The Sankaty Head Caddie Program was organized in July 1930. Its rustic and somewhat primitive facilities were located between the eleventh and thirteenth fairways of Sankaty Head Golf Course, where the facility is still located. Donald M. Smith, physical director at the Worcester (Mass.) YMCA, was the first Program Director, a position he held until 1960. During Smith’s tenure, the contributions of a few club members provided basic necessities for the program facility.
In 1961, Charles M. Goetz led the establishment of the Sankaty Head Foundation to support and develop policies for the operation of the Sankaty Head Caddie Program. That year, the Foundation raised five thousand dollars to keep the facility operating. Also that year, a certificate of incorporation was issued, and in 1964, the foundation received tax-exempt status as an organization operated for charitable and educational purposes.
In 1962, Norman L. Claxton became Program Director. He held that responsibility until 1985, when he became senior advisor to Douglas Ellsworth, the new Program Director. Ellsworth served as Director through 2007. Peter Montesano, a former caddie, served as Director from 2008-2012.
The Sankaty Head Caddie Program is a program for boys aged fourteen to seventeen. Exceptions are made for a few “early bloomers” and for caddies aged eighteen to twenty-one, who serve as junior and senior staff members. Current enrollment numbers about 55-60 caddies, plus staff. Caddies come from near and far: Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, California, Canada and Florida. Recently, young men from France and Ireland have come to our facility. A unique residential experience, the Caddie Program combines various competitive sports and recreation activities with healthful work. The facility is located on the historic island of Nantucket, Massachusetts, about thirty miles off Cape Cod. A well-known resort area, Nantucket’s many public and private recreational resources enrich the program.
At Sankaty Head, each caddie is responsible for part of the cost of his room and board; the Sankaty Head Foundation, a private foundation set up to support and establish policy for the facility, subsidizes further operational costs. In turn, caddies earn money by caddying on the golf course. Caddying gives each caddie the opportunity to return to his family with earned and saved income. Caddies may also be considered for awards, including college and precollege scholarships awarded by the Foundation.
Outstanding among the aims of the Sankaty Head Caddie Program is the development of wholesome character traits among these young men. This is achieved through the expectation, encouragement, and recognition of high standards of conduct, honesty, and integrity. A vigorous competitive group and individual sports program emphasizes physical fitness and involves and motivates the boys. In addition the program trains selected team captains in leadership. Recreational activities are also available for caddies’ enjoyment and relaxation.
Caddying, a healthful occupation, further enhances each individual's physical well-being. In rendering the service of caddying for the Sankaty Head Golf Club membership, caddies experience self-reliance while earning their room and board. Both devotion to the facility units and the responsibility of service to club members encourage group and individual loyalties.
In general, Sankaty Head Caddie Program is designed to develop high mental, spiritual, moral, and social standards in boys.
Six major facets comprise the program:
Sankaty Head Caddie Program contributes to the following outcomes in caddies:
Sankaty Head Caddie Program
