I grew up playing golf and perhaps my greatest athletic achievement was having the opportunity to play in high school in 1969. Although it has been many years since I played golf, I still follow the sport avidly and am looking forward to the opportunity to be a volunteer walking scorer at the Betty Lou Evans Invitational Tournament hosted by the University of Kentucky women's golf team next month.
I was fortunate enough to cover many of the Kentucky amateur tournaments that Evans competed in and had the opportunity to get to know the former Kentucky women's coach.
That's why when we received information from the Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame about its 2024 inductee class, we knew we had to share it with you.
Eddie Mudd
Eddie's playing resume is truly remarkable. In a career spanning over 30 years, he has always displayed exceptional skill and sportsmanship on the golf course. His accomplishments include OVC Conference Champion, National Public Links Champion, six-time Kentucky Senior Player of the Year, two-time Kentucky Senior Open Champion and induction into the Morehead State University Athletics Hall of Fame.
Beyond his personal success, Eddie is also a true ambassador for golf. He has been active in growing the sport and nurturing the next generation of golfers through his involvement in various golf associations, mentoring young players, and organizing charity events. He has been a dedicated coach, mentor, and role model to aspiring golfers, providing guidance and support to help them reach their full potential. His involvement in local golf organizations and committees has played a key role in shaping the golfing landscape in Kentucky. As Golf Director for the Kentucky State Park System, he was instrumental in opening new and improved golf courses throughout the state. Throughout his life, he has made golf accessible to everyone, young and old, rich and poor. Eddie believes that everyone should have the opportunity to play golf.
“Eddie's integrity, professionalism and passion for the game have made him a respected figure in the golf community. He embodies the values and spirit of the Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame and his induction is a testament to his incredible career and lasting impact on the game of golf. The greatest thing about Mr. Mudd's career is helping countless young golfers hone their skills, many of whom went on to become collegiate golfers, professional golfers and accomplished teaching and club professionals. He did all of this humbly, without fanfare or fanfare.”
Velvet (Jones) Milkman
She began her golf career as a junior golfer in Kentucky and won the KHSAA State Championship as an individual in 1981. This allowed her to earn a scholarship to play golf at the University of Alabama. After college, Milkman worked in the golf industry before returning to Murray, Kentucky, to start the women's Murray State University golf program in 1993. She led the program solo until her retirement in 2022. During her tenure at MSU, Milkman led the Racers to 12 OVC titles and produced 12 OVC individual champions, 53 All-OVC players, and eight players who competed in the professional ranks. Milkman served a four-year term on the NCAA Women's Golf Committee (two years as chair) and was the recipient of the 2021 Gladys Palmer Lifetime Achievement Award from her peers. She was inducted into the WGCA Hall of Fame in 2021.
“Velvet Milkman is not only the best coach I have ever had (MSU 1996-2000), but she is also a mentor and a great friend. She taught me what it means to be a leader, a coach and a strong woman while also being compassionate and caring for others. One of Velvet's proudest accomplishments is the fact that every player who was on the MSU women's golf team for four years graduated with a degree. While this isn't always the case, Velvet always emphasized the importance of education. She made it a priority for her players to excel not only on the golf course but in the classroom first and foremost. Velvet knows how to bring out the best in you in all aspects of life. She is your biggest cheerleader and proudest fan. She makes everyone feel important and valued.”
Young's golf journey began at the high school level, where she displayed exceptional talent and enthusiasm from an early age. She joined the team in her senior year and quickly rose through the ranks, helping her team win numerous victories and state titles. Her passion for the sport was clear and her drive to succeed was unmatched.
Whitney continued her career at the University of Georgia, further solidifying her status as a standout player. Her time at college was marked by numerous accolades and achievements, showcasing her talents on a bigger stage and earning her well-deserved recognition in the golfing world. But Whitney's career didn't end there. Moving to the professional level, she continued to excel, winning multiple tournaments including the Kentucky, Ohio and Colorado Opens and the LPGA DuraMed Championship, as well as earning a membership on the LPGA Tour. Her success on the professional stage is a testament to her skill, determination and tenacity.
Beyond her accomplishments on the course, Whitney's impact extends far beyond her playing career: as head coach of the University of Louisville women's golf team, she is developing the next generation of golfers, instilling in them the same values of integrity, sportsmanship and passion that have defined her own life.
“In addition to her incredible accomplishments, Whitney is an exemplary person. Her warmth, compassion and genuine care for others make her not only a great athlete, but a great person. Her positive impact extends beyond the golf course, touching the lives of those fortunate enough to know her.”
George “GG” Johnson (1938-2014)
In the 20th century, young black Americans defied all prejudice and discrimination to become involved in a sport that was considered “white.” George “GG” Johnson was born in Columbus, Georgia in 1938. He became a caddie at age 15, working at the segregated golf courses in his hometown. After graduating from high school, Johnson moved to Atlanta, where he played on the African-American golf tour and won numerous tournaments. He received training in golf management from the Professional Golf Association of America, becoming one of the first African-Americans to earn PGA membership in 1968.
Johnson was also a professional golfer, playing in the U.S. Open in 1965. In 1971, he won the Azalea Open, becoming the fourth African-American to win on the PGA Tour. At a time when many blacks were not allowed to play golf, Johnson broke those barriers by playing on the PGA Tour. Johnson and his family moved to Louisville, Kentucky in 1997, where he became the first black head golf professional in Kentucky at Bobby Nichols Golf Course. In 1998, he started the annual George “GG” Johnson Golf Scramble for young people interested in golf and volunteered at First Tee Louisville. In 2008, he was inducted into the African-American Golfers Hall of Fame. He combined his love of golf and children, teaching many young people that anyone, regardless of race or background, can love, enjoy, and succeed in the great sport of golf. Despite his death in 2014, Johnson's legacy lives on every day.
“Though Kentuckians never got to see his golfing prime, 'GG' contributed to the quality of life and golf in our state for almost two decades. He made sure to attend weekly events for the Urban Youth Golf Program. His smile and laughter were contagious, and young players couldn't wait to meet him, hear his stories and learn the life lessons that golf had given him.”
More details regarding the 2024 Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be announced in the coming weeks.
