Austin Peay State University Athletics

Playing in the shadow of a famous father, Craig Rudolph carved out an impressive golfing niche of his own, especially during his three-year Austin Peay career. After returning to his hometown school after his freshman season, the youngest son of fabled Clarksville legend and former PGA touring pro Mason Rudolph helped lead the Governors to history-making achievements. 

Rudolph was a three-time first-team All-OVC selection and captured several regular-season medalist titles, including the Fripp Island (by 14 strokes) and the 1987 Akron Invitational (tying the then-course amateur record of six-under 66 on the famed Firestone Country Club Course). 

He also participated in the 1987 NCAA Golf Championships as an individual. Later that year he was a member of the Tennessee Cup Team, finished second in the Tennessee State Amateur tournament and participated in the United States Amateur tourney. 

Rudolph saved his best APSU performance for last. He captured the 1988 OVC championship by a stunning nine strokes (210—68-68-74) as he led the Governors to one of the most dominating performances—for all sports—in OVC history as they won that title by an unheard of 47 strokes. He was selected recipient of the prestigious Joy Award as APSU’s most valuable senior athlete. He later was named to the all-time OVC golf team.  

He turned professional after his graduation and earned his PGA card, playing one season on tour. He later became a club professional, first as assistant pro at Springhouse in Nashville and Quail Hollow in Charlotte, N.C. before becoming head pro at Ballantyne Country Club in Charlotte.  

Rudolph was killed in a May 1998 helicopter crash while leaving the Charlotte Motor Speedway following a Winston Cup race.