University of Tennessee Athletics
2016 Men's Golf Reunion
September 27, 2016 | Men's Golf
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Alumni of Tennessee's men's golf program reunited to celebrate their success at the Holston Hills Country Club in Knoxville, Tenn.
The reunion was orchestrated by VFL Stuart Smith. Smith was a third team All-American selection in 1982 and 1983 before he went on to collect his PGA tour card.
The event was hosted by former Tennessee golf head coach Mike Malarkey. Malarkey took over Tennessee's golf program from Sid Hatfield in 1977 and began his tenure as the longest-serving golf coach in UT history. Malarkey was at the helm of the program for two decades and captured two Southeastern Conference Championships, 15 All-American selections, 24 All-SEC selections, and 40 Academic All-SEC honors.
In 1980, Tennessee collected their first SEC Championship title and Malarkey was awarded with the honor of SEC Golf Coach of the Year. The team placed second in the championship. He also coached All-Americans Smith, Kevin Janiga, John Hamarik, and Jim Gallagher Jr. to a then program-best three consecutive appearances in the NCAA Championship.
Gallagher was in attendance for the reunion and still remains the most decorated Tennessee golfer in program history. Gallagher captured five PGA Tour victories including the 1993 Tour Championship. He played on the 1994 President's Cup team and also was a member of the 1993 Ryder Cup team where he defeated Seve Ballesteros to secure the U.S. victory.
There were 52 former Vol golfers in attendance including Jim Bush who was the oldest. At 83 years old, Bush shot his age during the reunion.
"It was my best golf day of 2016. We have had countless requests to have the reunion again next year. I would say it was a success," Smith said.
The reunion brought former Vols back home to Rocky Top to reunite and it was enjoyed by all in attendance.
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