What began as a humble attempt to match Mr. Copenhaver’s generous gift 12 years ago has become one of my favorite days of the year. It is a labor of love and an honor to arrange this golf tournament each year to support the Carolina Band.
— Nick Annan, Zeta Chi Alumni Association President and co-event organizer
The Zeta Chi Alumni Association of Kappa Kappa Psi music service fraternity at the University of South Carolina proudly raised $15,000 at the 12th Annual JKC Golf Tournament, held in memory of the late USC Band Director, James Copenhaver. The funds will support the Carolina Marching Band as they prepare to perform in the upcoming Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
More than 100 golfers participated in the tournament on November 1 at Charwood Golf Club in West Columbia. The event, a cherished tradition during USC’s Homecoming weekend, brought together Carolina Band alumni, friends and supporters for a day of camaraderie and friendly competition. Attendees were treated to appearances by Sir Big Spur, the Fighting Gamecock, Cocky and the Carolina Sound Pep Band, who added excitement and spirit throughout the day.
“What began as a humble attempt to match Mr. Copenhaver's generous gift 12 years ago has become one of my favorite days of the year,” said Nick Annan, Zeta Chi Alumni Association President and co-event organizer. “It is a labor of love and an honor to arrange this golf tournament each year to support the Carolina Band.”
The tournament’s organizing committee, known as the JKC Golf Committee, includes dedicated members: Nick and Katie Annan, Ken and Maribeth Corbett, John and Allyson Tjaarda, Evan Thompson, Kirk Randazzo, Steve Hendrix, and Marvin Carnell.
This year’s winning team, composed of Bob Vincent, David Scherer, Steve Lemmond and Lisa Kaufman, took home the top honors. However, the event’s real victory was the continued support shown for the Carolina Band.
The success of the JKC Golf Tournament is made possible through the generosity of numerous sponsors. Key contributions included:
- Drink Cart: Bob Vincent/VW International
- Food: Carolina Ale House, Takosushi
- Practice Green: AME Fabrication
- Awards: Caro Federal Credit Union
- Band and Cocky Support: Cogsdill Tools
- Sir Big Spur Support: Carol Tilly Hand
Additional support came from tee sponsors like MSA // Medi Home Care, Founders Federal Credit Union, 360 Painting, Mike and Tina DiPetrillo, The Graduate Hotel, and School Cuts. Team sponsors included FedEx, Pecknel Music, and Simply Connected. In-kind donations were provided by Top of the World Apparel, Coca-Cola, Advantage Signs, Randy Herald Photography and Gilly Vending Inc.
“We are extremely grateful to the JKC Golf Committee, the Zeta Chi Alumni Association of Kappa Kappa Psi, and all the golfers, donors, and sponsors who make this fun and philanthropic event happen every year,” said Jay Jacobs, Director of the Carolina Band. “Their unwavering support continues to honor the legacy of Mr. Copenhaver and ensures that our students have incredible opportunities, like performing at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.”
As the Carolina Band prepares for its journey to New York, this generous donation will help cover travel expenses, ensuring that these talented student musicians can proudly represent the University of South Carolina on a national stage.
About the Carolina Band
“The Mighty Sound of the Southeast,” the official marching band of the University of South Carolina, has a 104-year history of excellence, performing at major sporting events, national parades, and in front of audiences across the country.
About Kappa Kappa Psi
Kappa Kappa Psi is a national honorary band fraternity dedicated to serving college and university bands. The Zeta Chi chapter at USC has a long-standing tradition of supporting the Carolina Band and fostering the spirit of musicianship, service, and leadership.