by Dave Eaton
On the evening of Tuesday, July 16, the Rochester District Golf Association will proudly announce the third induction class of its Hall of Fame in what has become an annual highlight of “Championship week” – during the RDGA District Championship John H. Ryan Jr. Memorial. The special commemoration will take place in the main ballroom of Irondequoit Country Club.
This year’s class includes four individuals – and one family – who have made a lasting impact on the local golfing community, due to their dedication, skill, leadership and philanthropy.
Joining the RDGA Hall of Fame on that evening will be Frank Commisso – the long-time Head Professional at Irondequoit; Ann Kerwick – one of the winningest female amateurs in Rochester’s long history; Jim Mrva – the retired Head Pro of Monroe Golf Club and one of Rochester’s most highly honored club and teaching professionals; Donald Ross – the World Golf Hall of Fame member and preeminent golf course architect of the early 20th century who designed six golf courses in the Rochester area; and the Thaney Family, whose members have shared a long history with the RDGA, going back to the very beginnings of the District.
The criteria for RDGA Hall of Fame induction, as approved by the RDGA Hall of Fame Nominating Committee, includes:
•Contributions made by a candidate contributing to the enhancement of the sport of golf through playing, teaching, coaching, maintaining/managing, educating, writing or advocating for an extended period of time.
•Candidates who exemplify the spirit of the game of golf.
•The Achievements of candidates are sustainable over time.
•Eligibility can also include candidates who have, by virtue of name recognition, brought honor, distinction, and/or have favorable contributions to golf in the Greater Rochester area.
On the evening of July 16, each inductee, or their representative, will receive a special medallion inscribed with their name – and all inductees will be introduced by individuals that are well known to the local golfing community or who have a special connection to the inductee.
The RDGA welcomes inductees, their families, friends – as well as members of the public – to attend this year’s Hall of Fame Induction Celebration at Irondequoit Country Club at no charge, although a donation to the RDGA Foundation, in support of the Foundation’s many junior golf initiatives, is recommended. Although attendance is free, pre-registration for this year’s ceremony will be required and can be done at https://tinyurl.com/2he4ffsd.
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