(FRANKLIN, Tenn.) – 

Hal Loflin, Director of Golf at Smyrna Golf Course, is embarking on a well-deserved retirement on October 7th after an impressive 30-year tenure at this beloved municipal facility. The Smyrna Golf Course, owned and managed by the Town of Smyrna, is situated in Rutherford County, just 20 minutes from downtown Nashville. This exceptional facility features an 18-hole regulation course alongside a 9-hole Executive Course, proudly recognized as a First Tee facility.

Loflin’s journey in the golf industry began as an Assistant Pro at Jackson Country Club in 1990 working under David Crafton. He began working under Dave Normand as an Assistant Pro at Smyrna Golf Course in 1991. His dedication to enhancing the game started with his Class A membership in 1993. He went to work for the Tennessee Section in 1995 as the Member Services Director working for Dick Horton and Joe Taggert until 1998. Since then, he has been the Head Golf Professional/Director of Golf at Smyrna Golf Course from 1998 until 2024. His unwavering commitment to the sport and community was recognized in 2022 when he received the prestigious Distinguished Career Award from the Tennessee PGA.

A true advocate for inclusivity in golf, Loflin has passionately hosted the Tennessee Special Olympics tournament and the First Tee program for over two decades, fostering relationships that exemplify his caring nature as the Head Golf Professional at Smyrna. His impact on the community and the sport has earned him numerous accolades throughout his PGA career, solidifying his reputation as one of the premier golf professionals in the section.

Loflin’s exceptional mentoring skills were highlighted when he received the Bill Strausbaugh Award from the Tennessee PGA Section for four consecutive years, from 1999 to 2002. Additionally, he was honored with the PGA Professional Development Award three times—in 2004, 2008, and 2009—and was named the Middle Tennessee Golf Professional of the Year in 2001. Hal Loflin’s legacy at Smyrna Golf Course is marked by his dedication, passion, and profound influence on countless individuals in the golfing community.

 

Kelsey Ludwigsen, Communications Manager