Brad Adamonis started playing golf at 8 years of age out of boredom after his first full day at summer camp where he had to go because his parents both worked.
“In my first golf tournament, I played at Chemewa Golf Course in Attleboro, Mass. I shot a 69 and 67 for an 18 hole total of 136. I kept at it getting better and better as I played Chemewa then Woonsocket Country Club which is now New England CC.”
At 14 Brad’s folks joined Pawtucket Country Club. People like Charlie Smith and Tom Wecal, both from Woonsocket, helped with his golf swing and game. Also, Norm Lutz, Steve Napoli and Ted Tavenier, along with his parents, brother and grandparents were so supportive as Brad’s golf swing and game continued to mature.
Brad received a golf scholarship to Miami University of Ohio where he graduated in 1996 and in the Fall of that year headed to Florida to pursue his competitive golf career.
He caught a ride south with Jim, (Doc), Suttie from Chicago, now one of the most respected teachers in the golf industry. It turned out to be a stroke of luck for Brad. “I learned so much from Doc as I was fortunate enough to live with him for 2 months watching him analyze tour player’s golf swings as he worked on his PhD at the time.”
Along the way, Brad continued to meet people that helped him in his quest. New friend, Gary Day, introduced Adamonis to Bob Toski, now a member of the golf teaching hall of fame. “We had a great relationship”, Brad said. “I learned so much from Bob.”
Mike McLellan from Cumberland was Director of Golf at Boca Largo CC, at the time, where Brad worked up to 50 hours a week and spending his off time at Toski’s range. Then, playing the mini tour circuits in New England and Florida, Brad had a lot of help. “I had 4 sponsors through my mini tour days; My Parents, John Danieli and Jim Tierney supported me during those years of grinding.”
About Steve Riggs
30 year Teaching Professional. Originally from Central Ohio. Co-host pro of 41st USGA NATIONAL JUNIOR GOLF TOURNAMENT, Yale Golf Club in '88. College golf at Indiana University. Facility/Program consultant in U.S. and Caribbean. Host/Producer of mynegm LESSON TEE radio show and is a Member of the Golf Writers Association of America.
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