January 16, 2011

WOODBURY, CT — The Vice President of Grass, Tom McCauley announces today the signing of rookie Michael Samoska with his national letter of intent to play golf at the 2011 Carl Spackler Open Championship. The 44-year old will represent the state of Connecticut.

"We are extremely excited to sign Michael and add representation from Connecticut," Chairman of the Captains Club, Greg Long said. "Mike could very well hold the shortest distance to venue at 3 1/2 hours. This would give him the home field advantage."

Samoska is a consistent bogey golfer shooting just under 90 strokes per round.

McCauley asked Michael, “What are you expecting out of your first major championship?” Samoska replied, "I expect to drink, laugh, drink, talk a little smack, drink a little more, and play some great rounds of golf."

Tom McCauley replied, "You have committed to the right event."

The Carl Spackler Open has been trying to crack into the state of Connecticut for a very long time. The Captains Club is still actively looking for representation from New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont.

Connecticut joins Virginia, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Ohio, West Virginia, Michigan, North Carolina, and New York as represented states.

McCauley asked the rookie, "What are you best golf attributes?” Samoska replied, "Being able to laugh at myself after my third attempt to get out of any sand bunker."

McCauley asked, “What are you worst golf attributes?” The rookie replied, "Heckling members in my foursome on tee boxes and greens. Noonan!"

McCauley moved into a more venue related question. “Do you prefer mountain golf," asked McCauley? Somoska replied, "I enjoy mountain golf. The mountains bring out the creativity in my game."

Tom asked, “How will you prepare for your first major? This is not just your average golf tournament.” Michael replied, "Watch Tin Cup, Happy Gilmore and Caddyshack to get mentally/emotionally prepared. Follow my Marine Corps Boot Camp training exercise regimen to get physically prepared. Fellow Marine Erik Shirreffs highly recommends the regimen. Finally master my wedges and get a few rounds in over the spring."

The 2011 Carl Spackler Open Championship is expecting to sign between 70 and 90 golfers. Mountain Valley Golf Course was chosen in late-August to host the 11th event. The registration deadline is January 31. Participant options will be collected in the month of March.