Emmett Kelly was a much-beloved golf pro at Green Lakes State Park Golf Course and at the Calvary Club. Kelly belonged to the Professional Golfers Association from 1930 to 1983 including for more than 30 years at Green Lakes State Park.

 

Kelly was hired by the Green Lakes course architect, Robert Trent Jones Sr., and remained at the scenic Fayetteville layout until becoming the Cavalry Club's first head pro in 1966. He was selected Central New York’s Golf Pro of the Year twice in 1963 and 1966.

 

The charismatic Kelly, who played in the first foursome at Green Lakes in 1936, knew golfing celebrities from around the country. He gave lessons to the likes of Bob Hope and Joe DiMaggio. Kelly’s picture hangs in the Green Lakes clubhouse in memory of his many years of serve.

 

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

 

1917: At age 6, caddied at Burnet Park Golf Course and Bellevue Country Club

 

1925: At age 14, became assistant golf pro at Tuscarora Country Club

 

1930: Became the golf pro at Tuscarora CC

 

1930-1983: Member of the PGA of America

 

1931-1935: Became golf pro of at Stonehedge CC (now called Westvale CC) and then at Brooklawn

 

1936-66: Head pro at Green Lakes State Park Golf Course

 

1940: President of CNY Pro Golfers Association

 

1967-1978: Golf pro at the Calvary Club