The African American Golf EXPO & Forum is preparing for its 6th annual event and wants your input and suggestions on how this program can be its best. Email your ideas and recommendations directly to the Founder Jim Beatty at [email protected]
Tiger Woods, perhaps the most scrutinized golfer of his generation, has once again made headlines—this time not for winning tournaments, but for his latest romantic choice. In a plot twist no one saw coming (or maybe everyone did), Woods confirmed that he is dating Vanessa Trump, the former wife of Donald Trump Jr. Because apparently, life just isn’t interesting enough without adding another layer of reality-show drama to the mix.
In a grand romantic gesture, Woods took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce his new relationship, complete with strategically staged photos. “Love is in the air and life is better with you by my side!” he declared, as if he hadn’t just spent the last decade making headlines for a string of turbulent relationships. “At this time, we would appreciate privacy for all those close to our hearts.” Privacy? From the man who made a public spectacle of his personal life? Sure, Tiger.
Vanessa, of course, was previously married to Donald Trump’s eldest son, meaning Woods has officially entered the extended Trump orbit. What could possibly go wrong? Woods might want to keep that in mind.
This latest chapter in Woods’ personal saga joins a long list of headline-grabbing romances, from his high-profile divorce from Elin Nordegren after his infamous cheating scandal to relationships with Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn and ex-girlfriend Erica Herman, who later sued him (before dropping the case) over an alleged eviction from his home. As Maya Angelou wisely put it, “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.”
Love is in the air and life is better with you by my side! We look forward to our journey through life together. At this time we would appreciate privacy for all those close to our hearts. pic.twitter.com/ETONf1pUmI
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) March 23, 2025
bro?! pic.twitter.com/hPasWCaN2Q
— Huskies 🇺🇸🏆 (@maplefrosteds) March 24, 2025
Ashaunta Epps, will officially receive the Inaugural Carrie Russell Champion for Change Award at the 2025 LPGA We Are The Women in Golf Summit Presented by Titleist. This award recognizes her exceptional leadership in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within golf and Epps is a much-deserving recipient.
All women are invited to join the LPGA Amateurs and the LPGA Professionals in Daytona Beach at the Hard Rock Hotel and LPGA International Golf Course for the event summit from Saturday, May 17- Monday, May 19, 2025. Epps will be presented with the Carrie Russell Champion for Change Award on Sunday, May 18 at 8:30 a.m.
“The event is going to provide a unique up-close and personal networking experience of LPGA Professionals and Amateur golfers from around the world. It’s an opportunity to gain valuable golf tips and make life changing connections to assist you on and off the course,” states Epps. “I’m looking forward to engaging with golfers from around the world, sharing my golf journey and knowledge, as well as curating relationships with those who share the love of the game of golf.”
Ashaunta Epps embodies the very qualities the award seeks to celebrate. As the CEO and Founder of A Perfect Swing, Inc., Epps has made it her mission to continue making golf more accessible to everyone. She teaches the game as a vehicle for career advancement and personal development, particularly for youth in underserved communities, and even boasts a 99% college acceptance rate among her students.
Through her nonprofit foundation, she provides young people with opportunities to experience the game of golf while also teaching leadership and networking skills. Epps has introduced over 3,500 women and over 5,000 youth to the game of golf. Her innovative approach to her many programs blends her passion for golf with her dedication to growing the game. In 2024 she announced the Ashaunta A. Epps Educational Scholarship.
Her leadership in the LPGA is equally impressive. As an LPGA Class A Professionals Member, she has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the 2024 LPGA Southeast Section Junior Leader of the Year, 2022 and 2021 LPGA Southeast Section Professional of the Year, and 2020 Teacher of the Year. Her work as President of the LPGA Southeast Section and her involvement with national initiatives further highlight her influence in the golf community.
The 2025 LPGA We Are The Women in Golf Summit Presented by Titleist is a must-attend event for women looking to advance in the golf industry, both on and off the course. This inspiring summit brings together some of the most influential women in golf, offering a unique opportunity to network, learn, and be empowered. Attendees will hear from industry leaders, including LPGA professionals, business executives, and trailblazing athletes, who will share their insights on career growth, leadership, and the evolving role of women in golf.
Epps is deeply committed to giving back to the game that has shaped her journey. She actively mentors numerous golf professionals and played a key role in launching the LPGA Professionals Career Fair. Each year, she organizes the “Monday Before the Show” Golf and Networking event, bringing together professionals and amateur golfers from across the country to celebrate the contributions of Black female golf pioneers. Additionally, she has been a driving force behind many of the LPGA Professionals’ DEI initiatives, helping to create a more inclusive and equitable golf industry.
Beyond her achievements in golf, Epps is a dedicated leader and advocate in the broader community. She mentors and empowers young people, particularly women and minorities, through initiatives like the Coalition for Teens Helping Teens and Polished Pearls Leadership Seminars for Teen Girls. Her passion for leadership development and community engagement highlights her commitment to shaping the next generation and ensuring that golf remains accessible to all.
The event showcases some of the most influential women in golf, including actress, author, and speaker Stephanie Szostak. LPGA pioneer and former tour player Pat Bradley, who is also a World Golf Hall of Fame member, will be in attendance. Vision54 co-founders Lynn Marriott and Pia Nilsson, both LPGA professionals, will also be featured. Jody Jackson, an LPGA professional, performance coach, and technical lead of instruction for the Global Education Team, will share her expertise. Nancy Henderson, the chief teaching officer and president of the LPGA Foundation, will be among the distinguished participants. Additionally, Marvol Barnard, past LPGA Professionals National President and a PGA-certified teaching and coaching expert, will contribute to the event’s lineup , along with several other industry notables.
The summit provides valuable professional development sessions, mentorship opportunities, and discussions on topics such as breaking barriers, personal branding, and increasing diversity in the sport. Whether you’re a player, coach, business professional, or simply passionate about golf, this event is designed to inspire and equip you with the tools to succeed.
By attending, women will connect with a supportive community that champions their success in the golf world. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the movement shaping the future of women in golf! This one-of-a-kind conference includes an optional Pro-Am, optional golf, instruction, and MORE! Register at https://lpgaamateurs.com/lpga-golf-summit/
Norman Black, a professional golfer from Tampa, Florida, was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, and has been immersed in the sport since childhood. His introduction to golf came at the age of three, guided by his father Mr. James Black, a pioneering African American golfer who taught himself how to play while caddying for white men during the 60s, and went on to break Tiger Woods-level barriers for Black professional golfers long before Tiger Woods. Mr. Black competed on the PGA Tour in the 60s and was inducted into the National Black Golf Hall of Fame. He passed away on June 22, 2023 at age 81.
Norman credits his father not only for teaching him the fundamentals of the game but also for instilling in him a deep respect for its history and traditions. “My father was a trailblazer, and his journey taught me that perseverance is everything in this sport,” he reflects.
From an early age, Norman displayed a passion for competition, playing in junior tournaments and later joining The First Tee Program in Tampa. He was the only one among his siblings to pursue golf professionally, turning pro in 2019 after years of success in amateur events. His professional debut was marked by a top-10 finish at an Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour event at Innisbrook Copperhead, an experience that confirmed his ability to compete at an elite level.
The APGA Tour, founded in 2010, is dedicated to providing more opportunities for minority golfers and promoting greater diversity in the sport. It has been instrumental in Norman’s development, allowing him to refine his game while competing against other talented players. He has also competed on the West Florida Professional Golf Tour, a developmental circuit designed to help players gain competitive experience. “Every event I play in is a stepping stone toward my ultimate goal,” Norman says. “I’ve learned that patience and persistence are key to climbing the ranks.”
>>YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: THE JAMES BLACK FOUNDATION
One of Norman’s most significant career milestones came in October 2024 when he secured his Asian Tour status through Qualifying School at Soboba Springs, California. The Asian Tour, recognized as a pathway to international competition, has given him the opportunity to test his skills against a global field. More recently, he added another victory to his résumé by winning a West Florida Professional Tour event at Countryside Country Club. Reflecting on that achievement, he says, “Winning at Countryside was special because it reinforced that my hard work is paying off.”
Outside of golf, Black is a devoted father to his four-year-old daughter, Elliyah. He prioritizes spending time with her and maintaining peak physical condition through rigorous training. While not married, he remains focused on both his personal and professional growth. “Golf is my passion, but being a father is my greatest responsibility,” he shares.
Looking ahead, Black has set his sights on earning his PGA Tour card within the next three to five years, a goal that drives his daily training and competitive mindset. With the continued support of his family and faith, he remains determined to break barriers and leave a lasting impact on the sport. “My journey is just beginning, and I know the best is yet to come,” he says. Stay in step with Norman by following him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/normanblackgolf/
Looking forward to that extra evening sunlight? Good news—daylight saving time is here. And guess who else is loving it? The golf industry, which is lobbying harder for permanent daylight saving time than your friend who insists a “gimme’ in golf is okay.
Golf course owners are adamant that this time change is not just about the joy of slicing a ball into the trees at 7 p.m.—it’s about cold, hard cash. Those late afternoon golfers? They’re the ones keeping clubhouses buzzing, beer taps flowing, and snack bars alive. “We would lose 100 tee times a day if daylight saving time goes away,” lamented Connor Farrell, general manager of Stone Creek Golf Course in Omaha. That’s half a million dollars lost annually—roughly the cost of a new country club membership and three rounds of drinks at the bar.
Surprisingly, golf has a long history of meddling with our clocks. In 1905, British builder and avid golfer William Willett had the revolutionary idea: “Why not shift time itself so we can play more golf?” Okay, that’s not a direct quote, but it might as well be. The U.S. eventually took his advice, first during World War I, then again in World War II, and later in 1966 with the Uniform Time Act. By the 1980s, golf lobbyists helped extend daylight saving by a whole month—because heaven forbid anyone has to play nine holes in the dark.
But let’s be real, not everyone is thrilled about adjusting their sleep schedules twice a year. Americans are over losing an hour of precious slumber in the spring, only to be met with winter nights that feel like they belong in a dystopian novel. Over the years, more than 20 states have passed measures to make daylight saving time permanent, largely thanks to—you guessed it—golf industry lobbyists. On the other side of the debate, sleep scientists insist that permanent standard time would improve health and safety. But are they considering the emotional devastation of missing out on post-work putts?
Nebraska is currently wrestling with competing bills that would make either standard or daylight saving time permanent. Joe Kohout, a lobbyist for the Nebraska Golf Alliance, is firmly in the “more daylight = more golf = happier people” camp. He warns that without those extra evening hours, some Nebraska courses could face financial ruin. The Utah Golf Association has joined the fight, arguing that keeping clocks as they are ensures people can enjoy their post-work rounds, backyard barbecues, and attempts at DIY home projects they’ll never finish.
Meanwhile, Indiana state senator (and former golf course owner) Linda Rogers is passionately defending daylight saving, pointing out that it benefits all outdoor activities, not just golf. “Daylight saving time allows someone who worked until 5 o’clock to come out and still play at least nine holes,” she explains. Let’s be honest, that sounds like the most compelling argument yet.
The National Golf Course Owners Association recently took a poll on the issue. The verdict? A whopping majority prefers either permanent daylight saving time or keeping things as they are. A mere 6% supported permanent standard time—presumably those golfers who enjoy teeing off before the rooster crows.
Even though golf advocates are pushing hard for daylight saving time to stick around forever, the industry is playing it safe. Jay Karen, CEO of the National Golf Course Owners Association, admits that while losing those long summer evenings would be devastating for thousands of courses, pushing for permanent daylight saving time might backfire for early-morning golfers who like to beat the heat. “We feel like status quo is no harm, no foul,” he shrugs.
Meanwhile, in Iowa, Rep. John Wills introduced a bill for permanent daylight saving time—until he was bombarded with arguments about how it could negatively affect golf. The sport’s influence runs deep, folks.
As comedian Anthony Anderson wisely said, “You can’t spell ‘golf’ without ‘go,’ and that’s exactly what I do when someone invites me to play.” Whether you love it or have only ever touched a golf club in mini-golf, one thing is clear: the fate of daylight saving time could very well be decided on the fairway.
Oh, and fun fact—daylight saving time starts this weekend. So don’t forget to change your clocks, unless you want to show up an hour early to everything and feel personally victimized by time itself.
Charlie Sifford was the first Black golfer to compete on the PGA Tour. He earned his first PGA victory in 1967 at the Greater Hartford Open, held at Wethersfield Country Club in Connecticut. To honor his legacy, a scholarship has been established to assist students with college expenses. This scholarship is available to students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) or those pursuing a degree in a golf management program. Any student who is currently enrolled or planning to attend college is eligible to apply.
The Dr. Charles L. Sifford Scholarship is awarded annually to help cover tuition costs for students attending HBCUs. The Sifford HBCU Scholarship provides financial assistance to graduating high school seniors and undergraduate students with financial need who are enrolled at an HBCU. Additionally, the Sifford Golf Management Scholarship is available to students pursuing an accredited PGA of America golf management program. Five or more scholarships will be awarded each year, with selected recipients receiving a one-year, $5,000 scholarship.
The application process for the 2025 scholarship cycle begins on February 15, 2025. Applications close on May 5, 2025, with the review process taking place from May 5 to June 1, 2025. Scholarship recipients will be announced in early June 2025.
The Travelers Championship, in partnership with Skins and Pins Golf Club, are the founding sponsors of the Sifford Scholarship Fund. The Cobbs Creek Foundation serves as the fiscal sponsor of the fund. Cobbs Creek Golf Course in Philadelphia was Dr. Sifford’s home course.
For more information and to apply, visit https://siffordscholars.com.
Ulysses Lee “Junior” Bridgeman Jr., a basketball standout who led Louisville to a Final Four, played 12 seasons in the NBA and then launched an even more successful career as a businessman with stakes in publishing, restaurants and a minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, died on March 11. He was 71.
Born in East Chicago, Indiana, to Ulysses Lee Bridgeman Sr., a steel mill worker, and Delores (Meaders) Bridgeman, a homemaker. He attended Washington High School and was a member of their 1971 basketball team, which went undefeated (29–0) and won the Indiana state high school basketball championship.
Bridgeman played 12 seasons in the NBA before amassing a business empire that made him one of the wealthiest former athletes in the world. Following his career, Bridgeman owned hundreds of fast-food restaurants, eventually went on to own 500 Wendy’s and Chili’s restaurants across the country. became a Coca-Cola bottler and distributor, and acquired Ebony and Jet magazines. Despite never making more than $350,000 a season during his NBA career, Bridgeman had a net worth of over $1.4 billion, making him just one of just four professional athletes in the world to reach the status, according to a recent profile in Forbes magazine, behind Arnold Palmer, David Beckham and Michael Jordan.
Bridgeman served on several of Louisville’s board chairs and was also a co-owner of the Valhalla Golf Club. He served on the PGA of America Board of Directors from 2008 until 2012.
“Heartbroken over the sudden loss of my friend Junior Bridgeman who I worked with when he joined the PGA of America board. He appreciated the value of PGA Professionals and the game. He is one of the most successful businesspeople post their athletic career….he was a gentle giant of a man. He will be greatly missed,” said Joe Sterranka, Global Sports & Media Strategist on his LinkedIn post.
According to reports, Bridgeman’s cause was a cardiac event, a family spokesman said. Mr. Bridgeman had been talking to a reporter for a local television station during a fundraiser charity event at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville, KY when the 71-year-old grabbed his chest and said he thought he was having a heart attack. Medical personnel were called to the scene and the room was cleared, the spokesman said, and he was taken to a hospital, where he died.
Bridgeman was a fixture in Louisville (KY) after his playing days, and Mayor Craig Greenberg announced his death, saying the city had “lost a kind, generous and groundbreaking legend.”
“He was an All-American at U of L, an NBA All-Star and a self-made billionaire,” Greenberg said in a statement. “Yet I will most remember Junior Bridgeman for his quiet, impactful assistance to others in need” as well as his love for his family and his “never-ending support for our community.”
All women are invited to join the LPGA Amateurs and the LPGA Professionals in Daytona Beach at the Hard Rock Hotel and LPGA International Golf Course on May 17-19, 2025 for the LPGA We Are the Women in Golf Summit.
The event showcases some of the most influential women in golf, including actress, author, and speaker Stephanie Szostak. LPGA pioneer and former tour player Pat Bradley, who is also a World Golf Hall of Fame member, will be in attendance. Vision54 co-founders Lynn Marriott and Pia Nilsson, both LPGA professionals, will also be featured. Jody Jackson, an LPGA professional, performance coach, and technical lead of instruction for the Global Education Team, will share her expertise. Nancy Henderson, the chief teaching officer and president of the LPGA Foundation, will be among the distinguished participants. Additionally, Marvol Barnard, the LPGA Professionals past National President and a PGA-certified teaching and coaching expert, will contribute to the event’s lineup.
Ashaunta Epps, LPGA Class A Professionals Member, will be presented with the Carrie Russell Champion for Change Award on Sunday, May 18 at 8:30 a.m. This award recognizes her exceptional leadership in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within golf and Epps is a much-deserving recipient.
This one-of-a-kind conference includes an optional Pro-Am, optional golf, instruction, and MORE! Register at https://lpgaamateurs.com/lpga-golf-summit/
“Big” George Foreman, one of boxing’s most iconic and influential figures, passed away on Friday at the age of 76, his family announced on social media.
Foreman, a two-time heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist, was a towering presence in the sport. He gained global recognition for his legendary 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle” fight against Muhammad Ali in Zaire, where he suffered a stunning eighth-round knockout loss. That bout remains one of boxing’s most historic moments, immortalized in the Oscar-winning documentary When We Were Kings.
Foreman first captured the heavyweight title in 1973 by defeating Joe Frazier in a dominant second-round stoppage. However, after losing to Ali and competing in a series of classic bouts—including a dramatic fifth-round knockout of Ron Lyle—he retired unexpectedly in 1977 at the age of 28, pursuing a new life as a minister in Texas.
A decade later, at 38, Foreman stunned the sports world by returning to the ring. Initially dismissed as a novelty, he soon proved his comeback was serious, pushing Evander Holyfield to the limit in a 1991 title fight. Though he lost, he remained undeterred. Then, in 1994, at age 45, Foreman achieved the unimaginable—knocking out Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight crown. He became the oldest world champion in boxing history, a record that stood for 20 years.
Beyond boxing, Foreman found massive success as a commentator and entrepreneur. The George Foreman Grill, launched in 1994, became a household staple, selling over 100 million units. In 1999, he sold the grill’s commercial rights for $138 million.
Foreman’s final fight was a 1997 loss to Shannon Briggs. He later worked as an HBO analyst for over a decade, solidifying his legacy in and out of the ring.
Willie Lee Simmons, Jr. was born on August 15, 1930, in West Monroe, LA. Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Willie L. Simmons, Sr. and Addie Lee Hill Simmons. Willie had one older brother, the late Chester Simmons. Willie lived in West Monroe through 1943. The family moved to Oakland, CA, where Willie graduated from McClymonds High School in 1948. In 1953, Willie married Pauline Nichols, and the couple had five children: Lorraine, Lorreta, Linda, Willie III, and LaVerne.
Educaton: Willie continued his education at Sacramento Junior College (now Sacramento City College), where he majored in Music and minored in Business Administration. He later graduated from Grant Technical College (now American River College) with an Associate in Arts degree in 1955.
Church: Willie joined the Shiloh Baptist Church in Sacramento, in 1947, and was a member of the Male Chorus since 1965.
Music: Willie started private music lessons at age 8 and began playing music professionally at age 15. He led his own band (Willie Simmons Plus Combo) for more than 20 years.
Military/Government Service: In 1950, Willie began his Federal Civil Service Career with the U.S. Department of Defense at the Sacramento Army Depot. He was drafted to the U.S. Army where he served at Fort Ord, CA which included a tour to Germany, England, and France. Willie also participated on the U.S. Army Championship Basketball Teams at Fort Ord and in Europe. After spending time in the military, Willie resumed his civil service career at the Army Depot, then transferred to McClellan Air Force Base.
At McClellan Air Force Base, he was integrally involved with the research and development of a key satellite guidance and intercept system that was used for the landing of some of the earlier NASA Space Shuttle flights. The same system was later upgraded with laser technology, deployed, and used during the 1990-91 Persian Gulf War to intercept Iraq’s “SKUD Missiles”. While his government service required extensive travel, Willie stayed in touch with family and friends, especially while traveling. Willie retired in January 1986 with 36 years of service.
Community Service: Willie served in various positions in Sacramento, which benefited the community. Some of the positions include: President of the Oak Park Little League (5 years); Member of the City of Sacramento’s Oak Park Project Area Committee administrating Community Block Grant Funds for Oak Park Area improvements (15 years); Chairperson of Oak Park Neighborhood Multi-Service Center’s Prevention Policy Board (16 years); Board Member of Project Help, a community-based board that provides information and guidance regarding the effects of the use of alcohol, drugs and substance abuse (6 years).
Most notably, Willie influenced the approval of $75,000 in Community Development Block Grant Funds for improvement to the athletic grounds located in the C. K. McClatchy Park, resulting in a state-of-the-art athletic facility. Throughout Willie’s adult life, he has received numerous awards and commendations from local/national dignitaries and organizations for his community service, dedication to the community, and impact on the world of golf.
Golf: Willie was a charter founding member of “The Sacramento Counts” Social Club (1956), which now operates as the Sacramento Area Black Golf Club. Willie was selected as an Editorial Advisory Board Member of the African American Golfer’s Digest (2007). The publicaton informs and educates readers on golf news as it impacts the Black American golfer. In 1990 Willie founded the Northern California Minority Junior Golf Scholarship Association (NCMJGSA). The corporation’s mission is to enrich the lives of minority and underprivileged youth in the Greater Sacramento Area by exposing them to the wonderful game of golf. More than 1,800 youth (ages 7-17) have attended the Golf Training program and 150 youth have received financial assistance via the corporation’s Collegiate Academic Scholarship Program (awards are paid up to 5 years per student).
Willie leaves to cherish his memory: Pauline, his wife of 71 years, children Lorraine Simmons, Lorreta Simmons, Linda Simmons, Willie Simmons III, and LaVerne Simmons-Barnet, grandchildren Charles White-Simmons, Regina Hill, and Thomas Barnet; and many more family members, friends in the Sacramento community, and colleagues in local/national golf associations.
You may know the Vital twins for their numerous achievements on the golf course—winning the Augusta National Drive, Chip & Putt Championship, breaking Sam Snead’s course record, and securing the PA State Junior Championship, among many others. Now, when they’re taking a break from Division 1 golf and academics at Temple University, they’ve teamed up with their dad to share the homemade training aids that helped them succeed.
Their first official product, The TACO (The Arm-Body Connection Optimizer), is designed to help golfers develop a more consistent, powerful, and repeatable swing.
“I’ve been using this training aid since I was six years old, and it helped me become a more accurate golfer. Keeping the upper arms and chest connected throughout the swing promotes consistency and power. My dad learned this technique from studying Calvin Peete’s swing and Ben Hogan’s teachings.” – Michael Vital
Staying connected in the golf swing is a common struggle for both amateurs and professionals, who often rely on various training aids to improve. The TACO is a simple yet highly effective tool made with premium materials to help golfers achieve the ideal arm-body connection.
“In golf, where every stroke counts, consistency and power are key. Many training aids promise to transform your game, but few are as simple and effective as the TACO.” – Matthew Vital
The TACO is easy to use—just slip it around your neck and start practicing. It shortens the learning curve and helps you feel what a properly connected swing should be like.
And how did it get its name? The twins’ mom coined it! While explaining the device to her, she noted that it resembled a taco. The name stuck, and the TACO was born.
Proudly made in the USA by a diverse team, a portion of proceeds from each sale supports the twins’ golf journey and nonprofit initiatives. With more training aids in development, they are committed to helping golfers of all levels improve their game. The TACO Golf Training Aid is $39.99 and available now at TACOgolfswingtrainer.com. Instagram
VIEW VIDEO OF THE TACO GOLF TRAINING AID
San Francisco, CA – March 19, 2025 – Stephen Curry’s groundbreaking UNDERRATED Golf Tour is back for its fourth season in the U.S., once again with the support of KPMG LLP, the U.S. audit, tax and advisory firm. UNDERRATED Golf is a purpose-driven business endeavor with the overarching commitment to provide equity, access and opportunity to student-athletes from every community. KPMG contributes its business leadership capabilities as part of its title sponsorship of UNDERRATED Golf with the goal of providing development opportunities for the student-athletes that extend beyond the golf course, including KPMG Leadership Development Day.
“Each year, the UNDERRATED Golf Tour continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible for young golfers who may not have traditionally had access to the game,” said Stephen Curry. “With the continued support of KPMG, we are creating lasting opportunities that extend well beyond the golf course. We’re excited to bring the Curry Cup to the Liberty National Golf Club this fall. I’ve had the opportunity to play this special course and thank the Liberty National Foundation for its strong partnership. I can’t wait to see what this next generation of players will accomplish.”
A National Tour With a Mission
For each U.S. Tour stop, 96 athletes will participate in tournament style events and team building activities while simultaneously networking with college golf coaches and golf executives. The U.S. portion of the UNDERRATED Golf Season 4 Tour will consist of four regional stops at some of the most prestigious courses in the U.S. The tour gives many young golfers their first opportunity to play on an established professional course, with stops including:
- June 23-25 | Eisenhower Golf Course at the Air Force Academy; Colorado Springs, CO
- July 2-4 | The Pete Dye Course at French Lick; French Lick, IN
- July 16-18 | The Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA WEST; Palm Springs, CA
- August 4-6 | Dye’s Valley & THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass; Vedra Beach, FL
- September 10-12 | Curry Cup – Liberty National Golf Club, Jersey City, NJ
The season will culminate with the Curry Cup, where the top boys and girls from the tour will compete for the ultimate title at Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, NJ. One of the world’s most iconic golf locales, Liberty is located along the Hudson River, with striking views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Manhattan skyline. Liberty National hosted The Presidents Cup in 2017 as well as multiple PGA TOUR FedExCup Playoff, LPGA and amateur/youth golf events.
“We are thrilled to host the Curry Cup at Liberty National this year and in the future and are extremely proud to support the UNDERRATED Golf Tour with this multi-year agreement to host the Curry Cup and provide financial support to bolster their mission of growing the game for all,” said Dan Fireman, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Liberty National Golf Club. “Partnering with Stephen and UNDERRATED was a natural fit, as we both share the common goal of providing young golfers with the opportunity to compete and thrive, while breaking down barriers within our sport and beyond. We look forward to hosting these talented athletes and showcasing their immense talent.”
Earlier this year, it was announced that the top boy and girl winners of both London and Scotland UNDERRATED Golf European Tournaments will earn the opportunity to travel to the United States to compete in the prestigious Curry Cup. The Curry Cup will offer the winners of the UNDERRATED Golf European Tour a shot at competing against top-tier players in an exhilarating finale that promises to be a can’t-miss event for both fans and players alike.
“The Curry Cup is the ultimate goal for many of these golfers, and I’m excited to see how they’ll perform when everyone comes together in September for a final showdown,” added Curry. “This is about more than just winning—it’s about bringing fresh talent to the forefront, inspiring the next generation of golfers, and showcasing the diversity of the game. We want the UNDERRATED Golf Tour to be a stepping stone for these young players to take their game to new heights.”
Mariah Stackhouse to Serve as UNDERRATED Golf Brand Ambassador and Host of KPMG Leadership Development Day
Additionally, LPGA Tour player and KPMG brand ambassador Mariah Stackhouse will once again serve as the UNDERRATED Golf brand ambassador for the U.S. Tour, where she’ll host KPMG Leadership Development Day. Taking place at the season-ending Curry Cup, KPMG Leadership Development Day focuses on developing valuable skills student-athletes will need to become leaders in any field they choose to pursue and features workshops led by industry leaders and professional athletes.
Over the last several years, Mariah’s off-the-course endeavors have focused on empowering young athletes to become leaders on and off the course.
“I am incredibly proud of how UNDERRATED Golf and KPMG are helping these student-athletes shine both on and off the golf course,” Stackhouse said. “As someone who was once in the same shoes as these young men and women, the continued emphasis on developing the whole individual, and not just the athlete, is paramount. It’s been a privilege to be a part of this program for the last two years and I am excited to see what new heights we can reach in the upcoming season.”
“We are honored to continue working alongside Stephen Curry and his team and Mariah Stackhouse to offer young golfers skill building and leadership development opportunities to help them become future leaders in the careers they choose to pursue,” said KPMG U.S. Chair and CEO Paul Knopp.
For more information, please visit www.stayunderrated.com, and connect on social media via Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
ABOUT UNDERRATED
UNDERRATED is an inspiring lifestyle brand with a mission to empower underrated and underrepresented individuals all over the world. With a passion for celebrating the underdog, UNDERRATED echoes this message across three main categories including experiences, media and physical product. The brand, which was established by Stephen Curry in 2019, draws on the revered NBA Champion’s personal story as an underappreciated three-star athlete in high school who always stood in the shadows of his peers. As a powerful culmination of this inspiring journey to the top, UNDERRATED is committed to opening doors for often-overlooked student-athletes by developing impactful basketball programming, and fostering a platform for visibility through the UNDERRATED Championships, which create opportunities for players to be recognized by key figures. Based in the Bay Area, UNDERRATED is a mindset, a motivation, a calling, a compliment. For more information, please visit www.stayunderrated.com, and connect on social media via Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.