Hall of Fame and Special Awards

The Hall of Fame was been established in 2008 to acknowledge PGA Professionals for their dedication and contributions to the game of golf and the Connecticut Section. Professionals that are inducted are honored for their service and historical impact on their fellow members, the golfers that they have served, and for the support of the PGA mission statement of growing the game and making golf a better game for all.

The following eligibility requirements must be met for consideration for induction into the Connecticut PGA Professional Hall of Fame: must be a minimum of 50 years old; must have been affiliated with the section for a minimum of 10 years; and must have been a member of The PGA of America for a minimum of 20 years.

The Class of 2025 inductee was announced at the 91st Annual Fall Meeting. The following  inductee was honored at the Spring Meeting on April 15, 2025 at TPC River Highlands.

Class of 2025:

Suzy Whaley

Each year, the Connecticut Section PGA presents eleven awards to recognize outstanding performance and superior achievements by members of our section.

2025 Special Awards Recipients

• Golf Professional of the Year, E.J. Altobello
• Teacher & Coach of the Year, Alex Cavaliere
• Bill Strausbaugh Award, John Korolyshun
• Professional Development Award, Bryan Mooney
• Player Development Award, Josh Carney
• Youth Player Development Award, Gary Sassu
• Merchandiser of the Year (Public), Nick Tamburini
• Merchandiser of the Year (Private), Ian Marshall
• Assistant Professional of the Year, Dan Simons
• Patriot Award, Bob Bigonette
• Section Player of the Year – Chris Tallman
• Senior Section Player of the Year – Jason Gobleck
• Junior Golf Association (Boy) Player of the Year: Jared Paldino
• Junior Golf Association (Girl) Player of the Year: Zorah Williams
• Jack Kelly Girl Sportsmanship: Elyse Mazuronis
• Jack Kelly Boy Sportsmanship: James Sagnella