Riverton CC’s Welsh named
Platt Caddie Scholarship Francis C. Poore Caddie of the Year

Stephen Welsh (middle) with his parents John and Eileen.

  For Stephen Welsh of Riverton CC, this year’s Platt Caddie Scholarship Francis C. Poore Caddie of the Year, that statement applies to nearly everything in his life.

  Welsh is no stranger to proving himself over the long hall, whether it’s in the classroom with his 3.78 cumulative GPA, on the golf course as a caddie or even in a marathon. Yes, a marathon.

  The 9-year caddie and Drexel University senior from Cinnaminson, NJ, is also an avid marathon runner, having taken part in both the Boston and Philadelphia marathons. And although Welsh joked that there is no way caddying for two on a hot day can compare to such a test, his quest to be even considered for the Caddie of the Year award has been just that.

  "For the last four years, I've gone to the [Caddie Brunch] and sat with Rob Kochanski, another Riverton caddie scholar, and I've always told him that it would be me [to be named Caddie of the Year] someday," said Welsh, who began caddying right after middle school. "But it was a bit of running joke between us where he'd go on and on about how I had absolutely no chance."

  This year, someday became that day for the civil engineering major as he was given the award.

  "To be honest, I had no idea that this was coming," said an excited Welsh who was first introduced to caddying by his 8^th grade CYO basketball coach and longtime Riverton CC head professional, Fred Phillips. "I knew that my grades were on par with those of past winners but I was still surprised to win."

  What is not surprising is the 22-year-old’s unwavering drive and desire.

  In addition to his normal course load, Welsh, who will graduate on June 14, also teaches a freshman engineering class, is working towards a minor in business administration and has worked part time for Intech Construction, a Philadelphia-based general contractor where he plans to work full time after graduation.

  But, typical of his marathon-like attitude, the end of Welsh’s collegiate career will not mark the end of his looping days.

  "I will continue to caddie because even though it’s work and it's a little physically tiring, I'm in there with my golfers on every shot," he said. "As you grow to know the course, giving your player advice about how to play a shot comes naturally and, in a way, you're playing too."

  Welsh admits that, in addition to helping him financially, caddying has helped him meet a variety of people and make numerous business contacts. But it might have also helped him in other areas not typically associated with carrying a golf bag.

  "Although I don’t really think caddying has helped directly with my endurance [running], Riverton's small Jersey hills probably have given me a little something extra when it comes to leg strengthening," joked Welsh.

  The Caddie of the Year Award’s namesake, Francis C. Poore, served on the Platt Board of Trustees from 1969 to 2003. He was a valued advisor and friend to the scholarships management, associates and fellow Trustees. Through his excellent leadership, conscientious service and dedication, he contributed immeasurably to the development and growth of the organization. His commitment to the Scholarship and his mentorship to the caddie recipients were unparalleled. He will forever stand as the model and epitome of the virtue and essence of the Platt Caddie Scholarship.