From Muncie to the PGA: Honoring Don Padgett’s Legacy in Golf
If you’ve spent any time around golf in East Central Indiana, you know the deep roots and rich history that tie our local community to the national game. One of the most legendary figures in that story is Don Padgett—a Hoosier native whose journey in golf took him from local courses right here in Muncie all the way to the presidency of the PGA of America.
Recently, we dug into the archives and uncovered a fantastic April 1977 feature from Golf Business magazine titled "New PGA President Don Padgett."
A Late Starter with a Lasting Impact
What makes Don Padgett’s story so remarkable is how it began. Admittedly a late starter, Padgett didn’t even pick up a golf club until he was 21 years old. A native of nearby New Castle, Indiana, he began his golf career at American Legion Golf Course before serving more than 20 years at Green Hills Country Club right here outside Muncie.
Through his dedication, leadership, and vision, Padgett rose through the ranks:
Served three terms as Indiana PGA President (1959–61, 1966, 1969–70)
Became a regional vice president of the PGA in 1971
Elected National PGA Treasurer in 1973
Rose to become President of the PGA of America in the late 1970s
From Muncie to the PGA: A Historic Journey
In this archived 1977 interview, Padgett discusses his core focus as PGA President: job creation for PGA professionals and introducing the next generation to golf. Long before modern golf academies, Padgett championed getting golf pros into local clubs to mentor youngsters and introduce new players to the sport—a philosophy that remains at the heart of community golf today.
After his legendary tenure in Indiana, Padgett went on to serve as Director of Golf at Callaway Gardens in Georgia and later played a key role at Pinehurst Resort, leaving an indelible mark on American golf.
Read the Full 1977 Interview
We’re proud to share this piece of Hoosier golf heritage with our members and guests. Take a step back in time and read the full archived interview from Golf Business below!
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