LUDLOW — The 2024 Tony Costa Memorial Golf Tournament will take place on Aug. 25 at Westover Golf Course.
Hosted by the Ludlow Hockey Association, check-in is at 11 a.m., lunch will be served and then a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start.
LHA Director of Fundraising Jeremy Patenaude said, “The goal this year is to pay tribute to Tony and raise money for the association. Hockey is an expensive sport, so fundraising is a vital part of making it affordable for kids to be able to play.”
LHA is a cornerstone in fostering a love for hockey in the Ludlow community, instilling sportsmanship, teamwork and excellence, as well as providing a supportive environment for players of all skill levels. The organization is a member of USA Hockey and the Greater Springfield Hockey League, and continue their commitment to high standards, player development and the joy of the game. Costa started the Ludlow Hockey Association back in 1972, which he contributed to through the ’90s. He coached every age group and ran a skating clinic every weekend. Prior to starting the skating clinic, Costa played semi-pro hockey in Worcester. Costa died in 2019.
“Tony was everything that is Ludlow hockey. If you talk to anybody who has ever been associated with Ludlow Hockey, in any capacity, you mention the name Tony Costa, and everybody has a story. He is just that well-known,” said Patenaude. “Tony had a special way of connecting with the students. I can tell you that firsthand because he taught me how to skate. Kids need that positive, lively presence when you first come into hockey. Hockey is not an easy game, and many kids will give it up quickly without that type of influence. Tony provided that through and through for several decades, and today you have our Learn to Skate Director, Jim Goodreau carrying on that tradition.”
He continued, “We want this to be a memorable event that people want to come back to. We need more coaches like Tony for the game of hockey and honoring his memory is a big step forward in doing that.”
The online registration form is available on LHA’s website at ludlowhockey.org and on their Facebook page to fill out and mail at P.O. Box 627, Ludlow, MA 01056. The fee is $500 for a foursome, $125 per player, and includes the greens fee, a golf cart, lunch and dinner. A steak dinner with a vegetarian option will be available.
Contact Patenaude at ludlowhockey@gmail.com with questions.
