Aiken, September 15, 2025
News Summary
Michael Carlisle, the esteemed golf coach of USC Aiken, has been named the 80th inductee into the South Carolina Golf Hall of Fame. His remarkable 34-year coaching journey includes leading the men’s golf team to three NCAA Division II national championships and numerous tournament successes. The induction ceremony is scheduled for January 17, 2026. Carlisle’s accolades as both a coach and a player mark a significant milestone in South Carolina’s golf history.
Aiken—Michael Carlisle, the long-serving golf coach for the University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken), has been selected as the 80th inductee into the South Carolina Golf Hall of Fame. The formal induction ceremony is set for January 17, 2026, at the prestigious Forest Lake Club in Columbia.
With a remarkable 34-year coaching career at USC Aiken, Carlisle has left a significant mark on the collegiate golf scene. He has steered the USC Aiken men’s golf team to three NCAA Division II national championships, establishing the program as a formidable contender in college golf. During his tenure, the Pacers have participated in the NCAA Tournament 31 times, a testament to Carlisle’s coaching skills and dedication to nurturing talented athletes.
Raised in Aiken, Carlisle began his golf journey at Clemson University, where he earned three varsity letters as a member of the golf team. Notably, he played a crucial role in the Clemson team that was the first to qualify for the NCAA Championships in 1980.
Carlisle’s achievements as an athlete extend beyond coaching. He has won several highly regarded tournaments throughout his career, including the 1983 Carolinas Amateur, the 1993 South Carolina Mid-Amateur, and three Palmetto Amateur Championships in 1983, 1997, and 1998. Furthermore, he qualified for the U.S. Amateur Championship in both 2000 and 2001, underscoring his skills as a competitor.
In related golf news, another notable achievement was recorded in September when Connor Doyal and partner Michael Sims secured their spot in the 2026 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball tournament by qualifying at Dataw Island Club. The tournament is scheduled to take place from May 16-20 at Desert Mountain Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. Medalist honors during qualifying went to brothers John Hilliard Catanzaro and William Catanzaro from Gadsden, Alabama, who delivered an impressive score of 61.
In addition, the inaugural Charleston Gamecock Classic golf tournament will occur on September 17 at Rivertowne Country Club. The event aims to support the Charleston Area Scholarship, further emphasizing the community’s commitment to higher education through athletics.
Golf aficionados are encouraged to report notable achievements on the course, such as hole-in-one accomplishments. Recent documented achievements have included various dates and courses, prompting local golf courses to relay such milestones to the sports desk for recognition.
The significance of Carlisle’s induction into the South Carolina Golf Hall of Fame highlights not only his personal accomplishments but also the enduring legacy of USC Aiken’s golf program and its impact on the sport within the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Michael Carlisle?
Michael Carlisle is the golf coach for USC Aiken, recognized for his exceptional coaching career and contributions to golf in South Carolina.
When will Michael Carlisle be inducted into the South Carolina Golf Hall of Fame?
The induction ceremony for Michael Carlisle will take place on January 17, 2026.
What are some of Michael Carlisle’s coaching achievements?
Under his leadership, USC Aiken has won three NCAA Division II national championships and has participated in the NCAA Tournament 31 times.
What notable tournaments has Carlisle won as a player?
Michael Carlisle has won several prestigious tournaments, including the Carolinas Amateur, South Carolina Mid-Amateur, and multiple Palmetto Amateur Championships.
What is the Charleston Gamecock Classic?
The Charleston Gamecock Classic is an inaugural golf tournament scheduled for September 17, aiming to support the Charleston Area Scholarship.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Inductee Name | Michael Carlisle |
| Induction Date | January 17, 2026 |
| Coaching Duration | 34 years at USC Aiken |
| NCAA Championships | 3 NCAA Division II national titles |
| NCAA Tournament Appearances | 31 times |
| Collegiate Golf Background | Clemson University golf team member |
| Tournament Wins | Carolinas Amateur, SC Mid-Amateur, Palmetto Amateur (3) |
| Upcoming Golf Event | 2026 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Aiken Hosts Inaugural Carlisle Cup Junior Golf Tournament
Erik Olin Named Student-Athlete of the Week at USC Aiken
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Mike Carlisle SC Golf Hall of Fame
- World Atlas: 11 Best Golf Courses in South Carolina
- The State: Golf News
- Lehigh Valley Live: Inductee Connections
- Augusta Jags: Women’s Golf News
- Google Search: Michael Carlisle South Carolina Hall of Fame
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