King's Court rallies to tie King Invitational heading into final round

Buoyed by five outright wins during the match play portion of the 2009 King Invitational, The King's Court has battled back to even the overall points total heading into Sunday's final round. The Hunt Club entered the day with a 1 point lead and maintained that lead after the first pairing entered the clubhouse.

Chad Hedrick defeated Kim Highfill giving The Hunt Club a victory in the opening match but that point was negated when Ted Prestwood staved off a furious rally by Randy Griffin to win their match on the last hole.

The day's second pairing pitted TKC captain Jackie King and Tom Dugan. Dugan's win on the 18th hole, allowed him to halve the match and THC to hold onto their one-point cushion. But, TKC tied the overall score when King's playing partner, Ryan Mayo routed Phillip Brookshire 3-and-2, giving The King's Court the point they needed to give them a 4-4 tie.

Each of the next two foursomes split points between the two teams with Tommy Dugan (The King's Court) and Lane Moore (The Hunt Club) rallying from four holes down to win their matches.

With the two teams tied 5-5, the day's event came down to the final pairing, where Wes Crump secured a point for The Hunt Club by beating Jay Whitt 6-and-5 and Dwight Clark bested Chris Morris 2-and-1.

Day 2 results:

• Chad Hedrick d. Kim Highfill 4-and-3
• Ted Prestwood d. Randy Griffin 1-up
• Jackie King halved with Tom Dugan
• Ryan Mayo d. Phillip Brookshire 3-and-2
• Tommy Dugan d. Wayne Hunt 2-up
• Lane Moore d. Dru Broadway 2-up
• Dwight Clark d. Chris Morris 2-up
• Wes Crump d. Jay Whitt 6-and-5

Individual Points after Day 2

• Tommy Dugan 2
• Tom Dugan 1-1/2
• Lane Moore 1-1/2
• Chad Hedrick 1
• Randy Griffin 1
• Kim Highfill 1
• Ted Prestwood 1
• Jackie King 1
• Ryan Mayo 1
• Phillip Brookshire 1
• Wes Crump 1
• Chris Morris 1
• Dwight Clark 1
• Dru Broadway 1/2
• Wayne Hunt 1/2
• Jay Whitt 0

Day 2 Skins:

• Dwight Clark - 2
• Randy Griffin - 2
• Kim Highfill -1
• Tommy Dugan - 1

Day 2 Greenies:

• Randy Griffin
• Tom Dugan
• Ryan Mayo
• Tommy Dugan

Day 2 Money Totals:

1. Randy Griffin $84
2. Tommy Dugan $58
3. Dwight Clark $52
4. Ryan Mayo $32
5. Tom Dugan $32
6. Kim Highfill $16

Dugan-Griffin duo spark The Hunt Club to King Invitational lead

After a scintillating first day of King Invitational action, The Hunt Club has taken a one-point lead over The King's Court as the teams head into second round action.

The day started with Tommy Dugan and Kim Highfill staking The King's Court to a one-point lead with a resounding victory over Chad Hedrick and Wes Crump. The Dugan-Highfill team's 78 outdistanced Hedrick and Crump's 8-over par 72.

In the second match of the day, Chris Morris and Phillip Brookshire evened the overall count at one-point apiece by blasting The King's Court duo of Ted Prestwood and Ryan Mayo by eight strokes.

With the match tied 1-1, The Hunt Club's Wayne Hunt and Lane Moore used a par on the 199-yard par-3 18th to eke out and 83 and a tie with The King's Court's Jackie King and Dru Broadway.

In the last match of the day, Randy Griffin and Tom Dugan used a 5-over par 77 to beat Dwight Clark and Jay Whitt who came in with a 11-over par 83.

Day 1 point totals:

• Tommy Dugan 1
• Kim Highfill 1
• Chris Morris 1
• Phillip Brookshire 1
• Randy Griffin 1
• Tom Dugan 1
• Wayne Hunt 1/2
• Lane Moore 1/2
• Jackie King 1/2
• Dru Broadway 1/2

Day 1 Greenies:

• Tommy Dugan
• Dwight Clark
• Wayne Hunt
• Phillip Brookshire

Day 1 Skins:

• Dwight Clark - 2
• Tommy Dugan - 1
• Jackie King - 1
• Randy Griffin - 1

Day 1 Money Totals:

1. Dwight Clark $48
2. Tommy Dugan $32
3. Jackie King $16
4. Wayne Hunt $16
5. Phillip Brookshire $16
6. Randy Griffin $16

Sights & Sounds from the King Invitational - Day 2

Myrtle Beach, SC - Heading into the first day of the King Invitational, talk is no longer relevant. Everything to be said has been said. From this point forth, it's put up or shut up.

Predictions for the 2008 King Invitational include:

• Jackie King - I predict an even-split. But, I can't say who from my team wins and who loses
• Turtle Moore - I predict a Hunt Club sweep
• Dwight Clark - I predict a King's Court sweep
• Wayne Hunt - I predict the Hunt Club will be up 3-1 after the first day

King Invitational Did you know?

• Phillip Brookshire is the first ever official Go-Lo Champion
• Ted Prestwood officially didnt make it to bed even close to 9pm
• Turtle Moore is still not smoking
• Dwight Clark smoked Chad's ass today - but it didnt' count
• Ted Prestwood is the unofficial Go-Lo winner
• Bets are that Jay Whitt will become the first person to ever kick his playing partners ass

Sights & Sounds from the King Invitational - Day 1

Take It to the ATM :

• Jackie King will mention his recent hole-in-one at least 10 times during the weekend.
• Dwight Clark will refer to himself as Tarzan at least a dozen times before Sunday
• Ted Prestwood will set a record for most times peeing on a golf course in a three-day tournament

No one wants to be the Last Man Standing:

• Tom Dugan made the trip to the King Invitational alone today, reportedly arriving by 2pm to ensure he didn't get stuck in the towers by himself.

Best Friends Forever:

• Chad Hedrick and Chris Morris made their annual trek to the K.I. earlier today to get a "little bit of alone time"
• Dru Broadway is upset that he was left alone by himself at the bowling alley last night while his team captain stayed home prepping for the K.I.

Lies, Lies, Lies:

• Dwight Clark insisting that he is not the most arrogant, egocentric member of the TGA Tour
• Ted Prestwood insisting that he'll be in bed my 9:00 every night
• Randy Griffin insisting that he won't get drunk all weekend

Let's do some Don Julio Silver Shots for:

• The first King's Court captain, the newly-inaugurated 44th President of the United States and the 25th head coach of the Detroit Lions. Each new leader faces his own series of perilous tasks and takes over a following that is begging for a fresh start.

This week's proof that Tar Heel Nation is the center of the universe:

• Larry Brown's Bobcats led by Raymond Felton beat the L.A. Lakers in Double OT to take their fifth win over the Show Stoppers in six tries, including their third straight triumph at the Staples Center. Felton (UNC 2003-05) was one assist shy of a triple-double. The Lakers had won four straight and their 35-8 record is an NBA-best. Led by Brown (UNC 1959-1963), the Bobcats have now won more games (19) through Jan. 28th than at any time during team history.

Day 1 - Match 4 Pairings

Jackie King (4) and Dru Broadway (7) vs. Wayne Hunt (4) and Lane Moore (6)

The final Day 1 match-up at the 2009 King Invitational features this year's two team captains along with the two official team spokesmen in what is sure to be a no-holds-barred grudge match. The Lexington duo of Jackie King and Dru Broadway will take on two of the TGA Tour's most prolific winners, Wayne Hunt and Lane Moore.

King and Broadway each enter the King Invitational with their highest seeds ever as The King's Court's #4 and #7 seeds. King who is notorious for struggling with his tee shots will look to the long-hitting Broadway to position their team within short-iron range in this Two-Man Best Ball, Superball event.

Meanwhile, they will face The Hunt Club's 4th and 6th seeded players in Hunt and Moore. Hunt ranks as one of the longest hitters to ever play on the TGA Tour and will count on his partner, Moore to find enough of the fairway to allow him to open up his full throttle swing. A good day off the tee for this team could spell trouble for their opponents.

Co-Captain's take on pick:

Dwight Clark: I believe that Dru "The Hammer" Broadway can match Wayne for his length even though he's not quite as consistent. If finds his runge, they can be very tough on their opponents. Jackie has a sold short game and is a good puter and will benefit from Dru tees shots. Plus, you never know when he may pull ott a hole-in-one. That is his ace-in-the-hole, his trump card. I think this is a mismatch. Tarzan says, ""oooaoaaoooaoooaooaoooao"

Randy Griffin: This team has a proven track record for stepping up in prime-time events. Wayne has never lost to Jackie in a match at the King Invitational and that's a huge edge mentally. Between them they have seven TGA Tour victories including four majors. That tells me this team won't be rattled under the pressures of this event. Jackie's lone accomplishment in two years was a alleged wind-aided hole-in-one. I contacted the club pro at Winding Creek to verify the validity of his hole-in-one and was told they have no record of this ever occurring.

Day 1 - Match 3 Pairings

Dwight Clark (1) and Jay Whitt (8) vs. Randy Griffin (2) and Tom Dugan (5)

The third match-up on opening day of the 2009 King Invitational features the second and third overall picks in a foursome loaded with K.I. experience. Dwight Clark, the 2006 TGA Tour Champion, teams up with Thomasville's Jay Whitt to challenge Randy Griffin, the winner of the first ever TGA Tour event, and Horneytown's Tom Dugan, himself a former TGA Tour winner.

Clark is the #1 overall seed for The King's Court and is paired with his squad's #8 seed, Whitt. TKC is hoping that Clark's tee shots are long and straight and can compensate from Whitt's occasional bout of inconsistency. Neither player is considered a strong putter but Whitt has proven in the past to have a decent short iron game.

They will face The Hunt Club duo of Randy Griffin, who is seeded #2 for THC, and the resurgent Dugan, a #5 seed who is coming off back-to-back match play victories at the King Invitational. Griffin and Dugan both rely on their ability to consistently find the fairway and with the elder Dugan playing from the senior tees, this team is an early favorite for medalist honors for the low round of the day.

Captain's take on pick:

Jackie King: Knowing that Jay hasn't been playing as much as he'd like, I chose to pair him with my most consistent player. Plus, Dwight has guaranteed me a win on all three days regardless of playing partner of opponent.

Wayne Hunt: I believe that this team is the strongest Day 1 pairing for either team. Tom and Randy are two of the more gentlemanly players on tour. Their respect for the game and their opponents should prove a common thread that will provide instant rapport. I expect Tom's extra help from playing the senior tees to be a huge asset for their team. With both of these guys hitting short to mid-irons into the greens, they should be tough to beat.

Day 1 - Match 2 Pairings

Ted Prestwood (2) and Ryan Mayo (6) vs. Chris Morris (3) and Phillip Brookshire (7)

The second match-up on Day 1 of the 2009 King Invitational pits two long-time nemeses each paired with a relative TGA newcomer in what has match-of-the-day potential. Thomasville's Ted Prestwood, one of the all-time points leaders on the TGA Tour, teams up with Charlotte's Ryan Mayo to challenge Big Daddy Classic Hall-of-Famer Chris Morris and K.I. rookie, Phillip "The Kid" Brookshire.

Prestwood and Mayo enter the fracas as The King's Court's #2 and #6 seeds, respectively. Prestwood is the lone senior representing TKC and his strong short game should benefit from the presence of Mayo and his ability to hit the long ball.

Their opponents include Morris, seeded #3 for The Hunt Club, and Brookshire, a #7 seed making his invitational debut. This match-up features two of the longest hitters on THC and each player is expected to feed off each other's drive in this Superball format.

Captain's take on pick:

Jackie King: I believe this is potentially the day's best match. Ted's ability to consistently find the fairway, combined with the luxury of hitting from the senior tees, should provide Mayo a great opportunity to just bomb away. Plus, Ted's recent history against Chris in singles play should add confidence to our team.

Wayne Hunt: These guys have the ability to considerably reduce the course's length. I have confidence that they will consistently put themselves in good enough position off the tee to set up plenty of scoring opportunities. Chris has proven that he's not easily rattled and I expect him to hold his own and I think Phillip will be one of the true surprises in this entire event.

TGA News Release Subject: K.I. Tampering Charges

Today, official tampering charges were filed against The King's Court in regards to allegations that their captain, Jackie King had made improper contact to members of The Hunt Club, merely days from the start of the 2009 King Invitational.

The TGA prides itself on being a players organization and thus seeks player input in regards to these allegations. A ruling on the matter will occur after poll results tomorrow evening are posted. We encourage members of the TGA as well as King Invitational invitees to participate in the decision-making process. A public interest poll is being released at this time and a ruling will occur at the conclusion of the tallying of poll results.

The TGA has decided to release the contents of the written charges filed by THC captain, Wayne Hunt in their entirety:

To Whom It May Concern:

It has been brought to the attention of The Hunt Club staff that executive officials, primarily Jackie King, with The King's Court have made what we believe to be inappropriate and possibly illegal contact with contracted members of The Hunt Club.

As you are well aware, the TGA collective bargaining agreement indicates that for purposes of each individual tournament, players are essentially independent contractors, able to negotiate playing arrangements and endorsements with any reputable entity of which they see fit.

However, we believe that Section V: Article 18.2 of the CBA specifically refers to players in team and invitational-type events to be contractually obligated to the team, organization, captain, et. al. that has legally acquired said player through draft, free agency or other means agreed upon by the said event's chartered rules/bylaws. As such, those players are deemed the temporary property of the acquiring entity and protected from having any contact and/or discussion both written, orally or through electronic means of communication.

We have gathered information that would indicate that The King's Court is in direct violation of Section V: Article 18.2 due to the content of conversations with Lane Moore on the evening of January 15, 2009 and Randy Griffin in the afternoon of January 19, 2009. Specifically, the language in question refers to Mr. King's questioning of Mr. Moore and Mr. Griffin as to their potential interest in participating in the 2009 K.I. as members of The King's Court on the assumption that a deal could be made to acquire them via the trade route.

The Hunt Club considers this matter to be both serious and urgent in nature and hereby request an immediate ruling into the potential punishment of Mr. King and The King's Court due to these infractions.

Day 1 - Match 1 Pairings

Tommy Dugan (3) and Kim Highfill (5) vs. Chad Hedrick (1) and Wes Crump (8)

The first match-up on Day 1 of the 2009 King Invitational features the last two TGA Players of the Year. Reigning champion Tommy Dugan will team up with Myrtle Beach's Kim Highfill to take on the 2007 POY Chad Hedrick and K.I. rookie Wes Crump.

Dugan and Highfill, representing The King's Court, were chosen with back-to-back picks in this year's draft. Dugan is the #3 seed for The King's Court while Highfill is seeded #5.

Their opponents feature Hedrick, the first player taken in the draft and who is seeded #1 for The Hunt Club. His playing partner for the day will be Crump, the #8 seed for THC.

Captain's take on pick:

Jackie King: I like their length off the tee. It should keep them out of trouble. Even if they are sporadic, they hit the ball far enough that their mistakes won't hurt them like some of the shorter hitters.

Wayne Hunt: Chad is solid all-around. But, it's no secret that the one place he can struggle is off the tee. With Wes playing from the Seniors, that extra yardage should help Chad focus on hitting it straight. This team will score for the simple fact that Chad is playing. But I expect Wes to make major contributions on short par 4's and the par 3's

Breaking News - Tampering Charges to be levied against The King's Court

Lexington, NC - TGA Today has learned that The Hunt Club will file formal tampering charges today against The King's Court for alleged misconduct in player personnel matters. A source close to the situation told TGA Today's Snoops McGowan that Hunt Club management has received information they believe will prove that The King's Court has been illegally targeting and recruiting certain Hunt Club team members. They plan to file their complaint with the Triad Golf Association this afternoon. TGA Today will provide more information as details become available.

Captain - Jackie King

The King's Court Captain - Jackie King

Once in a while a visionary comes around that sees things in a different light than those of us who are just watching. For an idealist, the ability to see through obstacles that block others is what turns ambition into reality. For a Utopia to come to fruition, a prophetic dreamer has to turn his radical idea into a reality that only he can deliver.

From the mind of one man came the King Invitational, the imaginative conclusion of a vision that would turn a few average weekend golfers into not just an association but a family. Beginning an annual pilgrimage such as the King Invitational from scratch requires more behind-the-scenes maneuvering than most people ever realize.

For most participants you merely just pay your money and show up. Everything else is incidental. For the K.I. founder, Jackie King nothing is incidental. Nothing is ever left to chance. Every detail is mapped out. Each nugget of information is digested. For every scenario, an answer exists. It's all part of the vision that makes the King Invitational one of the most talked about and anticipated annual events on the Triad golf radar.

This year, founder Jackie King caps off his vision by returning as not just the backbone behind the King Invitational but as the captain of The King's Court, the opponent for the other eight-man squad, The Hunt Club.

With a chance to lead his charges into battle, King feels rejuvenated for 2009. A lesser man might have concerns about taking on too many responsibilities but it's a role that King relishes. Today, he spoke with TGA staff about The King's Court and the 2009 King Invitational.

"I am very excited about this year. One of the few problems we've ever had with this event has been determining the right balance of players, in terms of numbers. We believe that sixteen is the ideal number of players in this event and this year I decided we'd make a return to that number."

"Once we had all of the details in place, I was pumped about my expanded role as a team captain. I haven't done it for a couple of years now and wanted to get back involved with that aspect. The interaction with the players is what led me to develop this event in the first place. Now, I not only get to play host but get to be the one calling the shots and taking the heat. I live for that kind of thing."

"The King's Court is so balanced. We are strong from top to bottom. I look at what our guys bring to the table and I see an enormous amount of continuity. My pairings possibilities are endless. When developing my potential draft list, the thing our staff scouted most was length off the tee."

"I know that the long ball is not my game but I've surrounded myself with guys who feed off that. Dwight, Tommy, Mayo, Dru. Those guys can bomb it. Ted playing from the senior tees will eat the Big Dog and Uncle Wes for lunch with his drives. Even Kim and Jay can stroke it. With the pairings I have in store, I truly believe we are the favored team."

"Much has been made about the fact we've got some guys who didn't fare well last year. But, I did. And I think that's one of the things that I will impress upon my guys. You can't win if you don't play the game. And I promise you, we plan on playing."

King would also like to express his gratitude to all of those playing in the 2009 King Invitational.

• Role on The King's Court: Captain
• School: East Davidson High School
• Personal: Wife, Becky. Sons, Colby and Brady
• Other notable player/owners: Hall of Famers Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux
• Hobbies: Camping, bowling, fishing
• Favorite teams: UNC Tar Heels, Charlotte Bobcats, Houston Astros, Carolina Panthers
• Did you know? Jackie is the only known TGA player to ever record an official hole-in-one
• Who would play Jackie in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: WWE-Superstar and actor "Stone Cold" Steve Austin
  

Captain - Wayne Hunt

The Hunt Club Captain - Wayne Hunt

The Big Daddy Classic. The Triad Golf Association. The King Invitational. Each of these events and organizations has its own unique place as a Triad golf tradition. Despite each event having the ability to stand on its own, they are each also intertwined with the others. Together they have helped create a niche among local golfers that is difficult to duplicate.

One of the common denominators for the BDC, the TGA & the K.I. is the participation of Wayne Hunt in the development of each entity. An early player in the Big Daddy Classic, Hunt also organized and caddied in numerous events before the tournament was disbanded in the late 90's. As a co-founder of the TGA, one of Hunt's first objectives was to bring back the Big Daddy Classic. In doing so, he not only re-launched the annual event at Lexington Golf Club but he helped fuel an entire monthly tour of local courses.

Just as the rebirth of the Big Daddy Classic was a byproduct of the creation of the TGA, the TGA's history is squarely rooted in the development and success of the King Invitational. Hunt was formerly the assistant director of the King Invitational. In his current position as Chief Negotiator for Player Personnel, Hunt is relishing his role in player recruitment and acquisition for the King Invitational.

With direct participation in gathering a balanced draft pool for the sixth edition of the K.I., it seems only fitting that Hunt would be named one of the two captains for 2009. Today, Hunt met with TGA staff and discussed his role in the K.I. and the team he has drafted, aptly named The Hunt Club.

"I have always had a behind the scenes hand in the King Invitational. Years ago when this event was merely a concept, Jackie approached me and inquired about my interest in assisting him with getting this thing off the ground. I was honored to have helped and would have never imagined that it would be as strong as ever six years later."

"In the past I've helped recruit some very influential players to this event. Jackie has recognized that and this year named me to the post of Chief Negotiator of Player Personnel. I couldn't be more excited about my expanded role and specifically the honor of being named a team captain."

"When assembling my potential draft list, I knew that I would be after players who know how to win. If you look down our roster from the captain all the way to our fourth round pick, we all have one thing in common. We were all a part of Team Hedrick that walked away from the 2008 event $100 richer. It's not every year you get a chance to keep five players from the winning squad together. But my staff and I have managed to do that with The Hunt Club."

"Chad and Tom clinched the win for our team last year on the last day. Both of those guys were unbeaten for the weekend. Chris and I both won twice last year. Randy and Turtle each won once. Turtle putting his team on the back of his shell and carrying them on the last day in '08 was one of the reasons I drafted him. I expect similar results this year for all of our guys and I believe that with the addition of Uncle Wes and "The Kid", we've established the best array of talent from top to bottom that the King Invitational has ever seen."

Hunt has appeared in every King Invitational.

• Role on The Hunt Club: Captain
• School: East Davidson High School, UNC-Greensboro
• Personal: Daughter, Chloe. Girlfriend, Teresa
• Other notable player/managers: Hall-of-Famers Bill Russell, Ty Cobb, Joe Torre and all-time baseball hits leader, Pete Rose
• Hobbies: Writing, bowling
• Favorite teams: UNC Tar Heels, Philadelphia Phillies, Carolina Panthers
• Did you know? Wayne has never lost in match play at the King Invitational and owns three match play victories over the King's Court captain, Jackie King
• Who would play Wayne in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: WWE-Superstar and actor, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson

Selection #1 Chad "Otis" Hedrick

Chad Hedrick- Selected with the #1 overall pick by The Hunt Club

Names like Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, the TPC and Augusta are all synonymous with golf. When those words are spoken, the vision of lush fairways, expensive resorts and white collar clubhouses come to mind. They are storied and revered in golf lore. Golfers dream of someday walking through Amen Corner or sending one across the water at the Sawgrass seventeen.

Despite the glamour and tradition associated with such golf sanctuaries, its the tracks that rarely get any mention beyond the locals where most golfers learn the game. For Triad golfers, names like Lexington, Hemlock, Twin Cedars and Blair Park ring more familiar. For one TGA member, learning to play the game was secondary to learning about the game. And one such course, Colonial Country Club, served as an excellent teacher.

From his early clubhouse days working the carts at Colonial to his stint as an assistant pro at Pine Knolls Golf Course, Chad Hedrick has a lifetime of golf experiences that have helped mold him into the first overall draft pick for the 2009 King Invitational.

For the casual observer, Hedrick's laser-like short game and deft putting touch are the pillars from which he's built a strong, tactical all-around game. But for those close to the TGA Tour, there are other aspects of Hedrick's playing style that define his golf career. As a long-time student of the game, Hedrick's fondness for the tradition and integrity of the storied sport are what separates him from most players. His ability to use golf as a conduit for friendships and camaraderie are unmistakable.

Explaining what sold him on Hedrick as the #1 overall pick, The Hunt Club captain Wayne Hunt had this to say. "Obviously, Chad's on-course talents are unmatched on Tour. For no other reason than that, Chad's a prime candidate for the first pick year in and year out. It's the intangibles though, that make Chad an undeniable top pick."

"No other player is more of a student of golf than Chad. Beyond that, though, no one else is more of a teacher. He's very approachable and willing to help others improve their game. I believe his sense of golf history and tradition are what fuels his desire to improve not only his own game but to help elevate those around him. Who wouldn't want that from a teammate?"

"He's a former player of the year, has a putting stroke that most guys will give an organ for, and is someone that has faced every possible situation on the course. For all of those reasons, I'm proud to announce The Hunt Club has selected Chad with the top pick in this year's draft."

Hedrick continues his streak of never missing a King Invitational event.

• Role in The Hunt Club: Range Instructor
• School: East Davidson High School, High Point University
• Personal: Wife, Michelle. Son, Zachary
• Other notable athletes drafted #1 overall: Future Hall-of-Famers Shaquille O'Neal (Orlando Magic, 1992) Ken Griffey, Jr. (Cincinnati Reds, 1987)
• Hobbies: Watching NASCAR, attending Zachary's ball games
• Favorite teams: Duke Blue Devils, Washington Redskins
• Did you know? Chad is the only person in history to have both caddied on the PGA Tour and played on the TGA Tour
• Who would play Chad in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: Country music star and actor Vince Gill

Selection #2 - Dwight "Slim's Gravy Train" Clark

Dwight Clark - Selected with the 2nd pick of the 1st round, #2 overall by The King's Court

The average modern day athlete is far removed from the humility and graciousness of the players that came before. Athletes like Joe Dimaggio, Arnold Palmer and Bob Cousy transcended their respective sports. Their performances on the field and their character off the field left indelible marks on the trails they blazed.

Many of today's athletes are characterized by a "me first" attitude that puts their careers in the limelight. They seem to put their place on Madison Avenue ahead of their teams' quest for Super Bowl titles. The sports world is laced with Prima Donnas like Terrell Owens, Chad Johnson (aka Ocho Cinco) and Stephon Marbury.

Unfortunately, the TGA Tour hasn't been immune to the self-absorbed actions of players that consistently rate their own agendas ahead of those of the tour itself. Since the inception of the TGA Tour, no player has been more about pounding his own chest than Dwight Clark, the second overall pick of the 2009 King Invitational.

Last year's K.I. was marred by Clark's misrepresentation of the duties of a team captain. After having the honor of captainship bestowed upon him, Clark went out and made a mockery of the entire selection process, fueling anger amongst his own team and fellow competitors.

Once play began, Clark's leadership skills were called into action. Before long it became apparent that he was more interested in creating matches to ensure points for himself instead of looking out for the greater good of his team. Soon, a revolt among his players began and his team, primarily his #1 overall pick Scott Hobson, came unraveled.

With dissension at all-time high, Clark paired himself with Lane Moore in Sunday's captain's choice event, hoping to lead Team Clark to a rousing comeback win. However, it was Turtle Moore who shocked the world with a grinding effort to lead his team's victory over the team of Chris Morris & Jackie King. Afterwards, a defiant Clark reportedly failed to credit Moore for his efforts and refused to speak with reporters after Team Hedrick sealed their King Invitational victory.

One TGA player, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said, "Dwight is as talented player as there has ever been on tour. The problem is that if he was as good as he thinks he is, he'd at least be a Nationwide Tour player. The cockiness just rubs some guys the wrong way."

After a sparkling 2007 TGA season that saw him capture the first ever TGA Player of the Year award, Clark's star has dimmed on tour. He continues to fight speculation that he avoids tournaments at courses that don't suit his game and it's believed that his refusal to commit to a full season on tour is what keeps him from making another serious run at the Player of the Year crown.

The King's Court captain, Jackie King dismissed the negative talk and had this to say about the second overall draft pick: "T.O., Randy Moss, Ocho Cinco... all of those guys get pummeled by the media but every team in the league wants to have a player with that kind of talent. I knew, without a doubt, that we would grab Dwight with the second pick if he was still on the board."

"Our advance scouts rave about his swing, claiming that it's as good as it's ever been. Our staff believes that he has worked out the small chinks in his putting armor. And the golf world knows that when it comes to match play, he will pose a huge problem for anyone out there. Remember Junior Benfield? He was a five-to-one favorite against Dwight a few seasons ago. After the Gravy Train battled him at every turn, he never came back."

Clark will make his fifth straight appearance at the King Invitational.

• Role on The King's Court: The Trumpeter
• School: South Stokes High School, Appalachian State University
• Personal: Wife, Cindy. Son, Chaffin. Daughter, Chelsea
• Other notable athletes drafted #2 overall: NFL HAll-of-Famer Randy White (Dallas Cowboys, 1975), NBA Hall-of-Famer Isiah Thomas (Detroit Pistons, 1981)
• Hobbies: Coaching baseball, playing in & hosting poker tournaments
• Favorite teams: San Fransisco 49ers, Appalachian St. Mountaineers,
• Did you know? Dwight is a frequent visitor to Atlantic City, traveling there at least twice a year
• Who would play Dwight in the sports movie version of the King Invitational? NASCAR driver, Kyle Busch

Selection # 3 Ted Prestwood

Ted Prestwood - Selected with the 1st pick of the 2nd round, #3 overall by The King's Court

When transplants move to North Carolina they talk about how great it is to live in a place that has four seasons. For the Triad Golf Association and organizers of the King Invitational, the Ted Prestwood Saga has seen more seasonal changes than a Doppler-radar. First, in true Brett Favre-fashion, there was the whole "this is my last trip" to the King Invitational speech that Prestwood gives as a rite of passage following each season's Sunday K.I. finale.

Then came the announcement in the spring that Prestwood, feeling squirrely after early season successes on the TGA Tour, was uncertain as to what the future may hold for his golf game and more specifically a potential return to the 2009 King Invitational.

With the blistering summer heat came news that Prestwood had officially retired from King Invitational competition. He routinely told other tour players, officials, and even close friends and family that he would no longer be making the annual trek to Myrtle Beach for the King Invitational. He even held an impromptu news conference at Wallburg's Meadowlands Golf Course where he told gatherers, including media representing the TGA, that "you have seen the last of Ted Prestwood at the King Invitational."

By the time summer's green leaves had turned into luscious fall gold and then faded to dormant brown, rumors began to swirl that Prestwood was growing restless. One TGA Tour official, who asked to remain anonymous for this story, had this to say of an incident that took place at Prestwood's High Rock Lake vacation home. "Several TGA players were at Ted's lake retreat and after a day of heavy drinking, he began to press them about who would be at the '09 event and throwing his name out as a potential candidate."

Each of the players rumored to have been present at this event (Wayne Hunt, Jackie King, Turtle Moore and Dru Broadway) all refused to provide any details and no one would confirm nor deny this meeting.

Regardless of reasons, though, it soon became apparent that Prestwood's queries about the 2009 event were more than just a passing interest. Prestwood repeatedly denied that his indecisiveness had anything to do with money. At one point, negotiations between King and Prestwood hit such a snag that King employed former TGA President Hunt to become the Chief Negotiator for Player Personnel and his primary free-agent target immediately became Prestwood.

"I received a voicemail from Big Jack on a Sunday and he basically said he was through. He mentioned that he thought Ted was playing unfair and that he didn't see any way of bringing him into the fold for '09," Hunt said.

"I had heard that at one point Ted was very close to signing with the Jones Group for 2009. There was even talk about him becoming a Player/Manager for the Jones Group and a head-to-head Jones Group vs. King Court match taking place at this year's King Invitational. At that point, I knew that losing Ted wasn't an option," continued Hunt.

"I had seen the Brett Favre saga play out in Green Bay. There are some fans in Green Bay that will never forgive the club for Brett becoming a Jet and there are some cheeseheads that have turned there back on #4 forever. I couldn't let that happen here. I knew Ted becoming a Jones Groupie would leave some of our faithful disappointed at us for not getting a deal done to keep him here. But, I also knew that some of our turtleheads would never look at him the same."

Hunt refused to go into any specifics about the details in Prestwood's contract other than to say that he is playing 2009 on a one-season deal with a mutual option for 2010. He did say that K.I. officials are looking at this as Prestwood's swan song with the organization and wanted an opportunity to be able to send him out in grand style.

Prestwood's 6th straight King Invitational appearance looks to be his final K.I. event although he pledges to remain a member of the TGA Tour.

• Role on The King's Court: Elder Statesman
• School: Chattanooga High School
• Personal: Wife, Kaye. Sons, Butch and Tony, Daughter, Becky.
• Other notable athletes drafted #3 overall: NBA Hall-of-Famer Michael Jordan (Chicago Bulls, 1984) NFL Hall-of-Famer Barry Sanders (Detroit Lions, 1989)
• Hobbies: Camping, fishing, spending time with his grandchildren: Heather, Addison, Colby & Brady
• Favorite teams: Miami Dolphins and Duke Blue Devils
• Did you know? Every golf-playing member of Ted's family has a hole-on-one except him. This includes his father, sister, brother, brother-in-law, nephew and most recently, his son-in-law
• Who would play Ted in the sports movie version of the King Invitational? Grumpy Old Men star Walter Matthau

Selection # 4 Randy "Big Money Biscuit" Griffin

Randy Griffin - Selected with the 2nd pick of the 2nd round, #4 overall by The Hunt Club

Everybody knows someone with that certain sense of invincibility. Those people tend to have a knack of overcoming scenarios that would fell most people. They can rifle through the trash and come out smelling like roses. Even in the stickiest situations they come out feeling silky smooth. With every sidestep and wrong turn they seem to pick up more admirers and followers.

"The Teflon Don" John Gotti had that appeal. "Slick Willy" Bill Clinton was also like that. Even the sports world has their own versions - Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant come to mind. For the TGA Tour, "Big Money Biscuit" Randy Griffin reflects the same sort of iconic virtuosity.

Despite his own George "No Show" Jones impersonation at the 2007 King Invitational, Griffin rebounded to be elected TGA President at the 2008 event. Merely hours after being voted the second president in TGA history, Griffin was seen pounding back by shots at Myrtle Beach's Broadway at the Beach. Rumors of a wild night of same-sex dancing with fellow TGA member Turtle Moore were never proven. However, Griffin's performance and actions at the next day's Match Play Championships at The Heritage Club seemed to add credibility to the speculation.

Eventually though even the most indomitable figures come tumbling down. Recently, we've seen the charisma of folks like John Daly and Charles Barkley fail to keep them from hitting rock bottom. After allegedly passing out on the final hole in his match play loss to Ted Prestwood last year, one year removed from the infamous No Show Saturday, Griffin seemingly had hit bottom.

However, it would soon come to fruition that the barrel looked more bottomless than ever. The 2006 and 2007 TGA seasons proved that Griffin was a contender that everyone on tour had to take serious. He won three times in those seasons and finished in the top three in the Player of the Year race both times. Then came 2008. Armed with new pressures as TGA President, Griffin failed to even muster one top-5 finish, finally ending the season with a four-event hiatus that left outsiders wondering if Griffin's career was done for good.

What the outside world didn't know was that Griffin has been undergoing a period of rejuvenation marked by aromapuncture (a new aromatherapy-based acupuncture), yoga and his new love - The Church of Scientology.

"I've experienced Randy's new found philosophy. I've witnessed a re-birth. He's always been sort of an old soul. Now he's more like the Travoltas and Cruises of the world. His enthusiasm is unbridled," said The Hunt Club captain, Wayne Hunt.

"I think a lot of it has to do with his becoming more in tune with nature through his hunting adventures. He seems so at peace and eager to share that feeling with those he meets. With Randy the mental aspect of golf has always been the predominant factor. At this year's event, you'll see that his mental approach will be infectious to our team. I wouldn't be surprised if he walks away as the event's Most Outstanding Player."

This will mark Griffin's fifth straight appearance in the King Invitational.

• Role in The Hunt Club: Big Game Hunter
• School: South Stokes High School, Appalachian State University
• Personal: Wife, Leann
• Other notable athletes drafted #4 overall: Former U.S. Olympic Team Captain Sam Perkins (Dallas Mavericks, 1984), NFL Hall-of-Famer Walter Payton (Chicago Bears, 1975)
• Hobbies: Hunting, fishing
• Favorite teams: Dallas Cowboys, New York Mets, UNC Tar Heels
• Did you know? Randy won the first-ever official TGA Tour event at Holly Ridge Golf Links
• Who would play Randy in the sports movie version of the King Invitational? Former ER star Anthony Edwards

Selection #5 Chris "The Cat Man" Morris

Chris Morris- Drafted with the 1st pick of the 3rd round, #5 overall by The Hunt Club

As co-founder of the Big Daddy Classic, Chris Morris was a major part of the early grassroots history of the Triad Golf Association. In the early 90's, Morris was a frequent contender for the Big Daddy Classic when head-to-head matches determined who walked away with the crown. There were no team events, no carts and certainly no titanium drivers or rescue clubs to be found.

Back then the Classic was a no-frills event that meant more about pride and bragging rights than Player of the Year trophies and points systems. Morris weathered many battles and although he sometimes finished on the losing end, the experiences gained in those early events have proven invaluable for a solid, TGA career.

Even more importantly, involvement in the Big Daddy events meant learning to play under some of the most stressful situations possible. The Big Daddy Classic was one of the first events to ever feature the putter-cam. But, despite having the putter-cam the Classic's shoestring budget didn't allow for professional cameramen. Instead, when a player was addressing his putt, it was his playing opponent operating the putter-cam. The trash talk was often times humorous and sometimes mean and nasty. But it was always pressure-packed.

According to The Hunt Club captain, Wayne Hunt it was the experiences gained from those early events that led to his selection of Chris Morris with the 5th overall pick in the 2009 King Invitational Draft. "Chris has played through pressures that would make a lot of TGA golfers cringe. When you have to buy the winner's lunch and you've only got four dollars to your name, you know losing means your ass don't eat," Hunt said.

"That kind of pressure is unknown to a lot of guys. But, Chris has been there. The guy's got ice in his veins. He is unflinching at every angle. He's been through the wars and I drafted him knowing that he will bring a toughness to the squad that is unmatched. I wouldn't want to be the guy that plays him in match play."

Morris has participated in every King Invitational.

• Role in The Hunt Club: Tracker
• School: East Davidson High School, Davidson County Community College, UNC-Charlotte
• Personal: Wife, Aimee. Daughter, Emily
• Other notable athletes drafted #5 overall: Current NBA All-Stars Kevin Garnett (Minnesota Timberwolves, 1995) and Vince Carter (Golden State Warriors, 1998)
• Hobbies: Camping, Following NASCAR
• Favorite teams: Kansas Jayhawks, Miami Hurricanes
• Did you know? Chris is a former police officer with the Thomasville Police Department
• Who would play Chris in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: Former Cheers actor and movie star Woody Harrelson

Selection # 6 Tommy Dugan

Tommy Dugan - Drafted with the 2nd pick of the 3rd round, #6 overall by The King's Court

When you are the reigning TGA Player of the Year, some things are a forgone conclusion. First, you are assured that there's a big fat target on your back from the first drive in March until the last putt rattles the cup in November. Second, every move you make is under scrutiny on and off the course. With throngs of media scrutinizing every tee shot on the course and every tequila shot off-course, the pressures of being the best player on tour are immeasurable. Finally, you know you will be counted on by your teammates to make a big contribution at the King Invitational.

For Tommy Dugan who was crowned the youngest TGA Tour Champion in November, the pressures, scrutiny and accountability begins in earnest in just a few short weeks. This time last year, Dugan was looked at as being a four or five seed on a six man squad at last year's K.I. This year, despite increased depth and the re-expansion back to a 16-man field, Dugan sits solidly as a number three-seed following his selection as the sixth overall draft choice by The King's Court captain Jackie King.

"Tommy's rise began here last year," King said. "He and I halved our match last year at The Heritage Club. It was a match he should have won handily. In the past, giving away that match would have spelled doom for him. But, he came back on Sunday and well.... we all know what happened then."

What happened then was one of the biggest shots in King Invitational history at one of the most pivotal points. Dugan and his Team Clark partner Ted Prestwood had just chipped in for birdie on the par-4 4th hole at Diamondback Golf Club to stake themselves to a one-hole lead over the Team Hedrick squad of Randy Griffin and Wayne Hunt when they came to the par-5 5th hole.

After answering Hunt's booming tee shot with one of his own, Dugan watched Prestwood land his second attempt safely across a marsh 75 yards right of the green. With some prodding from Prestwood to just go for it, Dugan smashed a 245-yard 3-wood pin high seven feet left of the stick. After rolling in an unlikely eagle putt and watching the Hunt/Griffin team make a shocking three-putt bogey, a one stroke lead had ballooned into a four shot cushion.

"After that match, Tommy seemed destined for good things. And by good things, I mean a dominating performance on tour from start to finish. I fully expect that he will come out this month with that same fire and make things happen for our squad," King added in his daily news conference.

The 2009 King Invitational will mark Tommy's fifth straight King Invitational appearance.

• Role on The King's Court: First Knight
• School: High Point Central High School
• Personal: Wife, Lauren
• Other notable athletes drafted #6 overall: Future Hall-of-Fame SS Derek Jeter (NY Yankees, 1992) NFL troublemaker Adam "Pacman" Jones (Tennessee Titans, 2005)
• Hobbies: sports, movies and video games
• Favorite teams: Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Bobcats, Chicago Bulls, Florida St. Seminoles and Duke Blue Devils
• Did you know? Tommy went to school with and is friends with former Survivor contestant Austin Carty
• Who would play Tommy in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: Former Bevery Hills 90210 star Brian Austin Green

Selection #7 Kim Highfill

Kim Highfill - Drafted with the 1st pick of the 4th round, #7 overall by The King's Court

The King's Court captain, Jackie King believes in experience. He thinks it's a precursor to success and imperative that his teams bring the most experience to the course it can muster. Proof of that comes in looking at his roster which to-date reveals every player to be a King Invitational veteran.

Chosen with the seventh overall pick in the 2009 King Invitational draft, Kim Highfill is the third King's Court draftee to make his return to the K.I. field after at least a one-year layoff. In Highfill's case though, it wasn't just experience that buoyed his status but a bit of home-field advantage helped as well. Highfill, who now makes his home in Myrtle Beach, brings a strong sense of course knowledge to the King's Court and will be counted on to be not only a clubhouse leader but a caddy of sorts during team events.

Highfill's last King Invitational appearance was two years ago and by all accounts was uneventful. Even Highfill himself has talked about the disappointment he felt in his play that weekend. He has since worked hard to prepare himself for a return to the invitational, not knowing for sure if he'd ever be chosen again.

Never known for his work in the gym, Highfill decided to dedicate himself to getting in better shape physically. Armed with a leaner, stronger build, Highfill then began to work on his game concentrating on repairing a short game that had gone awry. Reportedly, with his game in the best shape of his career, Highfill seems poised to make an impact at the invitational this time around.

"We are really pleased with the reports we've been getting about Kim's game," said Jackie King. "Our staff feels that his improved scoring is second-hand to the fact that he should be mentally more prepared to handle the pressures of this event this time around. Plus, the local course knowledge that he has about every course we'll play should prove to be invaluable."

The 2009 version of the King Invitational marks Highfill's second appearance at the event.

• Role on The King's Court: The Queen's Life Guard
• School: East Davidson High School, U.S Air Force Communications School, Airman Flight School
• Personal: Girlfriend, Kate. Sons, Lane and Addison
• Other notable athletes drafted #7 overall: 5-time Pro Bowler Sterling Sharpe (Green Bay Packers, 1988) World Series hero Trot Nixon (Boston Red Sox, 1993)
• Hobbies: Flying, European sports cars
• Favorite teams: UNC Tar Heels, Carolina Panthers, Detroit Tigers
• Did you know? Kim remains in the Air Force reserves and served in the Gulf during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
• Who would play Kim in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: Former Gilligan's Island star, Bob Denver

Selection # 8 Tom "Big Dog" Dugan

Tom Dugan - Drafted with the 2nd pick of the 4th round, #8 overall by The Hunt Club

In 2008 Tom Dugan entered the King Invitational with a plethora of questions and concerns about his game. Returning from surgery to repair a bicep muscle torn during a freak lawn-mowing incident, Dugan's ability to merely swing a club was untested.

Then came Saturday's Match Play day and a systematic 5-and-4 dismantling of Lane Moore. After disposing of "Turtle" for the second consecutive season, Dugan claimed his return to action a resounding success. But skeptics were slow to buy into that thinking. Throughout the 2008 season Dugan's presence on tour remained strong even if the results weren't always dramatic.

During a grueling, hot mid-summer's day at Asheboro's Tot Hill Farm, Dugan's round proved to be nothing short of laborious. The Hunt Club's captain, Wayne Hunt was one of his playing partners that day and said, "you could just tell that physically Tom wasn't all the way back. After such a long layoff conditioning is always a concern and that day showed he wasn't a hundred percent."

Several months later Hunt was again paired with Dugan and this time he saw a different player. "Conditions weren't favorable that day either," Hunt said. "It was blistering cold and windy and that can really wear on you. At the day's end, Tom was as fresh as he was on the first hole."

"At that point, I knew if I had the chance to grab him in the draft, I'd take it. I mean who wouldn't want someone who almost always hits it right down the middle and will play all weekend from the senior's."

As the 8th overall pick in the 2009 King Invitational, it appears Dugan has finally made it all the way back.

• Role on The Hunt Club: Lead Dog
• School: West Palm Beach, FL
• Personal: Wife, Kathy. Daughter, Aimee. Son, Tommy
• Other notable athletes drafted #8 overall: NFL Hall-of-Famers Larry Csonka (Miami Dolphins, 1968) and Ronnie Lott (SF 49ers, 1981)
• Hobbies: Watching NASCAR, watching his granddaughter grow up
• Favorite teams: Atlanta Braves, Miami Dolphins
• Did you know? Tom is a Vietnam War history fanatic
• Who would play Tom in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: Comedic actor Jack Black
  

Selection #9 Lane "Turtle" Moore

Lane Moore - Drafted with the 1st pick of the 5th round, #9 overall by The Hunt Club

Lane Moore has a history of stepping up his game when the stakes are at their highest. As the only three-time major winner in TGA Tour history, "Turtle" has established a well-deserved reputation for making big shots when big events are on the line.

In 2008, Moore rose to new heights following his runner-up finish in the TGA Player of the Year race behind eventual champion Tommy Dugan. With the second place showing complimenting his three major wins, Moore seemed poised to be an early round selection in the 2009 King Invitational draft.

But as so many athletes have found out through the years, the off-season can sometimes be brutal. And for Turtle, this off-season has been nothing short of tumultuous. First, rumors began to surface that back problems that began over a year ago had re-surfaced. Then, he suffered a thumb injury before the '08 TGA campaign concluded. That injury led some insiders to whisper that his lackluster finish to the season was due to an injury that was worse than what Turtle and his handlers had previously reported.

Finally, internet message boards began to flutter with stories that Turtle's last two outings at the King Invitational had bruised his psyche and that Moore wasn't as mentally prepared for the grueling three-day invitational as he needed to be. After back-to-back disheartening match play losses to Tom Dugan, coupled with losing the Player of the Year title to Tommy Dugan, many golf observers had wondered if the Dugan family had finally chased Turtle into his shell for good.

The Hunt Club's captain, Wayne Hunt went to great lengths in today's King Invitational press conference to dispel any doubts about Moore's capabilities. "I don't care who you are," began Hunt's rant. "You don't get to be a three-time, that's right - three-time, major winner by running for cover when you don't win. Hell, I know better than anyone - you can't always hit it long and straight."

Hunt went on to say that, "if Turtle had one major title under his belt and never won another event, I'd begin to buy that argument. But that's not the case. This guy is a legitimate contender every time he steps on the course. He may not have his A-game every round. But, when he does, there's no need for anyone else to break open a new box of balls."

"Our scouts had him in at the draft-eligible combine and they came away pleased with where his game is right now. He tested well on the Wonderlic so we believe mentally, he's focused and will be course-savvy and sharp come tee time."

2009 will be Moore's third consecutive King Invitational event.

• Role on The Hunt Club: Ninja Turtle
• School: North Davidson High School
• Personal: Wife, Maggie. Dogs, Pepper, Max and Little Bit
• Other notable athletes drafted #9 overall: NBA All-Stars: Tracy McGrady (Orlando Magic, 1997), Dirk Nowitzki (Milwaukee Bucks, 1998), Shawn Marion (Phoenix Suns, 1999) and Amare Stoudemire (Phoenix Suns, 2002)
• Hobbies: Gardening, bowling, playing video games, karaoke, running
• Favorite teams: Duke Blue Devils, Washington Redskins
• Did you know? Lane is the captain of the Don Juan's Strikers bowling team
• Who would play Lane in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: Jerry Ferrara who plays "Turtle" on the HBO comedy Entourage

Selection #10 Ryan Mayo

Ryan Mayo - Drafted with the 2nd pick of the 5th round, #10 overall by The King's Court

Charlotte's Independence High School is known for producing outstanding football players. One of the premier programs in the nation, the Patriots have produced such gridiron stars as former Florida standout Chris Leak and North Carolina's Hakeem Nicks.

Golf is generally an afterthough at the 4-AA powerhouse. However, one golfer whose roots are at Independence High is Charlotte's Ryan Mayo. As the tenth selection in the 2009 King Invitational draft, Mayo returns from a two-year hiatus refreshed and prepared to make major contributions to the King's Court.

Mayo took time off from the sport to clear his mind after the birth of his daughter, Emma. It's time that scouts say was well spent fine tuning his game in preparation for his return to action. One Charlotte-area scout, who refused to be named for this report, said this about Mayo: "His iron play is solid. The improvement is phenomenal. Always a big hitter off the tee, he has become a helluva threat from 175 and in."

A former TGA member, Mayo reportedly has been working towards regaining full-time status on the TGA Tour in 2009. The King's Court captain, Jackie King suggests that his inclusion in this year's invitational could be a measuring stick to guage the status of his game. "I went after Mayo knowing that he could be a contributor on my squad. But, I also wanted to get him into the fold to better grasp where he stands in his preparations for a return to the tour," King told TGA staff today.

This is Mayo's second apperance at the King Invitational.

• Role on The King's Court: The Enforcer
• School: Independence High School
• Personal: Girlfriend, Erika. Daughter, Emma
• Other notable athletes drafted #10 overall: NBA Finals MVP Paul Pierce (Boston Celtics, 1998), Pro Football Hall-of-Famer Marcus Allen (Oakland Raiders, 1982)
• Hobbies: Customizing import cars, playing video games, drinking Coors Light
• Favorite teams: Duke Blue Devils, Carolina Panthers
• Did you know? Mayo rates himself as one of the best Call of Duty players in the state
• Who would play Mayo in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: Actor Matthew Lillard from Scream & Scooby-Doo fame

Selection #11 Dru "The Hammer" Broadway

Dru Broadway - Drafted with the 1st pick of the 6th round, #11 overall by The King's Court

The annals of sports are littered with accounts of young, inexperienced athletes coming out of nowhere to lead their teams to prominence. Some of these players go on to Hall-of-Fame careers while others fade into black after a few seasons of brilliance. The common thread among these players is that regardless how their careers play out, they leave us, as sports fans, not only wanting more, but feeling that what we've just witnessed was greatness in the making, even if for one fleeting moment.

In April of 1984 the world was introduced to Dwight Gooden. "Doc" burst onto the sports landscape with one of the most remarkable individual seasons ever put together by a rookie, capturing the NL Rookie of the Year award while leading the major leagues in strikeouts. Gooden followed his rookie campaign with one of the most dominant individual statistical seasons in baseball history finishing with a 24-4 record while leading the majors in strikeouts (268) and ERA (1.53) while hurling 16 complete games.

While Gooden would go on to pitch fourteen more seasons in the majors, his career would be marked by off-the-field issues and injuries. Still, no baseball fan could forget what it was like to watch Doc Gooden blow a high fastball by a hitter and then follow it up with a knee-bending curve ball that left everyone in attendance in awe.

It's that kind of impact that the King's Court captain Jackie King talks about when he talks about his 6th round draft pick, Dru "The Hammer" Broadway. "I watched Dru go from being a perennial field filler to winning two events and finishing top four in the player of the year race last year," King said. "Anyone who watched his play at the final event last year saw him win a major in dominating fashion."

It's that kind of potential that left King giddy about the possibility of adding Broadway to his roster for the 2009 King Invitational. "If we can reign in some of that potential, Dru could end up being the Most Outstanding Player at the invitational. At the very least, I can promise you this: his playing partners are going to benefit from his tee balls more often than not. They'll be hitting approach shots from places they normally only dream of."
The 2009 King Invitational will mark Broadway's third consecutive appearance at the King Invitational.

• Role on the King's Court: The Henchman
• School: North Davidson High School
• Personal: Girlfriend, Christina. Dog Vegas
• Other notable athletes drafted #11 overall: Daunte Culpepper (Minnesota Vikings, 1999) Future Pro Basketball Hall-of-Famer Reggie Miller (Indiana Pacers, 1987)
• Hobbies: bowling, snowboarding, riding his motorcycle & playing video games
• Favorite teams: Duke Blue Devils, Don Juan's Strikers
• Did you know? Dru is a self-proclaimed Parrothead
• Who would play Dru in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: Jesse G. James, star of Monster Garage and CEO of West Coast Choppers

Selection #12 Phillip "The Kid" Brookshire

Phillip Brookshire -Drafted with the 2nd pick of the 6th Round, #12 overall by The Hunt Club

One pick prior to selecting one of the King Invitational's elder statesmen, Wes Crump with the 13th pick, The Hunt Club captain, Wayne Hunt dipped into the youth pool to draft one of the youngest participants in the K.I. field. Taken with the twelfth overall pick, Phillip "The Kid" Brookshire brings a youth infusion to the Hunt Club that his team captain is counting on to help out in team matches.

"While I expect every player on my squad to be favored in their respective match play events, I especially wanted guys that I think will be able to help their teammates on the first and last days of the invitational," said Hunt.

"Phillip is a guy who really uncoils when he swings. He takes it back and swings through it with so much torque that he's going to always hit it hard. I foresee pairing him with some of our more accurate, if not long, drivers during team events and just letting him go," added Hunt.

"Physically, he's one of the stronger, more athletic guys on tour. Although a hectic travel schedule limits his play during the season, he shows tons of promise. I think under my tutelage, "The Kid" will be a huge force at this year's King Invitational."

Brookshire, like Crump, will make his King Invitational debut at the 2009 event.

• Role on The Hunt Club: The Trophy Hunter
• School: Trinity High School, High Point University
• Personal: Wife, Stacy
• Other notable athletes drafted #12 overall: former Duke center Cherokee Parks and UNC Tar Heel George Lynch
• Hobbies: watching MMA/UFC and MMA training at his gym, American Martial Arts Academy
• Favorite teams: Duke Blue Devils, Boston Red Sox
• Did you know? Phillip shares a tattoo artist with fellow TGA member, Lane "Turtle" Moore
• Who would play Phillip in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: Two and a Half Men star, Jon Cryer
  

Selection #13 "Uncle" Wes Crump

Wes Crump - Drafted with the 1st pick of the 7th round, #13 overall by The Hunt Club

triskaidekaphobia [tris-kahy-dek-uh-foh-bee-uh, tris-kuh-]: the fear or phobia of the number 13.

For most people the number thirteen invokes thoughts of bad luck and superstitions. Conventional wisdom says that you should avoid the number thirteen at every avenue.

In sports, where superstitions often-times rule over logic, the number is avoided like the plague. Formula-1 racing has banned the number from their race cars. Even top stars who chose to wear the #13 have experienced some luck gone afoul that many associated with their uniform numbers. Dan Marino (Miami Dolphins #13) is widely considered the greatest QB to never win a Super Bowl. Alex Rodriguez switched from #3 to #13 when traded to the N.Y. Yankees and after switching to the pinstripes and adding the 1 in front of the 3, A-Rod and the Yanks have failed to capture the World Series title. Mats Sundin (#13 Toronto Maple Leafs) is the NHL's all-time points leader among players without a Stanley Cup title.

For The Hunt Club, captain Wayne Hunt says that the #13 is just another number. "A lot of people would have shied away from picking a King Invitational rookie with the thirteenth pick. But, I looked at "Uncle" Wes and decided that with two players left to go, I'd jump at a chance to grab someone who I think will be a calming influence on our squad," Hunt told TGA staff reporters.

Technically, Crump, the newest TGA member, is the uncle of fellow TGA member, Lane "Turtle" Moore. But, his calm demeanor, corny jokes and stature as one of the TGA Tour's elder statesmen has not only made him a tour favorite but has garnered him the nickname "Uncle Wes".

"A guy that comes in, unknown by nearly everyone in the league, and suddenly has the majority of his fellow competitors calling him 'Uncle'... that's a guy I want on my team," said Hunt. "I think Uncle Wes will be someone that guys look up to and will be a good fit for a lot of our guys on the days we play captains choice and two-man best ball. I've got some volatile guys on my squad, myself included. A personality like his should help keep the outbursts to a minimum."

• Role on the Hunt Club: The Treasure Hunter
• School: Catawba Valley Community College
• Personal: Wife, Mary. Sons, Wesley, Tim, John and Jordan. Daughters, Heather and Patches
• Other notable athletes drafted #13 overall: NBA MVP- Kobe Bryant (1996, Charlotte Hornets), Pro Football Hall-of-Famer Franco Harris (1972, Pittsburgh Steelers)
• Hobbies: Riding his 1979 Harley Davidson Super Glide Shovelhead, boating at Holden Beach
• Favorite teams: Carolina Panthers
• Did you know? In his career as a furniture designer, Wes has traveled to exotic locations such the Phillipinnes, China and Hong Kong.
• Who would play Wes in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: Writer, director, and actor Woody Allen

Selection #14 - Jay Whitt

Jay Whitt - Drafted with the 2nd pick of the 7th Round, #14 overall by The King's Court

Traditionally, the last player in the NFL's Amateur Player Draft is affectionately called Mr. Irrelevant. But, to make Mr. Irrelevant, well um...relevant again, there is a whole Irrelevant Week dedicated to him, culminating in an awards ceremony and luncheon where Mr. Irrelevant is feted with gifts and accolades. The final player selected for the 2009 King Invitational, Jay Whitt won't be subject to that type of individual scrutiny according to team captain, Jackie King.

"It's not like the NFL where 250+ players are chosen. We consider Jay to be one of the sixteen best amateur golfers in the Triad. Otherwise, he wouldn't be a part of this event," King said.

Whitt, who has been sidelined for nearly two years while undergoing treatment for a series of kidney stones, will make his return to golf at the 2009 K.I. "Obviously, Jay's health was of concern to everyone and a big reason he didn't go higher in the draft. We had him in for workouts in December and our medical staff came back with positive news," King said in announcing his final pick at a news conference earlier today.

"Jay's a people person. All of the guys on the King's Court will appreciate what he brings to the team in terms of chemistry. He has a way of easing tensions in the locker room."

2009 will mark Whitt's third appearance at the King Invitational.

• Role on the King's Court: Jester
• School: Graduate of Central Davidson High School and the U.S. Navy Electronics School, attended N.C. A&T State University
• Personal: Wife, Larissa. Sons, Drake (18) and Dalton (13)
• Other notable athletes drafted #14 overall: Heisman Trophy winner Eddie George out of Ohio State (Houston Oilers, 1995). Former UNC guard Rashad McCants (Minnesota Timberwolves, 2005)
• Hobbies: Volunteering/Coaching Youth sports. Current President of the Pilot Boosters Club. Has coached baseball, basketball, football and girls softball.
• Favorite teams: Duke Blue Devils and Dallas Cowboys
• Did you know? Jay lived in Alaska as a child, the adopted state of former Vice-Presidential candidate, Sarah Palin who he finds to be very, very hot.
• Who would play Jay in the sports movie version of the King Invitational: King of Queens star, Kevin James.

2009 King Invitational

A new year dawning brings about countless resolutions that will be made - and broken - over the next several weeks. There is no doubt that 2009 will deliver political and cultural change, economic upheaval and a plethora of new trends and hot button issues. With so much uncertainty swirling worldwide, Americans are beginning to seek out old traditions and are once again embracing the familiar. For Triad golfers, nothing rings more traditional or familiar than the King Invitational.

Now less than a month away, plans for the 2009 King Invitational are in place and organizers are scurrying to wrap up last minute details for the latest and greatest version of one of golf's premier amateur invitationals.

Over the course of the next 15 days, we will reveal, one-by-one, participants in the 2009 King Invitational. The revelations begin tonight with the unveiling of the naming of team captains and their new team names.

So without further adieu, we have your 2009 team captains:

Jackie King - Lexington, NC -
The founder of the King Invitational will lead his charges into battle hoping to avoid the critical mental lapses that crippled Team Clark at the 2008 King Invitational. "I watched the 10-penny nail (aka Dwight Clark) butcher team and individual match-ups last year," King said. "I will not make that same mistake. My methods are simple and my picks solid. From top to bottom I feel I've got the most consistent - if not remarkable - players out there. I drafted players based on personal strengths and weaknesses and with an eye on how they can help their teammates in a quest to bring home $800 for our squad, now known as The King's Court.

Wayne Hunt - Lexington, NC -
The co-founder of the TGA brings back an analytical approach to captain-ship that served so well for Team Hedrick and their captain, Chad Hedrick at the 2008 King Invitational. Hunt had this to say about his eight selections: "Paul Azinger and Chad Hedrick had a lot in common last year in picking winning Ryder Cup and K.I. teams - they didn't always choose the most talented player - but they always chose the most talented player who would have a positive impact on team chemistry. I want to mold my guys into a seamless orb - we will be one when it's all said and done. You'll find no dissenters on my team - there are no T.O.'s or Ocho Cincos on my squad. My guys will feed off each other emotionally on and off the course. We are not a team of individuals. We are merely a team, now known as The Hunt Club.
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For the next two weeks, we will unveil the 14 players chosen in the 2009 King Invitational Draft. With King and Hunt already on teams based on their captain-ship, who will be the next player revealed. Check back tomorrow at the new home of the Triad Golf Association to find out who was the 14th and final selection in the 2009 K.I. draft. There will be an e-mail reminder sent out when the player's profile is posted, so bookmark this page now!