Jack Nance, Robert Dedman Sr., and Robert Dedman Jr. Named to Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame​

Induction to be held at Carolinas Golf Night, February 14, 2026, in Pinehurst 

SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. – The Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame is proud to announce the induction of three influential leaders whose vision, service and impact have shaped golf in North Carolina, South Carolina and beyond. Jack Nance, Robert Dedman Sr. and Robert Dedman Jr. will be formally inducted during Carolinas Golf Night on February 14, 2026, at Pinehurst Resort. 

Together, this class represents more than a century of leadership in championship administration, golf association growth, and the preservation and advancement of Pinehurst Resort, one of the most iconic golf venues in the world. 

Jack Nance: A Transformational Leader for Carolinas Golf 

Few individuals have had a deeper or more lasting influence on golf in the Carolinas than Jack Nance, whose more than four decades of service to the Carolinas Golf Association established the CGA as one of the most respected and largest golf associations in the United States. Under his leadership, the CGA expanded its membership, enhanced agronomic and handicapping services, and elevated the quality of its championships. His vision was instrumental in constructing the Carolinas Golf House and strengthening relationships throughout the golf community.  

Nance officiated at more than 30 USGA championships, served as President of the International Association of Golf Administrators, and supported endless initiatives to advance women’s, junior, and adaptive golf. His colleagues and peers described him as a mentor, ambassador and steady force who elevated every person and program he touched.  

Robert Dedman Sr.: Restoring and Reimagining Pinehurst 

Robert Dedman Sr. is honored posthumously for his extraordinary stewardship of Pinehurst Resort, which he acquired in 1984 when the club fell into serious decline. Determined to restore Pinehurst to its legendary status, Dedman reinvested aggressively into the property, oversaw the full restoration of its courses and facilities, and broadened its reach by adding amenities such as the Pinehurst Convention Center.  

His leadership ushered in a modern renaissance for Pinehurst. He championed the transformation of No. 2 alongside architect Rees Jones, elevated tournament golf at the resort, and helped reestablish Pinehurst as a global golf destination. Dedman’s dedication to the USGA brought multiple championships back to Pinehurst, including the historic 1999 U.S. Open, which became one of the most celebrated championships in American golf.  

Robert Dedman Jr.: Continuing a Legacy of Excellence at Pinehurst 

Robert Dedman Jr. has extended and expanded his father’s legacy through visionary leadership and strategic reinvestment in Pinehurst Resort since assuming ownership in 2004. Under his guidance, Pinehurst has hosted an extraordinary slate of championships, including the 2005 U.S. Open, the unprecedented back-to-back 2014 U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open, and the 2019 U.S. Amateur. Pinehurst No. 2 was designated the USGA’s first U.S. Open Anchor Site under his leadership, securing future championships in 2029, 2035, 2041, and 2047.  

Dedman Jr.’s strategic acquisitions, such as Pinehurst No. 9, and his ongoing reinvestment in resort infrastructure, have ensured Pinehurst retains its global prominence. His approach to ownership has preserved Pinehurst’s heritage while preparing it for generations to come.  

A Hall of Fame Class That Defines Carolinas Golf 

This year’s inductees embody the core values of the Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame: service, leadership, vision, and an enduring commitment to the game. From strengthening the Carolinas’ golf associations to elevating one of the most historic resorts in the world, Nance, Dedman Sr, and Dedman Jr have each shaped the trajectory of golf in the region in profound and lasting ways. 

"This Hall of Fame class reflects the very best of what makes golf in the Carolinas so special," said Andy Priest, Executive Director of the Carolinas Golf Association. "Jack Nance, Robert Dedman Sr., and Robert Dedman Jr. have each shaped our region’s golf landscape through extraordinary leadership, vision, and service. Jack has been a mentor, a friend, and a steady source of guidance throughout the career of so many – including mine. And the Dedman family’s stewardship of Pinehurst has elevated the Carolinas to a position of global prominence in the game. We are deeply honored to celebrate their legacy and welcome them into the Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame." 

Induction Ceremony 

The 2026 class will be celebrated at Carolinas Golf Night on February 14, 2026, at Pinehurst Resort. Additional event details will be announced soon.