By Ron P. Coderre

Following a long and deliberate process by a committee appointed by Board of Director’s Chairman Mark Brouillard, the search for a Golf Course Superintendent at Quinnatisset Country Club was finalized with the naming of Erik Frederick, 32, to the position.  The position, which attracted more than 100 applicants from around the country, is in new hands for the first time in 28 years.

Frederick hails from Destin, Fla., in the panhandle of the Sunshine State.  He’s the son of a retired attorney and mother who works in sales.  He has one brother who’s a student at St. Louis University.  The tall blond, well-spoken Frederick, with the Florida beach boy looks, played junior golf before graduating from Fort Walton Beach High School in 2002.

He graduated from the University of Florida in 2007 with a degree in Turfgrass Science in 2007.  He then attained a master’s degree from Penn State University in 2012.  Most recently he was the assistant superintendent at Fairview Country Club in Greenwich.  He’s also worked at Winged Foot C.C. in Mamaroneck, N.Y., Shooting Star in Jackson Hole, Wyo., and Sandestin Country Club.

“I became interested in Quinnatisset because it offered me an opportunity of upward mobility.  My lifestyle is well suited for this type of golf environment.  I’m looking forward to bringing best management practices to the course,” said Frederick about his move.

Golf course management wasn’t an initial interest for Frederick.  He enrolled at the University of Florida as an architecture major.  A fraternity brother in college who was in turf management peaked his interest in what eventually turned into his career.

 “We’ve worked on a technology control approach with the irrigation system.  Rather than relying on visual cues our approach is scientific.  We’re also using a new top dressing method with the greens making the surface firmer,” said Frederick about recent changes he’s implemented.

The initial impression he’s created with the membership, his staff and the pro shop has been very positive.  As an outgoing individual who believes in a team approach to all he does, Frederick isn’t afraid of digging in and doing manual labor when necessary.  He describes himself as an individual who is easy to communicate with.

Longtime pro shop and golf course manager Mike Pizzetti agrees.

“Since Erik arrived he’s been great to work with.  Together we want to bring the course to the next level.  We’ve always been a sought after course to play and with his new approach we can offer a better experience to our members and potential members,” said Pizzetti.

Frederick will work with a staff of nine people including him.  During the summer months he’s looking to add a couple staff.  He’s fortunate to have an assistant in Mike Cushing who’s been around for a few years and has a good feel for the course.

“I’ve inherited a dedicated crew.  They’ve been a real asset to me and have been open to my ideas.  By leading by example I know we’ll enjoy a great relationship,” said Frederick.

The Search Committee responsible for hiring Frederick was led by Joe Bachand.  He was joined by George Tsanjoures, Paul Roy, Brouillard and Charlie King.  They received professional assistance from Dr. Michael Sullivan of the University of Rhode Island, Turf School.  The committee is planning an open house to introduce Frederick to the membership and community in the near future.

“This is my first job as a superintendent.  I want to be the best that I can be for the course and the membership.  I envision this as a long term relationship,” said Frederick about his new position.