History of Michigan Golf Foundation

Michigan’s Golf Hall of Fame grew out of a collaboration between two men who envisioned a celebration of the sport’s heritage, Ken Janke and Stan Aldridge. Building on Janke’s idea, the goal for the Hall of Fame was to honor the many Michigan golfers who made the sport popular not only in our state, but nationally. Stan, who had purchased and rebuilt the traditions of Indianwood, endorsed Ken’s idea and offered his support by having Indianwood play a leading role in establishing the Hall of Fame. Assembling a committee was the first challenge Ken faced. He needed people who knew the sport and could represent both players and spectators. He founded his committee with representatives from the media including Jack Berry of the Detroit News, Jack Saylor from the Detroit Free Press, Barry Smades of the Oakland Press, and Larry Adderly, then with WXYZ-TV. This foundation of members was joined by representatives from the sport of golf. These included long time Birmingham Country Club golf professional, Ray Maguire, Nancy Koustas of the Women’s District Golf Association, and Jim Dewling, then President of the Michigan PGA. Ken Janke himself served as Chairman. The committee selected the initial class of inductees following a series of organizational meetings. Jack Berry set the tone, not only for the first, but for all future inductions. He suggested that the original members of the Michigan Golf Hall of Fame should be three of the most titled golfers in the history of the state. By committing to such a high standard, every future inductee could point with pride to their own selection to this elite group. Honored in 1982 following the play of the Pro-Am Tournament during the Michigan PGA Championship at Indianwood, the first inductees were Walter Hagen, Chuck Kocsis, and Al Watrous.Since its inception, the Michigan Hall of Fame has honored people who have contributed on many levels to the advancement of golf. Additional criteria have been added over the years to acknowledge and reflect the need for people to extend their talents beyond the golf course to the clubhouse, organizations, and the community. Contributions not just in the area of playing ability, but to leadership, promotion, and education help to ensure the expansion of the sport. Only with a wide range of expertise can we ensure a future for golf, which upholds its rich traditions and heritage.