NewsSlider

Charlie Sifford Foundation Continues The Legacy of a Golf Icon

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

The Charlie Sifford Foundation is dedicated to continuing the legacy of Charlie Sifford, the first African American to break the PGA Tour’s color barrier. The foundation focuses on increasing diversity in golf by providing scholarships, access to resources, and opportunities for young minority golfers.

Born in 1922 in North Carolina, Sifford grew up caddying and teaching himself the game. Despite racial barriers, he excelled and won multiple tournaments in segregated golf leagues. In 1961, after years of struggle, he became the first Black golfer to earn a PGA Tour card. He went on to win the Greater Hartford Open (1967) and the Los Angeles Open (1969), proving his skill despite facing discrimination.

Sifford’s perseverance inspired future generations, including Tiger Woods, who called him a pioneer. In 2004, he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame, and in 2014, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama.

Reflecting on his journey, Sifford once said: “I wasn’t just trying to do this for me, I was trying to do it for the world.”

How to Reach the Charlie Sifford Foundation

For more information, donations, or support, you can visit the foundation’s website at https://siffordscholars.com or contact them through their official social media channels. Sifford’s story remains one of resilience, proving that golf—and all sports—should be open to everyone .

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
CareerNewsSlider

Elevate Your Golf Career with the 2025 Royal and Ancient Golf Club Scholarship (Deadline: March 12)

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

Applications are now open for the 2025 Royal and Ancient Golf Club Scholarship, designed to identify and nurture the next generation of golf’s leaders. Last year saw the successful launch of the Scholarship – a collaboration between The R&A Foundation and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews. The program not only includes generous financial support for young individuals keen to commit their talents and energies to the future of golf, but connects them to other like-minded individuals and to The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews through mentorship from its members. The Scholarship is open to ages 18–29 and applications are open until Wednesday 12 March. Learn more HERE

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
NewsWomen's Round

Why Women Should Watch Jamie Taylor’s “What to Wear” Video

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff
Jamie Taylor gives expert advice on what to wear on the golf course.

Golf can be an intimidating sport for beginners, and knowing what to wear is often one of the first challenges. Should you go for comfort or style? Do you need different outfits for different seasons? How do you dress for changing weather conditions without sacrificing performance? LPGA Teaching Professional Jamie Taylor has the answers in this must-watch video, “What to Wear.”

With over 25 years of industry experience this Founder of the Black Golf Directory has played hundreds of rounds in a variety of climates. Her expert advice will help you feel confident and prepared, whether you’re heading to your first lesson or a weekend round with friends. This video takes the guesswork out of golf attire, covering seasonal must-haves, layering techniques, and practical outfit tips to ensure you’re comfortable, stylish, and course-appropriate.

If you’re new to golf or simply want to refine your wardrobe, Jamie’s insights will save you time, money, and frustration. Don’t let confusion about clothing hold you back from enjoying the game! Watch “What to Wear” and start showing up to the course with confidence. Follow Jamie on Instagram @jamiegolf for even more expert tips!

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Golfer Of The WeekNewsSlider

Danny List’s Journey from Ghana to the Genesis Invitational

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Danny List, the latest recipient of the Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption, has taken an extraordinary path to professional golf. Unlike his predecessors, List’s story is one of global roots, perseverance, and a relentless passion for the game.

Born in Macon, Georgia, to an Australian father and Ghanaian mother, List was raised in Accra, Ghana, where golf was an uncommon pursuit for children. Despite this, he developed a deep obsession with the sport, often competing—and winning—against adult players at the age of eight. His local course, Achimota Golf Club, had no driving range and featured sand greens that had to be smoothed with a carpet after each round. Yet, List thrived in this rugged environment.

Danny List

List’s talent earned him a scholarship to Wellington College in the UK, a prestigious boarding school with its own golf course. In a high-pressure one-round competition, he shot even par for the first time in his life, securing his place. By 14, he won the European Junior Championship and later became National High School Champion in 2015 and 2016.

Danny List

For college, List chose the University of Washington, but after struggling academically, he left to pursue professional golf. With no guaranteed tour status, he played under the Australian flag and took occasional starts on PGA Tour Latinoamérica and PGA Tour Canada, though he made few cuts. He also had two Korn Ferry Tour starts, failing to make the weekend both times. In 2024, he secured a third-place finish on the Challenge Tour in South Africa, though he missed the cut in a DP World Tour event in Qatar before making a 13,000-mile journey to San Diego for the Genesis Invitational.

Back home in Ghana, List’s success is celebrated by his community and the 40 junior golfers supported by the Danny List Foundation, which he founded to nurture young talent. Understanding the challenges of golf accessibility in Ghana, he is committed to providing equipment, resources, and inspiration for the next generation.

List’s journey, from Ghana’s underdeveloped courses to competing on golf’s biggest stages, embodies the spirit of perseverance and opportunity—values at the heart of the Charlie Sifford Exemption. The Genesis Invitational will take place from February 13–16, 2025, at Torrey Pines South Course, La Jolla, California with a total purse of $20,000,000.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
News

Ted Rhodes Foundation Launches Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser in Honor of Black History Month

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Chicago, IL – February 12, 2025 – The Ted Rhodes Foundation proudly announces the launch of its Double Good Popcorn Fundraiser, a virtual event dedicated to empowering underrepresented youth through the game of golf. This special initiative supports the Future Golfers of America program, reinforcing the Foundation’s commitment to “Growing the Champions of Tomorrow.” The fundraiser runs from February 12, 2025, at 12:00 PM until February 16, 2025, at 12:00 PM, with 50% of all sales benefiting the Foundation.

Golf is more than just a sport—it fosters character, leadership, discipline, and resilience. The Ted Rhodes Foundation provides young golfers with training, equipment, and mentorship while honoring the legacy of Black pioneers in the sport, including Ted Rhodes, a trailblazer who paved the way for future generations.

How to Support the Fundraiser

• Purchase Gourmet Popcorn: Every bag sold through Double Good helps provide essential resources to aspiring young golfers.

• Make a Donation: Those who do not wish to purchase popcorn can contribute directly or gift popcorn to a friend.

• Spread the Word: Supporters are encouraged to share the fundraiser within their networks to amplify its impact.

• Drive Change: Proceeds will fund initiatives that break down barriers and create opportunities for youth in golf.

By participating in this fundraiser, supporters are making a meaningful investment in the future of youth golf while enjoying a delicious treat. Orders can be placed via the following link: https://popup.doublegood.com/s/un807oe9

All purchases will be shipped directly to buyers at no cost to the organization.

The Ted Rhodes Foundation expresses gratitude to all who contribute to this impactful initiative. Together, the community can celebrate Black History Month by fostering the next generation of golf champions—both on and off the course.

About the Ted Rhodes Foundation

The Ted Rhodes Foundation is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Ted Rhodes, a pioneering Black golfer, by providing educational and athletic opportunities for underrepresented youth in golf. Through mentorship, training, and scholarship programs, the Foundation aims to inspire and empower the next generation of golf champions. For more information contact Tiffany White, M.Ed., DTMPresident & Ted Rhodes Granddaughter, Ted Rhodes Foundation, Inc., Telephone (312) 502-9009 or visit www.tedrhodes.org

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
News

First University-Certified Professional Caddie Program Begins Feb 16, Setting the Gold Standard for Tournament-Level Caddies

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE

Raleigh, NC – February 12, 2025 – A landmark moment in professional golf is set to unfold next Sunday as the first-ever university-certified Professional Caddie Certification Program debuts at Lonnie Poole Golf Course at North Carolina State University. This groundbreaking initiative is convened by Tour Caddie Collective and NC State Continuing and Lifelong Education, with support from the Association of Professional Tour Caddies (APTC) and the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA).

Designed to elevate professional caddying to new heights, this program establishes the gold standard for entry-level caddies seeking careers at the tournament, country club, and resort levels. Participants will receive elite instruction in essential disciplines, including rules, statistics, psychology, physiotherapy, advanced course management, green reading, and the latest in golf technology.

In an industry first, attendees will gain hands-on experience working alongside the NC State University Golf Team, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world, on-course scenarios—an invaluable component of the program.

World-Class Instructor Lineup:

  • Todd Satterfield – USGA & PGA TOUR Rules Official, with officiating experience at The Masters, U.S. Open, and other top championships
  • Austin Powell – PGA TOUR Statistician
  • Josh Nichols – Golf/Sports Psychologist
  • Justin Blazer – AimPoint and Green Reading Expert
  • Digby Watt, MPT, MTC, CSCS, CGFI – Tour Physiotherapist
  • Grant Berry, Mike Hicks and Heath Holt – Veteran Tour Caddies with multiple Major, Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup and Championship credentials

Participants will also receive specialized training in AimPoint, green reading, GC Quad and TrackMan systems, course, and player management strategies, and even CPR training, equipping them with the tools needed to succeed at the highest levels of the game.

A Game-Changer for the Caddie Profession

“This program is a game-changer for professional caddies,” said Grant Berry, Principal of Tour Caddie Collective and a professional golf caddie for over 40 years. “By combining expert-led instruction with university certification and on-course training with the NCSU Golf Team, we’re setting a new industry benchmark for caddie education and career development.”

Mike Hicks, program instructor and co-founder, added:

“Graduates of this program will be fully prepared to step onto the tournament stage with the skills and knowledge required to thrive at the highest levels.” Hicks is best known for caddying Payne Stewart to his iconic 1999 U.S. Open victory, and he sees this program as a way to elevate the profession for future generations.

As the first university-certified professional caddie program, this initiative raises the bar for caddie education and formalizes a direct pathway into professional golf.

“This program represents a major step forward in workforce development for the golf industry,” said Dan Gerger, Director of Continuing and Professional Education at NC State University. “We are proud to help create a program that will shape the future of professional caddying and open new doors for those looking to establish a career in golf.”

For more information and program details: Professional Caddie Certification Program | Continuing and Lifelong Education

Watch Video promo: https://youtu.be/TM-DKvnhrAs

Program and Instructor Links:

Sunday 16 – Introduction and Fundamentals 
Morning: Classroom Session    
Meet the InstructorsGrant Berry/Mike Hicks
Introduction to the ProgramGrant Berry/Mike Hicks
Overview of Professional Caddying Fundamentals Grant Berry/Mike Hicks
Understanding a Week on the PGA TourGrant Berry/Mike Hicks
Fundamentals of Yardage Book UsageGrant Berry/Mike Hicks
Afternoon: On-Course Session 
Walking the Course with Yardage Book InstructionGrant Berry/Mike Hicks
Monday 17 – On-Course Training, Green Reading 
Morning: On-Course Session 
Aim Point and Green Reading TechniquesJustin Blazer
Afternoon: On-Course Session 
Enhanced Yardage Book Usage with a Player (9 Holes)Grant Berry/Mike Hicks
Tues 18 –  Rules, Course Setup, Agronomy & Environmental Impact 
Morning: Classroom Session 
Understanding Golf Rules & Tour Course Setup InsightsTodd Satterfield
Grass Types and Geographical Playing ConditionsBrian Green
Environmental Impact on Course and Ball DistancesGrant Berry/Mike Hicks
Afternoon: On-Course Session 
Application of Morning LearningsGrant Berry/Mike Hicks
Wed 19 – Technology and Data 
Morning: Classroom Session 
Analytics and Data in CaddyingAustin Powell
Observing Player Teaching MethodsWill Lewis
Afternoon: Classroom Session 
CPR TrainingNCSU Health & Safety
Thurs 20 – Professional Opportunities, Team Comms & Management 
Morning: Driving Range/Classroom Session 
Usage of Trackman & GC Quad TechnologyJacob Hicks
Discussion on Professional OpportunitiesGrant Berry/Mike Hicks/Heath Holt
Effective Communication within the TeamGrant Berry/Mike Hicks/Heath Holt
Crowd Management StrategiesGrant Berry/Mike Hicks/Heath Holt
Afternoon: On-Course SessionGrant Berry/Mike Hicks/Heath Holt
Practical Application of Morning Learnings, caddying 9 holes/ playerGrant Berry/Mike Hicks/Heath Holt
Frid 21 – Theoretical Breakdown and TPC Ponte Vedra Play 
Morning: Classroom Session 
Hole-by-Hole Overview of TPC Sawgrass at Ponte VedraGrant Berry/Mike Hicks
Afternoon: On-Course Session 
Practical Implementation of Morning LearningsGrant Berry/Mike Hicks
Sat 22 – Wellness, Summary, Certificate Presentation 
Morning: Classroom Session 
Managing Pressure and Personal WellnessJosh Nichols
Physical Training and Stretching TechniquesDigby Watt
Program SummaryGrant Berry/Mike Hicks
Certificate Presentation & Group PhotographGrant Berry/Mike Hicks

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Equipment Review

DF3 Custom Putter by L.A.B. Golf

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

DF3 still does everything golfers love about the original. It stays square by itself. It’s still irrationally forgiving on mishits. But there’s a lot less to think about.

The DF3 is entirely CNC milled from 6061 aluminum, with 8 screws on the bottom made of steel or tungsten in various densities to precisely target swing weight and lie angle balance each putter.

Machined right here in the good ol’ U.S.A., each head is then assembled and hand-balanced at our factory in Creswell, Oregon. $599.00. Available at L.A.B. Golf.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
NewsSlider

Inside the 2025 PGA Show, A Global Hub for the Business of Golf

by Jerry Roebuck
written by Jerry Roebuck

The 2025 PGA Show in Orlando, Florida was a global gathering for the business of golf. This year’s show featured over 1,000 exhibitors. Attendees included PGA professionals, golf course owners, amateur golfers, manufacturers of every and any type of golf product.

AAGE Reporter Jerry Roebuck at 2025 PGA Show

A wealth of information and resources was at the hands of all attendees to experience. I got to see the latest golf equipment drivers, irons, putters, and instruction aids. Range finders, golf simulators and inventors of new products was as usual a must see highlight of the show.

Eastside Golf’s custom G Wagon.

The expanded golf cart pavilions with numerous manufacturers were crowded. The latest golf carts that seat from 2 passengers to 8 were on display with features like, mini bars, tv’s refrigerators, custom seats, sunroofs and custom paint colors. The golf cart market is a $800 million dollar a year market and many golfers and golf courses are choosing to have custom interactive golf carts.

GIR Gear Representative

Eastside Golf was featured in an expansive display which featured a custom G Wagon with their logo. I met another African American clothing manufacturer GIR Gear. They feature modern designs with breathable fabric in many unique colors. I enjoy attending the PGA golf show every year, it is a must attend event for the golf geek in us all.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
NewsSlider

Tiger Woods Receives Condolences After Mother’s Passing, Golfs with Donald Trump

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

As Tiger Woods grieves the loss of his mother, Kultida Woods, he took a moment to play a round of golf with U.S. President Donald Trump. According to Fox News, Woods and Trump teed off Sunday morning at Trump International Golf Club in Florida before Trump departed for New Orleans to attend Super Bowl LIX between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs.

The outing came just days after the passing of Woods’ mother. Announcing the heartbreaking news on X (formerly Twitter), Woods paid tribute to her unwavering support throughout his life and career.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning,” he wrote. “My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable. She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter; without her, none of my personal achievements would have been possible. She was loved by so many, but especially by her two grandchildren, Sam and Charlie. Thank you all for your support, prayers, and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you, Mom.”

Trump, who presented the Medal of Freedom To woods in May 2019 during his first U.S. presidential term and has developed a close relationship with Woods over the years, also expressed his condolences on social media.

“I was just informed that Tiger Woods’ wonderful mother, Kultida, passed away – She has gone onto greener fairways!” Trump wrote. “Kultida Woods was an amazing influence on Tiger and gave him much of his strength and brilliance. Melania and I send our love and prayers to Tiger and his incredible family!”

As Woods continues to mourn, he has withdrawn from this week’s Genesis Invitational Tournament, an event he hosts. Though he was expected to participate, he has opted to step away during this difficult time.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
AfricaNews

Raised by the World: My Path to Becoming Zambia’s First PGA Golf Professional

by AAGD Staff
written by AAGD Staff

Raised by the World by by Vincent Kabaso, PGA, is an exhilarating tale of hope, perseverance, passion, and grit. It follows Vincent’s extraordinary journey of self-discovery, which began when his father introduced him to golf. Until then, he was an uninspired boy in a struggling rural Zambian town in southern Africa, spending his days hunting birds and mice with little prospect beyond his surroundings.

Discovering golf transformed his world, revealing new opportunities yet setting him on a path where each step challenged tradition and defied expectations. In a country with fewer than 5,000 golfers and only 20 courses, pursuing a professional golf career was both a bold dream and a relentless test of resilience. As he honed his craft, he navigated personal hardships, cultural barriers, and unanswered questions in his pursuit of happiness and success.

Through moments of triumph and adversity, Vincent shares the invaluable lessons he learned, culminating in his remarkable achievement—earning membership in the Professional Golfers’ Association of America.

Raised by the World is an inspiring, deeply personal story of a leader who, from humble beginnings and against overwhelming odds, has weathered greater storms than most will ever face. It’s a testament to the power of determination and the pursuit of greatness. Hardcover. Available on Amazon.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
SliderTournaments

Waste Management Phoenix Open: One on the Green, Addressing the Lack of Black Golfers in the PGA

by Hiram Sapp
written by Hiram Sapp
(l-r) AAGD Reporter Hiram Sapp with Adam Parmer, Caddie for Max Greyserman

The Waste Management Phoenix Open is one of the most notable sporting events, drawing massive crowds and high attendance. It is early February, and the City of Phoenix puts on a show for the annual tournament. The sun is shining, and the days of winter seem far behind as the gates open for what has been a golf tradition since 1932. The weather is what golfers dream of, making for exciting days of competition, both for those on the green and those cheering from behind the ropes.

Location: Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S
Date: February 6-9, 2025
Course(s): TPC Scottsdale
Format: Stroke play
Length: 7,261 yards (6,639 m)
Organized by: The Thunderbirds
Par: 71
Purse: $9,200,000

I felt a palpable sense of excitement at the opportunity to attend this long-running event, February 6-9, where people come to see and be seen. The crowd was full of energy, the atmosphere was more like a party, and the golfers were top-notch. This year seemed no different from the previous 90 years—except for one glaring absence. Not one single golfer in the tournament was African American.

According to the PGA’s latest statistics, African American golfers make up just 2% of the association. Yet, out of 65 players competing at the Phoenix Open, not one was African American. As both an African American man and a golfer, I found it hard to accept that there was still no representation at such a prestigious event.

As I spent the first day taking in the game and the crowd, I finally spotted someone on the green who looked like me. I had the opportunity to meet and speak with Adam Parmer, an African American caddie for golfer Max Greyserman. Greyserman, a PGA athlete since earning his card in 2023, is currently ranked 34th on the PGA Tour. He is young and talented—and so is his caddie. I was fortunate to spend the next three days observing their relationship and was deeply impressed by their partnership, both on and off the green. There was an undeniable sense of respect, care, and camaraderie between them.

My conversations with Adam reaffirmed my feelings—it is difficult to be one among so many. Adam has built a strong reputation, having previously caddied for Tyson Alexander, who publicly credited much of his success to having such a capable caddie in Parmer.

I felt fortunate to speak with Parmer at the Open and was proud to see him representing African Americans in the PGA. However, it also left me wondering—why is there still such a lack of African American representation in professional golf? With the APGA (Advocates Professional Golf Association) hosting its first tournament in 2010, many hoped that, 15 years later, more golfers of color would have risen to the same status as their peers. While some have come close, the gap remains significant.

What can be done to promote golf within minority communities? Golf is built on history, respect, athleticism, and sportsmanship, yet it remains largely inaccessible in urban areas. We need to introduce golf to more diverse communities and put clubs into the hands of young people. They need to see golf not as an exclusive sport, but as one open to all, filled with skill and opportunity.

The next generation of African American athletes should not experience what I did this past week—standing in awe and admiration of a sport they love, yet seeing only one person of color representing them on the green. It’s time for change.

Caddie Adam Parmer
AAGD Reporter Hiram Sapp at the WM Phoenix Open 2025
Caddie Adam on Tee Box
AAGD Reporter Hiram Sapp at the Waste Management Phoenix Open 2025
AAGD Reporter Hiram Sapp at the WM Phoenix Open 2025
l-r: Olympic Golf Medalist Swimmer Michael Phelps and AAGD Reporter Hiram Sapp
Caddie Adam Parmer

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
NewsSlider

Jim Beatty Announces Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred Franklin as Legal Advisor

by AAGD NEWSWIRE
written by AAGD NEWSWIRE
Frederick Douglass Franklin, Esq.

Jim Beatty, president of Jim Beatty  Golf Ventures and Founder of The African American Golf Expo and Forum is pleased to announce that Frederick Douglass Franklin has agreed to join the organization as a Consultant and Legal Advisor.  Fred is a 1978 graduate of Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and a 1986 graduate of the Creighton University School of Law in Omaha.  He worked as a private practice attorney, including 5 years in the law firm of Lefler and Franklin where he was a Partner.  In 1997, Fred joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Omaha, Nebraska as an Assistant United States Attorney, a position in which he served for nearly 22 years.  Now semi-retired from the full-time practice of law, Fred still engages in the practice through his virtual law firm, The Franklin Law Group of which he is the founder and owner.

Fred’s involvement with the golfing community is nearly as impressive.  He began publishing the Heartland Golf News in the early years of his legal career.  Heartland Golf News was a monthly publication directed primarily to golfers in the Omaha and Eastern Nebraska area.  During that time frame, he also established an annual golf tournament sponsored by Heartland Golf News.  Under Fred’s guidance, Heartland Golf News became a member of the Golf Writers Association of America. 

Fred will be involved in providing  advice and consultation for Jim Beatty Golf Ventures as well as it clients and projects.

About Jim Beatty Golf Ventures

Jim Beatty Golf Ventures is involved in the $102B golf industry by providing platforms and services to underserved communities and organizations in the areas of Economic Development, Fund Raising, Capital Campaigns, Board and Staff Selection and Development and presenting the annual African American Golf EXPO and Forum.

0 comment
1 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts
Close

Stay in the loop!