August 17, 2006

WORTHINGTON, OH — The Captains Club secured its second verbal commitment for the 2007 recruiting class Friday, when highly-rated 3-time member John McAninch announced his return to the 2007 Carl Spackler Open Championship in June.

"Chris Philipsen talked to me after my absence," McAninch told SNN. "I just feel like it's the right time to put a stop to the negative rumors and announce my return now."

McAninch's verbal commitment matches the verbal commitment to 2-time member Patrick McElroy of last month. Both players reside near Columbus, OH.

McAninch made his decision public Friday, but planned his return months ago. One of the country's most sought-after returning members, John McAninch brings PGA and LPGA tournament marshall experience along with a respectable handicap.

"It is great thing to be returning to a major championship," said John McAninch. "I wanted to an early decision, but then again wanted to make sure I made the right one because it's a major, it's a big thing as you can imagine."

McAninch is scheduled to return after placing 31st at Mountain Valley with 83 points. The poor tournament included just 11 pars and 6 of those pars in the last 11 holes.

The 7th major championship begins June 7. A venue announcement is expected on October 1.