Green Meadows County Club is now a destination for women’s golf as the Epson Tour returns to Tennessee for the inaugural Smoky Mountain Championship presented by Food City. Community leaders anticipate the tournament will generate between $500,000 and $1 million in regional economic impact while showcasing East Tennessee as a destination for championship golf. Local residents are even playing key roles by hosting 71 players in their homes. Beyond commercial spending, tournament proceeds directly benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley, funding academic and youth development programs across East Tennessee.

Before the first tee shot was struck, tournament organizers hosted a First Horizon Bank Fireside Chat celebrating the past, present, and future of women’s athletics featuring:

  • Joan Cronan, former Tennessee women’s athletic director
  • Ann Baker Furrow, first lady Vol golfer
  • Diana Cantú, head coach, Lady Vols golf
  • Alison Ojeda, head coach, Lady Vols tennis

Sophia Schubert, an LPGA professional, and Cronan facilitated the panel discussion that centered on what sports can teach you about the game of life. Many of her key takeaways are shared in her book Sport is Life with the Volume Turned Up: Lessons Learned that Apply to Business and Life.

“To be successful, you must be competitive,” said Cronan. “And you have to keep score.”

Cantú reflected on Tennessee’s historic first SEC Championship, recalling how a sprinkler head near the 18th green stopped a rolling ball from finding the water during the decisive match against Auburn. The unexpected break became part of Lady Vol lore, and the sprinkler head is now displayed at Tennessee’s golf facilities as a reminder that preparation, perseverance, and a little good fortune can all play a role in championship moments.

When discussing the core philosophy behind her championship program, head coach Diana Cantú emphasized that talent alone isn’t enough. “We want great people and great golfers,” Cantú said. “Skills can take you far, but it takes teamwork to be excellent.”

Ann Furrow shared her excitement about the Smoky Mountain Championship being held at Green Meadows Country Club. At age 10, she won her first junior tournament at the course. Following an SEC rule change in 1962, Furrow became the first woman to play on the men’s varsity golf team at the University of Tennessee. She later became the top-ranked amateur women’s golfer in the United States.

The stories shared Wednesday evening reminded attendees that championships are measured by more than trophies. They are built through leadership, resilience, teamwork and the willingness to open doors for those who follow. As the inaugural Smoky Mountain Championship tees off this week, those lessons may prove to be its most lasting legacy.

The Smoky Mountain Championship continues August 6-8 at Green Meadow Country Club in Alcoa. Spectators are welcome throughout the tournament, with daily and weekly passes available. For tickets, tournament schedules, and spectator information, visit https://www.smokymountainchampionship.com/tickets/

Information and quotes for this article provided by Aneisa Rolen, KnoxTNToday contributor.

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