Golf Invitational
Walter Mehl, Jim Bracken, Tom Haher all had played in vintage golf tournaments at the Cooper Union and they realized they had to make some changes and try to raise money for our scholar-athletes. In a historical sense, my first recollection of anything concerning golf was in the fall of 1973 when this giant of man walked into my office and said he’s like to do a golf tournament for his fellow students. Peter Meceri 77′ was dedicated, sincere, humble, and always the nicest person and the best golfer ever to play in our tournaments. When he was an undergraduate, Peter never shot over par including the rounds on the famous Beth Page Black Course.
Continuing in history, we then proceeded to play the famous Donald Ross designed Cape Cod Country Club
Walter Mehl, Steve Verderese, Al Barba, Tony Lanno and Bob Volpe were some of the original pilgrims who traveled and played at the cape. Donald Ross designed some of the most incredible and respected golf courses including Pine Hurst #2. They all had tiny turtle back greens that were elevated. On a volcanic looking 14th, we had a giant 60-foot embankment in front of the green. Anthony Lannd hit the most powerful and greatest shot in the tournament history. It was witnessed by 10 SKT brothers and a Dean. The 14th hole is 345 yards and Anthony’s drive hit into the hill and bounced up onto the green. Had Donald Ross not been so creative, the ball might still be flying.
Walter Mehl created the new format in 1997 and we had the first couple of tournaments on Mondays at the Heritage Village Country Club in Connecticut. The Mondays were difficult to schedule. My most memorable time was when Walter Mehl I invited Stephen to play in the original tournament. It was Steve’s 1st full round of golf. He learned alot during the tournament and at the Jersey shore and always respected Mr. Mehl.
Igor Poorebinsky was the big winner in Southbury. When we made the jump to Garrison, the tournament moved back to New York and onto Fridays. Jim Manchisi’s relatives won 9 putters and lead the league in mulligans. Joe Morley is the steadying influence with this team that always comes close. Steve Halperin head up a petite group that includes, John Barrera, Greg Laufman and Yash Risbud and they finally won this year. They shared the victory with a rookie team headed up by architect and former tennis team captain Daren Rogers. Perennial champ, Rob Gutmann, is about ready to form a new foursome and still holds the record at 9-under par.
Chi Chan and Anthony Mui were the 2006 winners and they never play with the same foursome, their gregariousness matching their skill. This tournament has grown in stature and importance due to the efforts of all of you. Mike Potanza joined the rules committee and did a great job. Michelle Noris has since generously enabled 4 famous scholar-athletes to play. Michelle is joined by Walter Mehl, Jim Bracken, Ray Falck, Steve Verderese as those who give at least $1000 towards our scholar-athlete.
The scholar athletes really appreciate your donations and have always produced. Our recent records show that we have won two consecutive men’s tennis championships, a soccer championship, a cross-country championship, an undefeated 18-0 basketball season and a remarkable undefeated women’s tennis championship.
CU Later
Dean Baker
*** Please contact Dean Baker at baker@cooper.edu if interested in this annual event!***
See below for recent Golf Invitational photos
