BY AAGD STAFF
January 29, 2020
Professional PGA Tour Caddie Wayne Birch Jr. received a grand induction into the Southern University Sports Hall of Fame (SUSHOF) in the category of Athletic Achievement in Golf. The Enshrinement Ceremony was held on November 8, 2019, and honored 20 individuals. Master of Ceremonies, SUSHOF Chairman Charlie Granger, a Dallas Cowboys first Black offensive lineman (1961) led the 6:30 p.m. program that was overseen by its Commissioners and took place at the Belle of Baton Rouge Hotel and Casino Atrium in Baton Rouge, La.
Wayne Birch Jr. (L) with fellow inductee Coach Willie Williams
Birch, who is one of only four Black caddies on the PGA Tour, humbly accepted the honor for his success in business, as the owner of Wayne Birch Golf Consulting and in being a rising star in the pro-golf community, in addition to his activities mentoring young and less experienced golfers along his way. Birch, age 35, also has the distinction of being the youngest SUSHOF inductee.
Attending the November 8, 2019 induction ceremony with Wayne were (L-R) Geraldine Birch (mother), Wayne Birch Sr. (father), Alison Birch (wife), Wayne Birch Jr., Chantz Birch (brother) and Tranishia Birch (sister-in-law). (photo contributed)
Birch is a 2010 Bachelor of Science Degree holder in Secondary Education with a minor in Business and he earned a Master’s in Education with a concentration in Education Leadership from Southern University. His classroom diligence landed him atop Southern University’s Dean’s List (2003-2006).
At 28-years old Birch became the youngest Athletic Director in the State of Louisiana. After a brief but impactful career in education, he transitioned to the world of professional golf where, for the last three years, he has caddied for PGA Tour winner Troy Merritt. The pair won the Barbasol Championship in 2018.
Wayne Birch, Jr.
Wayne was raised in Atlanta, Georgia and grew up in the community of College Park where he excelled in sports from an early age. His athleticism earned him multiple offers, ultimately he accepted a golf scholarship to Southern University and went on to become Team Captain as a sophomore. Winning four tournaments, he was named All-American during his tenure and subsequently Newcomer of the Year (2003) Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Most Improved Player Southern University (2004), and Most Valuable Player SWAC (2006).
Wayne Birch, Jr. accepting his award from a presenter.
Birch self-sponsored many of his early competitive entries in golf playing on numerous mini tour events such as the Hooters Tour, Adams Tour, and the Advocates Tour. After some success, he was approached by a PGA player and friend to make another transition —this time from professional golfer to PGA Tour Caddie. Since then, Birch has secured 1 win on the Web.com Tour (now the Korn Ferry Tour), 1 win on the PGA Tour, and 40 PGA TOUR Top 10’s.
Wayne Birch, Jr. on the Spring 2019 cover of AAGD. BUY THIS ISSUE !!
Birch’s accomplishments have been many and he has been featured on the cover of the African American Golfer’s Digest (Spring 2019). He and his lovely wife Alison recently welcomed their first child in January 2020, a bouncing baby boy, 6lbs, 5oz, 19″.
