Michael Krak

Michael Krak was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in the fall of 2025. He was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 2005.

A native of Weirton, W.V.a, Krak played golf at West Virginia University from 1944-48 and served as team captain his final two seasons. In 1947, he leProfed the Mountaineers to a 12–0 match play record and an NCAA regional appearance, the first postseason bid in program history. He graduated from WVU in 1948 with a bachelor’s degree in physical education.

After graduation, Krak worked as an assistant golf professional at Canterbury Golf Course in Cleveland. He later served three years as a U.S. Air Force pilot before joining the PGA Tour in 1954. His playing career included appearances in nine PGA Championships, five U.S. Opens, and one British Open. His best PGA finish was a tie for 34th in 1963. He led after the opening round of the 1959 PGA Championship and twice won long drive competitions at the event.

Krak returned to West Virginia in 1957 to serve as the first head golf professional at Lakeview Golf Resort. He later held positions at clubs in New York and Connecticut and won multiple regional tournaments, including the Metropolitan PGA Championship and the Westchester Open. In 1980, he was involved in the early development of the Pete Dye Golf Club in Bridgeport, W.Va., and served as director of golf at PGA National Golf Club in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., which hosted the 1983 Ryder Cup.

Krak supported numerous community initiatives, particularly during his time in Florida. He organized fundraising tournaments for local charities, including Special Olympics, and made golf facilities available for youth and high school programs. He later served on committees for the South Florida PGA Section.

He was inducted into the WVU Sports Hall of Fame in 2014.

Krak passed away on Jan. 28, 2017, in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.