Stephanie Sparks, the longtime host of Golf Channel’s “Big Break,” passed away at the age of 50 with no cause of death listed. Born in Wheeling, West Virginia, Sparks was a standout collegiate golfer at Duke University and had a successful amateur career, winning several prestigious tournaments. She represented the U.S. on the 1994 Curtis Cup team and had a brief professional career on the Epson Tour and LPGA before injuries forced her to retire.
In addition to her hosting duties on “Big Break,” Sparks also hosted “Golf with Style” and “Playing Lessons with the Pros” on Golf Channel. She also did on-camera reporting at tournaments and wrote player diaries for Golfweek during her competitive days. Her former co-host on “Big Break,” Tom Abbott, praised Sparks for her work ethic and understanding of the challenges faced by contestants on the show. He highlighted her empathy and desire for the participants to succeed.
Sparks also had a brief acting career, playing the role of three-time U.S. Women’s Amateur champion Alexa Stirling in the 2004 movie “Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius.” Additionally, she was an advocate for hospice care in her later years and supported causes such as Libby’s Legacy Breast Cancer Foundation and the Barber Fund in Orlando. Sparks’ passing was met with an outpouring of support and condolences from the golf community, including former AJGA Golf mates who remembered her fondly.
The news of Sparks’ death was a shock to many who knew and worked with her in the golf industry. Her contributions to the sport, both on and off the course, were remembered and celebrated by those who knew her. Sparks’ dedication to golf and her compassion for others were evident in her work as a host, reporter, and advocate for various causes. Her legacy will continue to live on through the impact she made on those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Despite her early passing, Stephanie Sparks leaves behind a lasting impact on the golf community and those she worked with throughout her career. Her passion for the game, as well as her kindness and empathy towards others, will be remembered by all who knew her. The golf world mourns the loss of a talented and beloved individual who played a significant role in shaping the sport for future generations. Stephanie Sparks’ memory will continue to be honored and cherished by those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her.
