Distinguished Career Of Steve Foehl Is Celebrated
The distinguished 25-year career of Steve Foehl as NJSGA executive director was celebrated on the evening of Thursday, Dec. 4, at NJSGA headquarters at Galloping Hill Golf Course in Kenilworth.
Foehl, who has worked under 13 NJSGA presidents since 1989, is stepping down from his position on Dec. 31.
His closest friends in golf and several family members attended the light-hearted affair.
Guest speakers included NJSGA president Frank O’Brien, former NJSGA president Ed Batta (1996-97) USGA executive director Mike Davis, Arkansas State Golf Association executive director Jay Fox, NJSGA directors Mike McAneny and Rich Kennedy, and MGA president Steven Boyd.
All together nine of the NJSGA presidents Steve served under were in attendance as well as renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., the Montclair native who brought along the medal he won at the 1958 NJSGA Junior Championship.
Also, nine members of the International Association of Golf Administrators were also present (see photo).
“Steve Foehl has always been about change and innovation. He is quick to think and slow to react and that is the sign of a great leader,” said Fox, a close personal friend.
“From behind the scenes, Steve made it all work, making sure the association functioned effectively and was well perceived by our golfing public,” Batta said. “Steve’s finest legacy is the competent and dedicated staff he has recruited and mentored.
“Our association will benefit from this seamless transition because of their knowledge, work ethic and team philosophy that was developed and instilled by Steve,” Batta continued
“A successful manager’s legacy is not built on what you inherit, but rather the quality and vision of the team you leave behind.”
“On a personal level, Steve continues as a consummate and dedicated rules official, called upon every year to work in the pinnacle of world competition, our U.S. Open. He’s been entrusted to oversee the world’s finest players on the world’s biggest stage. He has also handled the responsibility with quiet confidence and expertise,” Batta concluded.
