Longboat Key Club Friars raise $15k for grounds crew affected by hurricanes

After hearing from John Reilly, director of agronomy for the Longboat Key Club, about how many on his staff were affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton, the Longboat Key Club Friars wanted to help. 

In 10 days, the club of about 140 members raised $15,000. On the afternoon of Nov. 15, members of the Friars and Longboat Key Club staff gathered to celebrate one of their members and invited Reilly and a few from his crew. 

The crew had no idea they would be presented with the $15,000 check.

Director of Golf Terry O’Hara said the Friars and staff at the Longboat Key Club appreciated how hard the grounds crew worked to get the golf courses back in operation and cleaned after the back-to-back hurricanes. 

A week after Hurricane Milton, the Longboat Key Club was opened for people to catch a round of golf, have a bite to eat and attend pickleball clinics.

But, while the grounds crew were working hard at the Longboat Key Club, O’Hara said many were personally affected by the hurricanes. The $15,000 will be distributed by Reilly to some of his crew members. 

Reilly said the recognition was unique, especially since many golf course maintenance crews get used to operating behind the scenes. 

“It’s awesome,” Reilly said. “The job of a golf course maintenance person is mostly behind the scenes.” 

It meant a lot to see his crew recognized after their hard work to get the course back in shape while also going through their own hardships. 

“These are people who have families and possessions. It was pretty special to be recognized like that,” he said. 

In 2023, the Longboat Key Club Friars celebrated 30 years. The group promotes brotherhood while also frequently enjoying golf. Since the Longboat Key Club has risen in popularity, the Friars have grown to golf, drink and celebrate exclusively at the island club.