This is the next in our series in Golfer’s Lifestyle Magazine where we introduce you to one of the owners or managers of one of our featured courses. Find out how they got their start in the golf industry, special interests and general fun facts. Western PA is the home of some incredible golf courses. Nowhere else will you find the friendly ownership groups that you’ll find in our region. For a full listing of PGO member courses visit www.golfinpa.com.
Rocco Panucci - Chestnut Ridge Golf Resort & Conference Center
How did you get your start in the golf industry?
I have been in the hospitality business since I have been fifteen years old. My father was the Director of Catering at the William Penn Hotel. I simply followed in his footsteps there. I always loved golf and always wanted to open a hotel and work at a resort. I got my chance when asked to join the opening team of Chateau Lafayette at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Spa. That was my first introduction to the Golf business. After Nemacolin, I began managing private clubs and was the General Manager of Edgewood Country Club for almost eight years.
In the Bag:
All new this year. All Titleist all the time.
909D2 10.5 909F2 15.5 and 18.5
710 AP2 custom irons 4-PW 2- Volkey wedges 56-60 degrees.
Scotty Cameron Pro V-1 or ProV1x
Always with my name on it.
Handicap: 7.5
Golf Superstitions: Very rarely eat before I play golf.
Spouse: Maria
Kids: 3 sons: Sam, John and Adam. Sam and John were both on high school golf teams. Sam went on to PGM program and has the only Hole-in-one in the family. Adam is a great bowler and my #1 caddie.
Hobbies: Family, Wine, Food, Cigars, Bowling, Volunteer at Church.
Favorite Foods: Anything my son John the Chef cooks and anything Italian.
Favorite Movie: The Godfather
Favorite PGA Players: Tiger, Fred Couples, Phil Mickleson, Rocco Mediate, and Paul Azinger
Fantasy Foursome: Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin. Who else but the Rat Pack. The golf might not be good but the stories would be GREAT.
