The old adage, “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life,” is a true testament to Clint Udell’s life and career.
As an instructor and facilities coordinator at the UGA Golf Course, Udell oversees the daily operations of the driving range while helping to retain and grow the player base.
“Golf is such a gratifying hobby because you can’t just luck into good strikes and good outcomes,” Udell said. “It requires patience and practice. To be a positive influence, a positive mentor — it’s just fantastic.”
Udell’s love of golf began as a child when his father introduced him to the sport at age 10. For many years, he only looked at it as a hobby. But as he continued his way through college, his mindset began to change.
Udell attended Florida State University for two years before transferring to Augusta State University (now Augusta University) part time. During this time, he realized he had two choices: continue pursuing a traditional college degree or fully commit to a career in golf.
He chose the latter, enrolling in the Professional Golfers’ Association Professional Golf Management Program. This self-study track focuses on facility management, instruction and club fitting. After three years of intensive work and education, he earned full PGA membership in 2005.
“I didn’t anticipate that my entire adult working life would be at a golf course, but I knew I loved being around it,” Udell said. “I hope I’m able to show others that same kind of passion for what they do.”
Before coming to UGA, Udell worked at two private facilities, gaining different perspectives on golf course management. Through his PGA network, he learned about an opportunity at UGA, and in 2012, he joined the university.
“Working at the university was intimidating at first because it’s so big, but come to find out, it’s really just a ton of little groups full of amazing people,” he said.
Clint Udell, left, gives a golf lesson to alumni Rod Wright of Athens at the UGA Golf Course. (Photo by Andrew Davis Tucker/UGA)
Udell’s role includes managing a team of 20 to 30 student employees alongside his colleagues, maintaining inventory and general supplies, supporting facility upkeep, and coordinating with the UGA Golf Team and other university departments on events and operations.
But perhaps his favorite part of the job — besides soaking up the incredible view from the E.B. Smith Clubhouse — is ensuring that the driving range is welcoming and accessible to students, staff, faculty and the broader Athens community. The facilities provide an outlet for many people who may not otherwise have a home course.
“I help people perform a task better, and that brings them in with hope. And when you’re hopeful, you typically have a better attitude and are open to growth,” Udell said. “It’s a fabulous opportunity to spread the goodwill of the game, and hopefully, it creates an opportunity for people to enjoy it.”
Udell’s job wouldn’t be complete without the supportive effort of his team, which includes five full-time staff members. They work together to keep operations running smoothly, especially in collaboration with UGA Athletics and other university partners.
“This job has allowed me to be connected to so many amazing people,” Udell said. “The relationships, the mentorships, the teamwork — it’s what makes this place special.”
