Joe Connerton, PGA,Head Golf Professional,Round Hill Club,Greenwich, Connecticut
The majority of PGA of America Golf Professionals take great pride in representing the game, their club and their customers or membership. And that representation doesn’t stop once they leave the golf course.
Whether at a ballgame, traveling or attending a social event, how you present yourself still reflects on the facility, and it’s something less experienced professionals may want to keep in mind.
“When I worked for (PGA of America Professional) Brendan Walsh at The Country Club (in Brookline, Massachusetts), he instilled in me the importance of always looking professional, even in casual settings,” says Joe Connerton, PGA, Head Golf Professional at Round Hill Club in Greenwich, Connecticut.
“I remember heading to a Red Sox game, and I was less than thrilled when he told me to wear a golf shirt and khakis instead of shorts and a ballcap. But that day, I ended up running into more than a dozen club members. I was grateful I looked polished.”
Golf has undoubtedly trended toward a more relaxed approach to apparel, with dress codes loosening at all types of clubs across the country. But for younger golf professionals looking to establish themselves, perception can still mean opportunity.
“I’m not saying you have to wear a blazer everywhere; it’s not like Section meetings happen every day. But a little extra goes a long way,” Connerton explains. “When you look the part, people take notice. And in today’s world of golf fashion, there are so many different ways and brands to utilize when putting together a polished appearance. You don’t have to look identical to everyone else to maintain a professional appearance.”
It’s not just about clothing, either. Social settings – whether it’s a night out or traveling to or from the PGA Show – require awareness.
“You never know when a member, a club leader or even a potential employer might be nearby,” Connerton reminds.
At the end of the day, PGA of America Professionals are always making an impression, even when they’re not on the clock. According to Connerton, being mindful of that, carrying yourself with confidence and being well-dressed can help build credibility, respect and, ultimately, your career.
Junior Bridgeman, appointed to serve on the PGA Board of Directors in 2008 as an Independent Director, died on March 11 in Louisville, Kentucky, after suffering a medical emergency while attending a benefit event at the Galt House Hotel. He was 71.
Part of a group that purchased Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville from the PGA of America in 2022, Bridgeman played 12 seasons in the NBA for the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers after starring at the University of Louisville.
Following his NBA career, Bridgeman built a successful business empire, including Bridgeman Foods Inc., and became a minority owner of the Bucks in 2024.
