Rhodes Athletic Hall of Fame
Although relatively small in stature, Emily Burch was a giant on the golf course! Her driving accuracy and magical short game were a treat to watch. An intense competitor, Emily became Rhodes’ first All American in women’s golf, recognized by the NCAA and the National Golf Coaches Association. She literally put the Rhodes Women’s Golf program on the national map with her great play.
In 2000 Emily was the medalist in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) Championship and led her team to the SCAC title. In 2001 she repeated as the individual SCAC champion, and for the second straight year, was selected as the SCAC Player of the Year. Emily shot an even par 72 in the opening round of the 2001 tournament, and then set the SCAC 36 hole scoring record of 150 (72-78), which still stands today.
The 2000 and 2001 golf seasons did not end with the SCAC tournament, as the Lynx were selected to play in the NCAA tournament. Emily placed 5th individually in the 2000 NCAA tournament and led her team to a 3rd-place finish, the highest finish by a Rhodes team in NCAA competition.
Perhaps the highlight of her career came in May 2001 at the NCAA tournament, when Emily fired a final round one under par 71 and finished as the NCAA Division III National Runner-up. Emily’s great play once again led Rhodes to a 3rd-place team finish.
As several of her teammates commented, “Emily was a special golfer, but she was an even better person, always supporting her teammates. ” For her exceptional golf skills and the national recognition she brought to the Women’s Golf program, Rhodes is honored to induct EMILY BURCH CROCKER into the Rhodes Athletic Hall of Fame this 21st day of October, 2011.
