Books4Buddies ambassador Brandon Jackson (a B4B founding member), a Rogers High School and The Ohio State University grad, and Evan’s scholarship recipient, is now a professional caddy and a global B4B ambassador. We asked him to tell us about his experience as a professional caddy.
What is caddy life like on tour?
Life on tour is pretty hectic especially during these times but also a lot of fun. The travel takes some time getting used to but I’m slowly getting used to it.
What is it like to be a caddy?
I have been caddying since I was 13 years old so caddying is almost like second nature to me at this point. But, caddying on tour has added a little more focus and concentration in my preparation which has been really fun.
How were you chosen?
I was helping out at Stone Oak Country Club and I ran into Bianca Pagdanganan on the golf course. We ended up talking about the Inverness Club tournament that was coming up and one thing lead to another. It was truly a blessing how it happened.
How long can/will you be caddying and can you turn professional?
There really isn’t a set time it just depends on results and how our relationship grows over time. I am technically considered a professional caddy now.
How many African American male/females are on the tour?
Mariah Stackhouse is the only fully exempt African American female on tour and there are about 10-15 African American caddies.
Can you tell us a bit about Bianca Pagdanganan, the golfer you caddy for?
Bianca Pagdanganan is 23 years old and is from the Philippines. Bianca played golf at Gonzaga University for two years and then transferred to Arizona University for her last two years. This is her first year on tour and she has currently played in seven professional events. As far as caddying for just her, it all depends on how the relationship goes and the results we produce.
There are a lot of cases where caddies move around to different people because the results aren’t what the team is looking for. But, as far as my situation goes, I am locked in with Bianca until she tells me otherwise.
I am happy with the little time that we have spent together and the relationship that we have started to build. Hopefully we can continue to build off the good vibes and continue to get better each and every event.
What have you learned? What didn’t you realize before about caddying?
I studied Professional Golf Management at Ohio State University. I have learned a lot in the first few weeks on tour but the most important thing that I have learned is just how important it is to stay calm no matter the circumstance. The more I can keep my composure, the more confidence that I can give to Bianca. What I didn’t know was just how much preparation it takes to fully prepare for a tournament. I have so much appreciation for my fellow caddies that have been on tour for a while.
Tell us about your experience as a Books4Buddies Ambassador.
I was a Books4Buddies Ambassador for two years (2012- 14). During that time, it taught me how to make a difference; I learned just how important it means to give back to others and how impactful I could be in others’ lives. Being able to give to those less fortunate a gift is incredible, but to give them a gift such as a book will impact their lives forever. Books4Buddies reiterated to me just how blessed I am and how I can be a blessing to others.
What is your long range goal?
Eventually I hope to pursue my dream of getting into sales in the golf business but for the moment I am enjoying the opportunity on tour and hope that we can continue to have success in the future.
We are proud of Brandon, one of our Books4Buddies founding members, and wish him much happiness and success in his career!
