Brian was born and raised in Westfield, NJ and graduated from Montclair State University. Having been a Head Golf Professional for 17 years, Brian is excited to be bringing his past experiences, professional image, and positive attitude to the membership of Essex Fells Country Club. As one of the most accomplished and respected golf professionals in the industry, Essex Fells Country Club welcomes Brian’s return to the Club after having been an Assistant Golf Professional under now Professional Emeritus, Russ Helwig, from 2002-2003. Brian returns to Essex Fells Country Club, now as a nationally recognized PGA Professional. Brian brings experience from top area Clubs and most recently at Quaker Ridge GC in Westchester, NY. Brian brings a passion for golf instruction, mentorship, integrity, level of service, family values, and the high standards that align with the tradition and future of Essex Fells Country Club.

Chris Whalen, PGA is a graduate of the Professional Golf Management Program at Campbell University in North Carolina. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Master’s degree in Business, and his PGA Class A membership during his time at Campbell. For the past 6 years Chris has been an active member in the NJ Section working at both Crestmont Country Club and most recently at Manasquan River Golf Club. Chris has a passion for teaching golf to beginner and junior golfers with an emphasis on making learning to play golf more fun. When he’s not working on his golf game he enjoys spending time outdoors fishing with friends and family.

Brian was born and raised in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated from Baldwin Wallace University. He has worked at many fine clubs and has an experienced background in golf instruction. Brian was the Head Teaching Professional at the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida from 2012-2018, and the Director of Instruction at Canterbury Golf Club in Cleveland, Ohio for five seasons. Brian has been an understudy to World Golf Teachers Hall of Fame and PGA of America Hall of Fame Member, Bob Toski, the last 22 years. He has won many PGA Sectional events, including the 2010 Northern Ohio PGA Assistants Championship. He also enjoys competing in events and playing with the members. Brian was the 2014South Florida PGA Southern Chapter Teacher of the Year and he looks forward to bringing his knowledge and passion for teaching to the Membership at Essex Fells CC and assisting Brian Gaffney.

Nolan Hesko will be joining Essex Fells Country Club for his first season as an Assistant Golf Professional. Nolan graduated from Campbell University (NC) in the Fall of 2022 where he obtained his Bachelors in Business Administration as well as being elected to PGA Membership. In working at the following outstanding and highly distinguished clubs, Nolan has gained valuable experience: The Country Club of North Carolina, Grandfather Golf and Country Club, Deepdale Golf Club and most recently at Mountain Lake where he has completed his second season as an Assistant Golf Professional.

Danny was born and raised in Colombia and moved to the United States when he was 14 years old. As the oldest of three brothers, he had the responsibility to help provide for the household. He soon began to caddie on the weekends at Canoe Brook Country Club. What began as a job quickly grew into a passion. He takes great pride in the relationships that he develops with members and guests. Danny rose to the position of Assistant Outside Services Manager and became a top caddie at Canoe Brook Country Club. He enjoys spending his free time with his fiancé, traveling, and playing golf and soccer. He is excited to bring his passion for golf and experience in customer service to Essex Fells Country Club.

Russell was the Head Professional at Essex Fells from 1975 to 2014. A member of the New Jersey Professional Golf Association (NJPGA) Hall of Fame, he is a two time winner of the NJSGA Open Championship, a two time winner of the NJSGA Senior Open Championship and a two time winner of the (MGA) Senior Open Championship among many other victories and awards. He grew up in Bloomfield, New Jersey and earned a degree in business administration from the University of Miami. In addition to being an excellent instructor, Russell is renowned for developing top-notch assistants, including those who have moved on to become the head professional at EFCC and other prestigious golf clubs. Russ is still at the Club often, plays with the Members, and maintains an incredible golf game.