
A Legend’s Farewell: Paul LoCicero Retires After 38 Years
For nearly four decades, Paul LoCicero has lived and breathed golf, leaving an indelible mark on the sport in Wisconsin. As he prepares for retirement from his role as head PGA professional at The Legend at Bristlecone, fans and players celebrate his monumental contributions to the game. The Cedarburg native began his career as an assistant professional at Tripoli Country Club in the late 1980s, showcasing his trademark wit and charm from day one. One memorable quip he made after a round at the Wisconsin State Open encapsulates his humor: "I wasn't the low professional today, but I was the low Cicero."
After serving in various roles across multiple clubs, including a nine-year stint at Oakwood Park Golf Course, Paul has become a beloved fixture in the golfing community. His major accomplishments include providing more than 350 lessons each year and guiding junior golf programs while facilitating over 30,000 rounds of golf. His legacy continues, as he transitions to become Pro Emeritus, enabling him to teach and mentor future generations at The Legend Clubs. “This ensures that his connection to the club remains a cherished part of his legacy,” commented club owner Jack Gaudion.
As LoCicero sets sail into retirement, he leaves behind a leadership void that is quickly being filled. Nathan Goecks, an experienced assistant professional at Bristlecone, will be stepping up as head professional. Meanwhile, Brad Petashnick, formerly at The Legend at Brandybrook, will take the helm at The Legend at Bergamont as it transitions back into an all-private facility.
Mark Wilson’s Remarkable Generosity: A Throwback to 2005
Reflecting on golf’s community spirit, the name Mark Wilson shines brightly. A 20-year retrospection reminds us of a moment that showcased his selflessness during a vulnerable time. At the 2005 84 Lumber Classic, while still a budding professional on the PGA Tour, Wilson took it upon himself to support Hurricane Katrina victims. Despite facing his own struggles to make the cut, he wrote a personal check for $10,000, an act that resonated deeply within the golfing community. His generosity overlaid his career as he later became a five-time PGA Tour winner.
Pewaukee Golf Club: The End of an Era
In a bittersweet turn, the Pewaukee Golf Club, formerly known as Willow Run Golf Club, has plans for redevelopment that will transform the cherished 161-acre course into residential housing. The proposed project, devised by Delafield-based Land by Label, includes a mix of multifamily apartments, single-family homes, and a public park featuring trails that connect to the Lake Country Trail. This redevelopment signifies not just a closing of a golf club, but a transition in local culture, replacing green fairways with houses, which may leave longtime golfers nostalgic for the cherished rounds played here.
Golf Psychology: Addressing the Mind Game
The mental aspect of golf frequently takes center stage in player development, demonstrating that the challenges faced on the course are as much psychological as they are physical. With a focus on mental training, seminars like those offered by Paul Mindel come into play, addressing issues such as the ‘yips’ and the importance of stable confidence. The upcoming seminars at Swing Time Germantown aim to deepen golfers’ understanding of the mental side, an often-overlooked facet in analogies of the game.
As we navigate through remarkable farewells, unforgettable stories of generosity, and the transforming landscape of golf courses within our communities, one thing remains constant: the love for the game. Whether you are an avid participant or a casual observer, these stories connect us, reminding us of the strength and spirit that golf fosters. So let’s celebrate the legends, the ones who give back, and the great courses that shape our memories.
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