In the latest episode of the Tee to Green Golf Podcast, the focus shifts to the growing prominence of golf within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), a movement supported by initiatives to expand the game's reach. Special guest, Mike Rice, head golf coach at Florida A&M University (FAMU), shares his lifelong journey with golf, from an early start influenced by his father to his current role at FAMU. Rice emphasizes the diversity and unique culture of FAMU's golf team, highlighting efforts to align the team's composition with the university's demographic and the broader mission of growing diversity in golf. Discussions orbit around the impact of junior golf programs, the significance of support from the golfing community and major industry players, and the essential role of fundraising in enhancing HBCU golf programs. Proposals to increase visibility and support for HBCU golf are made, concluding with insights into the promising future of the sport at these institutions and the potential role models arising from them.

00:00 Welcome to the Tee to Green Golf Podcast!

00:36 Spotlight on HBCU Golf: An In-depth Conversation with Coach Mike Rice

01:23 Coach Rice's Personal Journey in Golf and at FAMU

03:20 Cultivating Diversity and Excellence in FAMU's Golf Program

08:28 The Impact of COVID-19 and the Future of Golf

09:12 The Evolution of HBCU Golf and Its Growing Influence

11:53 Supporting HBCU Golf Programs: How You Can Help

18:26 Advice for Young Golfers: Starting with the Short Game

21:41 The Competitive Landscape of HBCU Golf in the SWAC

24:55 The Unique Community and Experience of HBCU Golf

39:20 FAMU's Bright Future and How to Support HBCU Golf

THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY Kannon STUDIOS  @kannon_studios 

Listen to this podcast for free on Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tee-2-green-golf-podcast

Listen to this podcast for free on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5KlKUp2B8bXBXGBixO83lI

Follow FAMU Golf on Instagram: www.instagram.com/famu_golf

This episode of the Tee to Green Golf Podcast features an in-depth conversation with Rod Jackson, the founder and CEO of HBCU Golf.

The discussion explores the presence and significance of golf programs among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States, highlighting that out of over 100 HBCUs, 30 to 35 have golf programs. Rod shares his journey from being introduced to golf at a young age in Atlanta to establishing HBCU Golf, emphasizing the importance of the sport in providing academic and athletic opportunities for students of color and contributing to the sustainability and growth of HBCU golf programs.

The conversation also delves into the challenges and successes faced by HBCU golf programs, the impact of community support and celebrity involvement, and the future ambitions of HBCU Golf, notably in fundraising and expanding awareness. Additionally, the episode highlights HBCU Golf's merchandise as a means of supporting their mission and fostering community engagement.

Stay connected to HBCU Golf:

WEBSITE- https://hbcu.golf/

INSTAGRAM- https://www.instagram.com/hbcugolf/

Join us as we recap the Masters Tournament and talk through our predictions from last week's episode.

In this week's episode, we dive deep into our predictions for the Masters Tournament, along with Head Pro Hunter Clay.

In this episode, Victor Patterson reflects on his personal journey with golf, spanning over 20 years. He explores the profound power of golf beyond just a sport, discussing its role in building connections, strengthening mental fortitude, and fostering relationships. Through anecdotes and insights, he illustrates how golf serves as a platform for personal and professional growth, emphasizing its ability to transcend the boundaries of the course. Whether navigating the challenges of the game or leveraging its social dynamics, Patterson delves into the multifaceted impact of golf on individuals' lives, urging listeners to embrace its transformative potential beyond the greens.

Welcome back to another exciting episode of Tee 2 Green, where we dive deep into the world of golf, from the course to the clubhouse. I'm your host, Victor Patterson, and in today's episode, we have a special focus on the VCU Golf team. Joining us is the esteemed head golf coach, Andy Walker, to share insights into his journey from player to coach, the transformative experiences along the way, and how he coached a team from being ranked #137 to #38 in just 2 short years.

Coach Andy Walker's insights provide invaluable lessons not only for aspiring golfers but for individuals in any competitive arena. Confidence, awareness, resilience, and receptivity to feedback are traits that transcend the golf course and apply to life's broader challenges. As we continue to explore the world of golf and its profound impact, let's remember the wisdom shared by Coach Walker and strive to embody these principles in our own endeavors.

In this week's episode, we sit down with Hunter Clay, head professional at Bridge Mill Athletic Club, who shares insights into his journey in the golfing world. From his beginnings as a multi-sport athlete to his dedication to the game, Hunter's story offers inspiration for aspiring golfers and emphasizes the importance of perseverance and self-awareness. Join us as we explore the intersection of faith, competition, and personal growth in the life of this young but seasoned golf professional.

Welcome to Season 2024 of the TD Green Golf Podcast! Get ready for an exciting journey as we tee off with a pre and post round analysis of all four majors, featuring insights from a PGA pro.

Our partnership with the legends of the LPGA continues, bringing you exclusive content from the official senior tour. Delve into untold stories of golf's past, present, and lesser-known influencers, and join us as we chat with juniors, entrepreneurs, and celebrate the incredible women who shape the sport.

In this episode, we honor Women's History Month, recognizing pioneers like Renee Powell, Nancy Lopez, and Karrie Webb, along with contemporary influencers Lilia Vu, Nelly Korda, and Mariah Stackhouse.

As we gear up for an amazing season, we tip our hats to all women who play golf, past, present, and future. Join us on the journey to make Tee to Green Golf Podcast your preferred choice in the golf space. Hit it straight from Tee to green – see you in our next episode!

Founder/CEO Michael Chiong, a native of Chicago, Il, developed his passion for golf from "outside of the ropes". As his affinity grew, he learned about the sport, including its cost challenges, while playing some of Chicago's famous public courses. He channeled these experiences plus his entrepreneurial spirit to create EVNPAR Golf.

EVNPAR is an inclusive golf brand that creates premium golf gear and apparel. EVNPAR's vision is to build a thriving community representative of all who love the game of golf and to break down barriers to support Growing the Game.

Join the conversation as Michael and I discuss EVNPAR and the brand's future.

Par365 (www.par365golf.com)

The entrepreneurial pursuit of Mercedes and Thomas Jackson. A Twin Cities-based golf simulator and eatery, this new concept grow the game experience incorporates simulators, tasty food, multiple music genres and a passion for creating community through a great experience. Par365 is growing the game by extending invitations to non-golfers and golfers alike.

Join the conversation and prepare yourself for a trip to Minneapolis/St. Paul to meet the founders and share in their endeavor. 

The final event of the 2023 Legends of the LPGA Tour (Official Senior LPGA Tour) event took place from November 5- 7, 2023 at Cove Cay Golf Club, Clearwater, Florida. 

The multiple day event included an enthusiastic crowd while the Legends hosted a Junior Clinic and 36 hole competition. There was no shortage of quality golf over the two days and Leta Lindley outlasted the field to secure the victory.

In between events, Charlotta Sorenstam sat down with the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast to discuss golf, return from her injuries, motivation and the Legends of the LPGA.

Enjoy this episode as celebrate the Legends of the LPGA!

The Legends of the LPGA! The senior tour of the LPGA continues the rich history and legacy of some notable names. The Legends started in 2018 and continues to build momentum. 

The Legends of the LPGA Tour combines high quality golf plus the engaging, cordial approach of its members. Those members include Leta Lindley, Denise Killeen, Rosie Jones, Angela Stanford, Karrie Webb, Amy Alcott, Hollis Stacy and many more.

We talk to Leta Lindley on the eve of the tour's October 9- 11 metro Atlanta event. 

The 2023 Ryder Cup is near! Marco Simone Golf & Country Club, Rome, Italy is the host course.

The defending champions, United States Team, travels abroad with the Cup in hand. The prohibitive favorites and supported by the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR), they face the fact o not having won abroad since 1993.

The European Team, disheartened by a 19-9 defeat, has used the past year to strengthen their odds! A team lead by FedEx Cup Champion Viktor Hovland, McIlroy and Rahm adds newcomers Nicolai Hjogaard and Ludvig Aberg to form a very competitive group. They are looking for redemption and to ensure that home soil continues to favor them.

Join Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast as we ready you for the 2023 Ryder Cup! 

Coach Leonard Smoot. A Flint, Michigan native and veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

Coach Smoot is a trailblazer and one who embraces opportunity. A self-taught golfer, he became the first ever men's golf coach at Miles College, Birmingham, Alabama. Coach, also, blazed the trail for turning a dark moment in Shoal Creek's history and turning it into a bright one. He led the charge for Shoal Creek hosting the PGA Works Championship (formerly HBCU Championship) in 2023. It was a memorable event!

Join Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast as we sit down with Coach Leonard Smoot!

As the pandemic canvassed the United States, the sport of golf pondered what it's present and future would look like. Already addressing declining participation from the traditional model, the pandemic infused new entrants into the sport. 

One group credited with "saving" golf during that period was women golfers. This group has leaned into golf and fully embracing it. SisterGolf is a leading organization teaching the fundamentals of the sport, encouraging participation and educating on how to leverage golf professionally. 

Join Shella Sylla, founder and I as we discuss all things SisterGolf, her journey and the future of her organization.

Inspired by the African-American history in golf, the Solomon Hughes, Sr. Golf Academy was founded. An Alabama native but Twin Cities resident, Solomon Hughes, Sr. was a trailblazing human being, during the Ted Rhodes era, who paved the way for playing opportunities that people of color enjoy today.

The academy, Minneapolis-based, is continuing his legacy by embracing children of color, from underrepresented communities, in the Twin Cities and changing their arc of life. 

Join the conversation to learn more.

A textbook and flawless weekend of golf catapulted in a long shot into the Champion Golfer of the Year. Brian Harman started his ascension on Friday. He used Saturday and Sunday to become a first time major winner!

Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast captures Brian Harman's performance and other noteworthy stories from the 151st Open Championship.

The 151st playing of The Open Championship is being played at Royal Liverpool Golf Course. This year's tournament brings together competitive golfers from three tours (PGA, DP World Tour and LIV Golf). 

The defending champion, Cam Smith, returns and prepares to defend his title but there are many more interested in hoisting the trophy. Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast prepares you for the tournament with a preview episode, including our choices for potential victors. 

The Rocket Mortgage Classic and U.S. Women's Open provide golf fans with two exhilarating weeks. 

Wow! Years in the making, and arguably long overdue, a women's golf major was hosted at one of America's most notable and scenic courses. Four days of changing conditions and quality play led to Alisen Corpuz carving her name in golf history.

After a multi-year absence from winning a golf tournament that included multiple coach and life changes, Ricky Fowler stood tall with the trophy at the Rocket Mortgage Classic.

The 2023 PGA Championship hosted at Oak Hill Country Club, Rochester, NY lived up to the hype. The tournament's storylines included LIV Golf members, a resurging Jason Day, many of the usual golf headliners and recognizing the vast group of PGA Professionals.

Well, the tournament exceeded everything that preceded that Thursday round! The end included Brooks Koepka. LIV Golf..legit? Rory McIlroy...what should we expect going forward? And, Michael Brock? Yes, PGA Professional Michael Brock who was the star of the week!