Kent State’s director of golf and men’s golf coach Herb Page has been inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, becoming the first-ever coach to receive the honors. 

“I can’t imagine something nicer happening to me personally and professionally than getting into my country’s golf hall of fame,” Page said. “The names of the people in there are astounding.”

His development of both the men’s and women’s golf program and his influence on his players led to his nomination. Under the coaching of Page, the men’s golf team has won three NCAA Regional titles and 23 Mid-American Conference titles. Additionally, Page has received 24 MAC coach of the year awards.

Throughout his tenure, Page has coached athletes who have gone on to play in the PGA tours. In 2003, former Kent State alumnus Ben Curtis won the Open Championship and was runner-up in 2008 for the PGA Championship. Page was also nominated to coach the 2018 Arnold Palmer Cup Invitational golf tournament.

Page’s presence also impacted Kent State recruiting, as it created a pathway for Canadian women to play golf at Kent State.

“I’ve always said it’s not men’s golf or women’s golf; it’s golf. It’s not like if the men need something, the women get it. We’ve put the women in position to be champions just like we have the men,” Page said.

Page is one of two inductees in the 2019 Canadian Golf Hall of Fame along with Rod Spittle for both his amateur and professional career.

“I get to share it with my family, my players and a week of the PGA tour,” Page said. “I just couldn’t be happier. It’s just an unbelievable honor.”

Page has coached at Kent State for over 40 years and began his career at Kent State as a three-sport athlete in golf, football and hockey.

He will officially be inducted on June 4 at the Hamilton Golf and Country Club in Hamilton, Ontario.

Amanda Levine is a sports reporter. Contact her at [email protected].