tell us about your family.

- Are you married, and do you have any children?

I am single. My Son Sam manages our Club. My Daughter Alexis owns “Lil’Fox, her all-natural cosmetic company in Miami.

Tell us something that people might be surprised to learn about you.

My first job as a Golf Professional was the Caddymaster at Sewickley Heights Golf Club.

What is the best part of your game? Right now Putting

What is your best round of Golf?

My low round was 64. My best round was 67 at Laurel Valley Golf Club

Can you name two of your favorite golf courses that you've played, and what makes them unique to you? Laurel Valley for its natural beauty and playability. Pine Valley because it’s Pine Valley!

SAM DEPE III, PGA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

What initially drew you to the game of Golf, and how did you get started?

My Father, Sam Depe Jr., was a PGA Professional and introduced me to this great game. At an early age, I knew that was what I wanted to be

If you could play one round of golf with any three people (alive or deceased), who would you choose to play with?

My Father, my Son, Arnold Palmer, and Steve Blass. I realize that we have a fivesome, but we promise to play fast!

Please provide some insight into your previous roles.

Caddymaster, Sewickley Heights Golf Club

Assistant Pro, Hidden Valley Country Club

Head Golf Professional, Hidden Valley Country Club

Assistant Pro, South Hills Country Club

Head Golf Professional South Hills Country Club

Owner Hickory Heights Golf Club

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 member since 1981. My Father introduced me to this great game

SAM DEPE III, PGA MEMBER

What does being a PGA of America Member mean to you— and how does it feel to have those three letters, ‘PGA,’ after your name?

The letters PGA tell the world that you have all the skills necessary to have success in the Golf Business. I’m proud to be a member of the PGA.

What wisdom can you offer about golf careers and the importance of becoming a PGA member/achieving membership status?

If you aspire to have a career in the Golf business, I consider it a must to achieve membership into the PGA of America.

Can you give some insight or provide any achievements, accolades, or recognition?

I am very proud to say that I served two terms on the Board of Governors of The Tri-State PGA, serving as Employment Director.

TSPGA Golf Professional of the Year

Deacon Palmer, National Award winner

Hall of Fame inductee, Tri-State PGA & Point Park University

* Photo Credit: Nicole Tafe, South Fayette IN Community Magazine