North Carolina State University Athletics
Haynes' World: A Jammin' Jamboree
6/4/2001 12:00:00 AM | Pack Athletics
June 4, 2001
One of the best parts of being associated with NC State and the Wolfpack Club is the opportunity to get together with fellow Wolfpackers once a year for the annual Wolfpack Club Jamboree.
For more than 30 years now, the Wolfpack Club has sponsored this special event, which includes a weekend of golf, fellowship and good times. This past weekend's Jamboree at the Sea Trail Plantation at Sunset Beach was no exception.
For two days we witnessed a lot of bad golf and heard more than our fair share of bad jokes. But while the golf and the jokes were mostly bad, the atmosphere was jovial. For some reason, bad golf and bad jokes always add up to a good time-especially when you bring together a few hundred kindred spirits who have a special fondness for a certain university.
Following 18 holes of golf and a magnificent dinner on Friday, it was up to Wolfpack head basketball coach Herb Sendek and his staff to provide the entertainment. Soft-spoken assistant Larry Harris made comedic hay by tearing down his own golf game. Then it was Larry Hunter's turn. The Jamboree served as an effective opportunity for Sendek's newest assistant to introduce himself to the Pack supporters in an attendance. Hunter's jabs at himself, Sendek and others produced plenty of laughter and applause.
The rest of the program belonged to Sendek. Responding to a question about last season, Sendek spoke passionately about the importance of learning and letting go. With fire in his eyes, he talked about next season's team, a club that he believes will have more skill at every position.
Saturday brought a special treat: a 27-hole captain's choice tournament on one of the most beautiful new golf courses in the area. Only two years old, Thistle Golf Club may one day become known as one of the most unique and spectacular venues in the country. Every single inch of the Scottish links style layout is plush and immaculate. It was, to say the least, a memorable golfing experience.
At the risk of sounding a bit brazen, I'll mention that the team of Lenwood Dennis, Vance Cockerham, Burnie Batchelor and yours truly ripped off a score of 18 under par to secure victory. What can I say? My teammates simply wouldn't be denied.
That night, football coach Chuck Amato and his staff took to the stage. Each coach was given a standing ovation after being introduced by Amato, and each delivered funny lines along with interesting information on the respective positions they coach. Amato then promised another exciting year, but warned that nothing will come easy. As he often said last year, "don't forget to bring your nitroglycerin tablets."
Athletics Director Lee Fowler also made an appearance on Saturday. After taking a few lighthearted jabs at athletic department staff members, he revealed information about future football schedules. Later in the decade, he noted, the Wolfpack could be lining up against the likes of Notre Dame and Virginia Tech.
Some stayed around for more golf on Sunday, while others, weary from all of the fun, headed back home. It was a fantastic weekend made possible by Bobby Purcell and the rest of his energetic Wolfpack Club staff.
Did you miss out? If so, call the Wolfpack Club to find out how you can be a part of it all next June. I hope to see you there.
