Concord, NH – New Hampshire Golf is proud to announce that Jim Blalock has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Joe Kane Distinguished Service Award, presented annually to an individual whose contributions to the game of golf in New Hampshire embody the sterling qualities of sportsmanship, leadership, vision, inspiration, and dedication that defined Joe Kane’s legacy.
Blalock’s lifelong connection to golf began at the age of 10, inspired by his sister, Jane Blalock, a top LPGA Tour professional. While successfully operating The Old Ferry Landing restaurant in Portsmouth for 25 years, Blalock never lost sight of his passion for golf and education. In 2014, he earned his Ph.D. in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute, focusing his dissertation on the philosophy of The First Tee and his own experiences as a coach.
Today, Jim serves as Lead Coach and Certified Coach Trainer for First Tee – New Hampshire and is the Site Director for the LPGA*USGA Girls Golf Program. For more than two decades, he has been instrumental in helping thousands of young people develop not only as golfers but as individuals, instilling in them values of integrity, perseverance, and respect.
“To realize that my passion for golf and coaching children has had this much of an impact is deeply rewarding,” said Blalock. “Receiving this award means that my years of dedication to growing the game of golf through the First Tee of NH in both green grass locations and in schools is valued by the esteemed membership of New Hampshire Golf, and more so, worthy of being mentioned with the distinguished Joe Kane.”
Blalock credits the philosophy of The First Tee for shaping his career and inspiring the next generation saying, “The First Tee’s coaching philosophy is as brilliant as it is effective. And while implementing it for 21 years, I have witnessed the growth of so many children. Because of my longevity, I train coaches who were once participants because they want to serve an ideal that changed their lives. This fuels my motivation.”
“The thrill of witnessing our kids thrive inside and outside golf’s arena continues to feed my soul. Golf has given me several gifts, and I get to play-it-forward during every class and every coach training. It has been the great joy of my life being an integral part of growing the game of golf with the elevated integrity golf deserves.”
The Joe Kane Distinguished Service Award is New Hampshire Golf’s highest honor, given annually to recognize exceptional service to golf in New Hampshire. New Hampshire Golf Executive Director, Matt Schmidt speaks highly of Jim saying, “When thinking of the many individuals who have had an immense impact on the game in New Hampshire, very few have been able to combine Jim’s passion with his kindness, generosity, affection, and warmth. The impact that he’s made in the lives of so many young people is immeasurable and when you see Jim interact with current and former First Tee participants, you truly come to realize that quite simply, he’s changed lives. Joe Kane often spoke fondly of Jim and his work with the First Tee, and I know that Joe would be beyond thrilled to see Jim honored by this award.”
Jim Blalock’s lifelong dedication to coaching, mentoring, and growing the game exemplifies the very spirit of this award. Jim will formally receive his award at the New Hampshire Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony being held at Manchester Country Club on Thursday, November 6th.
