Concord, NH – The New Hampshire Golf Hall of Fame Nominating Committee is proud to announce that Steve Robbins has been selected as the newest inductee into the New Hampshire Golf Hall of Fame. Robbins will be honored as part of the Class of 2026, joining a distinguished group of individuals who have made significant contributions to the game of golf in the Granite State.
A native of New Hampshire, Robbins built one an accomplished amateur golf career before making his mark on the national stage. From his early days competing in amateur events throughout New Hampshire to his success at the collegiate, amateur and professional levels, Robbins’ career has been defined by hard work, competitiveness and a lifelong passion for the game.
“Steve Robbins represents everything the New Hampshire Golf Hall of Fame stands for,” said Matt Schmidt, Executive Director of New Hampshire Golf. “His accomplishments as an amateur, collegiate player and professional golfer are remarkable, but what stands out just as much is the impact he has had as a competitor and ambassador of the game. Steve’s success has spanned generations of New Hampshire golf, and we are thrilled to recognize him as part of the Class of 2026.”
Robbins quickly established himself as one of the top amateur golfers in New Hampshire, reaching the finals of the New Hampshire Amateur Championship four times, finishing runner-up in 1961, 1964 and 1979 and capturing the title in 1965. His success extended beyond the state level, as he finished runner-up in the New England Amateur Championship in 1962, when the event was contested in a match play format, before winning the championship in 1978.
One of Robbins’ most memorable achievements came in 1971 when he won the Maine Open as an amateur. After 36 holes, Robbins posted a six-under-par score to claim the overall championship, finishing two strokes ahead of the professionals competing for low professional honors. Among those professionals was future PGA Tour star Lanny Wadkins, who would go on to win the playoff for low professional.
Reflecting on the moment, Robbins recalled a memorable exchange with Wadkins following the playoff. He said, “Lanny came over to me and said, ‘Congratulations, you got the trophy, but I got the check.’”
Wadkins went on to win the Greater Bangor Open the following week, a victory that helped launch his successful professional career. For Robbins, the Maine Open victory remains one of the accomplishments that stands out most from his playing career.
Robbins continued his success at the collegiate level while attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was a three-time All-American from 1965-1967. His outstanding play helped establish him as one of the nation’s premier amateur golfers.
In 1972, Robbins turned professional and began pursuing a career in the professional ranks before later regaining his amateur status. He returned to professional golf in 1994 and competed on the PGA Senior Tour from 1995-1997. During that time, Robbins credits his wife for playing an important role in allowing him to focus on his golf career.
“When I went back to professional golf, my wife was a huge part of making that possible,” said Robbins. “She helped run the business so I could focus on my golf game.”
Throughout his career, Robbins has remained a respected figure in New Hampshire golf, representing the state with distinction at every level of competition. His achievements, dedication and longevity have cemented his place among the greatest players in Granite State golf history.
In addition to honoring Steve Robbins as the newest member of the New Hampshire Golf Hall of Fame, NH Golf will also present the Joe Kane Distinguished Service Award during the evening’s ceremony. This year’s award will be presented to Bill Krueger in recognition of his years of service, dedication and contributions to New Hampshire Golf. Krueger has served for many years on the boards of both New Hampshire Golf and the McDonough Scholarship Foundation, giving his time and expertise to support the game and create opportunities for golfers throughout the state.
“Bill has given so much of his time and energy to New Hampshire Golf and to growing the game in our state,” said Matt Schmidt, Executive Director of New Hampshire Golf. “His commitment to serving others and his willingness to give back make him a tremendous recipient of the Joe Kane Distinguished Service Award, and we are excited to celebrate him alongside Steve Robbins as part of this year’s Hall of Fame evening.”
The New Hampshire Golf Hall of Fame ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, November 5th at Manchester Country Club. More information on the evening will follow.
