rolex logo

Steffen and Del Vento among those honored at the Celebration of Golf

  • Log in to post comments

ELMSFORD, N.Y. (November 4, 2016) – Head pro Doug Steffen of Baltusrol Golf Club and former NJSGA president Benjamin Del Vento, Sr. headlined the honorees at the 13th annual NJPGA/NJSGA Celebration of Golf held at Liberty House in Jersey City, N.J.

Steffen earned the 2016 New Jersey PGA Golf Professional of the Year, the second one of his illustrious 20 year career as the Head PGA Professional of Baltusrol Golf Club. The 67-year-old states that it is nice to be honored with such a distinction, especially since it coincides with the year he is retiring.

Del Vento received the 2016 NJSGA/NJPGA New Jersey Golf Distinguished Service Award, which is presented to the “individual who has provided exemplary service and contributions to growing the game of golf in New Jersey, consistent with the honor, values and traditions of the game.” The former NJSGA president is best known for his involvement in the NJSGA Caddie Scholarship Foundation. In 2009, Del Vento led the NJSGA’s Caddie Scholarship Foundation to its most successful fundraising campaign, in which more than $800,000 was given to over 200 caddies.

In addition to Steffen and Del Vento, there were a number of professionals recognized for their accomplishments in the golfing community. David Reasoner of Ridgewood won the Bill Strausbaugh Award (Club Relations); Kevin Syring of Alpine was Merchandiser of the Year (Private); Pat Lawler of Rockleigh was Merchandiser of the Year (Public); Jason Carbone of Baltusrol won Teacher of the Year; and Michael Marvin of Upper Montclair won Assistant Professional of the Year.

Six other individuals were honored as players. For the NJSGA, Trevor Randolph of Arcola won Player of the Year; Tara Fleming of New Jersey National won Women’s Player of the Year; and Jay Blumenfeld of Mountain Ridge won Senior Player of the Year. For the NJPGA, Alex Beach of Ridgewood won Player of the Year; James McGovern of White Beeches won Senior Player of the Year; and Tyler Hall of Upper Montclair won Assistant Player of the Year.