DURHAM, N.C. – Jamal Hutchison is headed to amateur golf's version of the big dance.

The North Carolina Central golfer qualified for the U.S. Amateur Championship, which will be held August 10-16 at Merion Golf Club in Ardmore, Pa., and Philadelphia Country Club in Gladwyne, Pa. Hutchison will be among 312 of the nation's top amateur golfers competing for the title.

A rising senior, Hutchison always envisioned playing in the U.S. Amateur. Now, that dream has become a reality.

"It is an honor to play in my first U.S. Amateur," Hutchison said. "The historic event is one that all golfers dream of playing. I am definitely excited to test my game on the biggest stage in amateur golf."

The U.S. Amateur Championship helped launch the careers of golf's greatest stars including Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Phil Mickelson. Kendall Wallace, NCCU's Head Golf Coach, says Hutchison is the first Eagles golfer in recent years to qualify for the prestigious tournament.

To get there, Hutchison played outstanding golf during the two qualifying stages, including a seventh-place finish at a final qualifier in Wilmington, N.C. on Monday. Hutchison fired a two-under-par 70 to secure a spot in the U.S. Amateur. The top 10 golfers and two alternates advanced to the tournament.

The Fletcher, N.C., native started his U.S. Amateur run in June at a local qualifier in Southern Pines, N.C. He tied for fourth with a five-under-par 67 to claim one of 13 spots to the final qualifier.

His U.S. Amateur appearance highlights an exceptional collegiate career at NCCU that includes All-NEC and NEC All-Tournament honors. He is the first Eagles golfer to be selected to the All-NEC team.

"Jamal is one of the most creative and talented players I've ever been around," Wallace said. "He is an incredibly hard worker, and I'm thrilled that he has the opportunity to showcase his talents at one of golf's most prestigious amateur championships."

For more information on NCCU Athletics, visit NCCUEaglePride.com.