CALLICOON – The Sullivan County Democrat Golf Tourney Hall of Fame has traditionally been reserved for championship-calibre players who have had great careers on the course.

However, last Friday, Fred Stabbert III, who has organized the tournament for the past 30 years, got the surprise of his life when his son, Andrew, prompted by Hall of Famers Ken Cohen and Matt Kleiner, stood in front of the 128-member field of golfers to introduce his father as the newest member of the Democrat Hall of Fame.

“As a sponsor of this tournament, you’ve always been committed to making sure it succeeds. But this tournament is about more than competition – it’s about relationships,” Andrew said. “Fathers, sons, grandsons, brothers, cousins, hometown friends, fathers-in-law, brothers-in-law and friends made through the tournament.

“All of us get to build and enjoy those relationships because of the work you put in,” he said.

Stabbert was visibly shaken by the ‘surprise’ announcement as his son and Matt Kleiner helped slip the Hall of Fame jacket over his shoulders.

“This is really incredible,” Stabbert said. “But this tournament is all about the players. That’s why we do it. I’m just in shock but very happy to join such a great group of guys.”