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At Hermitage Golf Course, just outside of Nashville, a quiet revolution is underway — one that’s not only transforming how junior golfers play, but how they grow, learn, and connect with their community. At the center of it all is Cole Murley, whose unwavering dedication, leadership, and vision have elevated Hermitage’s junior golf program into a nationally recognized, award-winning initiative.
Murley’s journey into junior golf was shaped by a deep-rooted passion for athletics and leadership, cultivated during his time at the University of Tennessee. Known around the Hermitage grounds for the bright orange Tennessee Volunteers flag flying proudly from his golf cart, Murley brings that same Volunteer spirit into every aspect of his work.
The Hermitage junior golf program, known as the Herm Squad, launched its first official PGA Jr. League season in 2014 under the leadership of Director of Golf Chris Pierce. When Murley joined the team in 2019, he was mentored by Janell Joslin, whom he credits as one of the most passionate advocates for junior golf he’s ever met. Now leading the Herm Squad as Captain, Murley has built on that early foundation with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, confidence building, and lifelong participation in the game.
Under his leadership, the program has flourished. The Herm Squad has earned the national #GameChanger award five times and is widely regarded as the flagship junior golf program in Tennessee. Despite the course hosting over 85,000 rounds and 175 corporate outings annually, the Hermitage team — with a 15-member player development staff — continues to deliver a personalized and impactful experience for each junior golfer. “Our team’s passion and hard work are what make this program thrive,” Murley emphasizes. “We’re not just teaching golf — we’re creating a culture.”
That culture is centered on a team-based, inclusive approach that welcomes players of all backgrounds and skill levels. With over 40 schools currently participating — and a goal to reach 50 — Hermitage is reshaping the idea of what youth golf can be. “Golf used to be something you had to learn on your own or have access to a private course for,” says Murley. “We’re changing that. Kids here get to play as part of a team, wear matching uniforms, build friendships, and have fun.”
The program features a full calendar of year-round training and competition, organized into age-specific squads such as 9U Blue, 13U Orange, and 17U Gold. Based on the American Development Model (ADM), each team follows tailored coaching practices that address the physical, emotional, and social needs of junior players from ages 6 to 16.
But success at Hermitage isn’t measured solely by trophies. The real impact is seen in the growth of the players themselves. Over 15 current and former Herm Squad members recently qualified for middle and high school post-season tournaments, and some have even leveraged their experiences into college opportunities. “What began 10 years ago as an outlet to enjoy
added fun at the golf course, now is a program that provides the roadmap pathway for junior players both recreationally or competitively,” Murley shares.
Murley sees his role as extending far beyond the golf course.“Hitting more fairways and greens is apart of what we do but helping our players have added confidence in the classroom, at home and within the community is most important.”
Family involvement is also a central theme of the Herm Squad experience. From post-practice meals at Hickory Sticks Grill to watching games together on the course, families are encouraged to be active participants in the journey. These shared moments help young golfers create lifelong memories while building bonds with teammates and loved ones.
Looking ahead, Murley and his team are focused on expanding both recreational and competitive opportunities, offering year-round programming that supports players at every stage of their development. Their goal remains clear: To continue leading junior golf in Tennessee — and to serve as a model for programs across the Southeast.
Kelsey Ludwigsen, Communications Manager
