Lake Charles, Louisiana – Herbert “Herbie” Schilling’s connection to the game of golf spans more than six decades, a journey defined by competition, travel, and the relationships built along the way.
Schilling first competed in a Louisiana Golf Association championship in 1963, playing in the State Junior Championship at just 13 years old. Now, 63 years later, he is still competing, this time in the Senior Championship’s Legend Division.
“My name is Herbert Schilling, but a name is Herbie, H-E-R-B-I-E, like the Volkswagen.”
Reflecting on what the game has meant to him, Schilling said:
“Golf has meant a lot to me. I've been very blessed. The reason I'm here today is because in 1963, I played in my first Louisiana Golf Association Championship, state junior, I was 13 years old. And here I am today, 63 years later, playing in state seniors in the Legend Division.”
“Those 63 years have been magnificent. The people I've met, the places I've gone, the courses I've played.”
Over the course of his life in golf, Schilling has played more than 500 courses and experienced some of the game’s most iconic venues, including Pebble Beach Golf Links and Augusta National Golf Club.
“One of my favorite golf memories. There's so many, I don't know where to start. You know, I've been able to play over 500 different golf courses in my lifetime. Played 22 out of 25 top. Golf courses are part of the golf world. Been blessed to play Augusta National for four decades. My all-time favorite golf course is Pebble Beach.”
Returning to Lake Charles Country Club also brought perspective on how the game and its venues have changed over time.
“Well, it's not what we saw initially. The hurricanes have removed a lot of trees from this golf course.”
“But the hurricanes didn't take the trees out. New subdivisions took the trees out. Like number one used to be solid trees to the right. You couldn't even walk through there.”
When asked what message he would share with the next generation of golfers, Schilling kept it simple:
“Take advantage of the game. Respect the game. You'll meet the nicest people in the world on the golf course.”
Closing out more than six decades in the game, Schilling’s story is a reflection of what makes golf unique. From junior championships to the Legend Division, his journey highlights the lasting relationships, opportunities, and perspective the game provides to those who stick with it.
About the Louisiana Golf Association
The Louisiana Golf Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting, preserving, and growing the game of golf across Louisiana. Founded in 1920, the LGA conducts state championships, provides USGA Handicap Index® services, and supports players of all ages through initiatives like the Louisiana Junior Golf Tour.
Media Contact:
Maili Bartz
Director of Marketing & Communications
maili@lgagolf.org