The Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame was established in 1984 as a joint effort by the Kentucky Golf Association and the Kentucky PGA to honor individuals in Kentucky who have attained significant achievements and accomplishments in various areas of golf. Membership includes individuals with remarkable records as players, golf professionals, golf course superintendents, educators, and golf administrators. 

The Kentucky Golf Foundation is honored to announce the inductees of the 2024 class:

Eddie Mudd

Eddie's playing career is nothing short of remarkable. With a career spanning over three decades, he has consistently showcased exceptional skill and sportsmanship on the golf course. His accomplishments include OVC Conference Champion, National Public Links Champion, six-time KY Senior Player of the Year, two-time KY Senior Open Champion, and a member of the Morehead State Athletics Hall of Fame. 

Beyond his individual successes, Eddie has been a true ambassador for the game. He has actively worked to grow the sport and inspire future generations of golfers through his involvement in various golf associations, mentoring young players, and organizing charity events. He has served as 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 crucial role in shaping the golf landscape in Kentucky. As Director of Golf for the Kentucky state Parks system, he helped open new and improved golf courses across Kentucky. His entire life was making golf accessible for everyone- young, old, rich, poor. Eddie believes everyone should have the opportunity to play golf. 

"Eddie's integrity, professionalism, and passion for the game have made him a respected figure within the golfing community. He embodies the values and spirit of the Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame, and his induction serves as a testament to his exceptional career and lasting impact on the sport. The best part of Mr. Mudd's career is that he helped countless young golfers become better at their craft, many of whom went on to become college golfers, professional golfers, and great teaching and club pros. He did all of this humbly under the radar with no fanfare."

Velvet (Jones) Milkman

She began her golfing career as a junior golfer in Kentucky, winning the KHSAA State Tournament as an individual in 1981. This helped her attain a scholarship to play golf at the University of Alabama. Upon completion of college Milkman worked in the golf industry before returning to Murray, Kentucky, where she started the Womens' Murray State University Golf Program in 1993. She single-handedly coached the program until her retirement in 2022. During her tenure at MSU, Milkman guided the Racers to 12 OVC titles and produced 12 OVC Individual Champions, 53 All-OVC Players, and 8 players who have competed in the professional ranks. Milkman served a 4 year term on the NCAA Women's Golf Committee (2 years as Chair) and was named the 2021 Gladys Palmer Meritorious Service Award by her peers. She was inducted into the WGCA Hall of Fame in 2021.

"Velvet Milkman was not only the best coach I've ever had (MSU 1996-2000), she is also a mentor and great friend. She showed me what it means to be a leader, a coach, and a strong female all while being caring and considerate of others. One of the biggest accomplishments that I know Velvet is proud of is the fact that every player that was on the MSU Womens' Golf Team for four years graduated with their degree. This is not always the case, but Velvet always stressed to us the importance of education. She made it a priority that her players performed not only on the golf course, but first and foremost in the classroom. Velvet has a way of bringing out the best in you in all aspects of your life. She is your biggest cheerleader and proudest fan. She makes everyone feel important and valued."

Whitney (Wade) Young

Young's journey in golf began at the high school level, where she displayed extraordinary talent and commitment from an early age. Joining the team in 4th grade, she quickly rose through the ranks. contributing to numerous victories and state title wins. Her passion for the sport was evident, and har drive to succeed was unparalleled.

Continuing her journey at the University of Georgia, Whitney further solidified her status as a standout player. Her collegiate career was marked by numerous accolades and achievements, showcasing her talent on a larger stage and earning her well-deserved recognition within the golfing community. However, Whitney's jourey didn't end with her collegiate career. Transitioning to the professional level, she continued to excel, securing multiple wins at the Kentucky, Ohio, and Colorado Opens as well as the LPGA Duramed Championship while earning LPGA Tour membership. Her success on the professional stage is a testament to her skill, determination, and resilience,

Beyond her accomplishments on the course, Whitney's impact extends far beyond her playing career. As the head womer's golf coach at the University of Louisville, she is shaping the next generation of golfers, instilling in them the same values of integrity, sportsmanship, and passion that have defined her own joumey.

"In addition to her impressive achievements, Whitney is a person of exemplary character. Her warmth, compassion, and genuine concern for others make her not only a remarkable athlete but also a remarkable individual. Her positive influence extends beyond the golf course, touching the lives of all those fortunate enough to know her."

George 'GG' Johnson (1938-2014)

Back in the twentieth century, a young black American defied all prejudice and descrimination by falling in love with a sport that was considered "white." George "GG" Johnson was born in Columbus, Georgia in 1938. He became a caddy at 15 years old working for a segregated golf course in his hometown. When he graduated high school, Johnson moved to Atlanta, playing African American golf tours and winning numerous tournaments. He trained in golf management for the Professional Golfers Association of America and became one of the first African-Americans to attain PGA membership in 1968.

Johnson played professional golf as well, qualifying for the US Open in 1965. In 1971 he was the fourth African-American to win a PGA Tour event when he topped the field at the Azalea Open. During a time when many black Americans were not allowed to play golf, Johnson broke barriers competing in PGA Tour events. Johnson and his family moved to Louisville, Kentucky, in 1997 and he became the first black Kentucky Head Golf Professional at Bobby Nichols Golf Course. In 1998 he started the Annual George "GG" Johnson Golf Scramble for any youth interested in playing golf and volunteered his time with First Tee - Louisville. He was inducted into the African American Golfers Hall of Fame in 2008. In conjunction with his scramble, Louisville Urban League, and First Tee - Louisville, a scholarship is awarded to a graduating First Tee - Louisville participant every year. He connected his love of golf and kids, teaching many youth no matter their race or background, anyone can love, enjoy, and prosper in the great sport of golf. Despite his passing in 2014, Johnson's legacy lives on every single day. 

"While Kentuckians did not get to see him in his personal golfing prime, 'GG' contributed to quality of life and golf in our Commonwealth for nearly twenty years. He played a  part in every Urban Youth Golf Program weekly event. His smile and laughter were contagious, and young players could not wait to see him, listen to his stories, and learn from his life lessons golf had gifted him."

Details regarding the 2024 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be shared in the coming weeks.

About the Kentucky Golf Foundation: 

The Kentucky Golf Foundation is the 501(c)3 charitable affiliate of Kentucky’s Family of Golf Organizations. Founded in 2002, the foundation was the vision of the Kentucky Golf Association and Kentucky PGA. Our core purpose is to impact Kentucky's youth and military through golf while also enhancing the diversity found within the sport. The Kentucky Golf Foundation is funded solely through private individual and corporate donations, memorials, special events and contributions from Kentucky’s Family of Golf Organizations.