Southern Company announces official partnership with U.S. UNDERRATED Golf Tour

Southern Company has signed on as an official partner of the UNDERRATED Golf Tour, a purpose-driven business endeavor with the overarching commitment to provide equity, access and opportunity to student-athletes from every community by balancing participation in the sport to truly reflect our society.

As part of Southern Company's commitment to promoting inclusion within the communities it serves, this new partnership will enable the organization to support aspiring golfers who historically have been underrepresented in the sport. The UNDERRATED Golf Tour provides a platform for athletes to showcase their skills, gain exposure, and compete at a high level while fostering a more inclusive environment within the golfing community.

Southern Company chairman, president & CEO Chris Womack unveiled the partnership at the 2024 World Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony where UNDERRATED founder Stephen Curry was recognized as the 2024 recipient of the Charlie Sifford Award presented by Southern Company.

“As we build the future of energy, our culture of intentional inclusion is one that champions investing in equity as we open the doors of opportunity to all," said Womack. “A name synonymous with championships and unparalleled excellence on the basketball court -- Steph Curry embodies the very essence of the Charlie Sifford Award because of the profound impact he creates off court.”

The Charlie Sifford Award, established in 2021, honors individuals who embody the pioneering spirit of Charlie Sifford, the first Black player to become a PGA Tour member in 1961. The award celebrates those who exemplify perseverance, confidence, respect and adaptability in their efforts.

Curry's dedication to promoting inclusivity in golf is evident through his initiatives. Two years ago, he launched "UNDERRATED Golf," a program aimed at providing equity, access and opportunities to high school athletes from diverse communities. In addition, Curry funded the Howard University golf team for six years, enabling the historically Black institution to compete at the Division I level after a hiatus since the 1970s.

“I believe we have the opportunity and power to grow the game of golf by providing equity, access and opportunity to young golfers who share the same passion, dedication and determination as many of us out there on the green,” Curry said in recorded remarks.

Curry joins Renee Powell, the second African American woman to compete on the LPGA Tour, as the second recipient of the Charlie Sifford Award. Powell was honored with the award in 2022.