Thursday was “Joe the Pro Felder Day.” Mr. Felder, who has been the head pro at the Griffith E. Harris Golf Course, was honored with a proclamation presented by First Selectman Fred Camillo.
Mr. Felder has been the head pro at the town owned golf course since1990. During his 31-year career Joe has been a teacher and mentor to countless legions of golfers young and old.
Felder is unique. He began his golfing career while growing up on Long Island, NY, then attending St. John’s University on a golf scholarship, and becoming a golf professional in 1980.
Known as “Mr. Joe” to his younger students, Felder’s dedication to promoting the sport with the younger generation has been recognized by the Professional Golf Association, with the 1995 and 2003 Junior Golf Leader Award, as well as the 2007 Bill Strausbaugh Award, and the 2013 Professional of the Year award.
Joe, who is also known as “Joe the Pro,” is responsible for establishing the ever popular Town golf tournaments for juniors, women and men.
Felder is retiring as head golf professional and heading for his annual winter sojourn to Florida. Admirers look forward to him becoming a regular visitor at The Griff next season.
