At the age of 8, Nancy Quarcelino, PGA, began her golfing journey at the encouragement of both of her parents, who were both avid golfers. This would be the beginning of a relationship with the game of golf that would evolve into an illustrious career and in September of 1986, Nancy Quarcelino would be elected as the first female Class A PGA Professional in the State of Tennessee. Her passion and dedication to the game of golf are unparalleled, but her commitment to improving those around her has resulted in the Tennessee PGA naming Nancy Quarcelino, PGA, as our 2020 recipient of the Distinguished Career Award.
Early on her golfing talents were evident, and led her to Western Kentucky University, where she would become a member of the school’s first ever women’s golf team. Years later, she would return to coach her alma mater, while she continued her training towards becoming a PGA Professional. Upon completion of her bachelor’s degree, Quarcelino moved on to Florida State University where she would earn a Masters of Science degree. It was during this time, that Quarcelino would witness the coaching and mentoring of Coach Bobby Bowden, which had a major influence on how she would approach teaching the game of golf going forward.
Working various roles in the golf industry, including a Head Golf Professional at Hermitage Golf Course, she began to hone her skills as both a player and a teacher. In 1988, she was the host professional for the inaugural LPGA Sara Lee Classic Tournament at Hermitage, while also qualifying to play in the event. Her distinguished career was off to a great start, and in 1992 she opened the Nancy Quarcelino School of Golf. Since that day, the NQSOG has attracted players from across the world including a number of LPGA Tour, PGA Tour, US Amateur participants, and countless state and regional championship participants.
One of the most decorated PGA Professionals in Tennessee golf history, Quarcelino has been inducted into the LPGA Teaching & Club Professional Hall of Fame, the Western Kentucky University Hall of Distinguished Alumni, the 2019 recipient of the LPGA Elle Griffin Rolex Award recognizing her major contributions to the teaching of golf and was the LPGA National Teacher of the Year in 2000. In addition to her national accolades, Quarcelino is also a three-time Tennessee PGA Teacher of the Year. A longtime member of the Middle Tennessee chapter, she is also a four-time winner of the Middle TN Chapter Teacher of the Year, Junior Golf Leader award and a recipient of the chapter’s Richard Eller Growth of the Game award.
The Tennessee PGA is proud to announce that Quarcelino will be honored at the 2020 Tennessee PGA Awards Luncheon as the newest recipient of the Tennessee PGA Distinguished Career Award.
The Distinguished Career Award recognizes current or former Tennessee PGA Section members who have had outstanding careers as PGA Professionals based on service to his or her club, course or employer, service and leadership to the Association, community service, professional playing record and teaching ability. The Distinguished Career Award acknowledges these Tennessee PGA Professionals as vital and significant contributors to the game of golf.
Congratulations to Nancy Quarcelino, PGA for becoming the 41st member to be recognized with the most prestigious honor the Tennessee PGA can bestow upon one of its members.