MIDDLETOWN, R.I. – The leaderboard was set, the clubhouse was cooling, and Liam Friedman looked poised to take the title—until Shawn Warren, PGA (Bates College) staged a late-afternoon surge. Coming in with the final group of the day, Warren braved the coastal winds to fire a sensational 3-under-par 69, snatching the 2026 New England PGA Stroke Play Series opener at Newport National Golf Club.
Liam Friedman, PGA (Wollaston GC) held the lead for much of the day, finishing with a stellar 2-under 70. Friedman played a clinical round, recovering from an early stumble to card back-to-back birdies on eight and nine and a flawless, birdie-led back nine.
Nico Ciolino, PGA (Brae Burn CC) secured solo third at 1-under 71, highlighted by a clutch birdie on the par-3 16th.
Rounding out the top five, a three-way tie for fourth place at even-par 72 included: Eric Barlow, PGA (Winchester CC), Bob Bruso, PGA (Worcester CC), and Dan Venezio, PGA (Portland CC).
The hunt for the season title moves next to the lush fairways of Allendale in North Dartmouth, Mass. on July 6th. Professionals looking to join the fray can find more information or register by CLICKING HERE.
The NEPGA extends its sincere thanks to host PGA Professional Chris Hulme and the entire Newport National staff for their exceptional hospitality.
This event was made possible through the generous support of our presenting partners: AHEAD USA, Bushnell Golf, Maui Jim, SCNS Sports Foods, La Pulga Spirits, Comparion Insurance, Dunning/Greg Norman, Tourney, and the PGA TOUR.