Tom Booker grew the
VSGA ’ s One-Day program into a model for other allied golf associations .
Member Stories
The One-Day Warrior
Tom Booker ’ s legacy is tied to the growth of the VSGA ’ s popular One-Day program
by MICHAEL J . STOTT
In The Aeneid , Latin poet Virgil sang of arms and the man , a tale of an ancient hero , doer of brave and heroic deeds . The VSGA has had one of those , too . His name is Tom Booker , “ Booker ” or “ Red ” to the staff and most anyone whomever played in the 21 years he oversaw and exponentially grew the organization ’ s One-Day events .
A four-season starter in baseball and basketball at the University of Richmond , Booker was drafted by the ABA ’ s Pittsburgh Wrens and played three years of minor league baseball for the New York Yankees before suffering a career-ending injury . His myriad occupations since include General Assembly lobbyist , Delta Dental Insurance marketing director , insurance salesman , high school coach , radio personality and Yamaha golf cart salesman . He is also well decorated , enshrined in the University of Richmond Athletic ( 2019 ), Richmond Amateur Softball Association Halls of Fame and the Highland Springs High School Wall of Fame .
However , his lasting legacy and greatest fan base lies with the Virginia State Golf Association ’ s One-Day program , which has become the model nationwide for bringing the Grand Game to those wanting adventure , camaraderie and access to courses often beyond their reach .
“ Tom took what was a small program and turned it into one that is wildly successful ,” says VSGA executive director Matt Smiley . “ Through his efforts and personality he built the program started by Wallace McDowell in the 1990s to something a lot bigger that is now a model for other allied golf associations .”
For expanding the One-Day events from 40 to well over 100 , the VSGA bestowed upon him its 2010 Service to Golf award .
10 V IRGINIA G OLFER | N OVEMBER / D ECEMBER 2021
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