Leo Fraser (1910-1986)

(Class of 2019)

Leo Fraser played a transcendent role in professional golf in America. Without Fraser’s guidance, the PGA of America and the PGA Tour might not be the thriving organizations they are today.

During his term as president of the PGA of America in 1969-70, Fraser helped bridge the gap between club professionals and touring pros over a long-running dispute that centered on distribution of the rapidly growing television revenue from tour events. As part of this reconciliation, Fraser appointed Joe Dey as the first commissioner of the Tournament Players Division of the PGA, known today as the PGA Tour.

Fraser purchased Atlantic City Country Club, which he managed from 1945 until his death in 1986. During his ownership, Fraser was instrumental in attracting three U.S. Women's Opens (1948, ’65 and ‘75) to ACCC. In addition, Fraser hosted the 1967 Women's Senior Amateur there. In 1980, the first tournament of what would become the Champions Tour (then known as the Senior PGA Tour) was held at the Atlantic City Country Club.

Accomplishments:

Seaview Country Club Head Professional 1935-1939
Atlantic City Country Club Owner, operator 1943-1986
Hosted 1948, 1965, 1975 Women’s US Open
Played in U.S. Open 1932, 1939
Played in the PGA Championship 1938, 1947
Philadelphia PGA Section President 1957-1962
National PGA President 1969-1970
Philadelphia PGA Section “Professional of the Year” 1957
Inducted in Philadelphia PGA Section Hall of Fame 1992