2024 WNYPGA SECTION AWARD WINNERS
GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
MICHAEL O’CONNOR, PGA
The Ridge Golf Course
“I am deeply honored and humbled to be recognized among such talented peers. This award motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my profession and to serve the golf community with the utmost dedication. Thank you for this incredible honor."
ASSISTANT GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
JACOB ECKLEY, PGA
Tri County Country Club
“I am truly humbled to be acknowledged among such talented colleagues. I am passionate about golf and committed to serving our community with integrity and enthusiasm. This award inspires me to continue growing and contributing to the sport that I love.”
BILL STRAUSBAUGH AWARD
CHRIS KULINSKI, PGA
PGA of America
"I am honored and humbled to be recognized by my peers for this prestigious award. It is truly an honor. Every day I do my best to show outstanding integrity, commitment to mentoring my fellow PGA Professionals in improving their employment situations, and involvement in community and charitable activities.”
TEACHER OF THE YEAR
MARC ROSA, PGA
“I am honored to be recognized by my peers with this award. There are many talented teachers in the WNYPGA Section and this recognition is a great honor and very humbling. Thank you!”
Wanakah Country Club
YOUTH PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AWARD
JOE BOCK, PGA
Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course
“Kids have so many opportunities to play any sport they choose. When I was growing up I played hockey, baseball, and golf. My father always reminded me "golf is a game of a lifetime." When kids attend my golf lessons or coaching PGA Jr Lg, I find a way to connect with them. I promote golf as a game I love and hope they love it as much as I do."
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AWARD
KYLE BENISH, PGA
Holiday Valley Resort
“The line of communication is always open, and I am always willing to help. Sometimes asking for help is the hardest thing.”
PLAYER DEVELOPMENT AWARD
BOB KING, PGA
Lakeside Country Club
"Receiving the WNYPGA Player Development Award is an incredible honor. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion that goes into developing players and fostering growth. I’m grateful for the support of my colleagues and the opportunity to make a difference in the game we all love."
PGA GOLF EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
MICHAEL O’CONNOR,
The Ridge Golf Course
PGA
"Winning this award is incredibly humbling. It reflects not just my efforts, but the collective passion and drive of everyone involved in our golf community. I'm grateful for the support and collaboration that has made this achievement possible."
PATRIOT AWARD
JEFF MIETUS, PGA
GolfDojo
"Receiving the Patriot Award is a profound honor. It’s not just a recognition of my efforts but a testament to the collective spirit and dedication of everyone who shares in this journey. Together, we uphold the values that make our community strong and our mission meaningful."
MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR (RESORT)
KYLE BENISH, PGA
Holiday Valley Resort
“This is a team award not an individual award because we know we wouldn’t be able to do it without our staff. Big thank you goes out to Bryce, Chasidi and Ellie.”
MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR (PUBLIC)
ANTHONY SCHIRO
Glen Oak Golf Club
"Receiving the Golf Merchandiser of the Year award is a testament to our team's dedication and passion for delivering exceptional products and services to our customers. We are honored to be recognized and will continue to strive for excellence in every aspect of our business."
MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR (PRIVATE)
BEN WINDOFT, PGA
Moon Brook Country Club
“This award is a testament to the passion and commitment we put into every detail of our merchandise. I’m deeply grateful to the WNYPGA for this recognition and proud to share it with everyone who has contributed to our success."
DEACON PALMER AWARD
MIKE D’AGOSTINO, PGA
Penfield Country Club
"Receiving this award reflects not only my journey but also the countless individuals who have inspired me along the way. It is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and the unwavering spirit of golf. No challenge is too great when we work together for the love of the game."
MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR
BRIAN KOZIOL
Tee2Green & WGR 550
"I’m truly honored to be recognized as this year’s Media Representative. This award reflects the passion we all share for the game. I’m grateful for the support and inspiration from this incredible community as we continue to come together to elevating the game!”
SALES REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR
JEFF BEAVER, PGA
Titleist Sales Representative
“It is a privilege and honor to serve the golf professionals of the
SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR
JUSTIN SUDO
The Kahkwa Club
“The relationship between golf course Superintendents and PGA Professionals is critical to the success of the game of golf. The Section’s formal recognition of my profession speaks volumes to the understanding and appreciation for that relationship. This region’s popularity with the game of golf is a testament to our commitment to growing the game and preserving its popularity. Thank you for recognizing my profession’s role. It’s an honor to accept the award.”
