published in category: Next on the Tee on Saturday, December 21st, 2024 – 4:24 pm
Jim Gallagher Jr., shares his thoughts on all the recent chaos in the professional golf world. Jim, a member of three state Hall of Fames – Indiana, Tennessee, and Mississippi – reflects on his incredible career and reveals the secret to finding joy in the game.
Later, I round out the episode with a return visit from the legendary 1984 Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton. Scott hinted in our last conversation that he has some amazing golf stories, including playing alongside big-name celebrities – and he absolutely delivered! Known for his positivity and warmth, Scott shares these captivating stories and reminds us why he might just be the nicest person on the planet.
You won’t want to miss this engaging and uplifting episode!
published in category: Next on the Tee on Friday, December 20th, 2024 – 9:57 am
Part 1 kicks off with our Resident Director of Instruction, Tom Patri. TP and I dive into the mass exodus happening among top leaders across all the tours. Plus, we’ll discuss the recent announcement that PGA Tour Enterprises is seeking a CEO to work alongside Jay Monahan – which I’m hoping is code for replacing him. We’ll also touch on the outgoing CEO of the R&A, Martin Slumbers, and his parting warning for professional golf. All that and more with TP!
Next, we’re joined by the “Confident Doctor,” Dr. Bob Winters, for our monthly visit. Doc will share insights about an exciting new Tour he’s joined as a Board member, designed to give talented young women a pathway to the LPGA. We’ll also explore the double-edged sword that is golf – how it feels magical when everything is going right but challenging when our minds and bodies aren’t in sync. Dr. Bob will join the conversation about 30 minutes in.
Tune in for these great discussions, and be sure to come back for Part 2 of this week’s show featuring my conversations with Jim Gallagher Jr. and Scott Hamilton.
Jonathan Tourney and Taylor Orlowski were killed on Christmas weekend last year when the speeding SUV they were in with four other teens crashed on a dark road in Allegheny County’s North Park.
Those closest to the teens searched for ways to cherish their loved ones’ memories as they struggle to move forward.
Reporter Justin Vellucci joins Zac Gibson to talk about the tragic event, the subsequent court hearings and how the parents and loved ones of these teens honor their “Forever Young” family members.
published in category: Next on the Tee on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024 – 9:19 am
First, I’m joined by Mike Malizia, a Golf Magazine Top 100 Instructor based at The Club at Admiral’s Cove in Jupiter, Florida. Known for being a haven for sports enthusiasts, Admiral’s Cove is an incredible facility—possibly one of the finest I’ve ever seen online. Mike talks about what makes the club so special and we dive into his expertise as an instructor. He shares invaluable tips on hitting straighter shots, squaring the clubface at the moment of impact, and eliminating those frustrating chunks and thin shots with our wedges.
Later in the show, I chat with Jonathan Sessa, an Army Veteran and Founder of the Warrior Golf Academy. Jonathan’s Academy is doing amazing work helping Veterans—especially those wounded in service—rediscover or learn the game of golf. Beyond that, the Academy offers a Caddie training program to help Vets find employment in golf and teaches them how to restore clubs, further enhancing their skill set.
Tune in for expert instruction, inspiring stories, and a celebration of the impact golf can have on lives.
published in category: Next on the Tee on Wednesday, November 27th, 2024 – 8:18 pm
First, I’ll be joined by Steve Shingledecker, Head Coach of the Robert Morris Men’s Golf Team. This marks the third time I’ve had the privilege of having Steve on the show. He’s doing an outstanding job building a strong program for the only Division 1 men’s golf team in the Pittsburgh area. (Yes, surprisingly, Pitt doesn’t have one!) Steve and I will discuss his young and promising team, which features standout player Chuck Tragesser, a name you might see on the PGA Tour in the future, along with a talented group of freshmen. We’ll also dive into the implications of the recent $2.78 billion settlement in the House vs. NCAA case and what it means for college athletics, both for roster spots and the player payment challenges it presents.
Later, I’ll be joined by Tom Wildenhaus, one of the most celebrated figures in the game. A former National PGA Professional of the Year and a two-time Florida Professional of the Year, Tom is also a member of the South Florida PGA Section Hall of Fame. For the past 30 years, he’s been the Director of Golf at Olde Florida Golf Club, one of the state’s premier private courses. Tom and I will discuss his approach to servant leadership, which I believe, has led those awards to finding him. We’ll also explore why Olde Florida thrives without amenities like tennis or pickleball courts or evening dining, yet still boasts an extensive waiting list to join. Could it be his leadership style…I think so.
It’s an episode packed with insight, inspiration, and a celebration of the people driving the game forward. Don’t miss this segment or Part 2 featuring Top 100 Instructor Mike Malizia and the Founder of the Warrior Golf Academy, Jonathan Sessa.
You can stay up-to-date with everything going on with the show on our site at https://www.nextonthetee.net. You can follow me on social plus share your thoughts on Instagram and X at @ctmascaro.
Light Up Night on Saturday night in Downtown ignited the holiday season in the Pittsburgh area and signaled the start of holiday gatherings, festivities and time with loved ones.
But for some families this year, there’s a glaring obstacle. On the heels of a particularly energetic and polarizing election, politics are sure to be a hallmark of this year’s holiday place settings.
With so many differing opinions coming together at mealtime, it may prove difficult to get through a holiday dinner unscathed. Here, with some expert advice to make this holiday season easier to navigate, is Alexis Papalia.
published in category: Next on the Tee on Monday, November 18th, 2024 – 9:50 am
In Part 2 of this week’s show, we’re diving into the holiday season with some fantastic gift ideas for the golfer who seems to have it all.
First, I’m joined by Ben Helmrath, VP of Merchandising for Hard Goods at the PGA Tour SuperStore. Ben shares insights into the booming in-home golf simulator market and their exciting partnership with Full Swing. We’ll also discuss the PGA Tour SuperStore’s role as the official retailer for the much-anticipated TGL League, spearheaded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, set to launch in January. Plus, Ben highlights their heartwarming initiative to “Give the Gift of Golf” to our military heroes.
Later, Gary DiSalvo, CEO of Popticals, returns to the show. As half of the dynamic duo behind what I consider the best sunglasses on the market, Gary talks about the innovative design of Popticals sunglasses. These lightweight, glare-reducing glasses not only help golfers read greens better but also prevent eye fatigue throughout the round. If you’re looking for the perfect gift to enhance your favorite golfer’s game, Popticals might just be it. Don’t forget to check out their website at Popticals.com while you tune in to hear Gary break down what makes these sunglasses a game-changer on and off the course.
Don Rebel chats with former WPIAL basketball head coach & current WPIAL basketball official Ron Richards. He also recaps the PIAA football championships.
Don Rebel chats with former WPIAL basketball head coach & current WPIAL basketball official Ron Richards. He also recaps the PIAA football championships.