The 2011 Volunteer of the Year shares his experiences as a Volunteer
Volunteer Spotlight
Mike Violette
The 2011 Volunteer of the Year shares his experiences as a Volunteer
Since his first event at Watertown Golf Club in 2008 , Mike Violette has been a staple at CSGA events . He volunteers his time as a Rules Official and Spotter throughout the year , and in 2011 , was awarded the CSGA Volunteer of the Year Award .
Q : Tell us a bit about yourself
A : I ’ ve been a Connecticut resident since birth and have always lived within a 35- mile radius of Hartford . I served in the Navy for four years , and after service I went to work at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft as an Electronics Technician . I married a wonderful girl , Ann , and we have two children , Mike and Amy .
Q : What ’ s your background in golf ?
Q : What ’ s the funniest thing you ’ ve ever seen on a golf course while volunteering ?
A : Me . Getting a golf cart stuck in the mud and then trying to get it unstuck without Malcolm ( Official in Charge ) finding out . He found out anyway .
A : I have been attempting to play golf since I was 13 years old . I played on my high school golf team in my senior year , which was the first year that they ( E . O . Smith High School ) had a team . During my working career , I played golf off and on while helping to raise our children . After they graduated college , I was able to join Tallwood Country Club .
Q : How did you get involved with the CSGA ?
A : After joining Tallwood Country Club , I approached Nick Pahoulis ( CSGA Junior Committee ) in 2008 and let him know I was available if he needed any help with a CSGA event . Next thing I knew , I was at the Connecticut Junior Amateur at Watertown Golf Club as a spotter . From that point on , I was hooked .
Q : What is your favorite part about volunteering at a CSGA Event ?
A : Seeing some of the best players in the state using their talents at some of the best courses in the state . Volunteering is not always fun- sometimes volunteers have to endure rain , cold and wind , and at times , all three at once . However , the camaraderie among the volunteers of the CSGA makes days like that much more enjoyable .
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