Willie Wood Bio
Willard West Wood Jr. is an American professional golfer who has played on the PGA Tour, Nationwide Tour, and PGA Tour Champions. Born on October 1, 1960, in Kingsville, Texas, he turned professional in 1983 and has achieved notable success, including winning the Haskins Award in 1982. He has won several tournaments, including his first victory on the Champions Tour in 2012. Willie Wood has made significant contributions to the sport and continues to compete professionally.
Early Life and Background
Willie Wood was born in Kingsville, Texas. He had an outstanding junior career, winning the 1977 U.S. Junior Amateur, the 1978 PGA Junior, and the 1979 Western Junior, and was named the 1978 AJGA Rolex Player of the Year. His early exposure to golf set the foundation for his future success in the sport. Wood attended Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where he was a star member of the golf team, playing alongside notable players such as Bob Tway, Scott Verplank, and Tommy Moore. He played in the prestigious 1983 Walker Cup, further solidifying his reputation as a talented golfer.
Path to Golf
In 1983, Wood joined the PGA Tour by being the medalist at the 1983 PGA Tour Qualifying School. He split his playing time between the PGA Tour and the Nationwide Tour, achieving 23 top-10 finishes on the PGA Tour, including a win at the 1996 Deposit Guaranty Golf Classic. His consistent performance and dedication to the sport helped him transition smoothly into the broader golf industry, where he has continued to thrive.
Willie Wood Career
Early Career (1983-1995)
Willie Wood turned professional in 1983 and quickly made a name for himself on the PGA Tour. His first notable victory came in 1996 at the Deposit Guaranty Golf Classic, which marked the beginning of a successful career in professional golf. Throughout the early years, Wood showcased his skills with 23 top-10 finishes on the PGA Tour, demonstrating his competitiveness and talent. His notable achievements during this period included winning the Haskins Award in 1982, which recognized him as one of the top collegiate golfers in the country.
Breakthrough (2010-Present)
After turning 50 in late 2010, Willie Wood made his debut on the Champions Tour, where he played his first event at the AT&T Championship, finishing T13. His breakthrough moment on this tour came on August 19, 2012, when he won the Dick’s Sporting Goods Open at En-Joie Golf Club in Endicott, New York. Wood defeated Michael Allen on the first hole of a sudden-death playoff, marking his first victory on the Champions Tour and adding to his impressive career achievements.
Notable Works and Milestones
Willie Wood’s signature work includes his consistent performance across various tours, particularly his win at the 1996 Deposit Guaranty Golf Classic and his 2012 victory on the Champions Tour. He has made significant contributions to the sport and continues to compete professionally, showcasing his enduring passion for golf.
Willie Wood Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Willie Wood has received notable nominations, including the prestigious Haskins Award, which he won in 1982, recognizing him as one of the top collegiate golfers in the United States.
Willie Wood Awards Won
Willie Wood has won several awards during his golfing career, including the Haskins Award in 1982, which highlights his exceptional talent and contributions to the sport of golf.
Willie Wood Family
Willie Wood is married to Holly Wood, and together they had two children. His family has been an integral part of his life and career, providing support throughout his journey in professional golf.
Personal Life
Willie Wood’s wife, Holly, was diagnosed with breast cancer in October 1988 and sadly passed away ten months later. He has a sister, Deanie, who was a member of the LPGA Tour. Wood resides in Edmond, Oklahoma, where he is a member of the “Oak Tree Gang,” a group of touring professionals who all play at Oak Tree National in Edmond.