Fundraisers
Most golf tournaments today are organized to raise money for an institution, company or special cause. This particular tournament is somewhat different. While a portion of the entrance fee will be allocated to the Foundation, the main purpose of the Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament is to bring together family and friends to share memories and stories of Brian’s wonderful life. What better way to celebrate his memory than a competitive round of golf, a good old backyard barbeque and a couple of cold ones on a Saturday afternoon!
Former Tournament Champions
The yellow golf jerseys are annually bestowed upon the winners of the Brian Forgione Golf Tournament (BDF). Similar to the Tour de France, the champions earn the right to wear the yellow jersey during the defense of their championship the following year. The yellow is not only a symbol of greatest but a symbol of strength for all those battling cancer. Meet some of our champions here:
Past Golf Tournaments
1st Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
The very first Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament teed off on August 2, 2003. Emotions ran high, but so did the sense of unity. Friends, family, and teammates came together not only to play golf—but to heal, to laugh, and to lay the foundation of something much bigger than a single event. The morning began with a heartfelt welcome from Mr. Jim Forgione, who served as the tournament's very first master of ceremonies—setting the tone with warmth, strength, and love that echoed through every foursome. Then, in a moment that instantly became tradition, Mr. TJ Jimmie stepped to the first tee box and, with style and reverence reminiscent of Arnie and Jack at Augusta, delivered the ceremonial first tee ball that launched the tournament—and the legacy. On that inaugural day, Lanny Masucci, Tony Barone, Tony Barone Jr., and Canio Cianci carded a 12-under-par 60 to become the very first champions in BDF history. They carried themselves like true champions the entire day and won by a margin of 2 strokes. What no one could have fully anticipated that day was that this round would spark a tradition—one built on memory, community, and the kind of love that doesn’t fade. Coach Jack Kelly took over to close out the day at the final ceremonies and in true fashion had the BDF contingent in tears of laughter, joy and celebration of Brian's memory.
2nd Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
As the sun rose on August 7, 2004, it was the second-ever Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament, it was clear that the event was becoming more than a one-time tribute—it was growing into a tradition. The tournament's foundation in friendship, memory, and spirited play found new footing as returning faces and fresh competitors filled the fairways at Sand Springs Country Club. BDF2 also marked the debut of the now-iconic yellow jerseys, awarded to the champions as a symbol of excellence, legacy, and pride. From that moment on, they became more than attire—they became a statement.
Seizing the spotlight that year was Team Jimmy - Jim Forgione Jr., Brian Costanzo, Michael Coleman, and Kevin Coleman. With a formidable mix of power, precision, and poise, they carded a then-record 14-under-par 58, raising the bar in just the tournament’s second year. Their performance was decisive, but their bond was what truly resonated—family, friendship, and shared purpose playing out through every swing. Their names were the second etched onto the Plaque of Champions, but more importantly, they helped build the culture of competition and community that continues to define the BDF to this day.
3rd Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
By the third installment of the Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament on July 30, 2005, the tone had clearly shifted from a heartfelt tribute into something even larger spirited, deeply rooted tradition. The field had grown, competition was intensifying, and the yellow jerseys were becoming a coveted prize. BDF3 introduced the world to Team Todd—a group whose names would soon become synonymous with consistency, chemistry, and championship pedigree. Todd Forgione, Ben O’Brien, Ryan Swift, and Ryan Bowen combined poise and precision to post a sizzling 15-under-par (57), shattering the tournament scoring record at the time. Their performance was surgical—smart course management, bold shot-making, and a rhythm that left little doubt: this was a team to be reckoned with. The win marked the first in what would become a historic run for Team Todd, as their quiet confidence and composed demeanor began setting the competitive gold standard at Sand Springs. But beyond the leaderboard, BDF3 cemented something more: a sense of belonging, a sharpening of rivalries, and a clear sign that this tournament had taken on a life of its own. For the first time, whispers of dynasty began to stir, even as the crowd celebrated another joyful gathering in Brian’s memory.
4th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
The fourth chapter of the Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament brought with it a sense of mounting momentum. What started as a memorial had rapidly evolved into one of the most anticipated gatherings of the summer—where community spirit met the heat of growing rivalries. With returning champions Team Todd—Todd Forgione, Ben O’Brien, and Ryan Bowen—adding Brian Bradley to their lineup, the defending champs faced a larger, hungrier field and soaring expectations. But they didn’t flinch. Instead, they delivered a commanding repeat performance, firing another 15-under-par (57) and successfully defending their crown. Their win confirmed what many had begun to suspect the year before: this wasn’t just a strong team—it was the birth of a potential dynasty. With sharp course management, clutch putting, and an unshakable bond, Team Todd had firmly placed themselves at the center of BDF lore. BDF4 wasn’t just about the scorecard. It was about the tournament’s continued growth—more teams, more stories, and a sense that Brian’s spirit was guiding something truly special.
5th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
By the fifth installment of the Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament, one story towered over the rest: Team Todd was chasing history. With back-to-back titles in 2005 and 2006, their shot at a rare three-peat had the entire field buzzing. On a sun-drenched Saturday at Sand Springs, Todd Forgione, Ben O’Brien, Ryan Bowen, and Brian Bradley delivered once again—firing a 15-under-par (57) to secure their third consecutive championship. It wasn’t just the score—it was the consistency, the execution, and the unmistakable chemistry that turned them from contenders into legends. What made this moment even more special was how it resonated with the heart of the tournament. Team Todd didn’t just win—they played with joy, respect, and a deep sense of purpose. With each birdie, they honored Brian’s spirit and elevated the meaning of what it meant to wear the yellow jerseys. BDF5 confirmed it: dynasties weren’t just possible at Sand Springs—they were unfolding before our eyes.
6th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
On July 26, 2008, the tradition continued as the last Saturday in July once again brought perfect weather and a full field of competitors to Sand Springs Country Club for the 6th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament. The course was pristine, spirits were high, and all eyes were on the reigning dynasty of Team Todd—three-time defending champions proudly donning their yellow jerseys. During the opening ceremony, Jim Forgione Sr. issued a heartfelt challenge to the field: “Today, we pin hunt and take down Team Todd.” It was more than a motivational moment—it was a signal that a new chapter could be written. And it was. Rising to the occasion, a new champion etched their place in BDF history. Jack Dempsey Jr., Brian Dempsey, Derek Forgione, and Scott Hartshorn—a powerhouse group best known for their gridiron grit—delivered a stellar round of 16-under-par 56, setting a new tournament record and dethroning the three-time champions in dramatic fashion. Their victory didn’t just claim the yellow jerseys—it earned them a rare place on the tournament’s prestigious Plaque of Champions. Team Captain Jack became only the fourth team to receive that honor, joining a legendary lineage that continues to define the spirit of the BDF.
7th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
On July 25, 2009, twenty-five teams attacked Sand Springs C.C. with the hopes of capturing the 7th BDF Annual Golf Tournament title. Consistent with past tournaments, there were many birdies and eagles carded on the gorgeous July afternoon. However, the shot heard around the course belonged to Matt Schroeder. Matt – playing in his first BDF Tourney – carded a hole-in-one on #17; a par 3 measuring 186 yards. By doing so, he won a Hawaiian vacation for him and a guest for 8 days, 7 nights, airfare and hotel accommodations on the island of Oahu. The defending champions (Jack Dempsey, Brian Dempsey, Scott Hartshorn and Derek Forgione) got off to a slow start on the front nine as they felt the pressure of wearing the yellow jerseys but finished strong on the back to post a score of 14 under par (58). However, the team of Sal Marchese, Bobby Bliss, Frank Summa and Bobby Guyriska also posted a score of 14 under par to set up the tournament’s first ever sudden death shootout. Both teams safely made par on the 18th hole, which sent the teams to the lengthy 17th for the second playoff hole. Marchese, Bliss, Summa and Guyriska all missed their birdie chips, which opened the door for the defending champs. Derek Forgione seized the opportunity by nailing his birdie putt in the center of the cup to retain the yellow jerseys for Team Captain Jack.
8th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
Sunshine poured over NEPA on July 17, 2010, as a record-breaking field of 130 golfers arrived at Sand Springs Country Club for BDF8. Year after year, this tournament had grown into more than a competition—it had become a tradition, a tribute, and a test of supremacy among friends who played for pride, legacy, and the memory of Brian Forgione. The target was clear: Team Captain Jack—Jack Dempsey, Brian Dempsey, Scott Hartshorn, and Derek Forgione—the back-to-back defending champions with ice in their veins and yellow jerseys on their backs. Every team came locked in, hungry to knock them from the perch they had climbed so confidently. But pressure is where champions thrive. With the field bearing down and pins tucked tight, the reigning champs stormed out of the gate. Their round was pure precision—calculated, clinical, and clutch. Birdies stacked. Momentum surged. And by the time the final putt dropped, they had delivered a blistering 17-under-par 55—breaking their own tournament record set just two years earlier. The win marked their third straight title, and the message was clear: this was no flash in the pan, this was a dynasty in the making. As Jack Dempsey Jr. said afterward with a grin, “We knew the field was coming for us—but we’d rather be hunted than forgotten.” With that, they turned their focus to 2011. A four-peat had never been done. The last Saturday in July was circled. The yellow jerseys were secured—for now.
9th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
The sun blazed over Sand Springs Country Club on July 30, 2011, as the 9th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament teed off with heavy anticipation. The last Saturday in July had now solidified its place as a hallowed date on the summer calendar—a celebration of community, competition, and Brian’s enduring legacy. But as always, the storylines ran deeper than the weather. All eyes were locked on Team Captain Jack—Jack Dempsey, Brian Dempsey, Derek Forgione, and Scott Hartshorn—three-time defending champions and the undisputed dynasty of the BDF. The field was stacked, the challenge laid, and whispers of a changing tide swirled among the 130 participants. For a moment, those murmurs seemed prophetic. The defending champs came out uncharacteristically slow, opening with pars on holes 2, 3, and 4. Could the pressure of chasing a fourth straight title—something no team had ever achieved—finally be catching up? Not quite. A birdie on the tricky par-3 fifth and an eagle on the par-5 sixth lit the fuse. From there, the momentum was unmistakable. And yet, the true drama came on their final hole: the par-4 first, now packed with spectators. With the clubhouse buzzing and the current leaders—Sal Marchese, Bobby Bliss, Kenny Sames, and Frank Summa—watching from the gallery after posting a strong 15-under (57), the moment belonged to one last swing. Scott Hartshorn stepped up and drove the green, setting the stage for a make-or-break finish. A birdie would mean a playoff. But Brian Dempsey, calm and locked in, rolled in a bending 30-foot eagle putt—a walk-off that sent the gallery into chaos and secured their fourth consecutive title. It was one of the most electrifying finishes in BDF history. And just like that, Team Captain Jack had done the unthinkable: four straight yellow jerseys. Their yellow jersey collection was growing but their legacy was no longer growing—it was cemented.
10th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
On July 28, 2012, thirty-four teams returned to Sand Springs Country Club to celebrate a defining milestone—the 10th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament. What began a decade earlier as a heartfelt tribute had now grown into one of NEPA’s most beloved traditions: a day of friendship, fierce competition, and enduring community spirit, all in honor of Brian’s memory. As always, the stakes were high—but this year carried special weight. Not only was it the tournament’s tenth anniversary, but Team Captain Jack—Jack Dempsey, Brian Dempsey, Scott Hartshorn, and Derek Forgione—entered as four-time defending champions. One more victory would secure their fifth straight title and further cement their dynasty on the Wall of Champions. The BDF faithful buzzed—Could the kings stay on their throne? Early signs pointed to trouble. The reigning champs lipped several key birdie attempts and never quite found their trademark rhythm. Meanwhile, a new challenger emerged from the pack: Team Bart - Mike Bartoletti, Doug Walsh, and Nick Paraise, a trio of seasoned competitors who seized the moment with surgical precision. Their rock-solid play and hot putting hand delivered a sparkling 15-under-par 59, toppling the defending champs and ushering in a new chapter of BDF history. Though the jerseys changed hands, the mission remained unchanged. Ten years in, the Brian Forgione Foundation stood stronger than ever—its legacy woven into every swing, every smile, and every memory made beneath the summer sun. What had started as a tribute now pulsed like a legacy in motion. If the first ten years were about building tradition, the next ten would be about deepening impact for Brian’s legacy—on the course and in the community.
11th Annual Brian Forgione Foundation Golf Tournament
On July 27, 2013, Sand Springs Golf Course once again welcomed golfers, friends, and family for the 11th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament. Still glowing in the afterglow of a 10-year milestone, the BDF community looked back with pride—and forward with purpose—as the tournament’s impact and spirit showed no signs of slowing. Before the opening tee shots, the Brian Forgione Foundation made a heartfelt contribution, presenting a $7,500 check to the American Cancer Society in support of their Coaches vs. Cancer Suits and Sneakers Weekend—a reflection of how far the Foundation’s mission of compassion and community giving had grown. The energy carried into the pre-round festivities with a putting contest that offered a $10,000 prize. Corey Higgins emerged from the qualifiers to take the stage, and though his 50-foot putt missed just wide right, he was met with cheers for his confident stroke and cool nerves under pressure. Then came the main event: thirty-three teams setting out to dethrone the newest titleholders—Team Bart, featuring Mike Bartoletti, Doug Walsh, Nick Paraise, and Zack Ashworth—who had stunned the field the year prior and become only the fifth team in tournament history to earn a place on the Plaque of Champions. But history has a way of welcoming familiar faces. The winners of the 2nd Annual Tournament Team Jimmy —Jim Forgione, Brian Costanzo, Michael Coleman, and Johnny Haggerty—rose to the occasion with vintage form. After a hot 7-under (29) front nine, they poured in seven birdies and an eagle on the back for a blistering 16-under (56)—a performance that reclaimed the yellow jerseys and stirred memories of their early dominance. As the last putts dropped, there was a collective sense that the tournament had entered a new decade with renewed energy and tighter competition than ever before.
12th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
Clouds and morning showers gave way to radiant sunshine and a breeze that carried anticipation through the hills of Sand Springs Country Club. On this picturesque Saturday—the 12th edition of the Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament—thirty-one teams arrived ready to seize the title and add their story to the growing legacy. The defending champions—Jim Forgione, Michael Coleman, Brian Costanzo, and John Haggerty—returned wearing the yellow jerseys with quiet confidence. But Sand Springs had its own plans. With deep boxes and tucked pins, the course promised no easy birdies. Stealing the spotlight was a familiar force: Team Captain Jack—Jack Dempsey, Brian Dempsey, Scott Hartshorn, and Derek Forgione—channeling the chemistry of years past. Fueled by four eagles and a flurry of birdies, they posted a blistering 17-under-par (55) to retake their crown and claim their fifth BDF title, reasserting their place atop the Wall of Champions. Hot on their heels, two formidable squads tied at 16-under (56):
- Team Todd – Todd Forgione, Ben O’Brien, Corey O’Brien, and Tommy Dempsey
- Team Timmy – Timothy Dempsey, Mark Dougher, Mike Reilly, and Bobby Crofton
In a moment of personal magic, Brian’s cousin, Kyle Dougherty, delivered the tournament’s third-ever hole-in-one, acing the 120-yard third hole—a reminder that the day's biggest swings often carry deeper meaning.
Twelve years in, the BDF still shines with the thrill of competition and the warmth of remembrance. With rivalries heating up and the field growing stronger, one thing is certain: BDF 13 is coming—and no one’s coasting.
13th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
On July 25, 2015, the tradition continued as thirty-two teams gathered at Sand Springs Golf Course under blazing sunshine for the 13th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament. As always, the day was about more than low scores and yellow jerseys—it was about remembering a beloved friend, honoring a growing legacy, and embracing the community spirit that has made the last Saturday in July a fixture in NEPA summers. Excitement stirred even before the first drives were launched. Tom Hurst electrified the crowd during the putting contest sponsored by Toyota of Scranton, narrowly missing a 40-foot putt for $10,000. The ball tracked beautifully before grazing the edge of the cup—leaving the gallery holding its collective breath and wondering if this will be the year someone sinks the big one. With the emotional charge of the morning still lingering, attention turned to the field—and specifically, to the reigning titans, Team Captain Jack. Coming off a dominant 17-under performance in BDF12, they entered the tournament looking to reclaim their rhythm and push their championship count to six. But golf can be humbling. Despite flashes of brilliance, the defending champions couldn’t find their familiar groove, opening the door for hungry contenders. One team didn’t just step in—they stormed through. Team Bart - Mike Bartoletti, Doug Walsh, Trevor Woodruff, and Bobby Davis—a potent blend of veterans and fresh energy—delivered a relentless round. Sparked by a chip-in birdie on the treacherous par-four second hole and supercharged by three eagles, they matched the tournament’s scoring record with a sizzling 17-under-par 55. Their triumph not only returned the yellow jerseys to the shoulders of Bartoletti and Walsh, but marked another chapter in the evolving BDF story—one where new combinations emerge, legacies are challenged, and each swing deepens the meaning of why we gather. Looking ahead, as the Foundation moved into its second decade, the sense was clear: the competition may shift, but the heart of the tournament beats stronger than ever in Brian’s name.
14th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
On July 30, 2016, thirty-six foursomes braved threatening skies in Drums, PA, determined to make their mark at the 14th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament. The weather flirted with disruption all day, but with Brian surely smiling down, the rain held off just long enough to script one of the most electrifying finishes in tournament history. Team Jimmy came out red-hot—posting a searing 27 (-9) on the front nine, followed by a lights-out 28 (-8) on the back to post a monster 17-under-par (55). Their blend of precision and tempo looked untouchable. But Team Todd wasn’t done writing their chapter. After a steady front nine, they exploded with back-to-back eagles on holes 15 and 16, catapulting themselves into a tie at the top and forcing a sudden-death playoff. With a light drizzle now falling, both teams made par on the 18th. Tension thickened as they headed to the daunting par-3 17th. Four tee shots, four balls on the green—then came the dagger. Tom Dempsey stuck one within 10 feet and calmly drained the birdie putt, clinching the win and igniting a thunderous roar from the crowd. With the yellow jerseys changing hands once more, a new rivalry had been born—friendly, fierce, and fueled by heart.
15th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
On July 29, 2017, Sand Springs Golf and Country Club once again played host to one of NEPA’s most anticipated traditions—the 15th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament. The July sun blazed, a warm southern breeze danced across the fairways, and thirty-plus foursomes arrived with sharpened games and deep motivation—not just to win, but to outplay old rivals in the name of something bigger. As the second decade of the BDF era continued to unfold, a web of storylines had formed: long-standing friendships turned fierce fairway rivalries. Team Todd, the 2016 playoff champions, returned in full force—Todd Forgione, Ben O’Brien, Ryan Swift, and Tommy Dempsey—donning yellow jerseys with pride and the weight of expectation. But BDF15 wasn’t just a title defense—it was a proving ground. The early buzz belonged to Team Jimmy—Michael Coleman, John Haggerty, Jim Forgione Jr., and Brian Costanzo—seasoned veterans and two-time champions looking to reestablish their dominance. And they wasted no time doing so. Eight birdies and a lone par on the front nine delivered a scorching 28, setting the clubhouse ablaze and putting pressure on every team in the chase. Team Todd held steady but faltered with a key par on the par-five eighth—closing the front at six-under and watching the lead grow more elusive by the hole. Meanwhile, the Jimmy crew held their nerve, stringing together six more birdies on the back to post a commanding 14-under-par (58)—claiming their third title and formally inserting themselves into the ongoing tug-of-war for tournament supremacy. What began as a single-day tribute to Brian had grown into a deeply personal competition among familiar names—each team writing its own chapter in the BDF legacy. With rivalries heating up and experience proving just as valuable as firepower, the path to future yellow jerseys would only become more contested. As BDF16 loomed, one thing was certain: in Brian's memory, every swing meant more.
16th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
On July 28, 2018, the 16th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament welcomed 27 fiercely competitive foursomes to Sand Springs Country Club on yet another picture-perfect summer day. What began as a familiar tradition under blue skies quickly unfolded into one of the most memorable showdowns in tournament history—a clash not only of clubs, but of rivalries, resolve, and legacy. All eyes were locked on the defending champs—Brian Costanzo, Jim Forgione, and John Haggerty, the heartbeat of Team Jimmy—aiming to secure their fourth title. Their opening statement was loud and clear: they came out hot, nearly reaching the 13-under threshold and setting a high bar for the field. But in BDF, close is never enough. That near-miss sparked an epic three-team playoff, pitting old foes and new contenders in a test that would stretch into twilight:
- Team Todd – Todd Forgione, Ben O’Brien, Tom Dempsey, and Ryan Swift – legends of the early BDF years with fire still in the tank.
- Team Dunmore – Jack Kelly Sr., Jack Kelly Jr., Carmen Libassi, and Bob Coleman – a homegrown crew with local pride and smooth swings.
- Team 1912 Club – CJ Raymond, Gerard Rosato, Aaron Nye, and Kyle Colla – relative newcomers, brimming with swagger and hungry to make their mark.
What followed was ten holes of pure folklore: alternating formats, clutch saves, jaw-dropping approaches, and pressure-packed putts in front of an electrified gallery. The sun dipped behind the trees, darkness fell over Drums, PA, and still—no champion had emerged. But at BDF, ties don’t write history—unfinished business does.
In the growing lore of the tournament, BDF16 now stands as the ultimate cliffhanger. Rivals became legends. New alliances were tested. And somewhere out there, future redemption awaited—because on the last Saturday in July, glory never calls it quits.
17th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
On July 27, 2019, the 17th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament opened under flawless skies, and the first order of business was long overdue—a two-hole shamble playoff to crown the rightful BDF16 champions. With dozens of spectators lining the fairways and competitive tension buzzing in the air, it was clear: this wasn’t just a formality. It was a reckoning. The 1912 Club—CJ Raymond, Gerard Rosato, Aaron Nye, and Kyle Colla—made an early statement, striping all four drives down the center on the opening hole. But Team Todd—seasoned champions with ice in their veins—stayed cool and clinical. Birdie putts dropped, nerves held, and just like that, they grabbed a two-shot edge heading into the second and final hole. The finish was surgical. Smart drives, tight approaches, and a calm confidence sealed it. Team Todd took the playoff, the title, and the final word on BDF16. But they weren’t done. Fueled by momentum and purpose, Todd Forgione, Ryan Swift, Tom Dempsey, and Ben O’Brien returned to the main event and delivered one of the most dominant tournament-day performances in BDF history—torching the course during regulation to capture another victory, becoming the first team ever to win twice in a single BDF event, and claiming their fifth overall title. One day. Two wins. Legacy cemented. As the sun set on BDF17, the message was clear: redemption had been delivered, rivalries were sharper than ever, and Team Todd had reestablished themselves as the gold standard.
18th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
July 25, 2020. In a summer defined by challenge and change, the 18th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament stood tall as a vibrant celebration of friendship, resilience, and the timeless joy of competition. With a near-record 32 teams teeing it up at Crystal Springs Country Club, the field buzzed with familiar faces, fresh contenders, and the ever-present undercurrent of rivalries forged over years of close calls and unforgettable finishes. Team Todd—riding high after a double crown performance at BDF17—entered as the team to beat. Todd Forgione, Ben O’Brien, Ryan Swift, and Tommy Dempsey had momentum, chemistry, and a shot at a third title in just twelve months. But what unfolded was a reminder of how wide open the BDF stage had become. As the tournament unfolded, scores plunged fast and furious. An incredible six teams broke the 60 barrier, and for a while, it felt like any one of them could walk off with the yellow jerseys. But amid the fireworks, one squad found their rhythm and never let go. The 1912 Club—featuring CJ Raymond, Gerard Rosato, Kyle Reap, and Tommy O’Brien—had lingered near glory for years, knocking loudly but always hearing silence. Not this time. Fueled by precision and passion, they scorched the back nine with a 27 and closed the round at 17-under-par (55)—a performance equal parts breakthrough and statement. At last, the door opened. And they didn’t just step through it—they kicked it off the hinges. The Champions Room grew more crowded that day, with the 1912 squad finally adding their name to the Wall of Champions. For rivals like Team Todd and Team Jimmy, it was another reminder that no dynasty is safe—and that any Saturday can become someone’s defining moment. With the Foundation's mission shining through every swing, BDF18 was more than just a tournament—it was a moment of triumph in a season that needed one.
19th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament
After a week of relentless rain, July 31, 2021, opened with a blessing—clearing skies and just enough drying time for Sand Springs Country Club to welcome 130 golfers for the 19th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament. With familiar faces gathering under brilliant sunshine, the day unfolded as both a celebration of tradition and a flashpoint in a brewing generational shift. The crowd roared early when Steve Borgia sent shockwaves through the gallery, draining a 50-foot putt to claim the $10,000 putting contest prize—setting a tone that anything could happen.
All eyes were on the reigning champions from BDF18—CJ Raymond, Gerard Rosato, Kyle Reap, and Tommy O’Brien—whose recent breakout win had signaled a changing of the guard. Hungry for a repeat and now facing the unfamiliar pressure of defending the yellow jerseys, Team 1912 came out flying, carding 7-under through the front nine and looking every bit the part of rising dynasty. But legacies don’t fade quietly. Just ahead of them, a familiar force began to surge.
Jack Dempsey, Brian Dempsey, Scott Hartshorn, and Derek Forgione—the heartbeat of Team Captain Jack and five-time champions—were putting on a vintage clinic. Fueled by precise approaches, clutch putting, and an undeniable sense of purpose, they strung together birdies and eagles with relentless focus. By day’s end, they had torched the scorecard with a record-setting 19-under-par 53, reclaiming their crown with authority and emotion. With that victory, Team Captain Jack secured their sixth BDF title in 19 years, reigniting their legend and halting the momentum of the younger challengers. The hunted had become the hunters once again. As the tournament closed, one truth rang out across the fairways: at BDF, dynasties are never safe, underdogs never back down, and every summer can rewrite history. The important number 20, Brian's number, is next for the BDF.
20th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Tournament
Two decades. Twenty summers. Thousands of swings, stories, and memories—all orbiting a single purpose: to honor Brian Forgione and the community he inspired. On June 17, 2022, the BDF Golf Tournament didn’t just reach a milestone—it celebrated a movement. With 30 elite teams on the tee sheet and mid-June heat rippling through Crystal Springs Golf Club, the 20th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament was equal parts celebration, competition, and legacy in motion. Into that crucible stepped a battle-tested quartet: Michael Coleman, Brian Costanzo, Jim Forgione, and John Haggerty—each carrying the weight of three past championships, and a hunger to etch their names even deeper into BDF lore. And they did not disappoint. Their razor-sharp short game, led by back-to-back chip-ins on holes 11 and 12, electrified the gallery. With Forgione’s commanding tee play, Costanzo’s tactical wedge work, and Haggerty’s soul-snatching 30-foot birdie putt on 17, the group delivered a championship-caliber round of 13-under-par, pulling ahead of a crowded, cutthroat field. It was win number four for the veteran squad—but it felt like more. It felt like a tribute. A culmination. A declaration that time doesn’t wear down champions—it sharpens them. As the cheers rolled across the hills of Crystal Springs, so did a question whispered between friends and rivals alike: What will BDF21 bring? Could Team Captain Jack answer back? Would the 1912 Club mount their return? Might a new name rise from the field and steal the spotlight? One thing is certain: as the tournament turns the corner into its third decade, the legend only grows. The rivalries are richer. The stakes are higher. And the yellow jerseys have never meant more. And Brian's legacy lives on!
20 Years of Champions, One Enduring Purpose
Over the past 20 years, the Brian Forgione Memorial Golf Tournament has grown from a heartfelt tribute into a living tradition—a gathering of friends, family, and fierce competitors who come together not just to play, but to remember. What began on a single Saturday at Sand Springs Country Club has blossomed into a legacy defined by loyalty, storytelling, and the yellow jerseys that have become synonymous with excellence.
From the emotional tee-off in 2003 to the blistering low rounds of recent years, each tournament has added another chapter to the BDF’s story of champions:
- 2003 saw Masucci, Barone, Barone Jr., and Cianci etch their names in the inaugural crown.
- 2005–2007 was the era of Team Todd—anchored by the steady duo of Todd Forgione and Ben O’Brien—who claimed a stunning three-peat and helped introduce the yellow jerseys that now carry symbolic weight.
- 2008–2011 gave rise to Team Captain Jack, led by Jack and Brian Dempsey and joined by Scott Hartshorn and Derek Forgione, who cemented their dynasty with four straight titles and record-setting play.
- 2012–2013 marked the breakout of Team Bart and the resurgence of earlier champs like Team Jimmy, showing that greatness can resurface.
- 2014–2017 featured a revolving door of victories between rival squads—Captain Jack, Team Todd, and Team Jimmy—igniting a competitive spark that raised the tournament’s intensity.
- BDF16’s ten-hole playoff became legend, forcing a rematch that fueled Team Todd’s historic two-win day in 2019.
- 2020 saw the long-pursuing 1912 Club finally break through, writing a fresh chapter.
- 2021 delivered a statement—Captain Jack, thought to be aging out of dominance, responded with a thunderous 19-under round to reclaim glory.
- 2022, the 20th anniversary, belonged to the veterans—Coleman, Costanzo, Forgione, and Haggerty—whose fourth title felt like the perfect tribute on such a meaningful milestone.
But BDF has always been more than scorecards. To be part of this tournament is to belong to a tradition where laughter echoes louder than drives, where rivalries run deep but friendships run deeper, and where every shot, every cheer, and every handshake reflects a profound shared love for Brian Forgione. His spirit lives in every yellow jersey draped over a champion’s shoulders and in every moment of quiet reflection on the first tee. Being a champion at BDF means more than winning—it means honoring a legacy, carrying the mission forward, and knowing that in this field, every stroke tells a story.
21st Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Tournament
The air was thick with anticipation—and humidity—as 30 determined foursomes rolled into Sand Springs Country Club on July 29, 2023, for the 21st Annual BDF Tournament, marking the first event in the third decade of this cherished tradition. The stage was set with a jam-packed field, scorching temperatures, and a legacy-rich atmosphere that buzzed with competitive energy. Amid the familiar mix of rivals and rising contenders, Team Todd—featuring Todd Forgione, Tommy Dempsey, Ben O’Brien, and Ryan Swift—arrived locked in and hungry to add another chapter to their growing legend. They set the pace early with a blistering string of birdies on the first five holes and an electrifying eagle on hole 10 with a 50 yard wedge that turned heads and tilted the leaderboard. The 1912 crew struggled to recapture their championship form, and the defending titleholders from 2022 faltered late, losing ground with untimely lip-outs. With sharp execution and nerves of steel, Team Todd closed the round at 15-under, raising their arms in triumph as chants echoed across the fairway—proof that in the heat of July, greatness still wears yellow. Team Todd’s six titles place them in a tie for the most BDF championships. They share that honor with the legendary squad of Team Captain Jack - Jack Dempsey, Brian Dempsey, Scott Hartshorn, and Derek Forgione—another powerhouse team that’s etched its name deep into BDF lore. The rivalry between these two dynasties has defined the tournament’s competitive spirit for nearly two decades, with each squad pushing the other to new heights. Team Jimmy now trails both of these squads by 2 titles.
22nd Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Tournament
The 22nd Annual BDF Golf Tournament on July 30, 2022, brought the heat—literally and figuratively—as 27 elite foursomes descended on Sand Springs Country Club for another unforgettable showdown. Under blazing skies, the 1912 Club of CJ Raymond, Gerard Rosato, Aaron Nye, and Kyle Colla rose above the competition, carding a spectacular 16-under to clinch their second BDF title. The team ignited early with Rosato’s dramatic chip-in eagle on hole 6, followed by Nye's dazzling 40-foot bomb before the turn that kept the crowd buzzing. Colla’s laser-like bunker escape on 14 helped maintain momentum down the stretch, while Raymond's clutch birdie on his own ball sealed a two-stroke margin over a talented field. The victory marked their second championship in just three years, officially securing their spot as the fourth-winningest team in BDF history. As the sun dipped behind the hills and cheers rang through the fairways, it was clear: the 1912 Club is on the chase as only the 4th team with multiple titles.
23rd Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Tournament
The third Saturday in July brought another electric chapter to the Brian Forgione Foundation Golf Tournament as BDF23 unfolded on July 26, 2025, at Sand Springs Country Club. With another beautiful day for the foundation, anticipation swirled as thirty teams arrived to chase history beneath a blazing sun and a sky that promised drama.
Defending champions and two-time winners, the 1912 Club—suited up in their signature yellow jerseys after pre-round ceremonies—arrived ready to stake their claim. But early turbulence struck, as they scrambled for pars on their opening two holes and posted a modest 30 on the front nine. Their signature flair surfaced after the turn, with three quick birdies setting up a strong finish at 15-under—but they’d need more than a hot back nine to repeat.
Meanwhile, Team Todd came out firing. Forgione, Swift, Dempsey, and O’Brien carded five straight birdies to open their round and seemed certain to be the first seven-time champions. Their rhythm never faltered, and they reached the clubhouse at 16-under, seemingly atop the leaderboard—until the whispers of an underdog story grew louder.
Enter Team M. Dougherty, a group of young fireballs that nobody saw coming. Led by a lights-out team performance, the foursome of Michael Dougherty, Sean Dempsey, Tyler Marchese, and Jerry Longo lit up Sand Springs with explosive drives and fearless shot-making. Birdies and eagles dotted their scorecard, propelling them into a sudden-death playoff with the tournament titans of Team Todd.
The playoff began on the 18th, where Team Todd found trouble with three drives hugging the edge of the fairway bunker. Team M. Dougherty, cool as the other side of the pillow, sat in prime position just 110 yards from the pin. Both teams stuck their approaches within 20 feet, but the rookies were away—and it was captain Michael Dougherty who rolled in a bending birdie putt as a crowd of 50 erupted around the green.
Team Todd wasn’t done. After three near misses, the weight fell to Ben O’Brien, looking to force another playoff hole. He gave it everything—but the putt grazed the left edge and spun out, sealing an unforgettable debut victory for Team M. Dougherty.
BDF23 closed with a roar—not just of cheers, but the birth of a new contender. As tradition reminds us: legends are made in the moment. And Team M. Dougherty is ready to defend theirs come BDF24.
24th Annual Brian Forgione Memorial Tournament
Saturday July 25, 2026
10:30am - Registration
11:00am - Lunch
12:00pm - Shotgun Start
6:00pm - Awards Ceremony
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