2017 Inductee is Michele (Mickey) Poulos Article written by Willmette Park District News Media

Exciting news for a member of the Wilmette Golf Club family! Michele (Mickey) Poulos has been selected to the Illinois Women’s Golf Association Hall of Fame. She was awarded this prestigious honor after supporting the Northern Illinois Women’s Golf Association (NIWGA) in various capacities for over 30 years.

Poulos, a long-standing member of our own Wilmette Golf Club, was first introduced to the sport following her college graduation from De Paul University. “After graduation, a dear friend introduced me to golf and I have played ever since,” she says. She progressed from a 9-hole league, to an 18-hole league, to playing at the NIWGA Tournament and has competed for 40 years.

Her recognition from NIWGA stems from serving on the board as Prize Chair, Junior Girls Tournament Chair, Women’s 2-Day Tournament Chair and her current role as President, which she has held for the last 4 years. Standing out in her memory from all the years of service and contributions, Poulos feels her greatest accomplishment is chairing for the Victory Tournament, held at the Wilmette Golf Club. The Tournament raises money for veterans and women’s golf tournaments, as well as scholarships for 8 young ladies. “Wilmette has been the number-one contributor in the state for many years, and this includes the private clubs,” exclaims Poulos, “I’m hoping we can be first again this year.”

Her enthusiasm for the sport and tireless efforts continue to have a positive impact on golf for women. The Hall of Fame Award is “a most wonderful honor,” says Poulos. Each year, one individual is invited to join the Hall of Fame, making this a rare opportunity. The IWGA is an all-volunteer organization founded in 1933, and dedicated to advancing golf opportunities for women and girls in Illinois. State championship tournaments and fundraising efforts support charitable contributions to individuals and organizations that embody the spirit of amateur golf.