DAVID DIRICO HEADLINES 5 INDUCTEES INTO WESTERN MASS. GOLF HALL OF FAME
FEEDING HILLS, Mass. – A true pro is now a hall of famer.
Award-winning PGA of America professional and noted golf retailer David DiRico headlined the five-member Class of 2024 into the Western Massachusetts Golf Hall of Fame. He was honored as part of a well-attended golf tournament and evening induction ceremony at Oak Ridge Golf Club on Sept. 25.
DiRico has enjoyed a decorated career as a PGA of America professional, a 47-year career that includes three Connecticut Section PGA Merchandiser of the Year awards and Golf Professional of the Year in 2015. The Otis, Mass., resident is a Western Mass. Tee Party recipient, and he said this induction “is the culmination of my career.”
In the pro shop, DiRico may be best known for his longtime service as head golf professional at Crestview Country Club in Agawam, among others.
“David has done so much as a golf professional, especially with junior golf, and then more recently he moved on and really turned a (golf retail) business around,’’ said Tom DiRico, David’s brother and Hall of Fame co-chair.
DiRico also received praise from TaylorMade Golf CEO David Abeles, who shared a statement that was read at the induction ceremony.
“It was terrific news to hear of David DiRico’s induction into the Western Massachusetts Golf Hall of Fame, Class of 2024; a tremendous and well-deserved honor,’’ Abeles said. “Having personally known and witnessed David’s impact on golf over the past several decades, tonight’s recognition culminates years of dedication, commitment and advancement in our game …
“Thank you for representing our company with integrity, honor and professionalism since Day One. You model leadership for our team at TaylorMade, back East and across the country.”
David DiRico is the current owner of Dave DiRico’s Golf, a retail shop in West Springfield, Mass.
“There have been so many great golfers, club owners, professionals, officials and superintendents from Western Massachusetts,’’ said Tom DiRico. “It’s really hard to choose every class. And this year we have five well-qualified individuals to induct into this class.’’
The Class of 2024 also included accomplished golf course superintendent Andy Gay, successful amateur golfer Fan Gaudette and renowned rules official Cary Jubinville. Oak Ridge GC’s founding owner Tony Strycharz will be honored posthumously.
Article provided by: Russ Held