 In a historic stride forward to grow the game of golf, six-time NBA All-Star and Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation co-founder, Stephen Curry, announced his commitment to Howard University today, with a pledge to support the establishment of the universityâs first NCAA Division 1 golf program for the next six years.
Inspired by Howard senior and golfer, Otis Ferguson IV, whom Curry met during a campus visit earlier this year, Curry was compelled to act when Ferguson shared that his impassioned solo crusade to get a golf team at Howard proved unsuccessful. An avid golfer himself, Curry tapped into what is increasingly becoming his defining traitâ the distinctive ability to connect and empathize with anyone, anywhere, and made the unprecedented decision to help bridge the gap between talent and opportunity. Utilizing his unique position, Curry will introduce and increase access to elite golf at a historically black college, furthermore calling on sport and community giants like Under Armour, Callaway, Eat. Learn. Play., among others, for help with equipment, uniforms, and more.
âGolf is a sport that has changed my life in ways that are less tangible, but just as impactful,â said the NBA star. Adding, âItâs a discipline that challenges your mental wherewithal from patience to focus, and is impossible to truly master, so when you hear about these passionate student athletes who have the talent but donât have a fair shot at the game, itâs tough. I feel really honored to play a small role in the rich history of Howard University, and look forward to building their first menâs and womenâs golf teams with them.â
Howard University aims to debut the first menâs and womenâs golf teams in the 2020/2021 academic year, with resources strategically allocated for talent scouting and training to have a competitive Division 1 team in place for its inaugural season, joining Howardâs other 19 Division 1 teams. The university previously had a Division 2 golf team and various intercollegiate and intramural club teams.
âHoward University is honored to partner with NBA Champion Stephen Curry to launch what is sure to become one of the best golf programs in the country,â said President Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., MBA. âThis program will expose the campus to a game with numerous benefits. Golf is unique because it can be played through various ages of life. Grandfathers can play with granddaughters. Expanding the competitive opportunities for student athletes, especially in arenas where they are underrepresented, is consistent with the universityâs strategic plan.â
Curry will be joined by Howard Universityâs President, Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, Athletic Director, Kery Davis, CEO of Callaway, Chip Brewer, and Howard student, Otis Ferguson IV, in a historic tee-off today in Washington, D.C.
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