Golf Channel Host Stephanie Sparks Dies Aged 50

Stephanie Sparks, who was a co-host of the Golf Channel program ‘Big Break’ has tragically died at the age of 50. Sparks, in addition to being a talented on-air personality, was also an All-American college golf and former U.S. Curtis Cup player.

The cause of Sparks’ tragic and unexpected death has not yet been released. She played college golf at Duke University. The former star was also part of the 1994 American Curtis Cup team.

Born in Wheeling, West Virginia, Sparks was an accomplished amateur golfer. She won the 1992 North and South Women’s Amateur and the 1993 Women’s Western Amateur and Women’s Eastern Amateur during her playing career.

Sparks even went pro, joining the LPGA Tour for just one season before injuries eventually forced her to end her illustrious playing career. It was at this point that Sparks transitioned into a broadcaster, joining the Golf Channel and continuing her career in the sport.

She was a beloved member of the show ‘Big Break.’ Her death comes as a shock to all involved in the show.

Additionally, Sparks wrote player diaries for Golfweek. Tom Abbot, who worked with Sparks on the Golf Channel, said about Sparks’ shocking death,

“She had been a professional golfer herself, so she knew what it was like for the contestants, and she wanted them to succeed. She kind of rode their emotions in a way when we were doing the show.”

“She knew how tough it was.”

Tom Abbot

Lisa Cornwell, who played junior gold with Sparks, posted the following message about the late golfer on X,

I’ll forever be grateful for the friendships I made in junior golf. Last week, we lost one of our best @AJGAGolf mates. God bless you, Sparky… and thanks for being you.

Lisa Cornwell

Sparks was dedicated to golf throughout her entire life, writing, broadcasting about, and even playing the game. This woman was entirely dedicated to her craft.

We pray for her loved ones during this difficult time, as well as that she rest in peace. A tragic end to a beautiful life!