05/06/2026
From Tennessee junior golf to the Korn Ferry Tour stage in their home state.
The Tennessee Golf Foundation is proud to announce that Tennessee natives and former University of Tennessee standouts Hunter Wolcott and Jake Hall have received sponsor exemptions into the 2026 Visit Knoxville Open at Holston Hills Country Club.
This moment means more than just a spot in the field. It’s a full-circle moment for two players who grew up in Tennessee, developed their games through Tennessee junior golf programming operated by the Tennessee Golf Foundation, and went on to represent the University of Tennessee at the highest level of collegiate golf. Now, they’ll return home to compete on one of professional golf’s biggest developmental stages in front of family, friends, and the next generation of Tennessee golfers who are following the same path they once did.
Hunter and Jake are examples of exactly what the Tennessee Golf Foundation strives to create through junior golf … opportunities for young players across the state to grow in the game, compete at a high level, and chase their dreams. From junior tournaments and player development programs to college golf and now the Korn Ferry Tour, their journeys reflect the impact golf can have when access, opportunity, and support are provided at every stage.
As the Tennessee Golf Foundation now oversees the Visit Knoxville Open, there’s special meaning in seeing two former Tennessee junior golfers earn the opportunity to tee it up in Knoxville this May. Their stories are a reminder that Tennessee golf continues to produce incredible talent, and that the pathway from local junior golf to professional golf is alive and well in our state.
The future stars of the PGA TOUR are coming to Knoxville and these two call Tennessee home. Make plans to come out to to cheer on Hunter and Jake, May 21-24. Admission is free for everyone by claiming your tickets at the link in our bio! 🍊🧡
