BOYLSTON, Massachusetts – The New England PGA has announced the recipients of its 2026 Special Awards, recognizing the exceptional contributions of golf professionals across the region. These individuals have demonstrated excellence in a variety of areas, from teaching and leadership to player development and merchandising, and represent the best of the New England PGA.
The 2026 New England PGA Special Awards will be formally presented at the 2026 NEPGA Special Awards Banquet, which will take place on October 24th, 2026, at The Haven Country Club in Boylston, MA.
The recipient of the 2026 Golf Professional of the Year Award is Michael Bradshaw, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Golf at Kirkbrae Country Club. A fixture at Kirkbrae for over two decades, Bradshaw’s career is defined by a “leave it better than you found it” mentality and an unmatched dedication to the PGA professional’s role in the industry.
Bradshaw’s journey at Kirkbrae began as the First Assistant under New England PGA Hall of Fame member Stan Baluik. He ascended to Head Professional in 2006, and in 2020, the club created the COO/Director of Golf position specifically for him—entrusting him to lead all facets of the facility, from food and beverage to finance.
“Mike has done a wonderful job at Kirkbrae for the last 20+ years,” noted his peers in the nomination process. “He is loved by his staff and membership, who have entrusted him to become the face of the club. His persistent dedication to our Section and members is unmatched.”
Beyond his facility, Bradshaw has been a pillar of Section leadership. Having served as New England PGA President from 2021-2023 and recently concluding his term as Honorary President in 2025, his influence is felt across the country. He has been a driving force for education, launching the NEPGA University online platform and serving as the National Education Chair for the PGA of America.
“To be able to help fellow PGA professionals increase their value has been a humbling and rewarding experience,” said Bradshaw. “The PGA professional is truly the most important ‘cog’ in the industry. Positioning our members as the experts at their facilities is what drives my passion to serve.”
Whether officiating national championships on the PGA Rules Committee or growing the game through PGA HOPE and PGA Junior League, Bradshaw exemplifies the highest standards of the profession.
Bradshaw is one of 15 individuals recognized for their service and dedication as the NEPGA announced its full slate of 2026 award winners:
2026 Award Recipients
Golf Professional of the Year
Michael Bradshaw, PGA
Kirkbrae Country Club
Assistant Professional:
Fergus Keane, III (Boston GC)
Bill Strausbaugh:
Hal Jacobs (Wellesley CC)
Deacon Palmer:
David Sibley (Posthumous)
George S. Wemyss:
Fred Corcoran (Golf for All)
Sales Rep:
Dave Woods (FootJoy)
Merchandiser-Private:
Jason Winslow (Eastward Ho!)
Merchandiser-Public:
Keith Gagnon (Captains GC)
Merchandiser-Resort:
Peter Doherty (Atkinson Resort)
Patriot Award:
Jason Howard (Kirkbrae CC)
Golf Executive:
Max Doctoroff (NEPGA)
Prof. Development:
David Jankowski (Golf Garage VT)
Player Development:
Naomi Nesenoff (She’s My Golf Pro)
Teacher of the Year:
Darren Falk (Holly Ridge GC)
Youth Player Dev:
Brian Bickford (Maine State Golf)
The 2026 award winners represent all six of the Section’s Chapters: Cape Cod, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
“The New England PGA is proud to recognize these outstanding professionals who exemplify the highest standards of leadership, passion, and dedication,” said New England PGA President, Joanne Flynn. “From developing young players to enhancing the veteran experience through PGA HOPE, these winners have made an indelible impact on our community.”
Award winners are chosen through a selective process. After being nominated by a fellow PGA member, nominees submit a detailed application which is reviewed by the NEPGA Awards Committee and approved by the Board of Directors.
