This spring, for the ninth year, Shocker golfers will come together for an afternoon of competitive — think fun — tournament action at Wichita’s Willowbend Golf Course.
But it isn't fun for fun's sake only. All proceeds from this year's Shocker Open will go to support outreach to and recruitment of future Wichita State students and leaders.
That’s what the event’s tagline — "Carry the bag for student recruitment" — is all about, say members of the tournament's planning committee.
Chaired by Steve Cohlmia ’74, the golf committee is populated by Steve Carr ’75, Bob Dwerlkotte ’75, Angela Dudley ’98, Dick Elliott ’71, Dan Foley ’59, Bobby Gandu ’02/06, Trish Inslee ’04, Curt Lagree ’59, Matt Lokay ’03, Steve Thomas ’00 and Sara Stucky ’02.
Shocker Open chair Cohlmia, who has a touch of the Lee Trevino about him (in his easy approachability and sense of humor, if not quite so much for his skills on the links!), invites everyone to come out and play. Despite Kansas’ fame for unpredictable weather, Cohlmia forecasts a bright, sunny, spring day with only a slight breeze — perfect conditions for an afternoon of friendly Shocker rivalry on the golf course.
“This year, we’re hoping to have the maximum number of tournament players, that’s 144,” he says. “So please sign up now. It’s just like voting. Vote early. Vote often!”
Tournament entry fees are $150 per WSU Alumni Association member and $180 per non-member. The non-member fee includes annual membership and all its benefits. Fees include cart and green fees, lunch, snacks and beverages, tee prizes and door prizes, entry into the putting contest and much, much more.
Shocker Open players will register and enjoy lunch prior to the shotgun start at noon, Thu., April 23 at Willowbend, a par 72 course designed by Tom Weiskopf and located at 8001 E. Mulberry Drive in northeast Wichita. The course opened in 1987 and has been host to numerous events, including the Nike Tour, Futures Tour, U.S. Open and Senior U.S. Open qualifying
On April 23, Shocker Open winners in three flights will be announced and presented prizes at a Willowbend clubhouse reception after tournament play. Door prizes will also be awarded.
