BCC BULLETIN
BOARDMEMBERS
OUR BCC BOARD:
MR. JOHN J. PRIESTER
Club President
MR. CARL CALLAHAN Treasurer
MR. ALAN HANBURY Board Member
MR. AUSTIN BOYD Board Member
MR. RANDY CLARK Board Member
MR. ROBERT DWYER Board Member
MR. RYAN DAUGHERTY Board Member
MR. CHRIS HALL Board Member
MR. KEITH KIMBALL Board Member
MR. JASON CHAMBERS Board Member
MRS. KATHLEEN SQUIRES Board Member
MR. JOHN VITA Board Member
MRS. MARY GRASSEL Board Member
COMMITTEE CHAIRS:
MR. JOHN J. PRIESTER Strategic Planning
MR. CARL CALLAHAN Finance
MR. RANDY CLARK Greens
MR. JASON CHAMBERS Golf
MR. JOHN VITA Membership
MR. RYAN DAUGHERTY House
MR. ALAN HANBURY Insurance
MR. ROBERT DWYER Building and Grounds
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Members,
The LPGA is behind us, and we are off to a fast start
Thank you to all the members who volunteered for this event Over 350 of our members participated Special thanks go to Tricia Priester and John Vita, Cochairs of this event
It was a tremendous amount of work! Also, thanks go to Austin Boyd and Ed McKenzie, who donated food and beverage items to the membership event area. Jamie McCrosky and his staff had our course in excellent condition, and it showed well on national television Lastly, Rob Hubbard and his staff worked so hard and many long hours It isn't easy to express enough gratitude
Our new board and committees have met or will meet within the next week There was overwhelming interest in participating on a committee, and we sincerely appreciate your willingness to serve While we cannot accommodate everyone, your desire to contribute does not go unnoticed
To keep our committees highly effective, we maintain a manageable size to ensure productive discussions and meaningful progress We also strive to balance fresh perspectives with continuity by retaining a few members from the previous year. This process allows us to build on past efforts while welcoming new voices to bring diverse ideas Thank you again for your interest We encourage you to stay engaged, and there will be more opportunities to contribute
Financially, we are fine, but not where we would like to be Heavy rain and two consecutive hurricanes damaged our golf course and facilities late last summer and early fall We were not prepared for that much damage and expense Our clubhouse continues to require expensive repairs to keep it open I can't emphasize that enough.
The strategic planning committee continues to work on a 5-, 10-, and 20-year plan, and we are working on the clubhouse plans. Feedback from the annual meeting from several members has us moving toward a coastal Florida type of clubhouse that is more consistent with an old Florida look while keeping the feel of West Florida and Cortez We are working hard to get you plans to see a new exterior design and elevations We aim to have more complete renderings for you by late April, if not sooner. We look forward to having town hall meetings to get member input.
In addition to the clubhouse and as part of a strategic plan, we are looking at the entire BCC campus to improve our facilities, including the pool and racquet areas. Rob and his staff are doing an excellent job with events; our new chef is the best we have had in a long time If you haven’t been to dinner at the club in a while, you need to give it another look
Yours truly,
JOHN J. PRIESTER
LETTER FROM THE CLUB MANAGER
Dear Members,
What a fantastic month February was at the club! From the LPGA Founders Cup to both men’s and women’s golf events, plus a great lineup of social gatherings, it felt like the month flew by It was wonderful to see so many of you out and about, enjoying everything the club has to offer
February also brought new representation to our Board of Directors and Committees A heartfelt thank you to everyone who stepped up and applied to serve this year Your willingness to contribute makes our club stronger, and we truly appreciate it
Now, as we move into March, we’ve got even more to look forward to. Our Spring Social promises to be a fantastic evening, and right in the middle of the month, we’ll host our biggest golf event of the season, The Invitational. And for those who enjoy a culinary adventure, Chef Justry is taking us on a trip to Italy with a special Italian Night toward the end of the month
There’s a lot happening, and we can’t wait to see you all at the club!
Respectfully,
ROB HUBBARD
Photo highlights from the LPGA Founders Cup Event at Bradenton Country Club
TEAM MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Welcome Thomas McClellan!
Thomas grew up in the Bradenton area and is excited to be back home He has been playing golf his entire life, developing a deep passion for the game from an early age Recently, Thomas graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Marketing A fun fact about him is that he has 25 screws and 2 rods in his back, a testament to his strength and perseverance in overcoming obstacles to continue doing what he loves
PGA SHOP ASSOCIATE
Welcome Sean Jacklin!
Born in Scotland, Sean moved to Palm Beach, FL when he was 2 and later relocated to Bradenton at the age of 8, growing up at the Bradenton Country Club After graduating from Manatee High School, he was recruited to play golf at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Sean turned professional at just 19 years old With 20 professional wins under his belt, Sean made a significant mark in the golf world, including qualifying for the 2022 U S Open One of his career highlights was shooting a course record 61 at Bradenton Country Club
Off the course, Sean is happily married to his wife Paige, and they have two children Margot (3) and Madden (1) along with their lovable Goldendoodle, Louie
DIRECTOR OF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT
Welcome Paul Taramelli!
Originally from Pennsylvania, Paul moved to Florida nine years ago and brings over 35 years of experience in the golf industry. Throughout his career, he has held several roles, including Club Manager and Tournament Director, with notable experience working with the PGA and Nationwide Tours.
Paul has also worked at River Wilderness, Lakewood National, Palm Aire, and, of course, Bradenton Country Club.
Outside of work, Paul enjoys spending time with his wife, Karen, and their two children and four grandchildren.
DIRECTOR OF OUTSIDE SERVICES
LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR OF GOLF
Dear Members,
I hope this letter finds you well and enjoying all that our great club has to offer February has been an incredible month at BCC, filled with fantastic events, spirited competition, and camaraderie among our membership From our tournaments to social gatherings, it has been a pleasure seeing so many of you out on the course and around the clubhouse, making the most of our club's offerings
As we turn the page to March, we are excited to present another month full of events and opportunities for all members Be sure to check the club calendar for upcoming tournaments We are committed to ensuring that there is something for everyone, whether you are looking to compete, improve your game, or simply enjoy the great atmosphere of BCC.
We are also pleased to introduce some new faces and positions in the Golf Shop. These changes will enhance your experience by providing even more dedicated service and expertise Be sure to stop by and meet the team, who are always available to assist you with any of your golf needs
Additionally, I am thrilled to announce that Sean Jacklin’s complimentary group instruction will begin the week of March 17th These sessions will cater to all golfers, providing valuable coaching in a welcoming and enjoyable setting These program details will be communicated in its own dedicated email in the weeks to come Sean’s private lesson schedule will also be available for booking beginning March 17th Members interested in scheduling a private session can do so via email or in person at the golf shop counter
We recognize the demand on the golf course due to the number of events on the calendar Please know that as we are planning the 2025-2026 golf calendar, we are committed to maintaining equitable access for all members while also ensuring financial responsibility regarding lost revenue from rounds that cannot be booked. Our goal is to create a balanced schedule that benefits the entire membership while keeping the club financially strong.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement We look forward to another outstanding month at Bradenton Country Club and hope to see you on the course soon!
Warm regards,
NICK CAMPBELL
GOLF GENIUS & EVENT REGISTRATION
AAs we swing into March, we're gearing up for an exciting month filled with golf events that you won't want to miss! From the Men's Stag Day to the Senior Men's Club Championships and Ladies Club Championships (all divisions), there’s plenty of competition and camaraderie to look forward to this month.
Whether you're competing or cheering on fellow members, there's an event for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to mark your calendars and stay in the loop with all the upcoming activities! To view the full event schedule and register, simply click the button below to access Golf Genius.
"The secret of good golf course design is to make the player think, but not make them think too much."
— Donald Ross
"I’M NOT SAYING MY GOLF GAME IS BAD, BUT IF I GREW TOMATOES, THEY’D COME UP SLICED."
Golf Rule of the Month: Ball in Condition that Is Not Playable (Rule 15.2a)
Golf Rule of the Month: Ball in Condition that Is Not Playable (Rule 15.2a) Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we find ourselves in tricky situations on the golf course—such as hitting a shot into a bunker or a water hazard (now called “penalty areas”). But what happens when your ball ends up in an area deemed "not playable" due to obstacles?
Rule 15.2a of the USGA Rules of Golf explains that if your ball lies in a condition that is not playable, you may take free relief. Some examples of these conditions include:
Ground under repair (such as an area of the course that is being worked on or damaged by weather)
Embedded ball in the general area (the ball is embedded in the ground, but not in a bunker or water hazard)
Animal holes or other unnatural objects
If your ball lands in one of these conditions, you may take free relief by dropping the ball within one club-length of the spot where the ball lay, no closer to the hole. The ball must also not end up in a better position or provide an unfair advantage.
If you’re not in one of these conditions but your ball is still unplayable (such as in thick brush or behind a tree), you may declare the ball unplayable and take a penalty stroke, choosing one of the following options:
Keep the ball where it lies, adding a penalty stroke.
Drop the ball within two club-lengths of where it lies, adding a penalty stroke.
Return to the spot of your previous shot, adding a penalty stroke.
A G R O N O M Y U P D A T E
We made it through the 2025 LPGA Founders Cup, and we received great feedback from players and the tour. After a professional event, professional golf tours provide a post tournament report, and as far as golf course conditions, everything came back favorable. From our agronomic perspective, mother nature did make it challenging with our set up to make the putting surfaces what we know they can be. The week was very dank and foggy, which led to the greens not gaining firmness until late in the afternoons. Regardless, rules officials were pleased, and the tournament experience was rewarding for our staff in the maintenance department. Moving on from that, the weather is breaking, and the extended forecast shows to be cool, but not too cold to hold us back from progressing the course in a positive way.
The putting greens have responded well since recent below average weather patterns and Lpga event. We were stingy and scrutinized moisture on the greens leading up to and during the Lpga. Coming out of it some stressed areas resulted, however the team did well to nurse them back with added hand watering and some strategic fertility applications to get them to where we need them. Soon after LPGA, we had some notable events including spring men’s member member. Greens showed well with great speed and better firmness than we were having weeks before. We will continue to hit our marks on the greens, and as we get into the spring. We have some important preventative processes we will begin relating to fairy ring fungus, mole crickets, and mitigating saline water stress. We have invested in the new USGA GPS ball. This technology will allow us to formulate data on green speed, firmness, moisture, salinity, and smoothness. We will also be able to formulate pin placements and sheets as well as labor tracking within our department.
Heading into the spring, the golf course is in rather decent shape. Fairways and tees are doing well, but we have some density areas in the roughs we need to tackle more aggressively. I feel the rough surrounds around the greens we need to address proactively to get them to a better place before summer growing season. We have some nematode issues there and we need to watch irrigation more closely around the greens. The mounds are more likely to dry out more and extra syringing is necessary. This month we are applying a wall-to-wall fertilizer application with pre-emergent herbicide to help prevent weeds moving forward. I have been talking about our bunker challenges lately as far as our sand inconsistencies. We have a good plan in place to address sand depths and firmness. We have been using our plate compactor frequently, but we need to address depths. This time of year makes it challenging to take on such a project, but we will start to address what we can do before summer maintenance.
Communication was sent out that we made a leadership decision to part ways with Daniel Farley. Like Rob Hubbard said, I too want to thank him for his services and work he did on the golf course. Rest assured, I will continue to specify agronomic programs and implements applied to the golf course as I have up to this date since coming onboard. I am confident I can continue to work with current team to execute our programs. I will coordinate with greens committee and board to search for a new candidate to further assist in leading our greens team. As said before, we have many spring member events ahead of us, and we look forward to providing great conditions for you to enjoy.
Yours truly,
JAMIE MCCROSKY
TENNIS UPDATE
Our Ladies Chocolate Lovers Round Robin was held on February 12th and was a deliciously fun time! We had a tie for first place between Julie Gillenwaters and Maghan Fox. We also had a raffle drawing which was won by Shawn Mayers.
The Racquet Sports Hall of Fame has officially been started, and we have the picture of our first inductee (Tony Rogers) up on the wall. We are looking forward to highlighting past members that helped bring the Racquet Sports program to where we are today.
Our ladies 3.5 USTA team that plays on Monday evenings is wrapping up their first winter season. Our team has gained some awesome match-play experience.
Spring season will be starting soon, if you want to join the team, please contact the Racquet Center or Tabitha Hager our team captain.
If you’d like to come watch any of their matches, you can find their schedules in each weekly snapshot email.
The two BCC ladies Sunshine teams that play on Fridays have won the majority of their team matches. In the Sunshine league scores are not kept, the league is a social league.
Our men’s 45’s Suncoast team wraps up their season in March. Our Bcc team is in the middle of the pack. Our 60’s Suncoast team is in a solid 3rd position. Their schedules can also be found on the weekly snapshot email.
Our Ladies Boot Camp is coming up on Thursday, 3/20. Be sure to sign up early for this popular event, we only have a maximum of 18 places. Jack, Bernie and Rob will run the boot camp.
A reminder that all events, social plays and clinics are on the Bradenton Country Club TeamReach App.
You can access the app with this code: BCCTENNIS2024
To register for any of the events, clinics, etc., please visit the TeamReach app, select the event on the calendar button and select “yes” “no” or “maybe”. If the event involves partners or lunch, you can use the “comment” button below your response and put your choices/comments there.
Should you need any assistance getting into TeamReach or help with registering for any of our events or clinics, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Racquet Center by calling or texting (941)920-6805.
Respectfully,
TENNIS HIGHLIGHTS
PICKLEBALL UPDATE
To enhance security, safety and member exclusivity at the pickleball courts we have a new active Key Fob system on the west gate. Members can access this gate with the key fob that is used for the pool and the fitness area. If you would like a key fob please see Kathy at the main club. There are no charges for a new key fob. As of Friday March 7th, members will only be able to access the courts through the west gate with a key fob, the east gate lock will have a new code and will be for staff use only.
The trip to Palm Aire Country Club for a social match has now been rescheduled to April 5th. Sign up on TeamReach to play, Palm Aire is looking forward to hosting our BCC players!
Curious about pickleball but Not Sure Where to Start? Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the country, and we make it easy to jump in! Whether you’re brand new or have played a little and want to build your confidence our Beginner/Novice Clinic is the perfect way to get started. Led by experienced playing members, this clinic walks you through the fundamentals in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Next Clinic, Saturday March 29th at 9:00AM. Come give it a try-you might just find your new favorite sport!
TA new pickleball clinic for Lower Intermediate players started on Thursday February 13th from 9:30am-11:00am. This clinic features drills and match play situations. It will be limited to the first six players that sign up. There will be a wait list each week. The sign up is on TeamReach.
A reminder that all events, social plays and clinics are on the Bradenton Country Club TeamReach App. You can access the app with this code: BCCPB2024
To register for any of the events, clinics, etc., please visit the TeamReach app, select the event on the calendar button and select “yes” “no” or “maybe”. If the event involves partners or lunch, you can use the “comment” button below your response and put your choices/comments there.
Should you need any assistance getting into TeamReach or help with registering for any of our events or clinics, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Racquet Center by calling or texting us at (941)920-6805.
TENNIS & PICKLEBALL
WEEKLY PROGRAMMING
Tuesday:
9:00 AM Tennis: Ladies 3.0+ Play
6:15 PM-7:45 PM Tennis: Men's Singles and Social Doubles
Wednesday:
9:00 AM Tennis: Ladies 3 0+ Play
5:30 PM- 8:00 PM Tennis: Men's 4.0+ TENNIS
Thursday:
9:00 AM-10:30 AM Women's 3 5+ Tennis Clinic with Jack 6:15 PM-7:45 PM Men's Social Doubles
Saturday:
9:00 AM-10:30 AM 3 on 3 Tennis (All Levels)
Sunday:
9:00 AM-10:00 AM Adult Early Bird Clinic - Mixed 10:30 AM- 11:30 AM Tennis: Men's 50's Clinic
Monday: 8:00 AM Pickleball Open & Advance Play
Wednesday: 8:00 AM Pickleball Advanced Players PICKLEBALL
Friday: 8:00 AM-9:00 AM High IntermediateAdvanced Pickleball Clinic - Places Limited, Sign Up Online 9:00 AM-10:00 AM Advanced Beginner- Intermediate Pickleball
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, Bradenton Country Club stands as a tranquil escape While the world outside may continue at its usual pace, within the club's gates, members find a rare sense of peace. Whether it's a quiet round of golf or a relaxing afternoon on the courts, the club has become a sanctuary a place where time slows down and the stresses of everyday life seem to fade away
“I’VE LEARNED THAT THE BEST THING YOU CAN DO IN GOLF IS LAUGH AT YOURSELF.”
- MAX HOMA
THE SQUIRREL'S JUDGMENT: A TALE OF REDEMPTION ON THE FIRST TEE
FEATURING “GREG” (A FICTITIOUS CHARACTER)
- Anonymous
The ball shot off at a wild angle, sailing into the trees. For a moment, no one said anything. They just stood there, waiting for the inevitable thud as the ball hit the trunk of a tree, then dropped straight down into the woods.
Greg stared at the spot where the ball had gone, his eyes narrowing in disbelief. “Well, that’s one way to avoid the fairway,” he muttered.
“Don’t worry, Greg,” one of his buddies called out, trying to keep the mood light, “at least the trees aren’t judging you.”
Greg sighed, walked over to the edge of the woods, and peered inside. “This hole’s got my number already, I can tell,” he said. But just as he was about to take his next shot, he spotted something in the trees—was that… a squirrel?
The tiny creature was perched on a branch, watching Greg with what could only be described as a look of judgment. For a split second, Greg considered asking the squirrel for advice, but he figured it probably wasn’t on the golf course payroll.
“Alright, no more messing around,” Greg said, shaking off his doubts. He lined up his shot again, and this time, he focused—really focused.
With a smooth swing, the ball launched off the ground flying true. It soared over the trees, gliding right toward the green. “Now that’s more like it!” his buddy yelled. “See, told you you had it in you.”
Greg grinned, feeling a rush of relief and a bit of pride. “I told you guys, today’s the day.” As the ball landed on the green, Greg couldn’t help but feel a little victorious.
It wasn’t a hole-in-one, but after the squirrel and the woods debacle, a solid shot felt like a win. Sometimes, the game isn’t about perfection—it’s about bouncing back and enjoying the ride.
It was a crisp, sunny morning at the club, and the golf course was buzzing with activity. As the group gathered at the first tee, Greg was already giving his usual motivational pep talk. “I’m feeling it today, guys. I’ve been practicing my swing, my putting… heck, I’ve even been watching YouTube tutorials. This is the day I finally break 80.”
His buddies exchanged skeptical glances. They’d heard this speech more times than they could count, but they didn’t want to burst his bubble. After all, Greg had been "feeling it" every Saturday for the last three months.
The first hole, a relatively easy par 4, seemed like a good starting point. Greg teed up with an air of confidence, stepping back to take a few deep breaths. His stance looked solid, his focus intense—he was practically radiating determination.
“To win at golf, you have to learn how to make peace with the game."
BRADENTON COUNTRY CLUB
2025 MEN’S MEMBER-MEMBER CHAMPIONS
QUOTE BY JACK NICKALAUS 18 MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS
THE VISIONARY OF GOLF COURSE DESIGN
Donald Ross, one of golf’s most influential course designers, left an indelible mark on the game. Born in Scotland in 1872, Ross was a talented golfer and an even more renowned architect.
He designed over 400 golf courses, but his work at Pinehurst No. 2 remains his most famous. Ross's designs are known for their strategic layout, challenging greens, and natural beauty—blending the terrain with the course in ways that make each round feel like a new challenge. His legacy endures through the courses he built, still cherished by golfers around the world today.
A GOLF COURSE IS NOT A PLACE TO JUST PLAY, IT’S A PLACE TO THINK, TO CHALLENGE YOURSELF, AND TO ENJOY THE GAME.
- Donald Ross
What set Ross apart was his philosophy that golf courses should not only be a test of skill but also a place where players could immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the challenge. His legacy continues to inspire golfers and course designers, as his courses remain favorites on the professional tour and among amateurs alike.
Member photo highlights from the 2025 LPGA Founders Cup at Bradenton Country Club
Where every swing feels like a new opportunity, the course welcomes all, and the memories are made with every round. Here’s to another incredible month at Bradenton Country Club!
& Dine
$45perperson +cartfees
PLEASE JOIN US
THURS | MAR 6 | 3:30 PM
4 PLAYER NET SCRAMBLE
SHOTGUN START
DINNER BUFFET IN AZALEA ROOM
BRADENTON COUNTRY CLUB
2025 MENS INVITATIONAL 3daysoffun!
SOCIAL Spring
March 8th from 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Live band
Mingle style event
menu
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Ahi Tuna Wonton w/ Wasabi Crema
Phyllo Wrapped Baked Brie Bites
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Tomato and Mozzarella Bruschetta
S A L A D S T A T I O N
Chopped Caesar Salad (Martini Glass)
Wedge Salad w/ Bleu Cheese, Balsamic, and Bacon
R A W B A R
Cocktail Shrimp
Crab Salad
Smoked Salmon
Chives
Everything Bagel Chips
Cream Cheese
Capers
Lamb Rack
Beef Wellington D E S S E R T
nanas Foster and Cherry Jubilee (Chef Attended Station)
Assorted Cakes and Pie
Wednesday, March 5th 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Scan QR Code to Schedule
BingoNight
Get ready to shout "BINGO!" and claim your chance to win fantastic prizes at this exciting event! John Vita, our trusty Bingo caller, will guide you through several rounds of the classic game, with plenty of chances to score big. Don't miss out on the fun—your winning card could be just a call away!
MARCH20TH
BEGINSAT7:00PM AZALEA ROOM
Senior CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP B C C
Format ~ Individual Stroke Play
Handicap Allocation ~ USGA recommendation will be used for Net portion of the tournament and be set at 95%
Ties ~ Low Gross in either division will go to a sudden death playoff if necessary
Senior Division ~ 55 years old or above, competing from the 59' Tees
Super Senior Division ~ 70 years old or above, competing from the 55' Tees
**If someone 70 years old or above competes from the 59' tees they will be eligible for both divisions**
ENTRY FEE: $ 20 PP
REGISTRATION CLOSES MAR 23RD
Ladies CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
Format Individual Stroke Play
Handicap Allocation ~ USGA recommendation will be used for Net portion of the tournament and be set at 95%
Ties ~ Low Gross in either division will go to a sudden death playoff if necessary
Senior Division ~ 55 years old or above, competing from the 51' Tees
Super Senior Division 70 years old or above, competing from the 47' Tees
**If someone 70 years old or above competes from the 51' tees they will be eligible for both divisions**
ClubManager-RobHubbard:rhubbard@bradentoncc.org
DirectorofGolf-NickCampbell:ncampbell@bradentoncc.org
DirectorofCommunication-BriaJansen:bjansen@bradentoncc.org
DirectorofAgronomy-JamieMcCrosky:jmccrosky@thesignatureonecom
DirectorofRacquetSports-JackSteyn:jsteyn@bradentoncc.org
FoodandBeverageManager-SarahRoese:sroese@bradentoncc.org
OfficeAdministrator-KathyMahanna:kmahanna@bradentoncc.org
Hours of Operation
Golf Shop: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Driving Range: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Clubhouse Bar: Weekdays- 10:00 am to 8:00 PM
Weekends: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Clubhouse Restaurant: Weekdays- 10:00 am to 8:00 PM
Weekends: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Morand House: 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Tennis Shop: Weekdays- 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM; Weekend- 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
TSICCB HEPLACETO !EB
