Kirby Earns Hall of Fame Induction
By Joe McDonald
RIGA Senior Writer
PORTSMOUTH – Ed Kirby has experienced nearly every aspect of the game of golf.
He may not consider himself a local legend, but his accomplishments, dedication and passion are all reasons why he'll be inducted into the New England PGA Hall of Fame Class of 2025.
"I'm still blown away by this," he said. "It's humbling. To be recognized for this particular Hall of Fame is more of an indication that you've done something bigger than just shooting 68. I'm been so blessed in my life and there's no greater honor than being honored by your peers."
Kirby, 61, is the director of instruction and club ambassador at The Aquidneck Club, and the men's golf coach at Roger Williams University. He's worn many hats during his extensive career and has built an impressive network of friends and contacts in the golf world. As a result, he received numerous calls, text messages and emails of congratulations from nearly everyone in his circle and he said he's greatly appreciative.
From his days of picking balls on the range, running tournaments, selling merchandise, giving lessons, serving as a rules official, to becoming a dominant force on the New England PGA Tour for nearly a decade, Kirby thought it could be a possibility to one day earn enshrinement into the New England PGA Hall of Fame. As soon as he received the good news, Kirby quickly thought of all his longtime mentors, including legends like Ed Mauro and Stan Baluik.
In fact, the day Kirby learned of his induction, he was in Florida and made it a point to spend an afternoon with Baluik in West Palm. Kirby also called Mauro, who has been an instrumental figure both on and off the golf course.
"He's been with me since I was a little boy when he befriended me when I was 15-years-old and has advised me my entire life from golf, to family, to business," Kirby explained. "Luckily, in this business, you get to meet people like Ed Mauro, who should be in every Hall of Fame there is."
Kirby works relentlessly to give back to the game that has treated him so well. He's also very appreciative of his role at The Aquidneck Club.
"I'm at one of the finest country clubs in New England, I'm treated like I'm beyond royalty, and now I come to work and think, 'I have succeeded in my goals.' I'm not done, by any stretch, but I have succeeded at being a very good golf professional. I love the game of golf and I'm still working at it. I'm still trying to better myself. I am most appreciative of the fact I can still play at a very good level."
Kirby was the oldest player in the field but missed the cut at the PGA Professional Championship in Port St. Lucie, Fla., this week. Overall, he's happy with his game and believes only great things are ahead for him, including his induction.
"To know I'm being recognized for giving back is pretty cool," Kirby said. "The joy and the gratitude I have is that I get to do this, and I'm not done. I still think my best golf is ahead of me. I'm in a good place in my heart, my soul and my mind and I recommend to everyone that they strive for that."