INSIDE THE ISSUE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS & COMMITTEES
FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK
Mike D’Agostino, PGA
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
Victoria Schiro
SECTION STAFF
HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE
Dan Antonucci, PGA
PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Nick Palladino, PGA
SENIOR PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Kirk Stauffer, PGA
WOMAN PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Lauren Tallman, PGA
ASSISTANT PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Nick Palladino, PGA
WNYPGA SECTION AWARD WINNERS
WNYPGA GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
Michael O’Connor, PGA
EVENTS
Mike D’Agostino, PGA, David Patronik & Jim Mrva, PGA
WHAT’S IN THE BAG
Featuring Neil Reidy, PGA
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President Mike D’Agostino, PGA
Vice President Bob King, PGA
Secretary Jay Sutherland, PGA
Honorary President Jake Northrup, PGA
Tournament Chairman Rob Krajewski, PGA
Director Kyle Benish, PGA
Awards & Hall of Fame Chairman
Director Steve Carney, PGA
Education Chairman
Director Michael Kiel, PGA
Junior Golf/Player Engagement Chairman
Director Sean Moffat, PGA
Assistant & Mentoring Chairman
Director Jonathan Decker, PGA
Employment Co-Chairman
Director Ben Wilson, PGA
Employment Co-Chairman
THANK YOU TO ALL OFF OUR COMMITTEE MEMBERS FOR YOUR HARD WORK, WE TRULY APPRECIATE EVERYTHING YOU’VE DONE
Tournaments
Chairman: Rob Krajewski
Members: Mike D’Agostino, Ben Wilson, Kirk Stauffer, Michael O’Connor, Dave Patronik and Nick Palladino
Staff Liaison: Victoria Schiro and Brayden Weiss
Assistant & Mentoring
Chairman: Sean Moffat
Members: Zach Farkas and Tom Irish
Staff Liaison: Brayden Weiss
Junior Golf/Player Engagement
Chairman: Mike Kiel
Members: Eric Haile, Anthony Schiro, Kristen Bromley, Mike Mancari, Josh Wojtaszszyk and Michael O’Connor
Staff Liaison: Julie Haile
Awards & Hall of Fame
Chairman: Kyle Benish
Members: Jake Northrup, Pat Phillips, Rob Krajewski and Jeff Beaver
Staff Liaison: Mollie Mars
Ethics
Chairman: Jay Sutherland
Members: Jake Northrup, Michael O’Connor, Mark Kirk, Jon Hoecker
Staff Liaison: Mollie Mars
Education
Chairman: Steve Carney
Members: Tommy Walter, Debby Murphy, Garry Occhino, Dan Vanill
Staff Liaison: Victoria Schiro
Employment
Chairman: Jonathan Decker and Ben Wilson
Members: Tommy Walter, Chris Kulinski, Mike Sweazy, Steve Gertner, Steve Crane, Jeff Beaver and Dan Antonucci
Staff Liaison: Victoria Schiro and Jonathan Gold
Executive
Chairman: Mike D’Agostino
Members: Bob King, Jay Sutherland and Jake Northrup
Staff Liaison: Victoria Schiro
Finance Sub-Committee
Chairman: Bob King
Members: Dan Antonucci and Paul Agone
Staff Liaison: Victoria Schiro
WNYPGA PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
MIKE D’AGOSTINO, PGA
Dear WNYPGA Members and Associates,
As we approach the end of another remarkable year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the journey we've undertaken together and express my deepest gratitude for your continued commitment and dedication to the Western New York PGA.
This past year has been one of growth, resilience and innovation. Despite the challenges we faced, our collective efforts have helped us navigate through uncertain times and allowed us to thrive and elevate the game of golf in our region.
Our events calendar was a highlight this year, featuring some unforgettable tournaments and gatherings. From the thrilling competition at the Section Championship to the camaraderie shared at the inaugural HOPE Cup, these events have underscored the strength and unity of our community.
None of these accomplishments would have been possible without your active involvement and support. Your dedication to promoting the game of golf and advancing the mission of the WNYPGA is what makes this organization truly exceptional. As we reflect on our achievements, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you. Your passion, hard work and enthusiasm are the driving forces behind our continued success.
Looking ahead to our centennial next year, we are poised to build on this year’s accomplishments and tackle new opportunities with the same commitment. I am confident that we will continue to make strides in growing the game, fostering excellence, and strengthening our PGA community.
Thank you for your unwavering support and for being an integral part of the WNYPGA family. Here’s to celebrating our shared successes and to an exciting year ahead.
Regards,
Mike D’Agostino
Mike D’Agostino, PGA President
Dear WNYPGA Members and Associates,
As we approach the end of another dynamic year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments and challenges we’ve faced together, and to express my sincere gratitude for your unwavering support and dedication.
This past year has wonderfully highlighted our PGA community. We have successfully concluded our tournament season and launched exciting initiatives to grow the game of golf in our region, making remarkable progress together. Here’s to our shared achievements and the bright future ahead!
As we look ahead to the coming year, our focus will be on building upon the successes of this past year and celebrating our Centennial. We are committed to enhancing Member benefits, expanding our community outreach, and continuing to elevate the standard of excellence within our organization.
Thank you once again for your commitment to the Western New York PGA. Your passion and dedication are the driving forces behind our achievements, and I am proud to be part of such an exceptional community. Let’s carry forward the momentum we’ve built and work together to make the coming year even more
Wishing you all continued success and a wonderful off-season!
SECTION STAFF
Executive Director/CEO
Victoria Schiro vschiro@pgahq.com
Director of Development & Foundation Operations
John Osberg josberg@pgahq.com
Director of Junior Golf & Player Engagement
Julie Haile jhaile@pgahq.com
Director of Competitions & Membership Services
Brayden Weiss bweiss@pgahq com
Operations Coordinator Mollie Mars mmars@pgahq.com
PGA WORKS Fellow
Abigail Kludt akludt@pgahq com
Main Phone: (716) 626-7095
Email: wnewyork@pgahq com Website: wnypga com
2024 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE
Dan Antonucci, PGA
Class “A” Member of the PGA since 1989
PGA Head Golf Professional at Niagara Frontier GC for 34 years
PGA Certified Professional in General Management
Career Accolades
Honorary President (2021 - 2023)
President (2019 - 2021)
Vice President (2017 - 2019)
Secretary (2015 - 2017)
WNYPGA Board of Directors (2007-2023)
Area II Director - Buffalo (2007 - 2015)
Chairman of various committees
PGA Director of "Clubs for Kids" Junior Golf Program at Delaware Park, Buffalo, NY since 1993
Mentored 8 Assistant Professionals through the PGA Apprentice Program to "Class A" status
Elected to the Foundation Board (2024)
PGA HOPE Certified (2021)
Section Awards
2018: Bill Strausbaugh Award
2015: Player Development Award
2012: Bill Strausbaugh Award
2011: Golf Professional of the Year
2010: President's Plaque
2009: President's Plaque
2008: President's Plaque
This not just a personal milestone, but a celebration of every moment that brought me here. I’m deeply grateful for the support of my family and friends who believed in me every step of the way This honor inspires me to keep giving back to the game I love "
PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Nick Palladino, PGA
The WNYPGA Player of the Year award celebrates an individual who has excelled in tournaments throughout the year. Nick has not only achieved remarkable success in tournaments but has also exemplified consistent dedication and sportsmanship. We are excited to honor Nick for his outstanding accomplishments on the course, as he truly represents the spirit of excellence and commitment that characterizes the golfing community.
Nick's impressive performance and reliability reflect his exceptional talent, strategic thinking and passion for the sport. Competing against a field of seasoned players, he has demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill, earning him recognition as the top player
“It’s an honor and a privilege to be the Player of the Year that would not have been possible without a few people in my corner. I have to thank my wife, Leigh, because she is my rock, my support system and everything. I also want to thank my kids, who don’t care how I play and just wanna see me at the end of the day. I need to thank Frank LaForce and Tony Saccomanno for holding down Crag Burn when I am out there on the road competing and playing against some great guys in the Section.”
Congratulations to Nick Palladino, PGA of Crag Burn Golf Club on winning the 2024 Player of the Year for the first time!
SENIOR PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Kirk Stauffer, PGA
The WNYPGA Senior Player of the Year award recognizes an outstanding individual who has demonstrated exceptional skill and performance in senior golf competitions throughout the year. Kirk has shown not only excellence in tournaments but has also shown consistent dedication and sportsmanship. We are excited to celebrate Kirk for his remarkable achievements on the course as he embodied the spirit of competitive excellence and commitment that defines the senior golfing community.
Kirk has showcased unparalleled performance and consistency which is a testament to his exceptional skill, strategic acumen, and dedication to the sport as he continually navigates a competitive field of seasoned players. Through his superior level of play and resilience, Kirk has been able to earn himself the distinction of being the top senior player.
“I am overwhelmed to win the 2024 Senior Player of the Year Award. Our Senior membership is filled with great players and I'm very fortunate to accumulate enough points to win. I know playing in most of the events is a huge advantage, but I sure love to see the guys and compete.”
Congratulations to the 2024 Senior Player of the Year, Kirk Stauffer, PGA, of Chautauqua Golf Club for the tenth year in a row!
WOMAN PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Lauren Tallman, PGA
The WNYPGA Woman Player of the Year award celebrates an individual who has excelled in golf throughout the year. This year, we honor a remarkable player who has not only achieved tremendous success in tournaments. We are thrilled to recognize her outstanding accomplishments on the course, as she embodies the spirit of excellence and commitment. Her impressive performance and consistency highlight her exceptional talent and passion for the sport.
"Being named Woman Player of the Year is an incredible honor. It reflects my love for the game but it's also about the amazing community of women in golf who push each other to reach new heights. I’m proud to represent us all and excited for what’s to come!"
Congratulations to Lauren Tallman, PGA on winning the 2024 Woman Player of the Year!
ASSISTANT PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Nick Palladino, PGA
The WNYPGA Assistant Player of the Year award recognizes an exceptional individual who has stood out in the past year. This year, we are proud to honor an extraordinary player whose impressive tournament success is matched by his dedication. Competing against a talented group of experienced players, he has demonstrated incredible resilience and skill.
“I’m deeply honored to receive the Assistant Player of the Year award, and I owe this achievement to a few special people in my life. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my wife and kids, who are my unwavering support and my foundation.”
Congratulations to Nick Palladino, PGA on winning the 2024 Assistant Player of the Year for the third time in his career!
WNYPGA AWARD WINNERS
MICHAEL O’CONNOR, PGA
Golf Professional of the Year
JAKE ECKLEY, PGA
Assistant Golf Professional of the Year
CHRIS KULINSKI, PGA
Bill Strausbaugh Award
MICHAEL O’CONNOR, PGA
Golf Executive of the Year
MIKE D’AGOSTINO, PGA
Deacon Palmer Award
KYLE BENISH, PGA
Resort Merchandiser of the Year
BEN WINDOFT, PGA
Private Merchandiser of the Year
ANTHONY SCHIRO
Public Merchandiser of the Year
BOB KING, PGA
Player Development Award
JOE BOCK, PGA
Youth Development Award
MARC ROSA, PGA
Teacher of the Year
KYLE BENISH, PGA
Professional Development Award
JEFF MIETUS, PGA
Patriot Award
BRIAN KOZIOL
Media Representative of the Year
JEFF BEAVER, PGA
Sales Representative of the Year
JUSTIN SUDO
Superintendent of the Year
WNYPGA GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
Michael O’Connor, PGA
“Being recognized by the PGA of America and my peers is a true honor. There are so many deserving Professionals who are also working hard to represent the PGA in the best possible manner and grow the game. In 2008, I was blessed with this honor so I was very surprised to be honored 16 years later.
I’m enjoying the diversity of my current career as owner of the The Ridge GC. Having a vision and a passion to elevate the course and grow the game at the club has been extremely rewarding. Each day presents different challenges and I’m truly enjoying the journey! Thank you to all the PGA Professionals in the Western New York PGA!”
Congratulations to Michael on being the 2024 WNYPGA Golf Professional of the Year!
NCR ASSISTANT PGA
PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Nick Palladino, PGA
Despite the challenging weather we had to contend with, we had a fantastic day and some incredible low scores. Congratulations to Nick Palladino, PGA for winning with his two-shot victory at Stafford CC. Palladino stated, “Winning this championship is an unforgettable moment for me. It reflects all the hard work and perseverance I've put in, and I couldn't have done it without the support of my family and friends. I'm proud to carry this title and excited for what lies ahead!”
This mindset helped him pull through and have ten birdies throughout the two rounds. Palladino won the tournament with a -6 over two rounds for a total of 138.
WNYPGA SECTION CHAMPIONSHIP
Nick Palladino, PGA
The players arrived at Clifton Springs’ perfectly manicured layout on Sunday and were quickly faced with hot and humid weather that provided difficult scoring conditions for the field. With rain softening the course before the second round, the opportunity presented itself to make a swift move up the leaderboard. It was the consistent play of Nick Palladino that would earn him the victory. His even-par 71 on day one followed by a final round 1 under 70 pushed him into the top spot by two strokes.
“The competitive spirits of great competitors, like Kirk Stauffer and Michael O’Connor, pushed me in the first round to stay in it after a rough start of 3 over through 7. Jay Sutherland and Tyler Smith continued to do the same in the second round. Their energy and focus helped me continue to push myself and grind through the ups and downs of a WNYPGA Major Championship event,” Nick stated. The tournament was an excellent showcase of golfing talent, and we couldn’t be prouder of the high level of play from our qualifying professionals.
Good luck to Nick next year when he is in Port St. Lucie, Florida representing the Western New York Section at the PGA Professional Championship!
WNYPGA SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
Kirk Stauffer, PGA
We had a fantastic two days at the beautiful Irondequoit Country Club. Kirk Stauffer took advantage of the perfect conditions by shooting a final round -6 66. After day one, Kirk was trailing by 2 strokes which means he had to come out ready to play for day two. Kirk showed us just that as he scored -6 to finish at 138 for the two rounds. Kirk commented, “I am very humbled and thrilled to win my 10th Senior Championship at a beautiful venue like Irondequoit Country Club. I want to thank Ben Wilson, PGA Golf Professional, the staff, and especially the members at Irondequoit CC for hosting us. I am proud to represent the Western New York PGA Section and Chautauqua Golf Club at the National Senior Championship in late September.”
This year, Kirk not only claimed the Senior Champion title but the Super Senior Champion title for the 2024 WNYPGA season! Congratulations to Kirk for claiming his sixth Senior Championship in a row!
MATCH PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP
David Patronik
This year, David was invited back to play in the Match Play Championship at Crag Burn Golf Club, and he came out on top after playing four amazing rounds of golf through some inconsistent weather. Over this past tournament season, David has been able to play a lot of golf, which prepared him for this type of tournament and showed with his performance.
David commented, “I am humbled and thankful for winning the 2024 WNYPGA Match Play Championship. The competition in our Section is fantastic and I feel fortunate to have survived playing 73 holes of golf over two very different days at Crag Burn. The first day was windy and overcast with rain threatening while the second was calm, sunny, and nearly perfect for golf. I am proud that I managed to maintain my focus, determination, and selfbelief throughout both days to claim this major championship. This is a win that I will treasure for a long time!”
David fought hard through his four matches, going to 19 holes in both the round of 16 and semifinals. He was able to hold off Nick Palladino on the 18th hole of the championship match to claim his victory.
Congratulations to David Patronik for outlasting his opponents and finishing his final match 1UP to take the title of WNYPGA Match Play Champion for the first time!
WNYPGA TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP
Kirk Stauffer, PGA
“I am thrilled to win our WNYPGA Tour Championship this year after coming close the past few years. I thought with the soft conditions and the challenging hole locations, the course played very difficult. I just stayed patient and executed a few shots the last 6 holes. The chip in for birdie on #13 was the catalyst. I am proud to be the champion, beating the best players in our Section.”
Congratulations to Kirk for scoring a +7 over two rounds for a total of 147! What a fantastic season Kirk had this year!
N Y P G A P R O
2024 Winners
MAY
May 6: Titleist Scratch Pro-Am
Anthony Schiro
May13: Custom Pro-Pro Stableford
Kirk Stauffer, PGA & Paul Sanders, PGA
May 17: WNYAA Pendleton Creek
Tyler Smith, PGA
May 20: Western New York Classic
Dwayne Randall, PGA
May 28: Club Car Pro-Officer/Superintendent
Ian Brotherton
May 31: Lawrence Park Pro-Am
Nick Palladino, PGA
JUNE
June 3: Lonnie Nielsen Scratch Pro-Am
Nick Palladino, PGA
June 7: Lake View Invitational Pro-Am
Rob Krajewski, PGA
June 10: Wild Wood Pro-Pro Shamble
Lance Sininger & Dwayne Randall, PGA
June 14: WNYAA Wild Wood
Mike Mancari
June 17: Moonbrook Invitational Pro-Am
Dwayne Randall, PGA
June 24: Chautauqua Pro-Am
Nick Palladino, PGA
JULY
July 1: Facility Pro-Pro Championship
Tim Fries, PGA & Anthony Schiro
July 8: Africa 6000 Invitational Pro-Am
Rob Krajewski, PGA
July 14-15: WNYPGA Section Championship
Nick Palladino, PGA
July 26: WNYAA Kahkwa Club
Kole Maytum
AUGUST
Aug 2: NCR Assistant PGA Prof. Championship
Nick Palladino, PGA
Aug 5: Holiday Valley Pro-Am
Rob Krajewski, PGA
Aug 12: Pro-Pro Championship
Nick Palladino, PGA & Matt Stasiak, PGA
Aug 15-16: WNYPGA Senior Championship
Kirk Stauffer, PGA
Aug 19: Western New York Open
Nick Palladino, PGA
Aug 26: Wellsville Pro-Am
David Patronik
Aug 30: WNYAA Glen Oak
Noah Unger
SEPTEMBER
Sept 3: Chautauqua Mixed Format Pro-Pro
Mike Sweazy, PGA & Paul Sanders, PGA
Sept 9: Match Play Championship
David Patronik
Sept 3: WNYAA Wanakah
Nick Palladino, PGA
Sept 15: Tom Haefner Memorial Invitational Pro-Am
Kirk Stauffer, PGA
Sept 22: Locust Hill Pro-Am
Nick Palladino, PGA
Sept 30-Oct 1: WNYPGA Rolex Tour Championship
Kirk Stauffer, PGA
OCTOBER
Oct 4: WNY vs. CNY Assistant Matches
Western New York
Oct 7: The Donald Ross Cup
The Juniors
Tentative 2025 Schedule
MAY
Glen Oak W N Y P G A P R O F E S S I O N A L C
May 5: Titleist Scratch Pro-Am
Brook-Lea CC
May 12: Pro-Pro Stableford
Lockport Town & CC
May 19: Cable Hollow Invitational Pro-Am
Cable Hollow GC
May 27: Club Car Pro Officer
May 30: Lawrence Park Invitational Pro-Am
Lawrence Park GC
JUNE
June 2: Lonnie Nielsen Scratch Pro-Am
Crag Burn CC
June 6: Lake View Invitational Pro-Am
Lake View CC
June 9: Pro-Assistant
Penfield CC
June 16: Moonbrook Invitational Pro-Am
Moonbrook CC
June 18: New York State Open Qualifier
Glen Oak GC
June 23: Chautauqua Pro-Am
Chautauqua GC
June 29: Locust Hill Pro-Am
Locust Hill CC
JULY
July 7: Africa 6000 Invitational Pro-Am Kahkwa CC
July 21: Blaisdell Open/Pro-Am
Penhills CC
July 28: WNY Open
AUGUST
Aug 4: Holiday Valley Pro-Am
Holiday Valley Resort
Aug 11: Pro-Pro Championship
Tri County CC
Aug 18: Wellsville Pro-Am
Wellsville CC
Aug 25: Section Championship
Brookfield GC
SEPTEMBER
Sept 2: Mixed Format Pro-Pro Playday
Chautauqua CC
Sept 4-5: Senior/Assistants Championship
Sept 8: Match Play
Sept 14: Tom Haefner Memorial Pro-Am
Wild Wood CC
Sept 22: WNY Classic
Sept 29-30: Tour Championship Springville CC
OCTOBER
Oct 6: Donald Ross Cup Matches (Sr/Jr) Holiday Valley Resort
Oct 18: Centennial Gala Country Club of Rochester
Oct 27: WNYPGA Annual Meeting
Glen Oak GC
MEMBER ACHIEVEMENTS/HIGHLIGHTS Congratulations to:
THIS YEAR’S QUARTER CENTURY MEMBERS
Mike D’Agostino, PGA
David Jones, PGA
Sean Lalley, PGA
Judd Noto, PGA
Alan Wallace, PGA
THIS YEAR’S HALF CENTURY MEMBERS
Dan Lucas, PGA
Stan Marshaus, PGA
Mike D’Agostino, PGA
“Celebrating 25 years as a PGA of America member is a profound honor and a reflection of a journey filled with dedication, growth, and countless memorable moments. Over the decades, I've witnessed the evolution of the game, embraced new challenges, and shared in the joy of countless players. This milestone isn't just about personal achievement; it's about the camaraderie and shared passion within our golf community that has made these years so fulfilling.
As I look back on this quarter century, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunities I've had to contribute to the sport I love and to help others find their own joy on the course through serving as the Section President. Each year has brought its own lessons and rewards, and I'm excited to continue this journey, striving to inspire and support the next generation of golfers. Here's to many more years of growth, learning, and, above all, enjoying the beautiful game of golf.”
This year, Mike was recognized as the Western New York Classic Honoree. This recognition was given to highlight his contributions as the Section President, his investment with PGA HOPE, and honor his contribution to building and growing the image of the PGA Professional, the Association, and the game of golf while dealing with his own personal difficulty.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
David Patronik
David Patronik is currently a self-employed Teaching Pro at Woods to Wedges. As an Associate Teaching Professional, he works hard to achieve a balance with his daily work responsibilities of teaching, coaching, club fitting, as well as his competitive tournament schedule and family life. David enjoys his time serving as a member on the Tournament Committee and looks forward to other opportunities to further grow and improve the Section and its events into the future. When speaking with David, he said, “I love the comradery and competition amongst the fraternity of professionals in the WNYPGA and I am fortunate to have created many lasting friendships along the way.” David is looking forward to attaining his Class A membership and using his platform to help others improve and enjoy the game.
From the 1980s to the 2010s, the name Jim Mrva became tightly woven with Monroe Golf Club. As Monroe Golf Club established itself as one of Rochester’s most prestigious and sought-after private golf destinations, Mrva emerged as one of the nation's most esteemed PGA Head Professionals, renowned for his expertise in fine-tuning golfers' skills to their highest potential.
Mrva began his role as Head Professional at Monroe in 1983, a position he held with distinction for 36 years until his retirement in 2018 Over his tenure, he garnered numerous accolades and achievements On the course, he claimed several top titles within the Western New York PGA Section. His dedication extended to serving on the WNYPGA Section Board of Directors from 1984 to 2005, where he held every leadership position, ultimately becoming Section President. Mrva’s commitment to advancing the game was evident in his focus on junior golf and education, earning him several awards throughout his career The pinnacle of his achievements came in 2010 when he was honored as the National Professional of the Year, the highest accolade from the PGA of America. In his final year at Monroe, Mrva was also recognized with the RDGA’s Gentleman of Golf award while hosting the 2018 RDGA District Championship John H Ryan Jr Memorial Most recently, Mrva was inducted in the RDGA HOF for being one of Rochester’s most highly honored club and teaching professionals
Jim Mrva, PGA
WHAT’S IN THE BAG
Neil Reidy, PGA
Growing up, my first sport was baseball. After injuring my rotator cuff when I was 14 years old, I started playing golf and fell in love with it! Throughout my career in South Florida and here in Rochester, golf has truly given me the opportunity to create wonderful relationships with a lot of great people. As the Head Golf Professional at Cobblestone Creek CC, interacting and developing relationships with our Members and guests and teaching are the two aspects of my job that I love the most! While I’m very busy with our 3 kids and work, I still try to play as much as I can and I always value the opportunity to compete in our Section and National Events.
Currently in the Bag:
Driver: GT3, 9 degrees
FW: GT2, 15 degrees
Hybrid: TSr2, 18 degrees
Irons: 4-PW, Titleist T100, Project X 6.5 shafts
Wedges: Vokey SM10, 50 and 56 degrees with Project X 6.5 shafts and 60 degrees with Vokey wedge shaft
Putter: Scotty Cameron Phantom 7, 35”, Cameron Grip
Ball: ProV1
Glove: Titleist Players
Rangefinder: Bushnell
Apparel & Rainwear: FootJoy
Shoes: FootJoy Premier
Carry Distances:
Driver: 280 yards
FW: 260 yards
Hybrid: 240 yards
4 Iron: 215 yards
5 Iron: 200 yards
6 Iron: 185 yards
7 Iron: 170 yards
8 Iron: 160 yards
9 Iron: 150 yards
PW: 140 yards
50: 125 yards
56: 110 yards
60: 90 yards
GOLF RETIREMENT PLUS PROGRAM
The Golf Retirement Plus Program (GRP) offers you an excellent opportunity to save for a secure retirement The GRP is supported through Portfolio Director Fixed and Variable Annuity, a nonqualified annuity issued by the Variable Annuity Life Insurance Company and funded through after-tax dollars. When you take money out, only the earnings are taxable as ordinary income.
A nonqualified annuity is funded with after-tax dollars. When you take money out, only the earnings are taxable as ordinary income. Advantages to a nonqualified annuity:
An additional income stream when you retire
Longer age limits on contributions
No Required Minimum Distributions at age 73 (age 72 if you were born after June 30,1949 and before January 1, 1951 & age 70 1/2 if you were born before July 1, 1949)
Features and benefits:
Choose up to 20 options from a pool of 23 fixed and variable investment options. These options are
by wellknown
and span major
and classes. No
Upon withdrawal, income taxes must be paid on the earnings in the account. In addition, a 10% federal early withdrawal tax penalty may apply if you are under the age of 59 1/2. Multiple income options at retirement Separate Account fees (0.60%) and Fund Annual Expenses apply depending on your contract and the variable option selected. The total current Annual Net Fund Expense is 0.18% to 0.96%. The current Annual Net Fund Expense is the current annual total fund expense less expense waivers or reimbursements. Fees are subject to change. Your GRP account will stay with you if you change employers or move. You own and control your account
DEFERRED COMP
What is Deferred Compensation?
Deferred Compensation is a retirement plan for PGA of America Members, rewarding them for services that promote the game of golf. Members who participate in programs meeting specific performance objectives such as HOPE, PGA Jr. League, DCP, and hosting tournaments—qualify for contributions to a deferred compensation fund.
Sign up and start submitting for points today: go.pga.com/dc.
Key Details
Eligibility: PGA Members in good standing
Potential Contribution: Up to $1,500 annually
Activities: Participation in 16 activities across three career tracks
Goal: Investments grow over the years to provide supplemental income at age 65
Examples of Activities by Career Path General Managers
Director of Golf/Head Golf Professional PGA Coaches/Director of Instruction/Teaching Professionals
Assistant Golf Professional Non-Green Grass Positions
How to Earn Points
200 Point Minimum: Earned through Player Engagement Programs
More Activities = More Points: Higher participation leads to higher rewards
Note
For full descriptions and requirements, please review the full Deferred Compensation Points Description.
Additional Information
If you have any questions, contact DeferredCompensation@pgahq.com.
MENTOR PROGRAM
ProgramOverview
Thank you for your participation in the Western NY PGA Mentorship Program! This program is designed to encourage, enable, and support PGA Professionals and Associates throughout their career in the Section. Mentors, your leadership will help inspire, inform, guide, encourage, support, and grow the Western NY PGA, bring the professionals closer, and elevate our brand. Mentees, you will use this program as an opportunity to grow and learn from some of our brightest and most accomplished professionals This guide will highlight many of the key principles of mentoring. It will also lay out a specific action plan to help guide each pairing through the mentoring process. Please take a few minutes to review this guide and contact either Tori Schiro or Jonathan Gold for guidance or clarification.
Deferred Compensation:
To achieve points towards the Deferred Compensation Program, you must complete 10 hours of mentoring towards another PGA Member or Associate.
Deferred Comp runs through the PGA Fiscal Calendar (4/1-3/31)
CENTENNIAL PREVIEW
In 2025, the Western New York PGA section celebrates their 100 year anniversary, celebrating the PGA members who came before us and those who will come after us. We have been guided by a rich legacy of integrity and innovation and we are committed to cultivating the next generation of champions. With dedication to our members and partners, we continue to drive the sport forward, ensuring that the PGA stands as a beacon of excellence in golf and beyond. Our centennial master plan showcases our history while honoring its achievements over the past hundred years.
We are in the process of collecting information for the 2025 Centennial Celebration! We don't want to leave any vital history out, so we need YOUR help! Please scan this QR code and fill out this Google Form so we can gather more info!
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
PGA.Coach is proven to be successful for WNYPGA Professionals. The scientifically proven program will be used in future years for the WNYPGA Section. We encourage all WNYPGA Professionals to go through the training to be included in the future benefits.
How do you get started?
Go to www.PGA.Coach and sign up for the PGA.Coach training
Once you complete your virtual training, you will be given access to the PGA Coach app where you can build lesson plans, promote your business, and more Update your PGA.Coach profile to attract new business
“The next generation of online learning inclusive for WNYPGA Professionals”
Benefits of Academy Enrollment:
The goal of The WNYPGA Academy is to provide WNYPGA Professionals with an inclusive and affordable online learning platform that allows for expanded education both related and non-related to the golf business. We believe this directly fits in with the Section’s mission of being a professional force for PGA Members to maintain and upgrade their skill level to allow them to compete in today’s business world.
Unlimited Access to WNYPGA Academy Education (online & in-person)
Free Access to In-Person WNYPGA General Education Seminars
Required Educations PDR’s - the PDR cycle ends 6/19/25
Low Cost Education in a Timely Fashion
Ease of Use
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Below are some employment opportunities available in the Western NY PGA Section. There are other employment opportunities at pga.org that you can discover. You can also find more information about these opportunities on our website wnypga.com. If you would like to post an open position in the WNYPGA, please contact Jonathan Gold, PGA at jgold@pgahq.com to help reach candidates.
Scan QR Code to see the employment opportunities!
Career Consultant:
PGA Professional Jonathan Gold is the PGA of America’s Employment Consultant proudly serving Western, Central, and Northeast New York PGA Sections He has been tasked with providing Professionals with the necessary tools, strategies, and education to implement at the facility level, along with recruiting men and women into the business of golf. Jonathan is happy to help any and all PGA Professionals in Western New York to achieve their career goals. If you have comments or questions for PGA Career Consultant Jonathan Gold, PGA you can call (516) 567-6918 or email jgold@pgahq.com.
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