Northern Chapter PGA Awards: Celebrating Excellence in Professional Golf
The Northern Chapter PGA recently announced its annual award winners, highlighting the exceptional contributions of various professionals within the golf community. Notably, Wes Tucker, Director of Golf at St. Johns Golf Club, and Brian Riddle, Head Professional at TPC Sawgrass, each received two accolades.
Award Highlights
Wes Tucker’s Achievements
- Golf Pro of the Year (Public Golf Category)
- Merchandiser of the Year (Public Golf Category)
Brian Riddle’s Recognitions
- Bill Strausbaugh Award
- Merchandiser of the Year (Resort Category)
The Bill Strausbaugh Award honors PGA Professionals who excel in mentorship roles, helping fellow PGA members enhance their careers while contributing to their communities. This esteemed accolade is awarded annually by each PGA of America chapter, in memory of the long-time pro at Columbia Country Club in Chevy Chase, Md.
Player of the Year Awards
The Northern Chapter Player of the Year accolades went to:
- Stephanie Connelly-Eiswerth – Player of the Year (San Jose Country Club)
- Bob Wallace – Senior Player of the Year (Palencia Club)
- Mark Tullo de Best – Assistant Player of the Year (Deerwood Country Club)
Additional Chapter Awards
The Northern Chapter recognized several other professionals in various categories:
- Teacher and Coach of the Year: Andrew Lanahan (PGA Tour Performance Center at TPC Sawgrass)
- Patriot Award: Reagan Davis (World Golf Village)
- Youth Player Development Award: Nick Nuzzo (TPC Sawgrass)
- Player Development Award: Aaron Russell (Sawgrass Country Club)
- Merchandiser of the Year (Private Course): Rich Podwalski (Atlantic Beach Country Club)
- Assistant Professional of the Year: Bea Mauricio (St. Johns Golf Club)
- Sales Professional of the Year: Dean Kennedy (FootJoy/Links & King)
- Distinguished Service Award: Clayton Bromberg (Underwood Jewelers)
- Superintendent of the Year: Josh Urbanec (San Jose Country Club)
Upcoming Events
Full Field for First Coast Amateur
The First Coast Amateur is set to kick off the Jacksonville Area Golf Association 2026 schedule from January 17-19 at the Deerwood Country Club. This tournament promises a full field of 96 players, all competing for World Golf Amateur Points.
Deerwood will host this tournament for a second consecutive year, having previously been held at Hidden Hills, Amelia National, and the Conservatory at Hammock Beach. Notable competitors include:
- Danny Erickson – 2025 Jacksonville Amateur Champion
- Luke Balaskiewicz – Runner-up, University of North Florida
- Adam Vermut – St. Augustine Amateur Champion, also a UNF player
- Adam Waller – Past JAGA Champion
Celebration of Golf Banquet
Table reservations are now open for the 10th Annual Celebration of Golf Banquet, presented by Circle K, on February 11 at Deerwood Country Club. This prestigious event will feature the Deane Beman Award, honoring the MacCurrach Family for their significant contributions to golf course construction, including projects at renowned venues like TPC Sawgrass and Shinnecock Hills.
Russ Libby, owner and General Manager of Hidden Hills Golf Club, will serve as the master of ceremonies for the banquet.
TPC Storytellers Support Charity
Since 2007, the TPC Storytellers, recognized by their maroon jackets, have been giving historical tours of the TPC Sawgrass clubhouse. Their efforts have culminated in contributions to charity, and this year they donated $7,500 to the Jacksonville Area Golf Association Scholarship Trust from their total gratuities of around $38,000. Over the past 18 years, the Storytellers have raised more than $361,000.
From Daytona to Dolphins
- Cambree Hodge of Fleming Island and Emma Wells of Jacksonville are transferring to Jacksonville University after two years at Daytona State College.
- Jack Cole, a freshman at Providence, recently won the 12-14 division of the 78th Donald Ross Junior Championship at Pinehurst No. 4 with rounds of 71-67—138.
- The Epson Tour’s Atlantic Beach Classic will be held again at the Atlantic Beach Country Club from March 5-7, featuring a purse of $250,000 as part of the LPGA’s developmental tour.
This year’s Northern Chapter PGA awards underscore the dedication and success of golf professionals, while upcoming events promise to continue the celebration of the sport within the community.
