Paul Johnson looks back on his time at Augusta National

Paul Johnson spent many summer afternoons caddying at Grandfather Golf and Country Club while growing up in Linville, N.C. Little did he know, however, that his childhood job would lead to Augusta.

“Bob Kletcke was the pro at Grandfather Golf and Country Club when I was growing up,” said Johnson, who’s been Georgia Tech’s head football coach since 2008. “Then, early in my coaching career, Bob was also the (head golf professional) at Augusta National. Knowing Bob the way I did, I stopped by a few times to see him.”

Despite those visits, Johnson didn’t play Augusta National until later. Johnson, 58, still remembers the first time he was invited to play the home of the Masters Tournament.

“Like everyone, I was completely in awe when I walked to No. 1 tee box,” Johnson said. “I just thought to myself, ‘Wow, this is surreal.’”

Johnson carded a six on the par-four first hole, while saying, “It took three holes before I finally calmed down.”
In all, Johnson has played Augusta National five times, and says his best round was 76 from the member tees. However, he has never attended the Masters during tournament play.

“It usually falls during our spring practices, but I have been to a few practice rounds,” he said. “Honestly, going to practice rounds would be my preference because I enjoy watching the tournament on TV.”

He said he usually pulls for players from a couple of the schools where he’s been a head coach.

“I always root for the guys from Georgia Tech or Georgia Southern,” Johnson said. “Through the years, I’ve gotten to know a few of them and they’re all really good guys. Matt Kuchar is a super guy and I’d really enjoy seeing him win it.”