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Dedric Holmes
The First
African-American to work for the USGA in a Staff Capacity in 100 Years !
  
USGA 100 Years Without an
African American !
Dedric Holmes currently the Director of
Operations for The Pro Kids Golf Academy and Learning Center in San Diego, California was
the first African American to work for the USGA in its corporate headquarters in it's one
hundred year history. Dedric served as the Coordinator of Junior Golf and Minority Affairs
for over and two and a half years. It was quite interesting interviewing this young
man in his office at Colina Golf Academy in San Diego, with the buzz of fresh, enthusiasm
of young golfer's in the air. This young man is the type of role model our children
need to be exposed to, humble, yet confident and making a difference on a daily
basis in the lives of our youth.
Question: What was it like to be the first African American to work for the USGA ?
Dedric Holmes: It was quite a challenge at times but all in all it was quite a regarding
experience. Most people at the USGA were professional and considerate but , like
most other in that situation I had my brushes with negativity. The USGA has made efforts
to diversify it's staff and it was quite experience being the "Jackie Robinson"
of the USGA !
Question: How long have you been playing gold?
Dedric Holmes: Actually, I have been golfing only about five years.
Question: How long have you been in the golf industry ?
Dedric Holmes: About four and a half years, the USGA job was my first entry into the
industry , but now like most other golfers I am addicted to golf and the opportunities it
presents.
Question : How old are you ?
Dedric Holmes: Twenty- five and single …looking for Ms. Right.
Question: How has Tiger's success impacted your program ?
Dedric Holmes: Well he has definitely given the game more general public exposure and kids
can relate to him and consider golf a cool sport, so he has had a positive impact.
Although we were going strong prior to his Masters win this year.
Question: What's in store for the future of golf ?
Dedric Holmes: Well I see it becoming more main stream and diverse as this next generation
embraces the game.
Question: What sports did you play as a kid ?
Dedric Holmes: All the main sports and I played football at the University of Nevada where
I majored in Communications and Journalism
Question: Tell me about your current position ?
Dedric Holmes: I am the Director of Operations for Pro Kids Golf
Academy in San Diego , one of the few courses in the country run primarily for the
benefit of children. I love the San Diego weather so moving out here from New Jersey was
super.
Mr Holmes can be reached at:
The Pro Kids Golf Academy & Learning Center
Dedric Holmes - Director of Operations
4085 52nd Street
San Diego, CA 92105
(619)582-7884
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