STEVE FLESCH 4 time PGA Tour Winner

GAY BREWER PGA Great and UK Hall of Fame Inductee

J.B. HOLMES 2 TIME FBR OPEN CHAMP 2004 –05 MEMBER OF 2008 WINNING SEC CHAMPIONS TEAM

2005 –06 WILDCATS Fifth Place at NCAA – Best finish in school history 2008-09 MEN’S GOLF

TABLE OF CONTENTS Joseph Barr ...... 17 Associate Director: Susan Lax Season Outlook ...... 2-3 Seth Blann ...... 18 Assistant Directors: Brent Ingram, John Head Coach Brian Craig ...... 4-5 2005-06 Leaderboard/Tournament Results . . . 19 Hayden, Deb Moore, Pete Camagna Assistant Coach David Trainor ...... 6 All-Time Awards and Honors ...... 20-21 Office Coordinator: Jamie Holloway 2008-09 Roster/Team Photo ...... 7 Gay Brewer ...... 22 Golf Contact: Marcus Shanks Andy Winings ...... 8 J.B. Holmes ...... 23 Email: [email protected] Ben Fuqua ...... 9 Cats In The Pros ...... 24 Office Phone: (859) 257-8437 Brian Belden ...... 10 Nike ...... 25 Office Fax: (859) 323-4310 Jordan Blann ...... 11 Ireland Trip ...... 26-27 Web Site: ukathletics.com Derek Oldham ...... 12 The University Club of Kentucky . . . . . 28-29 Alex Volpenhein ...... 13 UK Golf Practice Facilities ...... 30-31 UK P UBLICATIONS INFORMATION Chase Carpenter ...... 14 The ...... 32-33 James Kania ...... 15 CATS ...... 34 Publications Director: Craig Hornberger Mads Kristensen ...... 16 Strength and Conditioning ...... 35 Creative Director: Kim Troxall UK President Dr. Lee Todd ...... 36 Asst. Publications Director: Matt Hernandez UNIVERSITY INFORMATION Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart ...... 36 UK Bluegrass Invitational ...... 37 MAILING ADDRESS School: ...... University of Kentucky Kentucky ...... 38 Location: ...... Lexington, Ky. CATSPYs ...... 39 Media Relations Department Enrollment: ...... 26,439 UK Caddy Club ...... 40 Joe Craft Center Colors: ...... Blue and White 338 Lexington Avenue Mascot: ...... Wildcat ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT INFORMATION Lexington, KY 40506-0019 President: ...... Dr. Lee T. Todd Jr. Athletics Director: ...... Mitch Barnhart Athletics Director: Mitch Barnhart TO THE MEDIA Conference: ...... Southeastern Deputy Director of Athletics: Rob Mullens Web Site: ...... ukathletics.com Sr Associate ADs: Sandy Bell, Mark Coyle The 2008-09 University of Kentucky media Associate ADs: Bob Bradley, John Cropp, Russ guide is intended to answer any questions you Pear, DeWayne Peevy, Lisa Peterson might have about the upcoming season and CREDITS Assistant ADs: John Butler, Candice Chaffin, assist you in your coverage of the team Pam Stackhouse, Jason Schlafer, Joe Sharpe, throughout the year. If you need additional Written and Compiled by: Marcus Shanks Leon Smith, Rodney Stiles information, special stories, pictures, or have any Project Manager/Design: Matt Hernandez UK Athletics Department: (859) 257-8000 questions, please feel free to contact us by Photography: David Coyle/Team Coyle, writing to the UK Media Relations Office. All Bill Straus TEAM FACTS interviews with UK men’s golf team members Printing: Welch Printing must be arranged through the Media Relations Head Coach: Brian Craig office. The best time to speak with players is Alma Mater: Florida (’92) after practice during the week. Practice is usually Year at UK: Eighth year 2-4 p.m. All interviews during the week must Year coaching overall: 10th year take place 30 minutes prior to the start of Office Phone: (859) 257-6506 practice or immediately following practice. Assistant Coach: David Trainor Questions about the UK men’s golf team Alma Mater: College of Charleston (’00) should be directed to Marcus Shanks at the UK Year at UK: Fifth year Media Relations Office at (859) 257-8437 or via Dir. of Operations: Bettie Lou Evans email at [email protected]. Year at UK: 28th year Top Returnees: Ben Fuqua, Andy Winings, Alex INTERVIEWS Volpenhein, Brian Belden, James Kania Top Newcomers: Mads Kristensen, Joseph Barr, All interviews with UK student-athletes and Seth Blann coaches must be coordinated through the UK Lettermen Returning/Lost: 7/2 Media Relations Department. UK golfers are 2007 Conference Finish: 11th usually available after practice each day. Coach 2007 NCAA Finish: Brian Craig will be available upon request. Home Courses: University Club of Kentucky Please make all interview requests at least 24 Big Blue Course – (par 72, 7,013 yds.) hours before the desired interview time to Wildcat Course – (par 71, 6,680 yds.) Marcus Shanks at (859) 257-8437.

UK M EDIA RELATIONS INFORMATION UK W EBSITE ON THE COVER Assoc. AD/Media Relations: DeWayne Peevy UK men’s golf notes and statistics are available Senior Ben Fuqua, Senior Andy Winings Media Relations Director/Football: Tony Neely to the media at website, ukathletics.com.

1 2008-09 OUTLOOK

he 2008-09 edition of Kentucky men’s golf Twill seek its second straight post-season appearance after competing in the West Regional a season ago. The Wildcats have built a tradition of excellence, advancing to the NCAA finals four times in the last seven years under head coach Brian Craig, and will look to continue to build on that tradition this season. Entering his eighth year as the head coach of the Wildats, Craig returns eight players from last season, including a pair of seniors in Andy Winings and Ben Fuqua. This talented duo will set the tone for the Cats who look to return to the NCAA Championships for the second time in their careers and the first time since 2005-06. Winings has been a constant on the lineup card since his arrival on campus three years ago. The senior led the team with a 72.46 stroke average and four top-10 tournament finishes as a junior. Winings set a new career-best when he fired a 66 in the third round of the Hootie at Bulls Bay Intercollegiate and won a share of his first

CRAIG ON WININGS AND FUQUA “Andy and Ben are our two leaders, both on and off the golf course,” said Craig. “Andy is one of the most diligent workers I have ever had the privilege of coaching, and his record speaks for itself. He has gotten better each year he has been here and I think this will be a fantastic year for him. Ben had a breakout year last season and it snowballed into the summer. When he learns how to minimize his mistakes, Ben will be recognized as one of the best players in college golf, as he can flat make a lot of birdies.”

collegiate tournament with a victory at the Palmas privilege of coaching, and his record speaks for Del Mar Intercollegiate in Huarenco, Puerto itself. He has gotten better each year he has been Rico. The Brownsburg, Ind., native followed his here and I think this will be a fantastic year for outstanding junior season with an impressive him. Ben had a breakout year last season and it summer showing, finishing fourth at the snowballed into the summer. When he learns how Sunnehanna Amateur, 26th at the Western to minimize his mistakes, Ben will be recognized Amateur and advancing to the round of 16 at the as one of the best players in college golf, as he can U.S. Amateur Public Links. flat make a lot of birdies.” Fuqua came into his own last season, The Wildcats have a strong core of competing in eight tournaments for the Wildcats. underclassmen, including a junior class that The Danville native shattered his previous career- consists of Brian Belden, Jordan Blann, Derek best with a first-round 67 at the Bank of Oldham and Alex Volpenhein. Tennessee Intercollegiate. He posted his best Belden played in eight of Kentucky’s 12 collegiate finish when he placed 17th at the tournaments in 2007-08 and was third on the Palmas Del Mar Intercollegiate. Fuqua also had team with a 74.35 stroke average, trailing only several strong summer performances, tying for Winings and departed senior Cale Barr. Belden tenth at the Kentucky State Open, third at the set a new career low when he carded a 70 on two Kentucky State Amateur and competing in the occasions as a sophomore. He tied for first in the US Amateur. inaugural UK Bluegrass Invitational when he “Andy and Ben are our two leaders, both on competed as an individual and continued to shine and off the golf course,” Craig said. “Andy is one during the summer, finishing fourth at the of the most diligent workers I have ever had the Pennsylvania Amateur.

2 2008-09 OUTLOOK

Blann competed in four tournaments as a second place finish at the Lexington City McDonald’s High School Tournament of sophomore and set a new career low with a first Amateur. Kania saw action in five tournaments as Champions. Rounding out the freshman class is round 70 at the Pat Hicks Thunderbird a true freshman and did not disappoint. The two-time Danish Junior Team champion Mads Invitational. He also finished the season with the Haverford, Pa., product finished with a pair of Kristensen. His impressive career includes a third lowest stroke average of his career at Kentucky. top 10 finishes and was fourth on the team with place finish in the Finnish Amateur and a share of Oldham competed in seven tournaments as a a 74.86 stroke average. His final round 69 at the the championship at the Stimerol Junior Open. sophomore. He carded a career low 69 at the Pat Hicks Invitational was his best of the season. “I am excited to have Joseph, Seth and Mads Isleworth Invitational and followed that with a 16th Kania was eighth in that tournament and turned join our Wildcat Family,” Craig said. “All three place finish at the Pat Hicks Thunderbird in his top finish when he was sixth at the Cats’ are very accomplished players and I look for each Invitational in the opening tournament of the spring. home tournament. one of them to play a big part in our success Volpenhein returned to the course after an “James Kania was a late addition to our during their careers as Wildcats. I also think it injury-plagued start to his sophomore campaign, Wildcat family last summer and he has proved speaks volumes of what kind of program we have seeing time in five tournaments. The Edgewood, his worth. As James becomes more consistent, I here, when two younger brothers have followed in Ky., native competed in the SEC Championships look for him to battle for a solid spot in our top their older brothers’ footsteps.“ and the NCAA West Regional where he turned in five,” Craig said. “Chase is coming off a Craig has put the pieces in place for the 2008- the best score of any Wildcat. redshirt year where he worked hard on his game 09 Wildcats to succeed on the golf course. Now it “There is no denying the talent of this junior and overall strength. I will not be surprised to is up to the players to go out and peform as class,” Craig said. “Brian Belden captured his first see Chase come out and get some valuable Kentucky attempts to return to the top of the collegiate victory at the UK Bluegrass playing experience.“ national rankings. Invitational. Alex Volpenhein overcame a lot of A trio of freshmen will join the Wildcat family “I look for several guys to play a role in our obstacles and roadblocks to turn in a good this season, including a pair of players following success this year. Everyone on this team has performance at the NCAA West Regional and in the footsteps of their older brothers. Joseph proven they can play at the highest level. two days later making it through local qualifying Barr is the brother of Cale Barr who finished his Combine our current team members with our for the US Open. Derek Oldham shot a final collegiate career last season for Kentucky. A four- incoming freshman, and we have the tools round 69 on arguably the toughest course we year letterman at Woodford County High School, necessary to play with anyone,” Craig said. “I played all year, and Jordan Blann is coming off a Barr comes to UK as one of the most firmly believe the key to our success is our guys summer where he gained valuable experience, accomplished junior golfers in the nation, earning believing in their own God-given ability. Once advancing through local qualifying for the U.S. second-team All-America honors from the AJGA. this group of players can look at themselves and Open. I fully expect all of these young men to Seth Blann joins his brother Jordan who is a know that they are a great golf team, we will have a hand in our success this year and next.” junior on the Wildcat roster. Seth was named the take our place again as one of the best teams in Sophomores Chase Carpenter and James 2007 Kentucky High School Coaches Association the country.” Kania could also play key roles for the Wildcats Outstanding Senior and earned a fifth-place this season. Carpenter redshirted last season but finish at the AJGA NRP Bluegrass Junior played well during the summer, highlighted by a Tournament. He was ninth at the National

3 BRIAN CRAIG HEAD COACH

rian Craig enters his eighth season as head Bcoach of the University of Kentucky's men's golf team. In just seven seasons at the helm, Craig has elevated the program to unprecedented heights, taking the team to three straight top 10 NCAA finishes. Craig led the Cats to their first-ever Championship in 2005 and finished with a school-best fifth-place finish at the NCAA tourney in 2006. He earned SEC Coach of the Year honors in 2005 and was twice-named the Eaton Golf Pride Regional Coach of the Year for the Midwest Region.

THE CRAIG FILE

Personal Birth Date: August 20, 1969 Hometown: Gastonia, N.C. Family: Wife Tami, Daughter Katie Beth (10), Sons Carson (7) and Philip (3) Parents: Clarissa and the late Bill Craig Date Hired at UK: July 24, 2001

Education High School: Ashbrook High School College: University of Florida, 1992 Three-year letterwinner Three-time Academic All-SEC Academic All-American in 1992 Ranked among Florida’s career leaders for most top 10 finishes Three SEC Championships 1992 NCAA East Regional Championship Graduated with honors in economics in 1992

Collegiate Coaching Career 2001-2006 Kentucky Head Coach 1999-2001 Central Florida Head Coach 1997-1999 Florida Assistant Coach

Notables Eaton Golf Pride Midwest Regional Coach of the Year – 2003-04 and 2004-05 Won the NCAA Central Regional – 2003-04 SEC Coach of the Year – 2004-05 SEC Championship – 2004-05 Has led the Wildcats to four consecutive NCAA Tournament Appearances Eighth in 2003-04 Seventh in 2004-05 Fifth in 2005-06

Before coming to UK, Craig spent two years at the helm of the University of Central Florida's golf team. In his first recruiting class at UCF in 2000, Craig signed four nationally ranked golfers, three of whom made the TAAC's All-Freshman Team, including league Freshman of the Year. Before landing his first head-coaching job, Craig served as assistant coach at the University of Florida, his alma mater, for two years (1997-99). As a Gator assistant, Craig had the opportunity to mentor two All-Americans and seven All-SEC golfers, including 1999 SEC Player of the Year Steve Scott. He also helped guide Florida to the 1999 SEC Championship. Craig began a three-year professional career as a golfer shortly after

4 graduating from Florida with honors in economics in 1992. He competed in successful teams in school history as the Gators claimed runner-up honors numerous mini-tour events, winning the Powerbilt Tour Northwoods at the 1990 NCAA Championships. Florida also won three SEC Championship in 1995 and the 1996 Future Majors Tour Harbor Hills Championships in Craig's four years, as well as the 1992 NCAA East Championship. In 1994, Craig competed in the U.S. Open at the Oakmont Region Championship title. Country Club in Pittsburgh, Pa., and finished sixth at the Jamaican Open. Craig arrived at Florida in 1987 rated the fifth-best junior golfer in the He finished 11th on the 1995 Powerbilt Tour money list and followed with nation. As an amateur golfer, he advanced to the semifinals of the Carolinas a 15th-place ranking on the Golden Bear Tour money list in 1996. Amateur Championships in 1987. Craig won the Carolinas Junior Craig finished his college career ranked among the leaders in University of Championship in 1986. In 1987 Craig won the Insurance Youth Classic, Florida history for most top-10 finishes. He received Academic All-SEC earning him an exemption into the 1988 PGA Tour Houston Open. honors three times in his career and was honored as an Academic All- A Gastonia, N.C., native, Craig has been married for thirteen years to his American during his senior campaign in 1992. college sweetheart, Tami. They reside in Lexington with their three children, During his time at Florida, Craig was a member of one of the most Katie Beth, Carson and Philip.

5 DAVID TRAINOR ASSISTANT COACH

avid Trainor enters his fifth season as Dassistant coach for the UK men’s golf program after joining the staff in February 2005. "I am thrilled to be at the University of Kentucky," Trainor said. "To work with a top program and learn from one of the best head coaches in Coach Craig is a tremendous honor. I will do everything I can to help UK and the golf team continue their winning tradition." Trainor, a native of Berwyn, Pa., was a four-year varsity letterwinner at the College of Charleston where he received the Coaches Award in 1997 for leadership and dedication. He was also a three-time Club Champion at Aronimink Golf Club which is ranked #51 of the Top 100 courses by . Trainor spent a year as an assistant golf professional at the Kiawah Island Club's The River Course in Kiawah Island, S.C., where he was responsible for private instruction, as well as group clinics for a private membership of 1200. Trainor also worked as an assistant golf professional at the Plainfield Country Club in Edison, N.J., where he organized and coordinated junior golf clinics and coordinated tournaments for membership as well as corporate outings. Trainor has also worked as a senior instructor with the Simon Holmes Golf Academy, training members of several professional major tours. He has also worked as a professional caddie. Trainor and his wife, Landon, reside in Lexington.

CRAIG ON TRAINOR “David is the best assistant golf coach in Division I golf. He loves helping the guys become better golfers and, more importantly, better people. He has a tremendous knowledge of the golf swing and how to play the game of golf. David is often behind the scenes doing many, many things that make our program function. He deserves a tremendous amount of credit for helping to create the opportunities that our players get to experience everyday. David is a tremendous asset to our program and will be a top notch head coach when the right opportunity presents itself.”

6 2008 –09 KENTUCKY GOLF ROSTER

ALPHABETICAL ROSTER Player Swings Class Hometown/HS Joseph Barr Right Fr. Versailles, Ky./Woodford County Brian Belden Right Jr. Emmaus, Pa./Emmaus Seth Blann Right Fr. Bowling Green, Ky./Bowling Green Jordan Blann Right R-Jr. Bowling Green, Ky./Bowling Green Chase Carpenter Right R-Fr. Salyersville, Ky./Magoffin County Ben Fuqua Right Sr. Danville, Ky./Boyle County James Kania Right So. Haverford, Pa./The Haverford School Mads Kristensen Right Fr. Denmark Derek Oldham Right Jr. Lexington, Ky./Lexington Christian Academy Alex Volpenhein Right Jr. Ft. Mitchell, Ky./Covington Catholic Andy Winings Right Sr. Brownsburg, Ind./Brownsburg

L-R: BACK ROW- Jordan Blann, Derek Oldham, Mads Kristensen, Alex Volpenhein, MIDDLE ROW -Assistant Coach David Trainor, Andy WInings, James Kania, Ben Fuqua, Head Coach Brian Craig FRONT ROW-Seth Blann, Brian Belden, Joseph Barr, Chase Carpenter

7 ANDY WININGS SENIOR

Summer 2008: Tied for 26th in the Western Amatuer ... Tied for fourth Sunnehanna Amateur ... Made it to the round of 16 in the U.S. Amateur Public Links. 2007-08: Competed in every tournament his junior year ... Drilled a hole-in-one during the Schenkel E-Z-GO Invitational ... Set a new career best with a 66 in the second round at the Hootie at Bulls Bay Intercollegiate ... Best tournament of the year came at the Palmas Del Mar Intercollegiate when he tied for first ... Started in the SEC Tournament and the NCAA West Regional ... Finished the season with four top-10 finishes and the lowest scoring average on the team with a 72.46. Summer 2007: Claimed the title at the 107th Indiana Amateur Championship ... For only the eighth time in the stroke-play history of the Championship (prior to 1973 the Championship was match play format) the winner led the field for the entire 72 holes ... In an amazing four rounds that included 26 birdies – 16 coming on the back nine – and 33 pars ... Opened the event with a 66 in the opening round and matched that score in the second day of play with an identical score ... He carded a 76 in the third round before finishing with a one-under par 71 in the fourth and final round ... Finished with an impressive nine-under par 279 en route to the title ... Competed in U.S.A.P.L.

CRAIG ON WININGS “Fortunately, we have Andy Winings for one more year. Unfortunately, we only have Andy Winings for one more year. Andy is a true leader, a tireless worker, a fierce competitor, and has what I would call a complete game. When you combine all of these qualities, you get one of the finest players in all of college golf who deserves every bit of the success that he achieves. I fully expect Andy to finish his career as one of the best Wildcats ever and lead this team back to where we belong among the nation’s elite.”

2006-07: Played in all of the Wildcats’ 11 tournaments ... Led the team with a 73.48 season stroke average ... Was second on the team with a pair of top-10 finishes ... Best finish of the season came when he was second at the Wolf Run Q & A Intercollegiate after carding a three-over par 216 (70-71-75) ... Also placed in the top 10 at the Western Refining Classic with a seventh-place finish ... Recorded a Favorite movie line: “I love the smell of napalm in the morning.” career-low in the second round of the Gator Invitational with a 67 en route to a If you could name your own course: Mallrad Mill Golf Club 15th-place finish in Gainesville ... Shot a second-round 69 at the Hootie at Bulls Favorite Course: Wolf Run Golf Club Bay Invitational where he finished 17th for his sixth top-25 finish of the year. Best golf moment: When we qualified for NCAA my freshman year. 2005-06: Competed in 12 tournaments for the Wildcats as a freshman ... Nickname: A-Dub, Durka Tied Brad Doster for the team lead with four top-10 finishes ... Posted his Theme song : Out of Boundz, D-Lo featuring J-Kon career low round of 68 in the third round of the NCAA Preview ... Finished Dream foursome: Dad, brother, , Myself in the top 20 in each of his first three collegiate tournaments ... Best finish of Why UK: I knew it was a great fit for my game and the coaches are the season came when he tied for fifth at the Hyatt Plantation Club awesome. Intercollegiate ... Finished tied for 15th at the NCAA Championships in Sunriver, Oregon ... Named PING All-America honorable mention by the Golf Coaches Association of America. High School: Qualified for the 2004 WININGS’ CAREER SCORECARD U.S. Junior Amateur ... Tied for third at the AJGA Midwest Junior Championship Year Tournaments Rounds Strokes Stroke Avg. Low Round in 2004 ... In 2003 and 2004, qualified for 2007-08 12 38 2532 72.46 66 the Westfield PGA Junior Championship 2006-07 11 33 2425 73.48 67 ... Claimed a third-place finish at the AJGA 2005-06 12 37 2731 73.81 68 Memorial Junior Championship in 2004. Career 35 108 7688 73.66 66

8 BEN FUQUA SENIOR

Summer 2008: Finished third in the Kentucky State Amateur ... Tied for 10th at the Kentucky State Open ... Participated in the U.S. Amateur. 2007-08: Played in eight tournaments as a junior ... Had two top-20 finishes, his best coming at the Palmas Del Mar Intercollegiate where he finished 17th ... Set a new career record firing a 67 in the first round of Bank of Tennessee Intercollegiate ... Finished the season with a 75.09 season average. 2006-07: Played in three tournaments as a sophomore ... Turned in his best finish of the season when he tied for 42nd at the Wolf Run Intercollegiate in October ... Also competed in the Bank of Tennessee Intercollegiate and carded a then career-best 74 in the second round ... Topped that effort when he shot a new career-low 73 in the third and final round of the Hootie at Bulls Bay Invitational ... Had a 77.33 stroke average for the season.

Q & A

Favorite movie line: “Don’t ever tell someone outside the family what you are thinking about.” If you could name your own course: Isolation International Golf Club Favorite Course: Pinehurst #2 Best golf moment: Beating JB Holmes by seven strokes in first college qualifier. Nickname: Iron Lion Theme song: Ain’t Nothing But a “G” Thang, Dr. Dre Dream foursome: , Michael Jordan, Tupac, Myself Why UK: I bleed blue!

Summer 2006: Competed in the U.S. Amateur. 2005-06: Played in one tournament for the Wildcats as a freshman ... Fired a three-over par 75 in the final round of the Gary Koch Intercollegiate to end at 224 (71-78-75) for the event ... Finished the season with a 74.66 stroke average. 2004-05: Used a redshirt season.

CRAIG ON FUQUA “Ben is a senior this year and is ready to be a leader on this team on an off the golf course. He makes more birdies than just about any player that I have ever coached and can put a lot of pressure on the golf course to shoot low scores. Ben had several good finishes this past year and showed glimpses of what he is capable of accomplishing. He has had a solid summer finishing in the top 10 in both the KY State Amateur and the KY Open as well as qualifying for the U.S. Amateur at Pinehurst. His game is ready to be a real force in the SEC and I look forward to him having a tremendous senior season.”

High School: Named Kentucky Mr. FUQUA’S CAREER SCORECARD Golf 2003 ... Won the 2003 KHSAA Individual State Championship ... Was Year Tournaments Rounds Strokes Stroke Avg. Low Round named to the 2003 Kentucky All-State team. 2007-08 8 23 1727 75.09 67 2006-07 39696 77.33 73 2005-06 13223 74.66 75 Career 12 35 2646 75.60 67

9 BRIAN BELDEN JUNIOR

Summer 2008: Competed in Monroe Invitational and Players Amateur ... Finished tied for fourth in Pennsylvania Amateur. 2007-08: Competed in one event in the fall and all eight spring tournaments, including the SEC championship and the NCAA West Regional ... Fired a career-best 70, twice, at the Pat Hicks Invitational and the Schenkel E-Z-GO Invitational ... Both of those scores came in the second round of each respective tournament ... Tied for first in the inaugural UK Bluegrass Invitational competing as an individual ... Completed the season with a 74.35 stroke average and one top- 10 finish. Q & A

Favorite movie line: “Get busy living or get busy dying.” If you could name your own course : Redemption Golf Club Favorite Course: Torrey Pines Best golf moment: Playing my dad in finals of club championship. Nickname: Beijum, Steve Theme song: Out of Boundz, D-Lo featuring J-Kon Dream foursome: Tiger Woods, , Dali Lama, Myself Why UK: The coaches are the best and the university had a great atmosphere that I really wanted to be a part of.

2006-07: Competed in four tournaments for the Wildcats as a freshman ... Recorded a season-best round of 73 in the final round of the PING Previeiw in his first collegiate tournament ... Finished tied for 20th at the Wolf Run Intercollegiate for his best performance of the season ... Matched his career- low in his final round of the season at the Gator Invitational ... Posted a season stroke average of 78.75. High School: Has a pair of American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) wins, including the inaugural Steel City Junior Classic in 2003 ... Owns three International Junior Golf Tour (IJGT) titles ... Has recorded six AJGA top 10 finishes ... Is a four-time First Team All-State honoree... Won the 2006 PA Open qualifier and advanced through local qualifying of the U.S. Open ... Was named an AJGA All-American in 2003.

CRAIG ON BELDEN “Brian is a rising junior who is really starting to realize his potential. His work ethic, love of the game, and overall desire to be the best he can be is what will help him achieve his goals. Brian is a fantastic ball striker and an excellent putter. He has put in overtime on his short game and it is starting to pay dividends. I look for Brian to make the jump into the elite of college golf this year and play a big role in the success of our team.”

BELDEN’S CAREER SCORECARD

Year Tournaments Rounds Strokes Stroke Avg. Low Round 2007-08 8 26 1933 74.35 70 2006-07 4 12 945 78.75 73 Career 12 38 2878 75.73 70

10 JORDAN BLANN JUNIOR

Summer 2008: Made it through local qualifying for the U.S. Open. 2007-08: Participated in five tournaments last year ... Best finish of the season came at the Pat Hicks Invitational when he finished tied for 22nd ... Career-low score came in the same tournament when he fired an opening round 70 ... Carded a 226 and tie for 32nd in his best three-round tournament of the season at Palmas Del Mar Intercollegiate ... Completed the season with a 76.57 stroke avereage. 2006-07: Did not compete as a sophomore. 2005-06: Competed in two tournaments for the Wildcats before transferring to Western Kentucky University after the fall semester ... Landed in 45th place with his three-round total of 230 (77-76-77) at the Inverness Q & A

Favorite movie line: “A man that doesn’t spend time with his family cannot be a real man.” If you could name your own course: Deep Hickory Golf Club Favorite Course: Olde Stone G.C., Bowling Green, Ky. Best golf moment: Playing in the US Open Sectionals last year. Nickname: JB Theme song: Country Boy Can Survive, Bocephus Dream foursome: Tiger Woods, Gay Brewer, Kenny Perry, Myself Why UK: This a great school with a great golf program.

Intercollegiate Invitational ... Finished with a 76.67 stroke average at UK. High School: Recorded eight first-place finishes in high school invitationals while at Bowling Green High School ... Was a three-time Kentucky Tri-State Golf Team selection ... Won the Hancock County Invitational with a three- under par 69 ... Won the Hopkins Central Invitational and the Madison Central Invitational ... Finished second at the Kentucky Invitational Tournament ... Tied for first in the Regional... Won over 35 junior golf events ... Was honored as a Past Future Collegians World Tour Honorable Mention All-American ... Also played basketball and was named All-State honorable mention by the Courier-Journal and Associated Press.

CRAIG ON BLANN “Jordan is a redshirt junior with immense potential. His ball striking and shot making skills are excellent and his work ethic is everything you could ask for as a coach. He has the ability to put serious pressure on the golf course to shoot low scores with his length and tee to green game. When Jordan starts to fully believe in his talent, he will be a regular in the top five and a force to be reckoned with in college golf.”

BLANN’S CAREER SCORECARD

Year Tournaments Rounds Strokes Stroke Avg. Low Round 2007-08 4 14 1072 76.57 70 2006-07 DNP 2005-06 13230 76.67 76 Career 5 17 1302 76.58 70

11 DEREK OLDHAM JUNIOR

2007-08: Was called on seven times in the fall and spring to represent the Wildcats ... Best tournament came at the Pat Hicks Invitational where he finished tied for 16th ... Carded a career best 69 in the Isleworth Collegiate Invitational ... Best three-round tournament score came in the same tournament where he finished with a 221 ... Had a 75.80 stroke average. 2006-07: Participated in two tournaments for the Cats during his freshman season ... Best finish came in his first collegiate outing at the Isleworth Collegiate Invitational when he tied for 53rd ... Posted a second-round 76 for his best effort of the season ... Matched that career-low in the opening round of the Schenkel E-Z-Go Invitational ... Had a 77.00 stroke average for the year. High School: Two-time Kentucky High School First Team All-State selection ... Won the Kentucky Invitational Tournament as an eighth-grader and again as a sophomore ... Finished second in the KIT in 2005 ... Was a four- time 11th Region runner-up ... Won the Andover Men's Club Championship four times ... Was a four-time academic first team All-State selection.

Q & A

Favorite movie line: “I don’t know me but I did over a thousand” If you could name your own course: Albatross Landing Golf Club Favorite Course: Ballybunion, Old Course Best golf moment: Signing to play for UK! Nickname: D-Lo Theme song: Out of Boundz, D-Lo featuring J-Kon Dream foursome: Tiger Woods, Sergio Garcia, JB Holmes, Myself Why UK: I have always been a UK fan and wanted to be a Wildcat.

CRAIG ON OLDHAM “Derek is a junior this year and can flat strike a golf ball. He is a diligent worker on and off the golf course and great person to have on our team. He truly is the ultimate student-athlete who represents UK in a first class manner. With some small improvements in a couple areas of his game, Derek could have a big year and help this team. I am looking forward to working with Derek and helping him realize his potential.”

OLDHAM’S CAREER SCORECARD

Year Tournaments Rounds Strokes Stroke Avg. Low Round 2007-08 7 20 1516 75.80 69 2006-07 26462 77.00 76 Career 9 26 1978 76.15 69

12 ALEX VOLPENHEIN JUNIOR

Summer 2008: Competed in Players Amateur ... Made it through local qualifying for US Open. 2007-08: Participated in five tournaments including the SEC Championship and the NCAA West Regional ... Had a season-best 70 in the second round at the Palmas Del Mar Intercollegiate ... Best finish of the season came in the UK Bluegrass Invitational where he finished tied for 19th ... Completed the season with a 76.71 stroke average. 2006-07: Competed in 10 events for the Wildcats as a freshman ... Was second on the team with two top-10 finishes and placed in the top-20 on four occasions ... His first top-10 came in his collegiate debut when he finished seventh at the Topy Cup in Tanagura, Japan ... Carded a second-round 68 at the Topy Cup for a personal best and finished two-under par for the tournament ... Followed that with an 11th-place finish at the PING Preview ... Recorded third top-20 at the Isleworth Collegiate Invitational ... Tied his career- low with a first-round 68 at the Gator Invitational ... Best finish of the season came at the Southern Highlands Collegiate where he was second overall with a two- under par 214 (70-75-69) ... Finished the season with a 74.57 stroke average. Summer 2006: Participated in the U.S. Amateur Q & A

Favorite movie line: “He's on his final hole. He's about 455 yards away, he's gonna hit about a 2 iron I think. IT'S IN THE HOLE.” If you could name your own course: Volp’s Par-Three Extravaganza Favorite Course: Ballybunion, Old Course Best golf moment: Going to Ireland last summer with the team. Nickname: Volp Theme song: Out of Boundz, D-Lo featuring J-Kon Dream foursome: Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Michael Jordan, Myself Why UK: It is awesome here, I knew there wasn’t a better school for me.

High School: Won two Future Masters titles in 1999 and 2001 ... Also won the Pepsi Little Peoples twice, in 2000 and in 2002 ... Named a Rolex Junior All- American honorable mention by the AJGA ... Was ranked ninth in the nation by the National Junior Golf Scoreboard ... Was a medalist at the U.S. Junior Amateur and U.S. Amateur Qualifiers and also at the Greater Cincinnati Metropolitan

CRAIG ON VOLPENHEIN “Alex is a junior who is coming off a year where he struggled with his game. To his credit, he has matured quite a bit through that process and has worked hard to regain his game and confidence. He is doing all the right things and will ultimately be a better golfer and person after fighting through this adversity. Alex has been blessed with a great ability to play golf and I look for him to retake his place among the elite players in the world of college golf.”

Amateur Championship ... Finished first at both the Callaway Golf PGA Junior Series at VOLPENHEIN’S CAREER SCORECARD Kearney Hills Golf Links and at the Westfield Junior PGA Championship ... Member of Year Tournaments Rounds Strokes Stroke Avg. Low Round the United States Junior World Cup team ... 2007-08 4 14 1074 76.71 70 All-American Honorable Mention in 2005 ... 2006-07 11 33 2237 73.48 67 Westfield Jr. PGA Champion in 2005 ... Career 15 47 3311 75.09 67 Named the Northern Kentucky Enquirer Player of the Year in 2003 and 2004.

13 CHASE CARPENTER SOPHOMORE

Summer 2008: Finished second in the Lexington City Amateur. 2007-08: Redshirted his freshman year. High School: Was a two-time All-State selection as a member of the Magoffin County High School team ... Named the 2002 Pepsi Player of the Year ... Earned Musselman-Dunne Player of the Year honors in 2003 ... In 2004, Carpenter was named the KGA/PGA Player of the Year ... He had four top-10 finishes in AJGA events ... Recorded a pair of PGA Junior Series wins at Morgantown, W. Va., in 2003, followed by a 2004 win in Clemson, S.C. Q & A

Favorite movie line: “This is for Venturi, who thinks I should lay up.” If you could name your own course: Short Knockers Country Club Favorite Course: Paintsville Country Club Best golf moment: Winning my first tournament. Nickname: C-Squared Theme song: Out of Boundz, D-Lo featuring J-Kon Dream foursome: Dad, Tiger Woods, Chris Tucker, Myself Why UK: I grew up in Kentucky and I always loved the Wildcats and wanted to play for them.

CRAIG ON CARPENTER “Chase is coming off a redshirt year, and we are looking forward to him fighting for a spot in the lineup this season. Chase worked hard on his game this past year and the results showed with his solid play late in the spring and throughout the summer. He finished second in the Lexington City Amateur, highlighted by a 2nd round 64, and had a top-five finish at the KY State Amateur. If Chase can continue to improve like he has over the past year, I expect him to make a strong push for the starting lineup.”

14 JAMES KANIA SOPHOMORE

2007-08: Saw collegiate action in five tournaments ... Finished the season with two top- 10 finishes ... Carded a career-best 69 in the Pat Hicks Invitational and finished tied for eighth ... Best three-round tournament score of the year was a 221, which came in the Bank of Tennessee Intercollegiate ... Finished the season with the fourth best stroke average on the team, 74.86. High School: Was named the Golf Association of Philadelphia Junior Player of the Year in 2004 ... In 2005, was the medalist in the Philadelphia section for the U.S. Junior Amateur (Oaks, Pa.) ... Earned Delco Times High School Golfer of the Year honors in 2006 ... Was an alternate for 2006 U.S. Junior and U.S. Amateur ... Owns the three lowest averages in this history of the Inter-Academic League (35.7, 35.8, 34.9) ... Member of the 2006 Pennsylvania State Team for Williamson Cup Matches ... Advanced to match play at the 2006 and 2007 Philadelphia Amateur ... Made the cut at 2007 Pennsylvania Amateur ... Qualified for the 2007 Philadelphia Open at Merion Golf Club ... Four-year honors student in high school ... Member of the National Honor Society.

Q & A

Favorite movie line: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while you could miss it.” If you could name your own course: Weezy Valley Gentlemen’s Golf Club Favorite Course: Ed “Porky” Oliver Golf Club, Wilmington, Deleware Best golf moment: They are all ahead of me. Nickname: J-Kon, Jimmy Theme song: Out of Boundz, D-Lo featuring J-Kon Dream foursome: My dad, brother and myself. No fourth needed. Why UK: I fell in love with the school and golf program when I came and visited.

CRAIG ON KANIA “James is a sophomore who gained valuable tournament experience last season. He is a fiery competitor who plays with a lot of emotion and heart. James loves to compete and has a simply fantastic short game. His desire to play at the highest level of collegiate golf is very evident by how diligently he works on his game. I look for James to have a breakthrough year and play an enormous role in helping our team to achieve its goals.”

KANIA’S CAREER SCORECARD

Year Tournaments Rounds Strokes Stroke Avg. Low Round 2007-08 5 14 1048 74.86 69 Career 5 14 1048 74.86 69

15 MADS KRISTENSEN FRESHMAN

General: Two time Danish Junior Team Champion ... Third-place in the Finnish Amateur ... Stimerol Junior Open co-champion ... Second- place Royal Tour Final ... Tied for first in second Royal Tour ... Faxe Kondi Tour I & II Second- Place ... Finished eighth in the Danish International Amateur Championship ... Averaged 73.8 strokes in 2007 ... Third in the Danish Match Play Championship ... Participated In The European Amateur Championship in 2008 for Denmark. Q & A

Favorite movie line: “Live for nothing or die for something” If you could name your own course: Kristensen Country Club Favorite Course: Valhalla Golf Club, Louisville, Ky. Best golf moment: Meeting and talking with during 2007 British Open Nickname: The Great Dane Theme song: Out of Boundz, D-Lo featuring J-Kon Dream foursome: Tiger Woods, Natalie Gulbis, Jack Nicklaus, Myself Why UK: UK has a great golf program. The staff and facilities are great and team is very competitive. It has been a dream of mine to play and study here.

CRAIG ON KRISTENSEN “Mads is a freshman from Denmark who is a fantastic addition to our Wildcat Family. He has very sound fundamentals and great hands around the greens. He is a very consistent player and already has an accomplished amateur record, having played in numerous major European tournaments as a member of the Danish National Team. However, Mads best golf is definitely ahead of him. He is very focused on achieving his goals and prepares as meticulously as any young player I have ever coached. I look for Mads to contribute significantly to our team’s success this season and have an outstanding career as a Wildcat.”

16 JOSEPH BARR FRESHMAN

High School: 2007 American Junior Golf Association All-American ... 2006-08 Kentucky High School Sports Association All-State Selection ... 2007 Bubba Conlee National Junior Champion ... 2005-06 Kentucky Golf Association 17-18 year-old Division Champion

Q & A

Favorite movie line: “Stop looking at me swan.” If you could name your own course: Julia Golf Club Favorite Course: Bay Hill Club, Orlando, Fla. Best golf moment: Winning the Bubba Conlee Tournament Nickname: Jo-Barr Theme song: Zombie Nation Dream foursome: Tiger Woods, , J.B. Holmes and Myself Why UK: I knew some people here and I could still work with my same teachers from back home.

CRAIG ON BARR “Joseph is one of three freshmen on the team this year and we are very excited to have him join our Wildcat Family. Joseph has experienced a lot of success in junior golf, highlighted by being named 2nd Team All American by the AJGA in 2007. He is a very accomplished player with a lot of national tournament experience. We look for Joseph to fight for a spot in the lineup this year and have an outstanding career as a Wildcat.”

17 SETH BLANN FRESHMAN

High School: Two-time Kentucky All-State team member ... Three-time Kentucky Tri-State team selection ... Fourth-place finish at the 2005 Kentucky State High School Championship ... Fifth-place finish at the 2006 Kentucky State High School Championship ... Second place at the 2007 Kentucky State High School Championship ... 2007 Kentucky State Junior Champion ... Second-place finish in the 2008 Kentucky State Junior Championship ... 2007 Kentucky Invitational Tournament (KIT) champion ... Fifth-place finish at the 2007 AJGA NRP Bluegrass Junior.

Q & A

Favorite movie line: “You shut your mouth when you’re talking to me” If you could name your own course: Club Donna Favorite Course: Olde Stone G.C., Bowling Green, Ky. Best golf moment: Shooting 64 to win the 2007 Ky. Junior Amatuer Nickname: Steph Theme song: Let’s Hear It For The Boy, Denis Williams Dream foursome: Tiger Woods, , Kenny Perry, Myself Why UK: I knew it was a good place where I could get better and my brother plays here.

CRAIG ON BLANN “Seth, one of our freshmen this season, has tremendous fundamentals and a great feel for the game. He is a fiery competitor and has a superb work ethic. Seth has also proven that he can win golf tournaments and shoot very low scores in competition. As he matures physically, his play will continue to improve and allow him to become a terrific collegiate player. I am excited to have Seth as a member of our Wildcat Family and look forward to him having a distinguished career.”

18 2008-09 LEADERBOARD

INDIVIDUAL TOURNAMENTS ROUNDS STROKE AVG .LOW RD.TOP 10 BEST FINISH Cale Barr 12 38 73.63 67 1 T5, Wolf Run Brian Belden 9 29 74.35 70 1 T1, UK Bluegrass Jordan Blann 4 14 76.57 70 - T22, Pat Hicks Brad Doster 9 29 75.50 70 - T16, Palmas Del Mar James Kania 6 14 74.86 69 2 T6, UK Bluegrass Ben Fuqua 8 23 75.09 67 - 17, Palmas Del Mar Derek Oldham 7 20 75.80 69 - T16, Pat Hicks Alex Volpenhein 5 17 76.71 70 - T32, Palmas Del Mar Andy Winings 12 38 72.46 66 4 T1, Palmas Del Mar 2008-09 TOURNAMENT RESULTS

DATE TOURNAMENT SITE FINISH Sept. 10-11 Inverness Intercollegiate Toledo, Ohio 13th Sept. 22-23 Wolf Run Intercollegiate Zionsville, Ind. T5 Oct. 12-14 Bank of Tennessee Intercollegiate Jonesborough, Tenn. 11th Oct. 21-23 Isleworth Collegiate Invitational Orlando, Fla. 12th Feb. 12-13 Pat Hicks Invitational St. George, Utah 1st Feb. 25-26 Rio Pinar Invitational Orlando, Fla. 10th Mar. 9-10 Palmas Del Mar Intercollegiate Huarenco, Puerto Rico 2nd Mar. 14-16 Schenkel E-Z-GO Invitational Statesboro, Ga. 8th Mar. 23-25 Hootie at Bulls Bay Intercollegiate Awendaw, S.C. 9th April 13-14 UK Bluegrass Invitational Lexington, Ky. 4th Apr. 18-20 SEC Championship Sea Island, Ga. 11th May 15-17 NCAA West Regional Bremerton, Wa. 17th

L-R BACK ROW: Jordan Blann, Mads Kristensen, Derek Oldham, Alex Volpenhein MIDDLE ROW: Chase Carpenter, Seth Blann, Brian Belden, Joseph Barr, James Kania FRONT ROW: Andy Winings, Ben Fuqua

19 ALL-TIME HONORS AND AWARDS

PING ALL-AMERICA HONORS First Team 2004 ...... J.B. Holmes

Second Team 2005 ...... J.B. Holmes

Third Team 2002 ...... J.B. Holmes

Honorable Mention 2006 ...... Matt Kohn 2006 ...... Andy Winings 2004 ...... Matt Wells 2003 ...... J.B.Holmes

SEC HONORS All-SEC First Team 2002-04 ...... J.B.Holmes 1989 ...... Olen Grant 1987-88 ...... Bill Lundeen J.B. Holmes became the first UK player to be named SEC Golfer of the Year in 2005. 1981 ...... Jim Volpenhein J.B. Holmes Jeremy Langley 1979 ...... Russ Cochran Jack Hudson 1996-97 ...... Todd Bunnell 1978 ...... Carter Mathies Matt Kohn Mike Cassity Russ Cochran Todd Obergoenner Ryan Loghry 1977 ...... Carter Mathies Andrew Stephens Grover Justice Matt Wells 1995-96 ...... Todd Bunnell All-SEC Second Team 2003-04 ...... Cale Barr Mike Cassity 2008 ...... Andy Winings Brad Doster Richie Creech 2006 ...... Brad Doster Andrew Stephens Dan Johnson 2005 ...... Mark Blakefield Mark Erlewine Grover Justice 2003 ...... J.B. Holmes Tyler Wilson Ryan Loghry 2004 ...... Matt Kohn John Holmes 1994-95 ...... Todd Bunnell 1997 ...... Jeremy Langley Jack Hudson Dan Johnson Matt Wells Academic All-SEC Brandon Waldrop 2007-08 ...... Jordan Blann 2002-03 ...... Jay Baker Chase Carpenter John-Gordon Beckett Brad Doster Mark Blakefield Ben Fuqua Andrew Dustman James Kania J.B.Holmes Derek Oldham Jack Hudson Alex Volpenhein Bradley Pogue Andy Winings Phillip Schardein 2001-02 ...... John-Gordon Beckett 2006-07 ...... Cale Barr Ryan Coyne Jordan Blann Andrew Dustman Brad Doster Patrick Kelly Derek Oldham Bradley Pogue Andrew Stephens Philip Schardein 2005-06 ...... Cale Barr 2000-01 ...... Bradley Pogue Brad Doster Philip Schardein Mark Erlewine 1999-2000 ...... John-Gordon Beckett Todd Obergoenner Philip Schardein Andrew Stephens 1998-99 ...... John-Gordon Beckett Tyler Wilson Wes Furnish Dan Woltman Jeremy Langley 2004-05 ...... Cale Barr Chris Mueller Brad Doster 1997-98 ...... Mike Cassity Mark Erlewine Ryan Loghry Matt Kohn finished tied for 10th at the NCAA Championships in 2005-06.

20 Team MVP: J.B. Holmes Team Captain: Ryan Coyne Most Improved: Ryan Coyne & Matt Kohn Academic Achievement Award: Jack Hudson

2003-04 Team Awards Team MVP: J.B. Holmes Team Captain: Jack Hudson & J.B. Holmes Most Improved: Mark Blakefield & Matt Wells Academic Achievement Award: Mark Erlewine

2004-05 Team Awards Team MVP: J.B. Holmes Team Captains: Mark Blakefield, J.B. Holmes, Jack Hudson, Brandon Waldrop & Matt Wells Most Improved: Cale Barr & Andrew Stephens Academic Achievement Award: Todd Obergoenner

2005-06 Team Awards Team MVP: Matt Kohn & Brad Doster Team Captain: Matt Kohn Most Improved: Brad Doster Academic Achievement Award: Brad Doster

Cale Barr has been a four-time Academic All-SEC honoree. 2006-07 Team Awards Team MVP: Andy Winings 1993-94 ...... Johnny Cain Team Captain: Brad Doster Tony Johnson SEC Golfer of the Year Most Improved: Andrew Stephens Matt McIntire 2005 ...... J.B. Holmes Academic Achievement Award: Derek Oldham 1992-93 ...... Marshall Butler SEC Coach of the Year Johnny Cain 2005 ...... Brian Craig 2007-08 Team Awards Tony Johnson 1986 ...... Tom Simpson Team MVP: Andy Winings Matt McIntire Team Captain: Andy Winings/ Cale Barr 1991-92 ...... Johnny Cain Eaton Golf Pride Midwest Coach of the YEAR Most Improved: Brian Belden Robbie Davis 2005 ...... Brian Craig Academic Achievement Award: Derek Oldham Tim LeRoy 2004 ...... Brian Craig 1990-91 ...... Brett Bronski Robbie Davis Academic All-American Tim LeRoy 2005 ...... J.B. Holmes & Matt Wells 1989-90 ...... Robbie Davis 2004 ...... J.B. Holmes Greg Lehman 2002 ...... Andrew Dustman Tim LeRoy Philip Schardein 1988-89 ...... Ted Beckman 1998 ...... Ryan Loghry Brett Bronski Steve Flesch Cleveland Golf All-American Scholar Alan Horwitz 2008 ...... Brad Doster Greg Lehmann 2007 ...... Brad Doster Tim LeRoy 2005 ...... J.B. Holmes/Matt Wells Mark McIntire 2004 ...... J.B. Holmes 1987-88 ...... Ted Beckman 2002 ...... Andrew Dustman/Phillip Schardein Bill Lundeen 1986-87 ...... Robert Amato TEAM AWARDS Steve Flesch 2001-02 Team Awards Bill Lundeen Team MVP: J.B. Holmes 1985-86 ...... Robert Amato Team Captain: John-Gordon Beckett & Philip Bill Lundeen Schardein John Rubenstein Most Improved: Andy Dustman & Philip Schardein 1983-84 ...... Peter Freeman Academic Achievement Award: Philip Schardein Vince Hamilton Andy Winings was named PING All-American Honorable Robert Hoenschied 2002-03 Team Awards Mention as a freshman.

21 PROFESSIONAL WILDCATS

rguably the best golfer to ever walk the halls of the University of GAY BREWER AKentucky was Gay Robert Brewer, Jr. The 1949 U.S. Junior Champion attended UK from 1952-54 and went on to a distinguished career on the PGA Tour, which was highlighted by a victory at the 1967 Masters. Brewer received the Ben Hogan Award after the 1972 season for his “courage in the face of trying circumstances” after surviving a near-fatal ulcer attack the night before the ‘72 Masters. A 10-time champion on the PGA Tour, the Middletown, Ohio native has been a member of the Senior PGA Tour since 1982 with his lone victory coming at the 1984 Citizens Union Seniors held in Kentucky. He was also a member of the 1967 and 1971 United States Ryder Cup Teams. In his 43-year career as a , Brewer has earned nearly $3 million in prize money and made his 37th Masters appearance in April 2001. Brewer was elected to the University of Kentucky Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006. In the summer of 2007, the city of Lexington renamed Picadome Golf Course the Gay Brewer Jr. Golf Course at Picadome. Mr. Brewer recently lost a long battle with cancer, passing away at his residence on August 31, 2007. He was 75. In June, more than 300 people turned out to honor Mr. Brewer at Picadome Golf Course, where he learned the game 60 years ago. The course was renamed the Gay Brewer Jr. Course at Picadome in his honor. , and , all of whom won major championships on the PGA tour, attended. Brewer called having the course named after him “a great thrill, beyond anything I expected.” A portrait of Brewer in his green Masters jacket was unveiled to hang in the course pro shop.

THE BREWER FILE

Born: March 19, 1932 in Middletown, Ohio Residence: Lexington, Ky. Joined PGA: 1956 PGA Tour Wins: 10 Senior PGA Wins: 1 - 1984 Citizens Union Seniors Career PGA Earnings (rank): $800,914 (331st) Senior PGA Earnings (rank): $1,957,242 (82nd) Total Career Earnins (rank): $2,758,156 (170th) Career Low Round: 61 - 1967 Invitational Largest Career Paycheck: $30,000 - 1972 Champion

22 PROFESSIONAL WILDCATS

ormer Wildcat J.B. Holmes’ trophy case continues to grow after 2008. JB HOLMES FAlong with winning his second FBR Open in 2008, Holmes had the biggest moment of his professional career, winning the 2008 Ryder Cup.

Representing the American squad in the 2008 Ryder Cup, Holmes scored 2 1/2 points to help secure the victory over Europe in dramactic fashion when he birdied the 17th hole at Valhalla Golf Club on Sunday to defeat Soren Hansen in individual play. With Holmes’ help the United States won its first Ryder Cup in since 1999. Holmes opened up his professional career in 2006 with a 10th place finish at the , his first start as a TOUR member. He was only two back of the leaders through 36 holes, but could not catch a hot David Toms (61-65) on the weekend. In his fourth start of the season, fifth as a professional, earned his first TOUR victory at the 2006 FBR Open. Holmes Led J.J. Henry and Ryan Palmer by one stroke through 54 holes prior to defeating five players by seven strokes, the largest victory margin in a player's first TOUR win since Jose Maria Olazabal won the 1990 NEC World Series of Golf by 12 strokes. Holmes posted all four rounds in the 60s, including the final round's only THE HOLMES FILE bogey-free round, a 5-under 66. His second-round 64 is a career best. Holmes is the ninth player to collect his initial TOUR win at the FBR Open and first Born: April 26, 1982 since Jesper Parnevik in 1998. He was the youngest player (23 yrs., 9 mos., 9 Residence: Campbellsville Ky. days) to win the Phoenix tournament since Jerry Pate won in 1977 at age 23 Turned Pro: 2006 years, 3 months and 3 days. Holmes also became the first rookie to win on PGA Tour Wins: 2 - 2006 FBR Open, 2008 FBR Open TOUR in 2006 and topped Retief Goosen's record of becoming the quickest Joined PGA Tour: 2005 player to reach $1 million in his TOUR career as a member, earning that Career PGA Top-10 Finishes: 8 amount in just four events. Holmes went from not being ranked in Official Career Earnings (rank): $4,478,672 (194th) World Golf Ranking at beginning of the 2006 season to World No. 77 after the Career Low Round: 64 win. He added three top-10 finishes in 2007, including a fourth-place finish at - 2006 FBR Open the Mercedes-Benz Championship in January. Largest Career Paycheck: $1,080,000 Along with winning the FBR Open and Ryder Cup in 2008, Holmes had - 2008 FBR Open a 10th place finish at and a seventh place finish at the Northern Trust Open,

JB HOLMES “To be able to be on a Ryder Cup team, to win two and a half points, is just unbelievable, and to be able to do it in my home state, I couldn't in my farthest dreams have imagined this thing to play out like this. I'm just so excited right now, and I'm so happy.”

JASON SOBEL, ESPN “It will forever be remembered as Holmes’ 79-yard wedge shot on the 17th hole of his singles match that stopped two feet from the hole, unofficially clinching a win for the U.S. team.”

23 PROFESSIONAL WILDCATS

STEVE FLESCH teve Flesch turned pro in 1990 after an outstanding career at the SUniversity of Kentucky, where he is one of three UK medalists in THE FLESCH FILE Johnny Owens Invitational history. Flesch, who began golfing right- handed before switching over to his natural left side, started his Born: May 23, 1967 in Cincinnati, Ohio professional career in 1990 on the Nationwide Tour. In 1997 he won the Residence: Union, Ky. Nike Tour Championship earning him exempt status on the PGA Tour in Turned Pro: 1990 1998. In 2001, Flesch ranked second behind Tiger Woods in Top-10 PGA Tour Wins: 4; 2003 HP Classic of New finishes with 13. Flesch recorded his best PGA Tour finish in 2003 Orleans; 2004 Bank of America Colonial; 2007 winning the HP Classic of New Orleans. In 1999, the left-hander finished Reno-Tahoe Open, Turning Stone Resort in a tie for second place at the COMPAQ Classic of New Orleans. In Championship 2003, the UK graduate won $2,269,630 in prize money, winning the Nationwide Tour Wins: 1 - 1997 NIKE Tour $900,000 dollar purse at the HP Classic of New Orleans. In 2004, Flesch Championship won the Bank of America Colonial title on his 37th birthday. Also in Joined PGA Tour: 1990 2004, he has surpassed the $1 million mark for the fifth consecutive year, Career PGA Top-10 Finishes: 57 moving into the top-50 on the TOUR's career money list with almost $10 Career Earnings (rank): $13,938,230 (45th) million in earnings. He recorded his first top-10 of the 2005 season when Career Low Round: 62 (2) he tied for fourth at the FBR Open in Phoenix in his fourth start of the year. He collected his second - 2003 Las Vegas Invite top-10 and second career top-10 in a major championship with his 10th-place finish at the PGA - 2003 Southern Highlights Championship at Baltusrol Golf Club. Flesch had his first top-10 of the 2006 season when he finished Largest Career Paycheck: $954,000 T10 at the BellSouth Classic in his 10th start. In 2007, Flesch collected wins three and four when he - 2004 Bank of America Colonial took home the titles at the Reno-Tahoe Open and the Turning Stone Resort Championship. 2008 has been a banner year for Flesch with five top-20 finishes. In April, he had a magnificent run in the Masters finishing tied for fifth-place with Phil Mickelson and Padrig Harrington. Following his outsatnding performance at the Masters, Flesch finished sixth in the PGA Championships after shooting a two-over-par at the Oakland Hills Country Club. Rounding out his top-20 performances in 2008 Flesch tied for the 14th spot in the Northern Trust Open, tied for 15th in the Deutsch Bank Championship and tied for 19th at the US Bank Championship in Milwaukee. Flesch resides in Union, Ky., with his wife, Lisa, his son, Griffin McCarthy, and his daughter, Kaitlin Lily. RUSS COCHRAN THE COCHRAN FILE native of Paducah, Russ Cochran started playing golf with a set of Awomen’s clubs as a youngster because a men’s left-handed set was not Born: Oct. 31, 1958 in Paducah, Ky. available to the southpaw. Cochran turned professional in 1979 after a Residence: Paducah, Ky. successful stint as a Wildcat. He earned his first tour victory with a win at Joined PGA: 1979 the 1991 Centel after coming back from a five-stroke deficit PGA Tour Wins: 1 - 1991 Centel to defeat Greg Norman. At the 1991 Tour Championship, Cochran Western open entered the final round tied with , and the two remained tied Career Earnings (rank): $5,783,116 (134th) after each carded a 71. Stadler won the playoff with a birdie on the second Career Top-10 Finishes: 58 extra hole at Pinehurst to claim the title. The second-place finish notched Career Low Round: 61 the largest payday of his career with $216,000 in prize money. He did not - 1991 Deposit Guaranty Golf Classic make a start on the tour in 2005, but made his return to the links in 2006. Largest Career Paycheck: $216,000 Cochran, an avid UK basketball fan, still resides in Paducah with his wife, - 2nd Place 1991 PGA Tour Championship Jackie, and his four children; Ryan, Reed, Case and Kelly Marie. MARK BLAKEFIELD THE BLAKEFIELD FILE ark Blakefield is currently playing on the NGA Hooters Pro MGolf Tour. The Maysville, Ky., native joined the tour in 2006 Born: August 3, 1982 and is enjoying is best season as a pro winning the ADI Classic in May. Residence: Maysville, Ky. Blakefield has finished in the top 20 four times this season. Blakefield Turned Pro: 2006 is reaping the rewards of his hard work this season where he is NGA Tour Wins: 1, ADI Classic currently 18th on the NGA Hooters money list. He also posted his Career Top-10 Finishes: 4 career low round this season with a second-round 63 at the NGA Career Earnings: $24,256 Hooters Tour Kings Creek in June. Career Low Round: 63, Kings Creek - 2007 NGA Hooters Tour Auburn-Opelika Classic Largest Career Paycheck: $33,500 - 2008 ADI Classic

24 Nike is a proud sponsor of the University of Kentucky men’s golf program. Kentucky is one of a handful of schools that have an exclusive deal with Nike. From the University of Kentucky to Tiger Woods, Paul Azinger and , Nike is what champions wear. Nike prides itself on its superior quality and is committed the best equipment and apparel on the planet.

“We have the privilege of being associated with Nike and Nike Golf. From an apparel and footwear standpoint, their gear is second to no one. They make sure we have everything we need to look and play our best.”

– BRIAN CRAIG

25 IRELAND

his past summer, members of the UK Men’s Golf TTeam, the Coaching Staff, Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart, and several close friends of the program took a foreign tour to the Southwest part of Ireland. For 8 days, they played some of the best courses not only in Ireland, but the world. From Ballybunion to Waterville, Tralee to Lahinch, it seemed as though every one of these courses was better than the next.

“These courses, combined with the weather conditions, will test every part of your game. Having the opportunity to play golf in Ireland this past summer will only help our guys play better golf.” – BRIAN CRAIG

JUNIOR ALEX VOLPENHEIN “It was the greatest golf experience of my life and it couldn't have been with a better group of guys... I will never forget it”

26 SENIOR BEN FUQUA “It was a perfect time to bond with returning teammates and a perfect sendoff to our seniors last year. The courses over there are out of this world and they test every facet of your game.”

27 THE UNIVERSITY CLUB

he University of Kentucky golf program Lou Evans said. “Having a facility like this that we The clubhouse is filled with UK memorabilia Tenters its seventh season of training at the can call our own should make a tremendous and contains private meeting rooms that serve to University Club. The University Club is a difference. The University Club will boost host a variety of University related conferences, members-only club privately licensed by UK. The recruiting and allow us more practice time. Plus, events and meetings. U-Club is the official home of the men’s and we plan on expanding with an indoor facility in The Club is located at 4850 Leestown Rd., 7.4 women’s golf teams is the host site for all of UK’s the future. All these things give our golfers great miles northwest of downtown Lexington in tournaments. opportunities to succeed.” Fayette County, convenient to I-64 and I-75. Internationally renowned golf course architect University Clubs are currently in place at other Arthur Hills designed the renovations to the 36- Southeastern Conference schools such as South hole Championship course. The University club Carolina, Auburn and Alabama. features the Big Blue Course (72-par 7,013 yards) However, this club boasts many features that and the Wildcat Course (71-par, 6,680 yards). make it one of the premier University Clubs in The courses are complemented by a dozen lakes the nation. Accompanying the beauty of the and ponds, providing players with a beautiful and course are two state-of-the-art practice facilities challenging round of golf. for UK’s golf teams along with a grille, locker “This club is a great asset for the University of rooms and a fully stocked pro shop. Kentucky,” Director of Golf Operations Bettie

AREA COURSES THAT SUPPORT UK MEN’S GOLF

Lexington Country Club Champion Trace Golf Club Idle Hour Country Club Greenbrier Golf & Country Club Andover Country Club Sweetbrier Golf Club Valhalla Golf Club Old Silo Golf Club Lexington City Courses

28 “The Lexington golf community has played an enormous role in the success our program has enjoyed in recent years. We are very fortunate to have a first class facility as our home in the University Club of Kentucky. We are also very privileged to have the opportunity to test our games on a variety of the outstanding area courses each of which present our players with unique challenges. I firmly believe that playing such a wide range of superb courses has helped our team to be better prepared for the tournament conditions we face during our season. Our entire program is very grateful for the loyal support that we receive from the local golf community. It truly is an asset in our recruiting of new student-athletes as well as the development of our current players.”

– BRIAN CRAIG

29 KENTUCKY PRACTICE FACILITIES

side from two championship golf courses, the University Club of AKentucky also has a private facility which is used exclusively by the men’s and women’s teams at Kentucky. Located on the opposite end of the range from the clubhouse, the facility includes: • A full driving range with a 12,000 sq. foot practice tee. The tee has both Bent grass and Bermuda grass so team members can practice on and get used to different surfaces. There is also a practice bunker, which can be used for fairway or greenside bunker practice. • Two 3,700 sq foot greens, which are used exclusively for chipping, pitching and bunker play. • A 5,600 sq. foot putting green. “We are extremely excited to have such a terrific practice facility to call our own,” Director of Golf Operations Bettie Lou Evans said. “We can take these resources and use them as we see fit to improve all facets of our game. Something like this will undoubtedly lead to lower scores while increasing our competitiveness.” “We are very fortunate to have the practice facility at the University Club,” Craig said. “To have a place that is ‘ours’; somewhere where our guys can use whenever they want; it is a real blessing. We have obviously traveled and seen some other schools’ practice facilities. The practice facility at the University Club is definitely one of the best around.” When the weather doesn’t exactly cooperate, there are several places the Men’s Golf team use for team and individual practice. One of the facilities, the Nutter Field House, is located on campus. This $8.5 million dollar structure allows team members to work solely on their fundamentals and technique without the worry of wind or other outside agencies that affect ball flight. Located 6 miles from campus is the Man O’ War Golf Learning Center. Man O’ War is a 32 acre facility that has three practice holes, four large grass practice tees, 13 heated stalls, two indoor video bays, and a state of the art short game practice area. All team members have memberships to this upscale practice facility, and can utilize all of it’s’ benefits whenever they want

30 MAN O’ WAR GOLF LEARNING CENTER

• 32-acre facility • 3-time listing in U.S. top 100 • State-of-the-Art Video Analysis • State-of-the-Art Short Game • Premier learning and practice Ranges • 9,000 sq feet of putting greens practice area facility in Kentucky • 13 Heated/All-Weather Stalls • Three practice holes

NUTTER FIELD HOUSE

Even when the weather is adverse, there is a place where Kentucky men’s golf can practice. Currentlt, that place is the Nutter Field House, a marvelous $8.5 million structure that is the home of the Wildcats on occasions of inclement weather. Nutter has a computerized netting system and a 72-foot high ceiling, perfect for any swing, from a sand wedge to a driver.

31 THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY

UK’S INNOVATIVE PRESIDENT, DR. LEE T. TODD, JR., IS EXECUTING A PLAN TO MAKE UK ONE OF THE NATION’S TOP-20 PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES.

DID YOU KNOW ...

• UK students enjoy a great range of academic choices, with approximately 200 majors available • UK has earned more than 80 national rankings for academic excellence • UK is ranked in the nation’s top 20 in “Best Value for Public Colleges and Universities” • UK is ranked as the fourth-best campus in the nation for safety out of 135 schools surveyed by Reader’s Digest magazine • UK students are from all 50 states, every county in Kentucky, and 115 countries • UK’s William T. Young Library has the largest book endowment of any public university in the nation • UK Athletics spends approximately $1.5 million each year for academic support of student-athletes • Numerous UK alumni have gone on to become presidents of universities and to lead Fortune 500 companies

in everything we do.

32 MAKING LIVES BETTER

Here are some ways that UK reaches out to improve the quality of life in the state and around the world …

• UK student-athletes make lives better through community service; UK football ranks third in the country for the most players on the National Good Works Team • UK’s research expenditures increased to a record-high $324 million last year, helping to propel UK into the nation’s top 25 public research universities • The Commonwealth Collaboratives outreach program has 36 projects focused on solving problems and changing the lives of people in Kentucky • The UK Chandler Hospital is a Level I Trauma Center, meaning that UK cares for the most critically injured and ill patients in the region • UK is in the midst of a $2.5 billion building program that will further enhance the university’s standing as one of the best medical facilities in the country

33 CATS

OHIO CASUALTY CENTER FOR ACADEMIC AND CATS STAFF TUTORIAL SERVICES

he University of Kentucky has made a Jon Ross and Katrina Sally, Tcommitment to put the student-athlete at Academic Counselors; the heart of the program. • Martina Martin, Lifeskills Coordinator; The cornerstone of that commitment lies in the • D’Ann Blankenship and Dustin Lewis, academic success of the University’s student-athletes. Staff Assistants. And at UK, that success stems from the resources CATS also employs seven graduate assistants and within the Ohio Casualty Group’s Center for numerous tutors, both from the University and the Academic and Tutorial Services (CATS). surrounding community. UK has budgeted more UK opened CATS in 1981, the nation’s first than $1,000,000 for the operation of CATS in the BOB BRADLEY Associate academic center dedicated exclusively to coming year. Athletics Director student-athletes. Over the years, as the services “We are extremely proud of what we have offered by CATS have grown, so did the need for accomplished in the academic arena,” Bradley says. additional space. “The CATS program is focused on winning in the BARBARA DENISTON As a result, UK built a new facility - the Ohio classroom. We look at each student-athlete’s Director of Casualty Center for Academic and Tutorial individual needs, set goals, and develop strategies Academic Services Services, thanks to a one-million dollar grant from to attain those goals. Our center provides our the Ohio Casualty Insurance Group. The Ohio student-athletes with a definite advantage over Casualty Center opened in 1998 at a total cost of student-athletes at many other institutions. Our MIKE HALEY $2.4 million. goal is to show that we care about the student as Director of Much of the credit for UK’s academic success well as the athlete.” Advising Services goes to the Athletics Association’s academic support For the CATS staff, showing you care means system - the Center for Academic and Tutorial more than helping athletes maintain eligibility, Services, or simply, “CATS.” graduate, or win awards. The academics staff also AMY CRAIGLOW CATS, constructed in Memorial Coliseum, prepares student-athletes for life after college with Men’s Golf Academic includes: the Wildcat Career Development Program. Counselor • 20,000 square feet of space - more than double The Career Development Program helps student- the size of the former CATS facility; athletes look to the future through a step-by-step • a computer room housing 35 computers; process which includes: KATRINA SALLY Academic • a study area which accommodates 90-100 • Mentoring and internships, which help Counselor people; determine career interests; • 24 tutoring rooms; • career counseling; • a career development and life skills resource • resume writing; and center; • forming a career plan. JON ROSS • a community outreach office; and The Wildcat Career Development Program Academic • offices for the staff. works closely with the University’s Career Planning Counselor Certainly, a facility is a good start, but any and Placement Center in order to provide additional program - especially in academics - is only as good as assistance when needed. D’ANN BLANKENSHIP the people who run it. And UK is Staff Support fortunate to have outstanding leaders in its Associate academics support system. Bob Bradley, Associate Athletics Director for Student Services, oversees the CATS program. Bradley was named MICHAEL STONE National Academic Advisor of the Year in Senior Academic Counselor 1989 and 1992. In 2000 he was selected as the CHAMPS Life Skills Coordinator of the Year by the NCAA Division I-A DUSTIN LEWIS Athletic Directors Association. Administrative Support CATS has a full-time staff of 11. In Associate addition to Bradley, they are: • Barb Deniston, Director of Academic Services; • Mike Haley, MARTINA MARTIN Career and Personal Director of Advising Services; Development Coordinator • Michael Stone, Senior Academic Counselor • Amy Craiglow, Dan Childs,

34 STRENGTH & CONDITIONING

he Kentucky men’s golf team calls the Joe Craft Center its Thome for strength and conditioning. The complex is under the direction of strength and conditioning coach Todd Forcier and features a variety of free weights, machines, cardio pieces, and other training, which complements the training philosophy of Todd Forcier. The primary focus of the facility is the development of the total athlete using a variety of training tools. With the help of staff nutritionist Jill Kindy, the Joe Craft Center staff also helps educate the athletes on nutrition and supplement awareness. Every team trains in a variety of situations at the Joe Craft Center, promoting team chemistry and teamwork. Through this vision, teams work on mental toughness, attacking goals and maintaining a positive attitude, keeping everyone moving toward a common goal.

"We are very fortunate to have Todd Forcier as our strength and conditioning coach. Not only is Todd extremely experienced in his field, but he is also a golfer who understands the specific demands of our sport. When you combine Coach Forcier's expertise along with the privilege of training in the new Joe Craft Center weightroom, it is easy to see why our student-athletes improve their strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness during their Wildcat careers."

– BRIAN CRAIG

35 DR. LEE. T. TODD, JR., PRESIDENT

ee T. Todd, Jr. became Commonwealth Collaboratives. The initiative Force. He is chair of the National Consortium for Lthe 11th president of features 36 of UK’s top research teams, who are Continuous Improvement in Higher Education’s the University of focused on solving the intrinsic problems that (NCCI) Leveraging Excellence Award selection Kentucky on July 1, 2001, have held the state back from reaching its full panel. President Todd also is a member of the after serving as senior vice potential. It is part of UK’s effort to ensure that its Business Higher Education Forum and the Council president of IBM’s Lotus research hits the ground in Kentucky and changes on Competitiveness. Development Corp. lives throughout the Commonwealth. He is married to the former Patricia Brantley, a President Todd is the sixth President Todd has spearheaded an effort to UK graduate who earned her master’s degree from UK alumnus to hold the revitalize health care in Kentucky. In June 2006, Simmons College in Boston. They have two adult presidency. UK unveiled the Commonwealth’s Medical children, UK graduates Troy and Kathryn. President Todd has concentrated his efforts and Campus of the Future, a multi-phased project UK Board of UK Athletic energies on helping his alma mater achieve a greater aimed at providing Kentuckians with cutting- Trustees Board level of national prominence. He launched the edge, 21st century health care. As part of the (as of July 14, 2008) (as of July 1, 2008) Mira S. Ball, Chair Charles W. Arnold University of Kentucky’s Top 20 Business Plan in revamped academic medical campus, UK will Stephen P. Branscum, Vice Chair Frank Butler December 2005. The plan is a quantitative analysis construct a new, one million square foot Pamela Robinette May, Charles Cassis Secretary Dermontti F. Dawson highlighting what it will take for UK to achieve its University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Edward Britt Brockman Luther Deaton state-mandated goal of building a Top 20 public Hospital and a new College of Pharmacy. Penelope A. Brown Alan DeSantis Jo Hern Curris C. M. Gatton research university. Widely hailed as the first President Todd is currently a member of the Dermontti F. Dawson Scott Kelley business plan by a public university in the nation, Board of Directors and Vice Chair of the Executive Ann Brand Haney Kathi Kern James F. Hardymon Frank Shoop UK’s plan garnered widespread national attention. Committee for the National Association of State Everett McCorvey Gerald Smith Billy Joe Miles William B. Sturgill It has been featured by national media outlets and Universities and Land-Grant Colleges Tyler Montell Kumble Subbaswamy recognized by peer institutions, as several higher (NASULGC). He is President of the Southeastern Sandy Bugie Patterson Patricia Terrell Phillip R. Patton Lee T. Todd, Jr. education leaders have visited UK’s campus to learn Conference (SEC) Executive Committee. President Erwin Roberts Bruce Walcott more about the Business Plan approach. Todd serves on the Equitable Resources Board of Charles R. Sachatello C. Frank Shoop Emeritus Member He continues to champion UK’s outreach Directors and is chair of the Kentucky Council on JoEtta Y. Wickliffe S. T. Roach efforts. President Todd launched a university- Postsecondary Education’s STEM (Science, Russ Williams funded research program called the Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Task Ernest J. Yanarella

MITCH BARNHART, DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

itch Barnhart is in Perhaps the biggest on-field turnaround besides dollars, and a 10-year, $10-million commitment Mhis seventh year as baseball has been in football, where Rich Brooks to help fund the University’s general scholarship Director of Athletics for the has led the Wildcats to back-to-back bowl wins program. UK also completed the Joe Craft University of Kentucky, (2006 and 2007) for the first time in more than Center, a $30 million expansion of Memorial having set a clear course for 50 years. Barnhart’s support of Brooks and his Coliseum that includes new practice and office making Kentucky one of staff has manifested itself in a string of wins over space for a variety of sports. the top athletics programs traditional football powers, including a victory Barnhart’s connection to UK’s student-athlete in the country. over top-ranked LSU in October 2007. is evident by his personal interaction and Hired July 15, 2002, Financially, Barnhart instructed his staff to seek commitment to provide all support services Barnhart has made the out new revenue streams, and that resulted in a necessary to meet the needs of these students. desire for overall excellence the cornerstone of record $80 million multimedia rights agreement Barnhart arrived at Kentucky from Oregon Wildcat Athletics. His decision to fully fund all with Host Communications (now IMG College). State, where he served four successful years (1998- 22 varsity sports has produced a wave of firsts in The additional resources allow UK to continue its 2002) as athletics director. Before his tenure at a number of programs, while also allowing UK to commitment to its student-athletes, a OSU, he worked at Tennessee for 12 years (1986- achieve at a consistently high level. commitment Barnhart takes personally. Athletics 98); served as assistant executive director of the Numerous sports have reached never-before- spends $1.5 million annually on its nationally- SMU Mustang Club (1983-86); regional director seen levels of success. Baseball won the school’s renowned CATS Academic Center and each for the Duck Athletic Fund at Oregon (1983); first-ever Southeastern Conference title in 2006, spring hosts the CATSPYs, an awards program and was an intern for the Aztec Athletic following in the SEC championship footsteps of designed to recognize the very best in UK Foundation at San Diego State (1982-1983). women’s tennis, men’s golf and men’s basketball Athletics. Barnhart, 48, is a native of Kansas City, Kan. He from 2005. Four Wildcat coaches earned SEC Other initiatives begun under Barnhart’s received his bachelor degree from Ottawa Coach of the Year honors in 2005-06. leadership include the Big Blue Caravan, which University (Kansas) in 1981 and a masters in The women’s soccer and rifle teams added connects UK to its vast fan base, the UK sports administration from Ohio University in league titles in 2006-07, with conference Coach Athletics Hall of Fame, which honors past greats 1982. He and his wife, the former Connie Brown, of the Year honors going to Warren Lipka and across all sports, a revamping of UK’s donor have three children, Kirby, 21, Blaire, 17, and Harry Mullins, respectively. program that has resulted in record K Fund Scott, 15.

36 THE UK BLUEGRASS INVITATIONAL

tarting a new tradition, the Wildcats hosted the inaugural University of Kentucky Bluegrass Invitational last spring on their home course at the SUniversity Club. Seventeen teams from around the nation came to the event held April 13-14, for two days of very competitive golf. Kentucky finished fourth overall while then-sophomore Brian Belden tied for first-place in the tournament.

“It is nice to host your own tournament, especially when you have a great facility like the University Club of Kentucky to test the players. The University Club’s superintendent, Jeff Benedict, and his staff did an incredible job of having the course in tournament shape during the inaugural event. We look forward to hosting this tournament for years to come as our final regular season event before heading to the SEC Championship.”

– BRIAN CRAIG

37 LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY

A FRIENDLY, VIBRANT CITY, LEXINGTON IS THE PERFECT COLLEGE TOWN – NOT TOO BIG, NOT TOO SMALL, AND THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY IS THE CENTER OF ATTENTION!

LEXINGTON AT A GLANCE Lexington has an exciting and growing downtown area, located near the UK campus. Location: Within a day’s drive of 75% of the U.S. population. Population: Lexington-Fayette County – 260,512 Time Zone: Eastern Average Temperatures: (F°) Spring – 74° high, 34° low Summer – 86° high, 61° low Fall – 79° high, 36° low Winter – 54° high, 23° low Annual Precipitation: 44.6 inches

In addition to being the home of Kentucky basketball, (left) hosts numerous concerts and cultural events throughout the year.

38 2008 CATSPY AWARDS

n the spring of 2003, UK Athletics 2008 WINNERS Iheld the first CATSPY Awards. A spin-off of the popular ESPY's held by Rookie of the Year ESPN every summer, the CATSPY's Megan Broderick, Tennis Patrick Patterson, Basketball honor the academic and athletic achievements of UK's student-athletes Scholar-Athlete of the Year from all 22 varsity sports. tie: Beth Felts, Golf This year the University of Chelsea Chowning, Basketball Kentucky Athletics Association tie: Collin Cowgill, Baseball presented 25 honors at the sixth- Jacob Tamme, Football annual CATSPY Awards, held in April Supporting Role at Memorial Coliseum to recognize Ashley Dimkich, Softball athletic and academic performance during the 2007-08 year. With co- Performance of the Year winners in some categories, a total of Kari Retrum, Diving seven teams and 25 individuals were Thomas Csenge, Rifle recognized. Jay Crawford of ESPN Fifth Third Bank Community and Christi Thomas of WKYT served Service Award as co-hosts of the event. Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart presents during the CATSPY’s awards. Crissy Cannon, Gymnastics John Richardson, Track

Play of the Year tie: Volleyball vs. LSU Gymnastics vs. Arizona tie: Football vs. LSU, Braxton Kelley Bruno Agostinelli, Tennis

Character Award Andrew Albers, Baseball

Lifetime Achievement Award John Cropp, Associate Director of Athletics

Blue Heart Award Rafael Little, Football

Coach of the Year Gary Conelly, Swimming Rich Brooks, Football

Bill Keightley “Assist Award” Zach Murphy, Men’s Basketball Manager Head Coach Brian Craig and women’s basketball player Carly Omerod present the One Shining Moment Award. Will Herschelman, Men’s Basketball Manager

Scratch Award Mark Coury, Men’s Basketball

Athlete of the Year Jennifer Pason, Rifle André Woodson, Football

Miss Wildcat Crissy Cannon, Gymnastics

Mr. Wildcat tie: Wesley Woodyard, Football Jacob Tamme, Football

Academic Team of the Year Women’s Soccer Men’s Soccer

Team of the Year Women’s Tennis Football ESPN personality Jay Crawford and local television talent Christi Thomas co-hosted the 2007-08 Catspy’s.

39 WILDCAT CADDY CLUB

The Wildcat Caddy Club is a close group of friends to the Men’s Golf program at the University of Kentucky. Established in the spring of 2007, the donations of the Caddy Club members benefit the team in many areas.

“Our goal is to provide our student-athletes with every resource needed to CLUB MEMBERS help them be successful. The Wildcat Caddy Club, along with the strong Bob Barriger commitment from our administration, allows us to provide that opportunity as Gary Biszantz Ward & Rita Blakefield well as an unforgettable experience for each of our team members during Stephen Branscum their Wildcat careers.” Dave Bunnell Jim Dockter Bruce Grant – BRIAN CRAIG Talmage Hocker JB Holmes James Jenkins Mike Malone Danny McMahan Marty Niehaus Tim Philpot John Poole Royce Pulliam Ernie Sampson Don & Mary Schardein Phil Scott Brett Setzer Jim Setzer Don Smith Chris Sullivan Jude Thompson Chris Young

40

SEPTEMBER MARCH

13-14 (Sat.-Sun) Wolf Run Intercollegiate Zionsville, Ind. 8-9 (Sun.-Mon) General Hackler Championship Myrtle Beach, S.C. 26-28 (Fri.-Sun.) Mason Rudolph Intercollegiate Franklin, Tenn. 20-22 (Fri.-Sun.) Schenkel E-Z-GO Invitational Statesboro, Ga. 29-31 (Sun.-Tues.) Hootie at Bulls Bay Intercollegiate Awendaw, S.C. OCTOBER APRIL 13-14 (Mon.-Tues.) The Prestige at PGA West Palm Desert, Calif. 26-28 (Sun.-Tues.) Isleworth Collegiate Invitational Windermere, Fla. 17-19 (Fri-Sun) SEC Championship St. Simons Island, Ga.

FEBRUARY MAY

16-17 (Mon.-Tues.) Jacksonville University Invitational Ponte Verdra Beach, Fla. 14-16 (Thurs.-Sat.) NCAA Regional Championship TBA 23-24 (Mon.-Tues.) Rio Pinar Invitational Orlando, Fla. 27-30 (Wed.-Sat.) NCAA Championship Toledo, Ohio