LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Bellarmine University Director of Golf Bruce Brown was recently named by the Kentucky Golf Association as its recipient of the 2026 J.W. Janes Award.

Established in 1985, the J.W. Janes Award is the highest honor presented by the KGA, recognizing individuals whose exceptional service, leadership and lasting contributions have helped shape and advance amateur golf throughout the state.

"I have been very fortunate to teach many great players in the State of Kentucky: state champions, Kentucky Open winners, NCAA champions. The J.W. Janes award means so much to me. To win the highest honor in Kentucky Golf is an award that I will always cherish," Brown said.

Brown was hired as Bellarmine's men's golf before the 2022-23 season. In February of 2026, he was promoted to director of golf, overseeing the Knights women's program as well.

Brown has devoted 44 years of his life to the game as a PGA professional, teacher and college coach.

To read more about his lifelong passion for the links, please visit this article in Golf House Kentucky.

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