2026 MIDDLE ATLANTIC SECTION OF THE PGA OF AMERICA HALL OF FAME & AWARDS BANQUET MARCH 15, 2026 LANSDOWNE RESORT & SPA LEESBURG, VIRGINIA
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THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC SECTION OF THE PROFESSIONAL GOLFERS’ ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA The Middle Atlantic Section of The Professional Golfers’ Association of America (MAPGA), headquartered in Stafford, Virginia, is one of 41 Sections of The Professional Golfers’ Association of America, headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The MAPGA, founded in 1925, and headquartered in Stafford, VA consists of over 1,200 PGA Professionals and Associates in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. The PGA of America, formed in 1916, is the world's largest working sports organization with more than 34,000 members and associates who are the recognized experts in growing, teaching, and managing the game of golf, while serving millions of people nationwide. The MAPGA provides a wide variety of programs and assistance to support its members, who in turn provide valuable service not only to their golfing customers, but also to their communities in general. PGA Professionals assist in raising over $6 million annually for local charities.
THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC SECTION OF THE PROFESSIONAL GOLFERS’ ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA HALL OF FAME The Middle Atlantic Section Hall of Fame was established in 1986 to honor Section PGA Professionals and others who have made outstanding contributions to the Section and the game of golf. The Hall of Fame Committee, based on nominations received from the membership, selects inductees.
Ahrnsbrak, Michael (2019) Barnett, Robert (2010) Barry, Tom (2014) Bass, Johnny (1992) Bassler, Charlie (1987) Beach, Ralph (1993) Beck, Troy (2021) Betschler, Charlie (1997) Brown, Glenn (2023) Burgess, Ward (1989) Clarke, Bill (1987) Cox, Wiffy (1990) Cronin, Frank (2007) Cruickshank, Bobby (1996) Deck, Bill (1998) DeFrancesco, Wayne (2019) Diffenbaugh, George (2013) Dolan, Bob (2023) Doser, Clarence (1988) Elbin, Max (1987) Emery, Clare (2003)
FitzHugh, Woody (2013) Flattery, John (2011) Folks, Jim (2010) Funk, Fred (2018) Gibson, Andy (1992) Giles, Vinny (1990) Haines, John (2004) Hardy, Billy (1988) Harper, Chandler (1986) Haviland, Paul (2007) Herrelko Jr, Frank (2009) Holley, J. Wayne (2012) Houghton, Al (1989) Hurst, Dean (2021) Isaacs, Jack (1996) King Sr, Claude (2001) King, Fred (1998) Laber, Frank (2022) McLeod, Fred (1991) MacMaster, Carroll (2012) Majewski, Hank (2008)
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Marlowe, Tony (2002) Michaelian, Paul (2024) O'Donnell, John (1993) Rasnic, Carl (1992) Romans, Walter (1988) Rose, Herb (1993) Ringer, Larry (2011) Schuller, Rick (2024) Skipper, Tom (2017) Snead, Sam (1986) Snyder Jr., John (1999) Spencer, Glenn W. (2017) Sporre, Bill (2006) Steinbrecher, Leo (1990) Strange, Curtis (2017) Strange, Tom (1997) Strausbaugh, Bill (1989) Whetzle, Dick (2000) Worsham, Lew (1986) Wronowski, Allen (2015)
Middle Atlantic PGA Award Winners & Hall of Fame Inductees
MIDDLE ATLANTIC SECTION HALL OF FAME, CLASS OF 2026 John F. Madden II, PGA River Bend Club John Madden, II was born in Washington, D.C., to John F. Madden and Mary Ellen Madden. At the age of 10, he began playing golf with his father at Kenwood Golf & Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland. Those evenings spent playing nine holes after dinner became cherished memories and helped spark a lifelong passion for the game. Summers at Kenwood further fueled that passion, as John spent countless hours developing his skills and deepening his love for golf. Madden attended Ohio University, where he was a three-year member of the golf team. He graduated in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Meteorology. Following graduation, he returned to Kenwood Golf & Country Club before accepting a position as Assistant Professional at Westwood Country Club in Vienna, Virginia, in 1990. That same year, he entered the PGA Professional Golf Management program and earned his Class A PGA Membership in 1993. In 1998, Madden was named Head PGA Professional at River Bend Club in Great Falls, Virginia, where he served with distinction for 24 years until 2022. In the summer of 2023, he assumed his current role at Royal Fox Country Club outside Chicago. Throughout his career, Madden has been a strong advocate for growing the game of golf. At his clubs, he has championed numerous PGA of America initiatives, including Junior League Golf, Tee It Forward, Drive, Chip and Putt, and Get Golf Ready. He has also organized junior sports camps, introductory golf seminars for new members, and corporate outreach programs designed to introduce more people to the game. Known for his creativity, Madden frequently incorporates golf-themed events, skills challenges, and competitions into club programming to foster participation and enthusiasm among members. Madden has also devoted significant time to service within the Middle Atlantic PGA Section. His leadership journey began in 1995 when he was elected Assistant Professional (A-8) Director on the MAPGA Board of Directors, where he helped establish the Assistant Professional Association (APA). At the chapter level, he served as Central Chapter Director-at-Large (2000–2001), Central Chapter Vice President (2002–2003), and Central Chapter President (2004– 2005). Madden later served the Section as Secretary, Vice President, and President from 2010 to 2015. At the national level, he represented the Carolinas, Kentucky, and Middle Atlantic Sections as District 10 Director on the PGA of America Board of Directors from 2019 to 2021. A highly respected PGA Member, Madden has received numerous honors throughout his career. He was named the 2016 MAPGA Golf Professional of the Year, the Section’s highest honor, as well as the 2005 MAPGA Merchandiser of the Year – Private and the 1996 MAPGA Assistant Professional of the Year. While Madden’s leadership and dedication to growing the game are widely recognized, those who know him best point to his passion for serving others as his defining quality. He has long been committed to mentoring fellow PGA Professionals and supporting young professionals as they pursue careers in the golf industry. Always willing to share his knowledge and experience, Madden has helped guide countless colleagues and staff members toward achieving their professional goals. Madden credits Rod Thompson, PGA, and Glenn Brown, PGA, as mentors who helped shape his career and professional values. Over more than three decades in the game, he has inspired many individuals to pursue golf, both as players and
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professionals. His ability to organize and lead comprehensive golf programs tailored to the needs of club membership continues to provide him great professional satisfaction. John and his wife Julie, whom he met while attending Ohio University, have been happily married for nearly 35 years. They have three adult children, Sean, Connor, and Kara.
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Middle Atlantic PGA Award Winners & Hall of Fame Inductees
The Tournament Players of the Year are the winners of a year-long points competition. Points are awarded based on how the players finish in select Section tournaments and for their accomplishments at regional/national events.
ASSISTANT PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION PLAYER OF THE YEAR Jon Moles River Bend Club Great Falls, Virginia Jon Moles, a resident of Urbana, Md., and the Assistant PGA Professional at River Bend Club in Great Falls, Va., is the 2025 MAPGA Assistant Professional Association (APA) Division Player of the Year. Moles had a dominant season finishing T-2 at the APA Shamble at Kingsmill, solo second at APA Stableford at Manor CC, and earning victories at the APA Assistant Championship at CCV and APA Stableford at Westwood CC. Moles’ first MAPGA victory was the 2024 Middle Atlantic National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship.
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SENIOR PLAYER OF THE YEAR Brendan McGrath, PGA Trump National Golf Club Washington DC Sterling, Virginia Brendan McGrath, a resident of Centreville, Va., and the Assistant PGA Professional at Trump National Golf Club in DC, is the 2025 MAPGA Senior Division Player of the Year. McGrath’s play was consistent throughout the season where he compiled a runner-up finish at the Senior Match Play, a second place finish at the Senior Maryland State Open and four other T-10 or better finishes. The highlight of the year was his victory at the MAPGA Senior Championship, while playing at his home course – Trump National – where he was the only player to finish under par. McGrath is an accomplished player with several prominent championships to his credit, including the 2023 Maryland Senior Open and 2023 Senior Open of Virginia titles, as well as being named as the 2023 MAPGA Senior Player of the Year.
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WOMEN’S PLAYER OF THE YEAR Paige Gross, PGA Club at Creighton Farms Aldie, Virginia Paige Gross, a resident of Fairfax, Va., and the Assistant PGA Professional at The Club at Creighton Farms, in Aldie, Va., is the 2025 MAPGA Women’s Player of the Year. Gross had a strong season, finishing with a T-1 in the Women’s Maryland Open and earning T-2 or solo second place finishes in five events including the MAPGA Women’s Championship, MAPGA Section Professional Championship, Rolex MAPGA Players Cup, MAPGA Stroke Play Championship #1 and Central Chapter Championship. To complement her MAPGA section award recognition, Gross is also the current Assistant Professional of the Year for the Central Chapter of the MAPGA Section. Last year, Gross and her husband Larkin – also a PGA Professional, and the 2024 Open Division and APA Division Player of the Year – made history for the MAPGA Section and nationally for the PGA of America when they were the first married couple to earn spots and compete in the same National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship. Gross previously captured the 2024 Women’s Section Championship.
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OPEN PLAYER OF THE YEAR Josh Speight, PGA The Club at Viniterra New Kent, Virginia
Josh Speight, a resident of Locust Hill, Va., and the PGA Director of Instruction at the Club at Viniterra, in New Kent, Va., is the 2025 MAPGA Open Division Player of the Year. Speight sustained a phenomenal level of play throughout the year, highlighted by three victories including the MAPGA Match Play Championship, the MAPGA Stroke Play Championship #1 and sealing his Player of the Year Honors with a win at the Rolex MAPGA Players Cup. Speight also earned T-3 or better finishes in four premier events, including a second place finish at the State Open of Virginia and a third place finish at the MAPGA Section Professional Championship. This is Speight’s second section player of the year award, as he previously earned the honor in 2020. Another highlight of his professional career was winning the 2017 Middle Atlantic Section PGA Professional Championship. Speight competed collegiately at Methodist University, where he was a Second-Team AllAmerican in 2010 and helped lead Methodist to a National Championship. He graduated from Methodist’s PGA Golf Management University Program in 2011.
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EARLE HELLEN SPORTS MEDIA AWARD This award bestows special recognition on an outstanding member of the media who best exemplifies a commitment and service to golf and sport reporting and who demonstrates the same genuine appreciation for the role of the PGA Professional as was demonstrated by the late Earle Hellen (formerly of the Newport News Newspapers). John Feinstein Sports Media Journalist 1956-2025 John Feinstein, one of the most influential and respected voices in American sports journalism, is the recipient of the 2025 Earle Hellen Sports Media Award. Feinstein was a full-time reporter for The Washington Post from 1977 to 1991 and remained with the publication as a contributing columnist for decades thereafter. Over the course of his career, he authored more than 40 books—many of them national bestsellers—including A Season on the Brink, the groundbreaking account of Bob Knight’s Indiana basketball program. The book redefined access-driven sports writing and established Feinstein as one of the foremost storytellers of his generation. While widely recognized for his deep connection to college basketball, Feinstein covered a broad spectrum of sports, including golf, tennis, football, and the Olympics. His book A Good Walk Spoiled offered a behind-the-scenes look at professional golf and remains one of the sport’s most respected literary works. He also contributed as a commentator for ESPN and the Golf Channel, hosted programs on SiriusXM, and served for more than 20 years as a voter in the AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll. Feinstein was known for his strong opinions, relentless curiosity, and unmatched ability to cultivate meaningful relationships with coaches, athletes, and administrators. His reporting was distinguished by uncommon access and an unwavering commitment to telling the full story—both the triumphs and the complexities. Coaches across the country respected him for his authenticity and candor, even when they did not always agree with his perspective. A graduate of Duke University, Feinstein later returned to teach there and served as a writer-in-residence at Longwood University in Virginia. He remained active and engaged in the profession until his passing, filing columns and covering events up to the final week of his life. John Feinstein passed away unexpectedly at the age of 69. He is survived by his wife, Christine; his daughters, Brigid and Jane; his son, Danny; his brother, Robert; and his sister, Margaret. Source: NPR
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SALESPERSON OF THE YEAR This award bestows special recognition on a golf salesperson in the mid-Atlantic region for his/her outstanding service and dedication to the members and associates of the MAPGA, as well as support of the Section through sponsorships and other programs. Clay Pokorny Acushnet Company / FootJoy Clay Pokorny was born on February 6, in Bellport, New York, to John and Jean Pokorny. Growing up in a small town on the east end of Long Island, he enjoyed summers on the water and winters skating on frozen ponds and skiing in New England. The youngest of four children, Clay credits his parents, particularly his father, a World War II veteran for instilling in him the values, selflessness, and work ethic of “The Greatest Generation.” He was introduced to game of golf at the age of 12 by his father. Clay graduated from Gettysburg College in 1983, and his first golf-related position was in 1989, working in the golf shop at Bellport Country Club. That experience sparked his desire to pursue a career in golf equipment sales. As an amateur, Clay captured multiple Club Championships, along with several Senior Club Championships. Before his retirement in late 2025, Clay was employed by Acushnet for 35 years - two years with Titleist in Massachusetts and 33 years with FootJoy in Virginia. Over the course of his career, he has earned National Sales Representative of the Year honors, Runner-Up Sales Representative of the Year, several honorable mentions, and multiple Gold Circle Sales Awards. Throughout his tenure, Clay has been a consistent and reliable partner to PGA Professionals across the region, building relationships rooted in trust, responsiveness, and a deep understanding of their business needs. Clay’s personal philosophy reflects his love for the game itself. He values the camaraderie golf provides, time spent outdoors with friends free from distractions, enjoying competition and each other’s company. His career was built on decades of dedicated service, strong relationships, and unwavering support of PGA Professionals in his territory. Clay and his wife, Andrea, also from Bellport, have been married for 33 years. They reside in Williamsburg, Virginia. They have a son, Coleson (31) and daughter, Carson (28). Carson and her husband Randy recently made Clay and Andrea grandparents with the birth of their son Rhodes.
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DAVID WORTMAN CITIZEN OF THE YEAR This award bestows special recognition on an outstanding amateur, recognized by the MAPGA and the business community as a leader in his/her field, whose contributions to golf in the mid-Atlantic region include the promotion of the game, the Middle Atlantic Section and its PGA Professionals, and overall support of MAPGA programs and golf throughout the region. This award is named in honor of the late David Wortman, Esq., Section Legal Counsel from 1971-1988 and honorary member of the MAPGA. Mary H. Leahy Callaway (formerly) / Signature Golf Mary H. Leahy was born August 1, in Peoria, Illinois, to Bill and Mary Ann Leahy. The youngest of five daughters, Mary and her four sisters (Anne, Cathy, Jeanne, and Margaret) grew up in a family that moved frequently throughout the Midwest. During the late 1970s, while living in Baltimore, the Leahy family were members at Towson Golf & Country Club in Towson. It was there that Mary’s father introduced his five daughters to the game. Mary was the one who stayed with it. Under the instruction of MAPGA Hall of Fame member Frank Laber, PGA, Mary began taking junior lessons at Eagle’s Nest and quickly developed a lifelong love for the game. She began playing at age eight and credits her father as the most influential person in her golf journey. The two shared countless rounds together over the years, traveling throughout the United States and Europe to play iconic courses. Among her most cherished memories are playing Pebble Beach and the Old Course at St Andrews with her dad before his passing in 2020. Mary graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing. In 1993, she began her career in the golf industry as a sales representative for Ray Cook Golf Company, covering New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. She later joined Odyssey Sports before beginning a distinguished 28-year tenure with Callaway Golf Company, serving the DC Metro area from 1997 until her retirement in August 2025. Her retirement was short, as she recently announced joining the team at Signature Golf, another longtime partner of the Middle Atlantic Section. Throughout her 32-year career in golf, Mary consistently supported MAPGA professionals and programs, building trusted relationships across the Section. In 2011, she was recognized as the MAPGA Salesperson of the Year. She credits numerous PGA Professionals including Jay Dufty, Lynne Hunter, Liz Cooper, and Frank and Shellie Ferguson for their mentorship and support throughout her career. Her professional success has been matched by her accomplishments as a player. She currently plays out of Norbeck Country Club. In 2025, she was named Maryland State Senior Women’s Player of the Year, captured the Maryland State Senior Women’s Amateur Championship at Kenwood Country Club, and won the Maryland State Mixed Championship at The Links at Perry Cabin. She considers golf a game that has provided extraordinary professional opportunities and unforgettable personal experiences. Her philosophy is simple: wake up every day and do the right thing—by customers, company, family, and self. Maintain a positive attitude, live without regrets, and, of course, hit greens and make pars. Mary has been married to her wife, Mary May since 2004.
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MERCHANDISERS OF THE YEAR This award is bestowed on those PGA Professionals who have demonstrated superior skills as merchandisers in the promotion of golf. This award recognizes excellence in golf shop operations. MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR PUBLIC CATEGORY Matthew Arthur Summers, PGA Bulle Rock Golf Course Havre de Grace, Maryland Matthew was born on January 5, in Lancaster, Ohio to Mike & Twyila Summers. He and his grandmother played golf together from the time she had him first swinging a golf club at 18 months old until 2003 when they played their final hole together. His grandmother was a remarkable golfer, who won her Ladies Club Championship many times and was the first woman to break 40 for nine holes at her club. During his summers, he would spend his weekends at his grandparents’ house playing golf, fishing, learning to drive a golf cart, and hitting wiffle balls around the yard for practice. One of Matthew’s fondest early golf memories was at eleven years old when both Matt and his grandmother beat his grandfather in a round. He went on to play Division II Golf and Baseball for Salem College in Salem, WV. Matthew’s first job in the golf business was working outside service staff at Lancaster Country Club (Lancaster, OH) but he became a golf professional in the Spring of 2003 when he was hired as an Assistant Professional at Bulle Rock Golf Course. He then served as an Assistant Professional and later Head Professional in 2014 at Mountain Branch Golf Course. Matthew returned to Bulle Rock as the Director of Golf in 2020. He became certified in Golf Operations through the PGA of America in 2019. He credits Todd Casabell, PGA, his first golf professional, for teaching him the importance of the small details within the golf business. He also recognizes Rick Rounsaville, PGA, and Peter Bollman, PGA his first General Manager and Head Professional after college for guiding him at the start of his professional career. When he moved to Maryland, Brian Meyer, PGA became one of his earliest mentors, consistently offering support and insight into various aspects of the business. Today, he credits his current General Manager, Damon Klepczynski, PGA, as a significant mentor who has involved him in all facets of the golf operation and has taught him so much. Summers is a three-time award winner in this category previously receiving this honor in 2021 and 2022. He believes that any Director of Golf or Head Professional is only as good as the team around them. He encourages his team’s input and makes sure they all have current product knowledge about their current brands. He tries to introduce new brands and creates new branding and logo ideas to give their members and guests a different look. His grandmother also influenced his merchandising philosophy when she would say “if you look good, you will play good and if you don’t play good – at least you look good!” Matthew and his wife Kate, a registered nurse working in hospice care, have been married since 2012. He believes he is lucky to have Kate as his wife, and he can’t say enough about her sacrifices throughout the years. They share a cat, Lila and a dog, Addie.
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MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR RESORT CATEGORY Brian L. Alley, PGA The Highland Course at Primland Meadows of Dan, Virginia Born to Dennis and Verneice Alley in Winston-Salem, N.C. on September 3, Brian grew up playing all sports, but mainly baseball. It wasn’t until the age of 12 that he began playing golf and was actively competing in tournaments by the age of 14. He credits family friend Cotton Chitwood, and relative Ronald Young for introducing him to golf and being advocates of the game. When Brian was 14, he became a golf cart attendant Hemlock Golf Club in Walnut Cove, N.C. and eventually was a part of two high school state championship golf teams at North Stokes High School. Brian graduated from Methodist College PGM School with a B.S. in Business Administration and earned his PGA Membership in 2007. Primland Resort was the first place he began working as a PGA Professional, while also working as an assistant golf professional at The Everglades Club in Palm Beach, Fla. during the winters of 2007 and 2008 and at Yeamans Hall Club in the spring of 2009. Brian lists Tommy Ziglar, PGA; Curt Bennett, PGA; Claude Brusse, PGA, and Jeff Fraim, PGA as his mentors in golf since joining the PGA professionally. At Primland, their merchandising philosophy centers around people, product and placement. It begins with establishing great relationships with vendors, guests, and staff members. With little storage at the golf shop, Brian says they depend on quick turnaround times from vendors. Given that their logo requires a lot of detail and attention, they rely on vendors who understand and appreciate attention to detail combined with high levels of communication to make things run smoothly. Since they are fortunate to be on the high end of the market they offer only high quality, durable merchandise. Brian also finds that personalized and genuine service provided to guests along with knowledgeable and happy staff influence how well they do. In summary Brian shares that their recipe is quality products with friendly, knowledgeable staff at an exciting destination. This is his third time winning this award, previously receiving this honor in 2017 and 2020. His philosophy at Primland Resort remains to truly care about the experiences the guests have when visiting. Attention to detail from booking their reservation until the customer leaves the property is what brings their guests back. Brian married his wife Lindsay in December of 2018 and they share a son Reveley and daughter Sonoma.
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MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR PRIVATE CATEGORY John Glorioso, PGA Robert Trent Jones Golf Club Gainesville, Virginia John Glorioso was born on June 8 in Honduras, Central America, to Lillo and Linda Glorioso. He is one of four brothers alongside Dennis, Glenn, and Joseph. The values instilled in him by his parents of hard work, integrity, and humility continue to guide both his personal life and professional leadership style. His introduction to golf came at age 28 through Bill Pollak, a client of his family’s business. After countless conversations about the game, Bill invited John to attend the inaugural Presidents Cup at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in 1994. During that visit, he was introduced to Robert Trent Jones, Jr., and the experience proved formative. What began as a generous invitation evolved into a lifelong passion and ultimately a career at the very club where that first professional tournament left such a lasting impression. John is a graduate of George Mason University and Montgomery College. He began his PGA career in 2007 as an Assistant Golf Professional at International Country Club. In 2011, he joined the professional staff at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, serving as an Assistant Golf Professional until 2017, when he was named Head PGA Golf Professional, a role he continues to serve today. He was elected to PGA Membership in 2013 and achieved Certified Professional status in Golf Operations in 2017. At Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, the merchandise program is driven by creativity, strategic vendor partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to the member and guest experience. Success comes from a disciplined, data-informed approach balanced with style and innovation. Each season, assortments are carefully curated to reflect member preferences while offering variety and exclusivity. Vendor performance is evaluated consistently, with top performers receiving greater investment and underperformers rotated out to maintain a fresh and relevant product mix. Equally important is the personal connection with members. The professional staff are trained to engage members throughout the shop, fostering relationships that enhance service and loyalty. Displays are intentionally built around seasonal themes and Club events, featuring complete, styled presentations that reflect both the RTJ brand and lifestyle. Flexibility and creativity remain central, from holiday showcases to event-specific collections. John credits PGA Professionals Ray Richardson, Tom Melideo, Cary Sciorra, and Matt Freitag for shaping his professional standards. He believes in leading by example and doing things the right way, even when no one is watching. Success, in his view, is measured by the positive impact made on others—approaching each day with preparation, attention to detail, and a people-first mindset rooted in trust, integrity, and humility. John and his wife, Jill, have been married for three years. He is the father of Katie (28), Michael (27), David (22), and Gianna (15), and stepfather to Alexis (29) and Dylan (26).
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ASSISTANT PGA PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR This award bestows special recognition on an assistant PGA Professional who, through a commitment to improving opportunities for assistants, has distinguished himself/herself in service to the Section, his/her peers, and facility. Nick Funk, PGA Chevy Chase Club Chevy Chase, Maryland Nick Funk was born in August in Mesa, Arizona, to Charlie and Lorraine Funk. Alongside his sister Melissa, Nick moved frequently throughout his childhood living in Arizona, Indianapolis, Charlottesville, Columbus (OH), and eventually Williamsburg, Virginia. Through each move, golf remained his constant. Introduced to the game by his father at a young age, Nick began playing regularly at eight spending all his summer days at The Medallion Club in Ohio. Nick was a standout junior player, earning First Team All-State honors in 2009 and 2010 at Walsingham Academy. He competed in numerous VSGA and MAPGA junior events, qualifying for the VSGA Junior Championship three times. His passion for teaching began at Ford’s Colony Country Club, where Jonathan Schoenfeld provided him the opportunity to teach junior clinics, an experience that sparked his desire to pursue golf as a career. A graduate of the NC State Professional Golf Management Program in 2015, Nick became a golf professional in 2010 and was elected to PGA Membership in 2015. His early career included internships at Scioto Country Club, Pinehurst Resort, and Baltusrol Golf Club, followed by seasonal assistant roles at Baltusrol, Everglades Club, and Jupiter Hills Club. In 2020, he joined Chevy Chase Club as an Assistant Golf Professional. At Chevy Chase Club, Nick has become a trusted leader within the golf operation. PGA Director of Golf Adam Hemeon relies on him to oversee operations in his absence, reflecting the confidence placed in his leadership. Nick managed the implementation of a new tee sheet software system to enhance the member experience, all while maintaining his responsibilities in instruction, merchandising, and member engagement. With several new Assistant Professionals joining the staff, he played a key role in mentoring and training each of them, balancing staff development with the high standards expected at the Club. Nick’s mentors throughout his career include PGA members Adam Hemeon, Jim Fitzgerald, Sarah Stone, Ryan Fountaine, Doug Steffen, and Jay Wick, all of whom helped shape his professional growth. Beyond his facility, Nick is engaged in service to Middle Atlantic Section. He serves as the Central Chapter A-8 Director where he attends Chapter meetings and contributes his experience to enhance operations and representation for Assistant Professionals. He also serves on the Section’s Assistant Professional Association (APA) Committee. Additionally, he serves as Co-Chair of the First Tee of Greater Washington Young Professional Council. Nick and his wife, Erin, were married on September 3, 2022, and are the parents of their son, Graham (1).
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YOUTH PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AWARD This award bestows special recognition on a PGA Professional who is a leader in junior golf, reflects the image and qualities that juniors can emulate, and provides opportunities for juniors to learn and play golf. Paul Maurer, PGA Edge Golf Performance Columbia, Maryland Paul Maurer was born on November 13 in Columbia, Maryland, to Scott and Judy Maurer. He grew up alongside his brother Richard playing multiple sports. Without access to a private club or frequent access to a public facility as a child, Paul created his own opportunities by cutting holes in his backyard, mowing makeshift greens, and inventing golf holes over trees and around flower beds. Paul began playing golf at age nine after being introduced to the game by his grandfather, Frank Lupashunski. A longtime Howard High School teacher and recognized “Father of Howard County High School Golf,” his grandfather was instrumental in pioneering varsity golf opportunities for students in the county. As Paul matured, he began to understand the deeper lessons the game teaches, including perseverance, integrity, resilience, and respect for others, values his grandfather lived every day. He notes that watching the way his grandfather used golf as a tool to open doors for kids motivated him to pursue a path where he could do the same. A graduate of Towson University with a B.S. in Business Administration (2012), Paul became a golf professional in 2012 and was elected to PGA Membership in 2016. He holds certifications in TPI, U.S. Kids Golf, TrackMan, Swing Catalyst, SAM PuttLab, and K-Vest, and is recognized as a PGA Specialized Professional in Teaching & Coaching. Paul’s first golf-related job was as a cart attendant at The Timbers at Troy at age 16. He later served as Head Golf Professional at Timbers at Troy (2012–2014), Assistant Golf Professional at Fairway Hills (2014–2017), and Player Development Coordinator at Hobbit’s Glen (2017–2019). In 2019, he founded Paul Maurer Golf before launching Edge Golf Performance in 2023. His mentors have played a significant role in shaping his career. Kevin Smith, General Manager at The Timbers at Troy, helped him understand the business side of the industry. Joan Lovelace, PGA/LPGA, was instrumental in guiding his transition toward junior golf and player development. Joe Plecker, PGA, provided mentorship as Paul moved into business ownership, while John Dunigan, PGA, and the Skilled Coaches Alliance have influenced his development, providing valuable education, perspective, and a strong professional community. Paul’s work in youth development has earned national recognition, including earning U.S. Kids Golf Master Coach in 2023 and being named Golf Digest Best Instructor by State (2026–2027). His coaching philosophy centers on long-term development, strong fundamentals, and using golf as a vehicle to teach life skills. He believes the game is about more than mechanics or scores, it is about resilience, accountability, and learning how to respond to challenges. That mindset has shaped his work in youth player development and continues to guide everything he does as a coach.
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PGA PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AWARD This award bestows special recognition on a PGA Professional for exemplary contributions and achievements in the area of Player Development and for extraordinary efforts in conducting and/or supporting player development initiatives. This award considers the PGA Professional’s growth of the game leadership commitment at the Section and National levels, plus the impact made at his/her own facility. Zach Pfingst, PGA Bay Creek Resort and Club Cape Charles, Virginia Zach Pfingst has been named the recipient of the 2025 PGA Player Development Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to growing the game of golf Zach was born in Virginia Beach, VA to his parents, Hal and Linda. His father introduced him to the game at Cypress Cove Country Club in Franklin, Virginia. He took him to the club at the age of 11 after watching The Masters on television the day before. His decision to focus on golf came when he finished third in his ver y first Junior golf event. After that he was hooked and really started to practice and play a lot more. He earned his Sports Management Degree and Business Management Degree from North Greenville College in Greenville, South Carolina. There he was a four-year starter, and won six individual college tournaments and was named College All-America his senior year. After college, Zach joined the staff at Bay Creek Resort and Club in 2001. From 2001-2008 he served as an Assistant Golf Professional. He was elected to membership in the PGA of America in 2007, and in 2008 he was promoted to Head Golf Professional. He served in that role until 2020 when he received a promotion to his current role as the Director of Golf. Zach is passionate about sharing ideas, mentoring peers, and helping other PGA Professionals strengthen their approach to player development. His goal has always been to lead by example creating programs that inspire participation, drive measurable results, and foster genuine connections between players and the game. He helped to re-establish a local high school golf team after a decade without one, allowing the course to be used as their home course, providing free access for practice and matches as well. In his efforts to develop PGA HOPE in the region, Zach created non-traditional opportunities through his PGA HOPE Play Days where he invites HOPE graduates from all across the Section to play Bay Creek at a nominal cost. Zach was named the Middle Atlantic PGA Merchandiser of the Year in the Resort category twice; in 2023 and 2024 and he received the 2024 Troon Merchandising Excellence Award. He has a son, Zachary Pfingst Jr., who is 15 years old and plays guitar and fishing. He and his wife Sarai Diaz have been married since 2020.
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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AWARD
This award bestows special recognition on a PGA Professional for outstanding service and contributions toward developing and improving educational opportunities for PGA Professionals and Associates. Andy Weissinger, PGA Eaglewood Golf Course Langley Air Force Base, Virginia Andy was born on November 23 in Norfolk, Virginia to parents George and Mary-Ellen Weissinger. He started playing golf regularly at age 12 because it gave him an opportunity to be outside, to be involved athletically, and spend some great time alone with his dad. Andy’s dad taught him about life, relationships, integrity and competition during their many rounds of golf together. Andy got his start in the golf business working and learning from PGA Professionals such as Mike Waugh, Andy Giles, Mike Fentress, Dean Hurst, and Steve Clark. He received a golf scholarship to Liberty University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Religion with a concentration in Pastoral Studies. Turning pro in 1997 at Ivy Hill Golf Club, Andy worked there as an assistant golf professional until 1999. He then worked at Chesapeake Golf Club from 1999-2001 where he eventually became the Head Professional. Andy was elected to PGA membership in 2001. In that same year, he began working at Lake Wright Golf Course in Norfolk as the Head PGA Professional. When at Lake Wright he had the opportunity to get to know and learn from MAPGA Hall of Famer Claude King. Shortly after Lake Wright, Andy served as the Head PGA Professional at Honey Bee Golf Club in Virginia Beach from 2001-2003. In 2003, Andy moved up to Virginia’s Peninsula as the Head PGA Professional at the Pines Golf Course at Fort Eustis and was promoted to PGA General Manager in 2005. In 2013, Andy was approached by both Joint Base Leadership and HQ AF Golf, and agreed to take on the additional responsibility as PGA General Manager at Eaglewood Golf Course a short way down the road on Langley Air Force Base, where he continues to serve today. Andy is now a six-time Section award winner. Previous awards include Professional of the Year (2022), Merchandiser of the Year Public Award (2020), Bill Strausbaugh Award (2016), Youth Player Development Award (2011), and Player Development Award (2009). In 2009 he was also the recipient of The PGA of America Patriot Award in only its second year of existence. In 2018, he received the inaugural VSGA Grow the Game Award and the NGCOA Mid Atlantic Public Golf Course Operator of the Year Award. In 2021, he was named the inaugural Air Force Golf Brigadier General Chuck Yeager Person of the Year. Weissinger has consistently demonstrated commitment to personal growth and to supporting his fellow PGA golf professionals. Andy, a PGA Master Professional, has made significant contributions to the educational programs within the Section and the PGA of America. He has been a featured speaker at multiple PGA Section education conferences, where he has shared insights from his presentations at the National PGA Education Conference and discussed key topics on executive management. Andy’s leadership has extended to his service on both the National PGA Master Professional Committee and the PGA HOPE Committee, where he has contributed to shaping educational content and supporting initiatives that promote inclusivity and excellence within the profession. Andy collaborated with the US Department of Labor to propose a National Guidelines Program facilitating the apprenticeship of Military Veterans at golf facilities while pursuing PGA of America membership. This initiative will enable participants to utilize their G.I. Bill benefits to cover associated costs of the PGA Associate Program. Andy has delivered comprehensive briefings to military branches and PGA HOPE staff and committee, preparing for an extensive
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advertising campaign upon program approval by the PGA of America. Once approved and implemented, this program will provide Military Veterans with a defined pathway to PGA of America membership. Andy has been married to his best friend Jennifer since 1998 and they have two boys: Alex (25) who serves in Federal Law Enforcement and Caleb (22) who married Mary in 2025.
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Middle Atlantic PGA Award Winners & Hall of Fame Inductees
PRESIDENT’S AWARD This award bestows special recognition on an individual whose tireless effort, unwavering dedication, and exceptional contributions to the game of golf result in significant benefit to the Middle Atlantic Section, its members and apprentices, and to the entire golf community. The Section President personally selects the outstanding recipient of this award. David Freiss, PGA Musket Ridge Golf Club Frederick, Maryland The MAPGA President, Mark Russo, PGA, personally selects this President’s Award winner to recognize an individual who has been working “under the radar,” to improve our game, our industry, and our Association. Mr. Russo has identified David Freiss, PGA for his endless support of the Section, his fellow PGA Professionals, and the advancement of the game of golf. David was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, alongside brothers Brian and Jason by parents David and Janice Friess. He was introduced to the game of golf at the age of 15. What began as a late introduction quickly developed into a passion for the game and the profession. He turned professional in 2000 and earned PGA Membership in 2005, committing himself to a career centered on service, leadership, and growing the game. A graduate of Penn State University, David began building his professional foundation through positions at River Bend Golf & Country Club, The Country Club of St. Albans, and Whistling Straits. In 2008, he joined Musket Ridge Golf Club, where he would go on to serve as Head Golf Professional before being named Club Manager in 2015. Throughout nearly two decades at Musket Ridge, David has guided sustained growth in membership, outings, and merchandising while overseeing meaningful property and facility improvements. He developed the club’s junior golf programming from its inception to more than 100 participants across leagues, camps, and academy programs, demonstrating his commitment to youth development and the long-term health of the game. Under his leadership, Musket Ridge has been recognized by Golfweek as the No. 1 public golf course in Maryland. David has been a steady and dependable presence within the Middle Atlantic PGA Section, consistently supporting Section initiatives, hosting MAPGA events, and mentoring fellow Professionals. His willingness to share his knowledge and provide guidance reflects his genuine commitment to strengthening the Association and serving others. He and his wife Jessice share five children Wyatt(14), Grant(12), Henry (10), Dean(9) and Eli(4). For his professionalism, humility, and unwavering dedication to the Section and the game of golf, David Freiss is a most deserving recipient of the Middle Atlantic PGA President’s Award.
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BILL STRAUSBAUGH AWARD This award bestows special recognition on a PGA Professional who has shown outstanding integrity, commitment to mentoring their fellow PGA Professionals in improving their employment situations, and involvement in community and charitable activities. The award is named in honor of the late “Coach” Bill Strausbaugh, former Head PGA Professional at Columbia Country Club in Chevy Chase, Maryland, and member of the MAPGA Hall of Fame Class of 1989. Adam N. Hemeon, PGA Chevy Chase Club Chevy Chase, MD Adam Hemeon was born on March 15 in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, a small coastal town where he was raised by his parents, Robin and Elizabeth, alongside his sister, Kate. A competitive hockey player throughout his youth, Adam played the sport until the age of 15. Following a series of hockey injuries, he shifted his focus to golf—what began as a change of direction quickly became a lifelong passion, and he soon knew he wanted to build his life around the game. He attended Ferris State University’s Professional Golf Management program and began his career with internships at Firestone Country Club, PGA National Resort, and Cape Cod National Golf Club. As an amateur, he won the 1995 Atlantic Canada Junior Championship. Adam turned professional in 1997 and was elected to PGA Membership in 2000. Throughout his career, he has been mentored by PGA Professionals including Steve Demmer, Dave Renzulli, Brendan Walsh, Scott Nye, Jim Fitzgerald, Bob Dolan, and Jim Campbell. Their guidance shaped his leadership philosophy and deep commitment to mentoring others. Adam’s professional journey includes roles at The Kittansett Club, Weston Golf Club, and Merion Golf Club. He served as Head Professional at Weston Golf Club from 2007 to 2020 before being named Director of Golf at Chevy Chase Club in 2020. In each role, he has prioritized team development, mentorship, and creating a professional environment where staff can thrive. Adam manages his team with a focus on professional growth and operational excellence. He emphasizes cross-training to ensure team members develop a broad skill set, encourages autonomy in day-to-day decision-making, and implements regular performance evaluations to provide actionable feedback. While his mock interview program remains a component of mentorship, these broader strategies help staff gain confidence, independence, and long-term career readiness. The impact of Adam’s leadership is reflected in the accomplishments of those who have worked under him. Fifteen of his former Assistants now serve as Head Professionals at their facilities, with many others holding prominent roles as Directors of Golf, Directors of Instruction, and First Assistants at respected clubs across the country. Their success reflects Adam’s dedication to mentorship, service, and advancing the profession. His service to the PGA and the broader golf community reflects the spirit of the Strausbaugh Award. Adam served as President of the New England PGA Assistant Association and later chaired the New England PGA Facility Relations & Employment Committee. He is actively involved with First Tee of Greater Washington as Programming Chair, and sits on the TaylorMade Presidential Advisory Board and the Inaugural Sun Day Red Advisory Board. His honors include the New England PGA Bill Strausbaugh Award (2018), New England PGA Merchandiser of the Year (2014), and MAPGA Central Chapter Professional of the Year (2023).
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Adam and his wife, Anne Maxwell, have been married since 2005 and are the proud parents of two children. Their daughter, Ailsa, will begin playing field hockey at Boston University in August, while their son, Fletch, is headed to Cardigan Mountain School in New Hampshire, where he will continue both his ice hockey and academic education.
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TEACHER & COACH OF THE YEAR This award bestows special recognition on a PGA Professional for excellence in golf instruction along with overall distinguished performance as a PGA Professional. John Scott Rattan, PGA Congressional Country Club Bethesda, MD John Scott Rattan was born in November in Silver Spring, Maryland to parents Richard and Peggy Rattan and has one brother, Josh. His journey in golf began at an early age when he would go to Montgomery Country Club in Laytonsville, Maryland with his brother and father, an avid golfer, to play and practice. John Scott played both baseball and golf heavily through his sophomore year at Watkins Mill High School. As a freshman in high school, he made the Varsity baseball team but decided to focus solely on golf after his sophomore year. Through his hard work John Scott became an accomplished amateur. He was the Maryland High School Champion in 1999 and in 2000 he was named as the Washington Post All Met Golfer of the Year. In 2004, while attending college at the University of Tennessee, he earned All SEC 2nd Team and All SEC Academic Team honors in golf and was the 2005 WMGA Men’s Amateur Champion. John Scott’s first job in the golf industry was at Columbia Country Club while in high school working as a range attendant under Bob Dolan in 1997. Bob went on to become his golf coach and mentor through high school and college. By 2006, John Scott began playing golf professionally. In 2013, after two seasons of coaching at the collegiate level, he began teaching full time at Bethesda Country Club. He moved to Congressional Country Club in 2017 where he now leads a team of five full-time professionals, operating from the club’s 8,000-square-foot Golf Performance Center. The facility integrates TrackMan, Swing Catalyst, SAM PuttLab, and 3D motion capture into a comprehensive player-development environment. Since his arrival, along with his team of Michael Bechtold, Lewis Schnauble, Stacy Miller-Arndt, and Lina Aguillon, they have transformed the instructional program, increasing annual lessons from 3,640 in 2017 to more than 6,000 in 2024. Player development remains Rattan’s greatest passion. Since 2015, he has guided more than thirty-five junior golfers to collegiate programs, including Wake Forest, Duke, Notre Dame, Virginia Tech, Tennessee, and Texas Tech. Notable standouts include Davis Lamb, (Notre Dame) Joey Lane (Virginia Tech) Lee Detmer (Wake Forest, All-American), Evan Katz (Duke, All-American, winner of the 2022 Maryland Open), Jake Griffin (Penn State, winner of the Maryland Am and Open) Amanda Hollandsworth (Virginia Tech, All-American), Sophie Simon (Yale) Bailey Davis (University of Tennessee, U.S. Junior Girls runner-up and U.S. Women’s Open qualifier), and Cameron Freund (Texas Tech, 2025 Maryland Women’s Amateur Champion). Many began with Rattan as juniors and credit his structured, holistic, and relationship-driven coaching style for their success at national and collegiate levels. At the professional level, Rattan has coached five players to earn PGA Tour cards and thirteen professional victories under the PGA Tour umbrella. His players have won on every major developmental tour, including David Skinns (2018 Pinnacle Bank Open), Joseph Bramlett (2021 Korn Ferry Tour Championship), Trevor Cone (2022 AdventHealth Championship), David Kocher (2022 Pinnacle Bank Championship), and Jimmy Stanger (2023 Compliance Solutions Championship). Davis Lamb has earned three PGA Tour Americas titles since 2023, and Stewart Cink captured five PGA Tour Champions victories, including the 2024 and 2025 Ally Championships and the 2025 Insperity Championship, as well as winning the 2025 Charles Schwab Cup and was named the 2025 Champions Tour Player of the Year. His students have competed in every major championship, including Max Homa at the Masters and PGA
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Championship, Joseph Bramlett, Beau Hossler, and Trevor Cone at the U.S. Open, and Stewart Cink at The Open Championship. John Scott learned from his father, who was a schoolteacher for 41 years, to create a positive impact on students by creating strong relationships and connecting with them on a daily basis. He learned early on that coaching and teaching is about relationships and that "good is what you get, not what you are" from his father. He takes that philosophy into every lesson and instills that mindset into his teaching every day. John Scott lists Bob Dolan, Jason Epstein, Mark Blackburn and Jason Baile amongst his mentors in the industry. He owes a heartfelt debt of thanks to all who have helped, taught, coached and mentored him in his journey. John Scott is married to his wife Alicia, and they share a daughter Ava Ray (3).
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PGA PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR This high honor bestows special recognition on a PGA Professional for overall performance as a PGA Professional, leadership, service, and promotion of the game of golf. Lynne Hunter, PGA/LPGA Kenwood Golf and Country Club Bethesda, Maryland Lynne Hunter was born on March 27 in Baltimore, Maryland, to Francis R. Hunter, Jr. and Maureen D. Hunter. The youngest of four in a sports-oriented family, Lynne grew up surrounded by competition and encouragement. After moving to Ellicott City in third grade, she competed in softball, basketball, field hockey, and eventually golf. She was the first girl to play on the Centennial High School golf team and only the second in Howard County history, a testament to both her determination and the support of coach Mo Dutterer. Lynne began playing golf at age 12 when her parents joined Turf Valley Country Club and enrolled her in the junior golf program. Though she did not immediately fall in love with the game, the encouragement of Craig Day, PGA, Charlie Herling, PGA, and Mike Homer, PGA kept her engaged. Her confidence grew after winning the 9-hole Junior Championship, and the game soon became her passion. She continued to develop competitively, playing on the James Madison University Women’s Golf Team from 1986–1990 and competing in numerous state and national amateur events. She later worked with Rick Krebs, PGA, who encouraged her to elevate her competitive aspirations. A graduate of James Madison University with a BBA in Marketing, Lynne’s first golf-related position was as an accounting assistant/intern at TPC Avenel, where she worked for two summers including during a PGA Tour event, an experience that solidified her desire to pursue golf as a career. She became a golf professional in 1997 when she joined Kenwood Golf and Country Club as an Assistant Golf Professional. Lynne was elected to PGA Membership in 2007 and has served as Head Golf Professional/Director of Golf at Kenwood since 2012. She is also an LPGA Class A Member and TPI Level 1 and Level 2 Junior Certified. Throughout her career, Lynne has been shaped by numerous mentors. Early in her professional development, Jay Perkins, PGA and Mark Van Tuyl guided her in retail and merchandising operations, while Rod Thompson, PGA provided operational leadership insight. In her current role, Bill Worrell, Todd Chamberlin, and Steve Smith have supported her leadership growth. John Madden, PGA and Andy Weissinger, PGA have been trusted mentors in governance and operational leadership, and Joan Lovelace, PGA/LPGA has been both an inspiration and role model as a woman leader in golf. Lynne is widely recognized for her mentorship of assistants, associates, and interns. She conducts annual goal-setting assessments with her staff and emphasizes preparation for long-term career success. Many of her former assistants and interns have advanced to Head Professional, First Assistant, or full-time Assistant roles. She has fostered networking and career advancement opportunities for female professionals by organizing quarterly gatherings across the region with PGA and LPGA golf professionals. Her leadership extends beyond her facility. Lynne served as the Section’s Director-at-Large, Secretary, Vice President and President – making her the first female president in the Section’s history. She has also served the MAPGA as Central Chapter Secretary, Vice President, and President. She also served on multiple Section committees including Membership, Player Development, and Awards.
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Her professional excellence has been widely recognized. She was named 2024 MAPGA Central Chapter Professional of the Year, and the 2019 MAPGA Bill Strausbaugh Award recipient. She is a three-time LPGA Northeast Section Professional of the Year (2010, 2017, 2021), LPGA National Professional of the Year (2021), 2012 LPGA Northeast Section Junior Golf Leader of the Year, and a U.S. Kids Master Kids Teacher. In 2024, she was honored by the Virginia House of Delegates through Joint Resolution 399. She also founded and chairs the Bob Hunter Memorial Golf Tournament, which has raised more than $80,000 for Baltimore charities. Lynne finds joy in helping others grow. She feels fortunate to share her love of golf every day and measures success by the progress of her students and staff. Her philosophy is grounded in gratitude, intentional leadership, and creating environments where people can improve not only in golf, but in life. She is a proud aunt to seven nieces and nephews who she considers her kids. Most of them followed in her footsteps becoming avid golfers, first playing in junior golf programs and some playing in high school and college.
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