Georgia Tech’s Bruce Heppler Reflects on Emotional Journey to Masters

Augusta, Georgia — The Masters Tournament has arrived, and all eyes are on Georgia Tech junior Hiroshi Tai, who is making his debut at this prestigious event after securing an automatic invitation by winning the NCAA individual championship last year.

Before the practice round on Wednesday, Tai shared insights during an interview with Channel 2 Action News’ Zach Klein and me, offering a glimpse into the emotional journey that led to this moment. Tech golf coach Bruce Heppler, who has built a storied legacy at Georgia Tech, reflected on his pride for Tai and the significance of this event.

Heppler, who has been at the helm of the Yellow Jackets golf program for 29 years, is considered one of the best coaches in any sport at Georgia Tech. Under his leadership, the team has achieved 14 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) titles, reached the NCAA Championship finals 21 times, and produced numerous professional players. Tai becomes the fifth Georgia Tech player to earn a Masters invite as an amateur, following in the footsteps of notable alumni like Matt Kuchar and Andy Ogletree.

Heppler’s relationship with his players extends beyond the golf course. He shared a poignant moment: “We lost a little girl when we first got married,” he said. “And for the longest time, we fought some infertility. It almost felt like these would be my sons, and so I’ve tried to look at it that way. So, yeah, it’s pretty awesome.”

This emotional connection is reflected in the bond he shares with his players. Tai asked Heppler to caddie for him in the Par 3 Contest, a gesture of gratitude familiar among players who cherish their mentors.

While covering the practice rounds, I noticed bins of pristine golf balls reserved for players—a stark contrast to the average weekend golfer’s experience. These balls, organized by brand, are available to professional players and their caddies, showcasing the generous perks that come with competing in the PGA Tour.

As the weather cleared up on Tuesday, the atmosphere at Augusta National Golf Club felt rejuvenated, a welcome change after rain marred the earlier part of the week. The press building, a luxurious two-story structure equipped with a restaurant and expansive windows overlooking the driving range, serves as a testament to the club’s commitment to excellence.

As the gates opened on Monday morning, eager fans flocked to the gift shop, some making their long-awaited first appearance at the Masters after decades of trying. The excitement and urgency were palpable as they hurried to snatch up memorabilia, a rite of passage for anyone attending the tournament.

This year, the Masters promises not just world-class golfing but also represents personal triumphs—stories of dedication, struggle, and connection, especially for players like Hiroshi Tai and cherished coaches like Bruce Heppler.

Ken Sugiura is a sports columnist at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Sugiura, who has covered Georgia Tech sports since 1998, has a keen eye for the intersection of emotional narratives and sports.