The tournament day began with a spirited breakfast discussion, moderated by Wisdom O. Cole, National Director of the NAACP Youth & College Division, illuminating the pivotal role Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) play in our society. Special guests spoke at the breakfast, including NAACP President Derrick Johnson, National Basketball Players Association Foundation Executive Director Stephanie Rawlings Blake, Bethune Cookman Athletic Director Reggie Theus, and Morehouse Athletic Director Harold Ellis. They discussed the uprising and advancements that HBCU Sports can look toward.
NBA TV Analyst and NBA Legend Steve Smith hosted the opening ceremonies alongside VP PGD Global, Seema Sadekar, welcoming all guests to a beautiful morning on course. Emphasizing the importance of supporting HBCUs beyond athletics and academics, the ceremony recognized the HBCUs present and set the stage for a day filled with camaraderie and competition
The heart of the celebration lay in its unique golf tournament format, one that has never been done before. Each foursome entry was paired with an HBCU Collegiate Golfer, proudly titled NAACP Team Captain. This innovative pairing fostered a sense of unity, leadership and friendly competition, showcasing the talent and dedication of the young HBCU Golf student-athletes. The picturesque Creekside Course held the Women’s Championship and Lakeside Course held the male championship. The full field of golfers made the energy around the golf club upbeat and staged for the thrilling tournament ending where champions emerged not only for teams but also for individual HBCU Captains.
While golfers and HBCU athletes played to their abilities, the clubhouse lended itself to a “Bigger Than Golf” discussion for women who wanted to learn about the game. Guests continued to make their way into the country club to experience golf as it has never been seen before.
The Awards Dinner Celebration was presented by Southern Company where the attendees were treated to live music, awards presentations, signature cocktails, fine cigars and the coming together of all those in attendance, adding a touch of glamor to an already unforgettable day. Winners were given a signed copy of Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins autographed book ‘Adversity for Sale’ along with their trophies. The event honored outstanding golfers while emphasizing the pivotal role of HBCUs in shaping a brighter future for people of color and society as a whole.
CELEBRITY ATTENDEES:
JAY “JEEZY” JENKINS: American Rapper
DARIAN “BIG TIGGER” MORGAN:, DJ and media personality
STEVE SMITH: NBA TV & TNT Personality
SEEMA SADEKAR: VP PGD Global, Professional Golfer and Fashion Designer
SIMON IYORE GUOBADIA: CEO, Philanthropist
SHEREE WHITFIELD: Television Personality, Designer, Fitness Enthusiast, and Executive Producer of WE TV’s Selling it in the ATL
ROGER STEELE: Golf Personality
VINCE CARTER: Former NBA Player and NBA Legend
THE DREAM: American Singer, Rapper, Songwriter
BIG TIGGER: Television and Radio Personality
TWO LEWIS: Entrepreneur, Motivational Speaker, Philanthropist
DERRICK HAYES: Restaurateur and Avid Golfer
ANGEL MCCOUGHTRY: WNBA Star & 2x Olympic Gold Medalist
TY YOUNG: WNBA Star
TRICKY STEWART: American Record Producer
JEROME BETTIS: Former NFL Hall of Fame
CHARLES OAKLEY: Former NBA Legend & HBCU Graduate
HAROLD ELLIS: Athletic Director, Morehouse & NBA Legend
STEPHANIE RAWLINGS-BLAKE: Executive Director of the NBPA Foundation
REGGIE THEUS: Athletic Director, Bethune Cookman & NBA Legend
For more information about the event and to access the formal invitation, please visit http://www.naacp.org/golf
For media inquiries, please contact:
Nisha Sadekar
Event Producer
Event Management & Advocacy
(310) 926-4075
[email protected]
Eileen Lopez
Media & Public Relations
Event Management & Advocacy
(562) 685-5744
[email protected]
About NAACP:
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.
About PGD Global:
Play Golf Designs, Inc. (PGD Global) is a golf marketing & event company, directing and participating in luxury events for some of the world’s most legendary athletes, brands, entertainers and organizations. PGD blends pop culture and entertainment, creating the most unique, innovative golf events and experiences for each client. PGD Global focuses on celebrating diversity and inclusion in golf while welcoming women to the game with open arms. Specializing in connecting golf to the modern world of trends and fashion, PGD Global operates golf and lifestyle events and experiences all around the country and virtually, welcoming new golfers and businesses to the game. Visit http://www.pgdglobal.com. Follow PGD Global on Twitter or Instagram at @PGDGlobal or on Facebook at facebook.com/PlayGolfDesigns.
Media Contact
Eileen Lopez, PGD Global Inc., 5626855744, [email protected], http://www.pgdglobal.com
Nisha Sadekar, PGD Global Inc., (310) 926-4075, [email protected], http://www.pgdglobal.com
SOURCE PGD Global Inc.
