The ShopRite LPGA Classic is one of the longest running tournaments on Tour.
The distinguished list of winners in Atlantic City over the years include the greatest to ever play like Nancy Lopez, Betsy King, Annika Sorenstam, Se Ri Pak, Cristie Kerr, Karrie Webb and Stacy Lewis.
The one constant though it all is a name you probably don’t know. Volunteer Marcia Mancini has been helping run the tournament since it’s inaugural year and is the recipient of the XL Catlin Volunteer Service Award.
Mancini has been volunteering at the North Jersey tournament since 1986. She’s only missed two years of the event, once for a wedding and once for a graduation.
Most recently, she has served as the Chairperson of the Player Services committee. Over the years, she has also spent time on the Marshal and Finance/Credential committees. She’s even filled the roles of standard bearer and greens reporter.
“Marcia has a fantastic attitude and is always looking to help the players so they can have the most enjoyable experience each year,” said Tournament Manager Bill Hansen. “We couldn’t imagine running the tournament without Marcia.”
Mancini has seen them all. From Kathy Whitworth to Lexi Thompson. She’s known for providing candy for the players. Red Swedish fish are always the most popular in the locker room treat box.
“I have told Christina Kim that we have grown up together at the tournament,” said Mancini. “I remember Audra Banks would come up to me and ask ‘where’s the stash of Swedish Fish?’ so I have to ration them or they’d be gone right away.”
While she doesn’t like to pick a favorite player, Mancini said Nancy Lopez was a “champions champion” in New Jersey.
“She was so mindful of the gallery and their support not only of her, but the other players as well,” explained Mancini. “As down to earth as she was on the course, she was equally as wonderful to the volunteers in the locker room.”
Like all great volunteers, Mancini prefers to stay out of the limelight. But for now, we shift the spotlight onto Mancini for her dedication to women’s golf in Atlantic City.
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