Stan Baluik

Born in Port Arthur, Ontario, Stan naturally turned to hockey. He journeyed from Fort William to Kitchener and Victoria, then to the United States to play center for the Providence Reds and Boston Bruins.

Stan competed in the Canadian Open at 15, won the Ontario Juniors, then turned professional at 19. He won several regional events while serving as the pro at Fort Williams G&CC. In 1964, he became the head professional at the new Kirkbrae Country Club, giving up his hockey career that had lasted over 40 years.

Stan’s golf accomplishments on the regional level are numerous. He won the Vermont Open in 1965 and the Rhode Island Open in 1971. He also won the New England Pro-Am and the New England Pro-Junior titles.

Stan’s career off the course is an inspiration to club professionals throughout New England. Ten of his apprentices are now working as head professionals, a tribute to his ability to instill his work ethic and love for the game in others. Whether a member needs a quick fix or an assistant needs advice on the art of customer service, Stan is always there. His focus is on making golf fun for everyone.

Considered the dean of Rhode Island golf professionals, Stan was named RI Chapter Professional of the Year in 1995. In 2005 he was honored as New England PGA Professional of the Year.

The long journey from Rookie of the Year to Professional of the Year in New England has been a happy one – for his family, for his members, and for the golfing community in general.