Teeing up

What began as a modest gathering of 18 golfers in 2023 has evolved into a significant networking event for Spider grads. The annual MBA Alumni Golf Tournament, co-organized by Chris Rinaldi, GB’23, and Austin Chandler, L’18 and GB’19, has more than doubled in size with over 50 participants this year.

“The thing about golf is you can build strong relationships while playing,” says Rinaldi, who learned the sport at age 7 from his grandfather. His passion for golf and the Spider community inspired the tournament’s creation.

Chandler, who began playing during college when friends lent him clubs and taught him the game, shares this enthusiasm. “What lights me up about golf is the environment it creates — you’re outside with people you care about, and the sport is both challenging and relaxing,” he says. “It’s a rare space where relationships deepen naturally.”

Hosted at Richmond Country Club in partnership with Emily Martin Julien, GB’23, the tournament has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants.

“The word that comes up most is ‘connection,’” says Chandler. “People love having an informal yet meaningful space to meet other Richmond MBAs, swap stories, and talk about careers.”

Beyond networking, both organizers envision the tournament eventually funding scholarships for future MBA students.