Meet The Management

Daniel Newman – Director of Finance

Daniel J. Newman – General Manager

Dan was born in The Bronx, New York. He attended St. John’s University in Queens, graduating in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. He moved to Cape Coral shortly after graduation. Dan’s wife, Jennifer, works at FGCU. Their children, Brandon and Shane grew up in Cape Coral and both graduated from FGCU. Brandon lives in Orlando and is a Software Development Engineer. Shane will graduate from Florida A&M University School of Law in May and aspires to pursue a career in public service.

In his spare time, Dan loves to spend time with his family. He is an avid reader with eclectic tastes from biographies of Washington, Hamilton and Grant to his love of Stephen King and Joe Hill. Dan is also an avid sports fan. Not a day goes by without his support of his beloved St. John’s Red Storm, the New York Giants or the San Francisco Giants. 

dnewman@esterocc.com

Ryan Miller – 1st Assistant Golf Professional

Chad Kasloski – Controller

Chad is a true Floridian, born in Hollywood, FL. He moved to the Fort Myers area to attend Florida Gulf Coast University, where he graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.

Chad met his wife, Stephanie, while attending FGCU, and she currently works for Lee Health System. They have two children together, Noah and Ella. Chad has spent most of his career as a Controller in the higher education/food & beverage industry.

In his spare time, Chad enjoys spending time with his family while coaching his children’s sports teams at Three Oaks Park (they currently play Soccer, Baseball, & Softball). Chad loves traveling with his family, and exploring new and exciting places, whenever he gets the chance! He loves talking sports and is a fan of all Miami area teams. Some of his hobbies include golfing and fishing.

ckasloski@esterocc.com 

Ryan Miller – 1st Assistant Golf Professional

Danielle Rhoades – Club Accountant

Danielle is from the Midwest snowy state of Wisconsin. In June of 2022, she moved to Fort Myers, Florida, with her husband, Andrew, son Keegan, and two daughters, Quinn and Leona. She worked in Cardiovascular Surgery for eight years as a Medical Assistant before returning to school for her accounting degree. In 2020, she graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Accounting and has worked in accounting since.

Danielle loves to go to the beach with her family in her spare time and enjoy the warm Florida sun. Besides going on cruises and enjoying the outdoors, she loves to relax and read or listen to audiobooks and podcasts.

drhoades@esterocc.com

ANDREW PLESZ, PGA – HEAD GOLF PROFESSIONAL

ANDREW PLESZ, PGA – HEAD GOLF PROFESSIONAL

Originally from Connecticut, Andrew Plesz, has been enjoying Southwest Florida since the early 90’s. As a junior golfer he honed his skills at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida learning from David Leadbetter and some of the greats.  With a growing enthusiasm for the game, he chose to begin his golf career by enrolling at Florida Gulf Coast University, concentrating on Golf Management and business. He was elected into the membership of the PGA of America in 2011.

Locally, Andrew has served the membership of Shadow Wood Country Club and The Forest Country Club for the past two decades.  He has a passion for the industry, has a service-oriented heart, with a drive to enhance the member and guests experience.

When Andrew is not on the golf course, he loves spending time with his wife, Kastania, and their twin boys, Vai and Tavita.  Additionally, he is an avid fisherman with a passion for traveling.

aplesz@esterocc.com

Joe Rubino – 2nd Assistant Golf Professional

Joe Rubino – First Assistant Golf Professional

Joe grew up on Long Island and moved to Estero in the Fall of 2015. He graduated from Keiser University in 2014 with an Associate’s Degree in Golf Management and is currently working toward earning his Class A status with the PGA of America. Joe worked on Long Island at North Hills Country Club for 3 summers before making the move to Naples, where he worked for 4 years as an assistant at Foxfire Country Club. He is bringing with him a passion for customer service and is excited to join the Estero Country Club team. When Joe isn’t working in the pro shop, he likes playing golf, spending time at the beach and watching golf on television.

proshop@esterocc.com

Joe Rubino – 2nd Assistant Golf Professional

Carson Cosgrove – Second Assistant Golf Professional

Carson was born and raised on eastern Long Island, New York. Growing up, he caddied at Long Island National before moving to San Antonio, Texas in 2016 to pursue a career with Follett Higher Education Group.  After working for Follett in New York, Texas, and Florida, he returned to his lifelong passion of golf in 2020 with Cedar Hammock Country Club in Naples.  Working towards his Class A status with the PGA of America, he is excited to continue learning and growing with the team at ECC. In his spare time, Carson enjoys playing and watching golf and spending time with his longtime girlfriend Jewel and their beautiful pug Lucy.

ccosgrove@esterocc.com

Ryan Miller – 1st Assistant Golf Professional

Trisha Raber  – Director of Merchandise

Trisha brings over 20 years of club experience. Early in her career, she served as the Asst. Merchandiser at Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club and later at The Sanctuary Golf Club.  This experience helped her obtain her first Director of Merchandise position in 2003 at Belmont Country Club in Belmont, Massachusetts. After returning to Florida, she has brought her expertise to various clubs in southwest Florida and, most recently, Colonial Country Club.  

Trisha lives in Fort Myers with her husband, Michael, and her two sons, Nicholas (15) and Tyler (11).  Trisha’s husband also serves in the club industry as General Manager at Glen Eagle Golf & Country Club.  She is excited to join the ECC family and help elevate the member experience at ECC.

traber@esterocc.com 

DENNIS SMITH – SOUS CHEF

Andrew Maccagnano – Golf Course Superintendent

Andrew and his family moved to Southwest Florida from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, where he was born and raised. Andrew graduated from Penn State with a Turfgrass Science and Management degree and completed the Golf Course Management certificate program from The Ohio State University.

With four years of experience in Naples and an additional seven years in the Nashville area, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. His most recent role at The National Golf and Country Club showcased his abilities. Andrew oversaw the grow-in of Bimini Bermuda grass on an 18-hole Gordon Lewis design, ensuring the project was completed on time and within budget. Andrew learned what to do and, more importantly, what not to do to get the best playability and aesthetically appealing turf possible.  In addition, Andrew has three years of HDPE irrigation experience and four years of Rainbird irrigation experience. 

Andrew and his wife, Iliana, have two daughters, Audriana (11) and Mariana-Rose (5). When he is not working, he enjoys going to his daughter’s volleyball tournaments, relaxing at the beach, or watching his beloved Buffalo sports teams.

supt@esterocc.com

Ryan Miller – 1st Assistant Golf Professional

Miriane Martinez  – Human Resources Manager

Currently residing in Estero, Miriane proudly considers herself a Florida native deeply rooted in the local community. Over the past 15 years, her previous employers, including Lee Health and FGCU, have provided her with valuable experiences and a solid foundation in the Human Resources field. As an alumna of FGCU, Miriane maintains a strong connection to her alma mater and the local community. Miriane’s favorite aspects of working in HR include fostering professional development and troubleshooting processes to drive continuous improvement.

Recently, Miriane entered a new phase of life as an empty nester and devotes her free time to nurturing her hobbies. She finds joy in photography, painting, and training her Australian Shepherd’s skills and agility. Miriane is an avid reader of varied topics, including health & wellness, biographies, and self-development. Miriane is a dedicated Human Resources Manager who strives to make a positive impact in the workplace and the lives of those she interacts with.

mmartinez@esterocc.com 

Ryan Miller – 1st Assistant Golf Professional

Sarah Lenio  – Communications & Membership Manager

Sarah was born and raised in Naples, Florida. Throughout high school, Sarah worked as a hostess at Vasari Country Club, where she learned the ins and outs of Food and Beverage and the importance of communication.  Sarah attended Florida Gulf Coast University, graduating in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science. She is working towards obtaining her Master of Business Administration (MBA) from FGCU.

Sarah previously worked at FGCU as an Administrative Specialist for the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences. She was vital in managing various social media platforms and recruitment events, which significantly helped the Exercise Science Program grow.  When not working or studying, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family.

slenio@esterocc.com 

THOMAS FUNK – DIRECTOR OF TENNIS

THOMAS FUNK, USPTA – DIRECTOR OF TENNIS

Thomas has been a Top Rated Elite USPTA Tennis Professional since 1983 and was the Founder and Past President of the local Lee County Community Tennis Association. Thomas has worked with the USTA as a National Tournament Director, Junior Tournament Director and referee. He has been USRSA Stringer Certified, a Wilson Advisory Staff Member and currently is the League Coordinator for Lee County Mixed League. In his career as a Tennis Director, he has directed the programs for several different types of facilities; corporate clubs, the City of Cape Coral and now is using his vast experience at the Estero Country Club, one of the finest programs in Southwest Florida.

tennispro@esterocc.com

BRANDON WHEELOCK – EXECUTIVE CHEF

BRANDON WHEELOCK, CEC, WCEC – EXECUTIVE CHEF – DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE

Brandon was born in Syracuse, New York. He came to live in Florida in 1996 when he was eight. He attended North Fort Myers High School while working at local restaurants in Cape Coral. He then joined the Army when he was eighteen and was a field artillery tactical data system specialist for four years.

After returning home from a 15-month Iraq tour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Brandon was honorably discharged from the Army. He was a member of the opening kitchen crew for the Resort at Marina Village (now a Westin Hotel) in Cape Coral. Brandon then went on to be the Sous Chef of Royal Palm Yacht Club and joined Estero Country Club as our Sous Chef in 2013. He has since obtained a degree in Culinary Arts from Keiser University, became a Certified Executive Chef (CEC) through the American Culinary Federation (ACF), and is a Worldchefs Certified Executive Chef (WCEC). He is working towards becoming a Certified Culinary Administrator (CCA) and practical exam evaluator through the ACF.

Brandon is a proven leader with strong communication skills and a passion for food, quality, and customer service. He is deeply committed to exceeding member expectations and generating team synergy.

chef@esterocc.com

BRANDON WHEELOCK – EXECUTIVE CHEF

DEBBIE TUAILEVA – ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE

Originally from Ohio, Debbie moved to Hawaii at 18 before she made Florida her home 12 years ago. Debbie has a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry in different roles at hotels and country clubs. Most recently, she was the Food & Beverage Director at Kelly Greens for 7 years, where she showcased her exceptional leadership skills.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Debbie is a proud mother of three wonderful children—a daughter and two sons. In her leisure time, she finds joy in the company of her two grandsons and beloved dog.

dtuaileva@esterocc.com

BRANDON WHEELOCK – EXECUTIVE CHEF

WOODOLPH THERESIAS – DINING ROOM MANAGER

Born in Haiti, Woodolph came to the United States in 2018. Shortly after his arrival, he joined our team as a food runner, where he showcased his exceptional work ethic and commitment to providing outstanding service.

In 2021, he was promoted to the role of server, and last year earned a well-deserved promotion to Lead Server, demonstrating his ability to handle increased responsibilities and take his service skills to the next level. In his free time, Woodolph enjoys watching movies. He is also an avid supporter of Real Madrid.

wtheresias@esterocc.com

DENNIS SMITH – SOUS CHEF

DENNIS SMITH – CHEF DE CUISINE

Dennis is originally from New York and moved to Florida when he was thirteen. He is a father of four children and has been married to his wife, Christol, for almost two decades. From an early age, when he was old enough to wield a spatula, he learned, concocted, and perfected recipes in the kitchen. He learned his first meal, scrambled eggs, from his mother at six. Since then, he has honed his skills at restaurants in Lee County, learning Italian, German, English, Caribbean, and American cuisines.

Dennis has a strong work ethic and drive to succeed. He has thirty-three years of kitchen experience, nine of which have been at Estero Country Club, where he began his journey as a grill cook in 2014. His high standards of excellence and dedication allowed him to work his way through the ranks, taking on the role of Sous Chef in 2017.

Dennis holds his kitchen to exceptionally high standards. His goal is to bring an amazing meal to every member every single time, as if he was still cooking for his mother.

 

DENNIS SMITH – SOUS CHEF

JEFF PAGLICCIA – SOUS CHEF

Jeff hails from Stoneham, Massachusetts. He started his career in kitchens at fifteen. Upon graduating high school, he continued his education at Essex Agricultural and Technical College and graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts. After working at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in Boston for several years, he followed a family tradition by opening his own award-winning breakfast and lunch café, The Grateful Bread, in his hometown.

He relocated to Fort Myers in 2005 and joined the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa as Culinary Supervisor.  He was additionally a member of the opening kitchen crew for the Resort at Marina Village in Cape Coral.  Jeff was Banquet Sous Chef at Heritage Palms Golf and Country Club for several years.  He has also worked at the Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club as Sous Chef, and the Vineyards Country Club in Naples. 

Jeff’s years of experience supporting restaurants from the peaks of Vail, CO, to the island of Nantucket, MA, has prepared him for his latest endeavor at Estero Country Club.

 

DENNIS SMITH – SOUS CHEF

MAIJA MARCHESANI – EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MANAGER

Maija has been in the hospitality industry since the beginning of her career, ranging from experience in casinos, hotels, and, most recently, private clubs. With a multifaceted skill set spanning food and beverage, marketing, and wedding design, Maija is eager to enhance the member event experiences at Estero Country Club.

Maija is originally from New Jersey and attended Palm Beach Atlantic University. She enjoys spending time with her family, especially her two little girls, Chloe and Stella, who keep her busy cheering from the sidelines at dance and gymnastics competitions. She has a passion for reading, fueled by a thirst for knowledge and fresh perspectives. Maija loves traveling to new destinations and spending time outdoors with her dogs, Sadie and Riley. 

mmarchesani@esterocc.com

WILTON DELACRUZ – FACILITY MANAGER

WILTON DE LA CRUZ – FACILITY MANAGER

Wilton has been in the construction business since 2003. Prior to joining Estero Country Club over 6 years ago he was with the HILTON chain for more than 10 years. Wilton enjoys spending time with his 3 children and when not working is travelling the world – most recently in Portugal.

maintenance@esterocc.com