The 12th of April marked one of the darkest days for the golf world, especially on the LPGA Tour. Shirley Spork, one of the six founders of LPGA, passed away. The golf world, including the former golfer Nancy Lopez and the Tour player Lexi Thompson, lamented through social media.
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Born in 1927, Spork was 94 when she passed away. “Been There – Done That,”’ Spork wrote in her book ‘From Tee to Green.’ She believed she had done almost everything for the betterment of the LPGA Tour and thus women in golf, like the quote.
She studied to become a Physical Education instructor at the Michigan State Normal School.
Spork turned pro in 1950. Her first big win came in the 1947 Women’s National Collegiate Golf Tournament. Moreover, she was one of the 13 women to sign the original charter of the Ladies Professional Golf Association. She is also the one to convince the LPGA to start a teaching section within the organization. That is how the LPGA Teaching & Club Pro Division was formed.
Shirley Spoke was the one among the only two who had the opportunity to win LPGA Teacher of the Year twice.
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Furthermore, the PGA of America recognized her for her contributions and inducted Spork into their Hall of Fame in 2019. As a golfer and a teacher, she has always been an inspiration for the young generation of golfers.
Nancy Lopez and Lexi Thompson mourned for Spork on her demise
The 3-time major winner Nancy Lopez took her Twitter to mourn for the LPGA legend.
With a very sad heart I have to say goodbye to one of our founders, Shirley Spork. She was just the best ambassador to the LPGA. When you sat down to talk with her, she told the best stories. Rest In Peace Shirley. You will be missed.🙏🏼🙏🏼😢
— NancyLopezWGHoF (@NancyLopezWGHo1) April 12, 2022
Nancy is considered one of the pioneers of the LPGA Tour. She has won 48 championship titles on the Tour itself.
The 28-year-old Lexi Thompson, too, expressed her grief through her Instagram story. “RIP to one of the most amazing women and founders Of the LPGA, Shirley Spork,” she wrote.
via Getty
PARADISE ISLAND, BAHAMAS – JANUARY 28: Lexi Thompson of the United States hits a tee shot on the fourth hole during round three of the Pure Silk Bahamas LPGA Classic on January 28, 2017 in Paradise Island, Bahamas. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Thompson has won 11 championships on the LPGA Tour, including a major.
The golf fans’ reaction to the news
Every golf fan reflected on her contributions and how she will be missed.
May her memory be a blessing. She was a great lady who gave us all a game we can love forever. She gave of herself, always sharing with others.
— Sam Adams (@mrssfadams) April 13, 2022
Very sorry to hear of her passing and foe your loss. Thank you to Shirley and all the women who pushed back to lead us.
— MariaPR (@MariaPR51) April 13, 2022
Such a great lady. Always joyful and lifting those around her up.
— Tim Lyons (@lyonsden215) April 13, 2022
Heartbreaking news 💔 Deepest condolences to her family and friends, and to everyone at the LPGA.
— Andrew Cunningham (@idledmuse) April 12, 2022
Absolute class all the way and a wonderful person. She was so great for the LPGA and the game of golf.
— Neal Reid (@NealReid21) April 12, 2022
Terrific ambassador for the game of golf especially promoting women in the game. Faithful supporter of the Women's Golf program at Eastern Michigan University and never said no when asked to help the game or program. Thoughts and prayers to her family and friends.
— Michael Miller (@Michael50216046) April 13, 2022
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RIP Shirley
— Bill Call (@billcall43) April 13, 2022
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The world of golf lost one of its pioneers. Although Shirley Spork is no more with us, she will always be remembered for all her contributions to the LPGA and women’s golf.
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