PGA Head Golf Professional/Director of Golf Operations

847-381-6500

dhabjan@makraygolf.com

As I begin my 24th season at the club, I can only give kudos throughout the years to the wonderful staff members that I have had the opportunity to work with. Additionally, we wouldn't be where we are today without the loyal customers who have supported us along the way in all areas of our business.

My passions since becoming a PGA member in 1978 has been to service the players, teach the game and its principles. Everyone who knows me will agree that I have aways had an open-door policy, Without it we would lose the means to run the business.

Golf Tip: Remember, the better the mechanics, the better the swing, the better the results. You can be a world class athlete with bad mechanics and you will not succeed.

Golf Shop Manager

847-381-6500

kbundgard@makraygolf.com

Growing up in McHenry County I fell in love with golf at a young age. I often hit golf balls at the driving range with my father and walked 9 holes with friends at the local courses.

I dreamed of working in the golf industry and being around golf. In 2018 I started at Makray in the Golf Shop working part time Saturday closing shifts. In 2024 I accepted a full-time position as the Golf Shop Manager.

Makray is like a home away from home, I consider my coworkers friends and teammates

PGA Lead Junior Golf and Beginner Instructor

847-770-1408

mszmajda@makraygolf.com

I fell in love with Makray Memorial Golf Club when I began working here in the summer of 2019. As a competitive golfer since my teenage years, I’ve always appreciated the unique challenges Makray presents. Especially around the greens. What truly makes this place special is the warm, family-like atmosphere created by the staff and community.

I played four years of varsity golf at Wauconda High School, then continued my collegiate career at Purdue University Northwest, where I competed for another four years and earned my bachelor’s degree in accounting. The only thing I love more than playing the game is teaching it. Especially to junior golfers! I’m passionate about helping young players build confidence, develop their skills, and fall in love with the game.

I began my golf career over a year ago at X-Golf Algonquin and Naperville. I continue to teach during the winter months at X-Golf Naperville.

Golf Course Superintendent – GCSAA

tchristians@makraygolf.com

I joined the Makray team in 2009 after working in Lake Geneva and Antioch, IL as a Golf Course Superintendent. Today, I lead a team of dedicated professionals committed to maintaining the golf course at the highest standards. I place a strong emphasis on creating fast and firm playing conditions to enhance the experience for every golfer.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter. I’m also a proud dog dad and love hanging out with my four-legged companion, Max!

Wedding Sales Manager

847 381-6501 Ext. 104

lhudak@makraygolf.com

I’m proud to be part of the team at Makray. I began my career in the hotel industry before moving into the corporate world as a meeting planner. In 2006, I transitioned to the wedding team at Makray, where I’ve found my passion in helping couples bring their special day to life. With years of experience in planning and coordination, I’m known for my ability to multitask, stay organized, and provide exceptional customer service. I genuinely enjoy connecting with people and take the time to understand each client’s unique vision with care and compassion. I feel incredibly lucky to work with a team that feels like family and to be part of creating memorable, joyful moments for others.

Born and raised in Chicago, I love spending my free time cooking, entertaining, decorating, shopping, meeting friends for a cappuccino, or relaxing with a good movie.

Wedding Sales Manager

847 381-6501 Ext. 103

lgrosvenor@makraygolf.com

I joined the Makray team in April 2015 as the Assistant Banquet Manager, where I gained valuable experience in event setup and execution. In July 2017, I transitioned into the Wedding Department alongside Laurie, shifting my focus to the finer details of all things “wedding” and I’ve loved every minute of it.

When I’m not coordinating special moments, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three children. Whether we’re watching sitcoms, going on road trips, or playing board games. You’ll often find me unwinding in the garden with a good book and the company of our chickens.

Wedding Coordinator

847 381-6501 Ext. 107

swojtkowski@makraygolf.com

I’m the Wedding Coordinator and Social Media Coordinator at Makray, and I truly LOVE what I do! Every “I do” is a chance to help make dreams come true. It’s a bit like magic (with a well-planned timeline, of course). I studied Marketing and Promotions at Northwestern Business College and worked as a Promotions Coordinator before discovering my true calling: weddings, sparkles, and love stories.

When I’m not fluffing dresses or straightening centerpieces, I’m embracing the beautiful chaos of life with my amazing husband, our three wonderful kids, and two very energetic dogs. It’s loud, it’s busy, and it’s full of love, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Banquet Manager

847 381-6501 Ext. 119

jtrombetta@makraygolf.com

With two decades of experience in the food and beverage industry, I have honed my skills in creating unforgettable dining experiences, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. As a dedicated Banquet Manager at Makray, I take pride in ensuring that every event runs seamlessly, aligning perfectly with our guests' expectations and wishes.

Growing up in the Chicago suburbs, I have a deep appreciation for the local culture and community, which I bring into my work every day. My journey has taken me from local restaurants to prestigious international hotel chains, allowing me to develop a versatile skill set that caters to diverse clientele and event styles.

Restaurant Manager/Social Event Sales Manager

847 381-6501 Ext. 111

ssobczewski@makraygolf.com

I’m a proud graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a degree in Hospitality Management and deep roots in the Barrington area, where I grew up. I began my journey at Makray as a bartender and server, and through hard work and dedication, I was promoted to Banquet Sales Manager and later to Restaurant Manager. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of a team that feels more like family. The supportive, collaborative environment has been key to my growth and success, and I truly value the meaningful relationships I’ve built with both my colleagues and our guests.

Outside of work, you’ll find me cheering on the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears or spending quality time with friends and family.

Restaurant Manager/Social Event Sales Manager

847 381-6501 Ext. 111

ssobczewski@makraygolf.com

I’m a proud graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a degree in Hospitality Management and deep roots in the Barrington area, where I grew up. I began my journey at Makray as a bartender and server, and through hard work and dedication, I was promoted to Banquet Sales Manager and later to Restaurant Manager. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of a team that feels more like family. The supportive, collaborative environment has been key to my growth and success, and I truly value the meaningful relationships I’ve built with both my colleagues and our guests.

Outside of work, you’ll find me cheering on the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears or spending quality time with friends and family.

Executive Chef

847 381-6501 Ext. 110

jhennessy@makraygolf.com

I’ve been immersed in the culinary world for over five decades, beginning at age 14 under the guidance of three European Master Chefs who recognized my talent and work ethic early on. They put me through a rigorous European-style chef training that laid the foundation for my career. From there, I rose quickly to Sous Chef, mastering show work, ice carvings, and tallow sculptures. My journey took me to Marriott Hotels, where I honed my craft further, earning a 4-Diamond rating for 11 years and opening numerous hotels as part of their Task Force Team.

Today, I serve as the Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Director at Makray Memorial Golf Club, where I’ve found both a home and a calling. Here, I lead everything from personalized menu design and culinary execution to front-of-house service and event planning. I’m passionate about creating exceptional guest experiences and fostering a collaborative, inspiring environment for my team. It’s been an honor to cook for celebrities, dignitaries, and even serve as the Personal Team Chef for the Chicago Cubs since 2003. When I’m not in the kitchen, I enjoy golfing or spending time with my children and grandson.

Sous Chef

847 381-6501Ext. 110

mbattaglia@makraygolf.com

As Sous Chef at Makray Memorial Golf Club, I bring over 40 years of experience in restaurants, hotels, and private country clubs. Born and raised in Chicago, my love for cooking started early, inspired by my grandmother and her herb garden. I began my culinary journey as a dishwasher at Red Lobster in high school, drawn to the rhythm of a busy kitchen. My family later owned a banquet hall, where I trained with the chef while attending culinary school. After graduating, I joined United Airlines, learning from chefs around the world and mastering kitchen fundamentals, from gourmet cooking to ice carving. That experience was a turning point, shaping my skills and setting the foundation for the next 30 years as an Executive Chef in private clubs, where I found the freedom to be creative, craft menus, and elevate every dish.

At Makray, I bring that same creativity and leadership to every event, whether an intimate dinner for 30 or a celebration for 240. I'm passionate about making food that brings people joy, and every event is an opportunity to create something memorable. When I’m not in the kitchen, I enjoy riding my bike along the Fox River and spending time with my daughter, son, and two granddaughters.