Bruce Douglass

Douglass was born in Brockton, Massachusetts. He began playing golf at the age of eight.{{Cite web |date=July 27, 1974 |title=Douglas, O'Kane advance to CYO senior final |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435907123/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Evening Globe |page=28 |via=Newspapers.com}} His father got him into the game.{{Cite web |date=April 14, 1975 |title=Murray golf team triumphs |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/426295746/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=14 |via=Newspapers.com}} Chick Fisher, the pro at Brockton Golf Course, also served as a mentor.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=July 12, 1976 |title=Douglass finds golf 'a pure science' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436244158/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |via=Newspapers.com}} However, baseball was his big sport growing up. He injured his arm, though, and decided to focus on golf. "I ruined my arm as a pitcher in Little League and the doctors said I shouldn't play baseball," he later said. "So I turned to golf."

In his mid-teens, Douglass first achieved some media attention. In July 1968, he played The Boston Globe boys golf tournament in Hingham, Massachusetts. Douglass played in the 14–15 years old division. Douglass had the lead late but "missed a golden opportunity to win the championship," finishing bogey-double bogey. He lost by one.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=July 15, 1969 |title=Victory in Globe Tourney Comes Hard for Josselyn |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/434644026/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-05 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |pages=27–30 |via=Newspapers.com}} In July 1969, he played the Massachusetts Golf Association's (MGA) Junior Championship. He qualified within the Junior-Junior division, finishing third place.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=July 29, 1969 |title=Vendetti, Johnson Top MGA Junior Qualifying |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/434648749/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-05 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |pages=25–27 |via=Newspapers.com}} However, he lost in the second round of the event proper.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=August 5, 1969 |title=Burke Advances in Junior Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435176136/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-05 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |pages=25–27 |via=Newspapers.com}} In July 1970, he played a USGA Junior qualifier. However, he failed at qualifying by a large number, shooting an 84, missing the cut-off by 11 strokes.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=July 15, 1970 |title=DePamphilis, 2 R.I. golfers qualify in junior sectionals |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435374053/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |via=Newspapers.com}} A month later, in August 1970, he qualified for the MGA Junior Championship again. He lost in the first round.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=August 4, 1970 |title=Long matches feature Jr. golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435535009/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |pages=21–24 |via=Newspapers.com}} Later in the month, he played the New England Junior Open at Ponkapoag Country Club in Canton, Massachusetts. He once more lost in the first round.{{Cite web |date=August 27, 1970 |title=Along the Fairways |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/371341069/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=Hartford Courant |pages=62 |via=Newspapers.com}}

At the age of 17, Douglass had his first era of sustained success as a junior golfer. In July 1971, he played a USGA Junior qualifier. Douglass shot a 75 and was tied for the final slot. Douglass "grabbed the last spot by winning a four-man sudden death playoff on the second hole."{{Cite web |last=Pave |first=Marvin |date=July 21, 1971 |title=Caprera's 72 seizes USGA Junior medal |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435522937/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=28 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the summer, he also qualified for the MGA's Massachusetts Junior.{{Cite web |last=Pave |first=Marvin |date=July 21, 1971 |title=USGA Junior has international tinge |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435524863/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=32 |via=Newspapers.com}} The event proper was held at the Chestnut Hill Country Club. In the second round, Douglass faced Dave DiRico of Chicopee, Massachusetts. Douglass led 5 up after 12 holes but DiRico forced extra holes. Douglass, however, won the 19th hole to move on.{{Cite web |last=Gammons |first=Peter |date=August 10, 1971 |title=Mannion shuns injury, scores two golf wins |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435844745/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=24 |via=Newspapers.com}} He eventually made it to the semifinals.{{Cite web |last=Cohen |first=Jim |date=August 11, 1971 |title=Buddies Stevenson, Johnson golf finalists today |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435813678/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=74 |via=Newspapers.com}}

In September 1971, Douglass entered Broward Community College in Cocoa, Florida. In the summer, however, he would return to Massachusetts to play some events. In July 1972, he played the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) tournament, another event at Ponkapoag Golf Course. Douglass played in the intermediate division. He won all of his early matches and faced Jeff Lewis, a future PGA Tour pro, in the finals.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=July 28, 1972 |title=Bradley, Ashley in CYO senior final |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/434857813/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=26 |via=Newspapers.com}} Lewis narrowly defeated him 2 & 1.{{Cite web |date=July 29, 1972 |title=Scoreboard: CYO golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/434858025/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=26 |via=Newspapers.com}} In August, he played the New England Junior, also at Ponkapoag. In the first round he "upset" the defending champion, Bruce Martins, defeating him on the 18th hole, 1 up.{{Cite web |date=August 23, 1972 |title=Drew coasts, defender is ousted, 1-up |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435480080/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Evening Globe |page=39 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |last=Crowley |first=P.J. |date=August 24, 1972 |title=Drew plays 'perfect golf' to advance to in NE Juniors |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/434855926/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Evening Globe |page=44 |via=Newspapers.com}} He ultimately reached the finals, recording another second-place finish.{{Cite web |date=November 1, 1974 |title=Douglass top golfer in Murray history |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/426166455/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=15-B |via=Newspapers.com}} In September 1972, he returned to Broward.{{Cite web |last=Boetel |first=Ray |date=September 14, 1972 |title=The Preps: Some Added Incentive |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/230939069/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=Fort Lauderdale News |page=6D |via=Newspapers.com}} In the spring, he began recording some highlights for the golf team. In April of the academic year, Broward faced Miami Dade Community College North. Douglass was the joint medalist and their team won.{{Cite web |date=April 13, 1973 |title=Broward Golfers Edge Dade-North |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/622338511/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Miami Herald |page=10-G |via=Newspapers.com}} Later in the month, Broward played in the Division IV junior golf championship at Mirror Lake Golf Course in Lehigh Acres, Florida. In the first round, playing against "25 to 30 miles per hour winds," Douglass shot a 74 (+2) to put himself in second place among individuals and led Broward to the lead.{{Cite web |title=Sullivan 68 Tops Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/622756207/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Miami Herald |page=8-D |via=Newspapers.com}} Overall, Broward finished in second place.{{Cite web |date=April 23, 1973 |title=North golfers overpowering |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/301206247/?terms=broward&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-27 |newspaper=The Miami News |page=5C |via=Newspapers.com}} A week later, the Florida Junior College Golf Tournament was held. Twenty universities participated in the tournament including Broward.{{Cite web |last=Warters |first=Jim |date=May 1, 1973 |title=Dave North, Brevard Lead JuCo Golf Tournament |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/300967840/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel |page=2-C |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass shot under-par in the second round and Broward finished in fourth place overall.{{Cite web |last=Warters |first=Jim |date=May 3, 1973 |title=Dave-North Win Iron-Ic |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/222353666/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel |page=3-G |via=Newspapers.com}} In the summer, he again returned to Massachusetts. In July, he qualified for the Massachusetts Amateur for the first time.{{Cite web |date=July 11, 1973 |title=Scoreboard: State Amateur |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436300481/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |via=Newspapers.com}} Later in the month he played the CYO tournament again, this time in the senior division. Douglass won his first two matches.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=July 28, 1973 |title=Douglass wins CYO Seniors |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435908438/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=23 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the semifinals, Douglass defeated medalist Steve Condon, 1 up. In the finals, he defeated Steve O'Kane 4 & 3. It was the most "noteworthy win" of his career until that point.{{Cite web |date=July 15, 1975 |title=Douglass Wins State Am |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1071884653/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Morning Union |page=32 |via=Newspapers.com}}

In the fall, Douglass began to attend at Murray State University (MSU) in Murray, Kentucky. He was a transfer student from Broward.{{Cite web |date=June 24, 1975 |title=MSU's Douglass to return to golf tourney this week |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/429855857/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=17 |via=Newspapers.com}} In September, Douglass played the Murray State Intercollegiate Invitational. Among dozens of individuals competing, Douglass finished in the top ten. His team recorded a fourth-place finish among 12 teams.{{Cite web |last=Atkins |first=Jerry |date=September 30, 1973 |title=Tennessee Tech Logs Five-Stroke Win In Murray Invitational Golf Tourney |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/429821903/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=2-D |via=Newspapers.com}} A month later, Murray State played the Mid-South Fall Intercollegiate Golf Tournament. Murray again finished in fourth place. Douglass, meanwhile, improved his record, finishing runner-up.{{Cite web |date=October 21, 1973 |title=MSU Golfers Fourth In Mid-South Tourney |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/429780087/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=4-D |via=Newspapers.com}} In April, Murray State played the Illinois Intercollegiate Invitational tournament. Douglass was the low scorer for MSU.{{Cite web |date=April 16, 1974 |title=MSU Finishes Fourth In Illinois Tourney |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/429744410/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-16 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=8-B |via=Newspapers.com}} At the end of the academic year, MSU participated in the Ohio Valley Conference All-Sports Championship.{{Cite web |date=May 19, 1974 |title=Western Wins OVC All-Sports Title |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/110377864/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Tennessean |page=7-D |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass finished in joint fifth among individuals.{{Cite web |date=May 19, 1974 |title=College spring sports results |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/108076644/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Courier-Journal |page=C 12 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the summers, he continued returning to the northeast where he had some success. In July, he played the four-round New England Amateur at Metacomet Country Club in Providence, Rhode Island. In the second round, Douglass recorded seven birdies on his way to a three-under-par 67. "This is close to the best round I ever had in competition," he told the Hartford Courant at the end of the day. He took a four-stroke lead.{{Cite web |last=Canfield |first=Owen |date=July 25, 1974 |title=Douglass Up by 4 Shots In New England Amateur |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/371903427/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Hartford Courant |page=56 |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass "had trouble" during the two-round finale but still finished in the top five.{{Cite web |last=Canfield |first=Owen |date=July 26, 1974 |title=Caprera Cops N.E. Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/371908976/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Hartford Courant |page=18 |via=Newspapers.com}} In August, he qualified for the U.S. Amateur for the first time.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=August 14, 1974 |title=Palmer method gives Mitchell record |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/435981315/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=63 |via=Newspapers.com}}

In September, he returned to Kentucky to play for Murray State. Early in the season, the school's golf coach Buddy Hewitt noted, "Bruce has made vast improvements in his game the last year." Late in September, his team played the two-round Murray State intercollegiate again. Douglass "pace[d]" his team to victory, shooting a 138 total.{{Cite web |date=September 29, 1974 |title=Douglass paces Racer win in Murray golf tournament |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/426199509/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=45 |via=Newspapers.com}} He also won the individual component.{{Cite web |date=October 28, 1974 |title=Murray State's Bruce Douglass tops list in LSU Invitational golf meet |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/426319380/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=11-B |via=Newspapers.com}} In October, Douglass played the LSU Invitational. He would be playing against some of the best college golfers in the country. In the first round, Douglass shot a two-under-par 69 to tie for second with, among others, D. A. Weibring.{{Cite web |date=October 26, 1974 |title=LSU Golfers Lead Tourney |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/215250888/?terms=Douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-25 |newspaper=The Town Talk |page=A-6 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the second round, Douglass shot a 66 (−5) to take the lead among individuals.{{Cite web |date=October 27, 1974 |title=Douglass tourney leader |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/426319273/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=4-D |via=Newspapers.com}} On Sunday, Douglass shot over-par but "outlasted four LSU golfers" to earn individual honors. It was his second win of the season. The Paducah Sun referred to it as "the biggest prize ever won by a Murray golfer." He won his third tournament of the year at the University of Kentucky intercollegiate. In March, he played the two-round Kentucky Intercollegiate. According to The Mayfield Messenger, Douglass was "a strong choice for individual honors."{{Cite web |date=May 21, 1975 |title=Murray State Golfers To Open Season On March 27 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1017456033/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Mayfield Messenger |page=5 |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass indeed contented, tying for the first round lead.{{Cite web |date=March 28, 1975 |title=MSU's Douglass shares golf lead |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/426297271/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=9-B |via=Newspapers.com}} The final round was cancelled due to rain and Douglass was declared the joint winner. Murray State finished in second place as a team only behind the University of Kentucky.{{Cite web |date=March 30, 1975 |title=Douglass gains tie for title |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/426297926/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Paducah Sun |page=2-D |via=Newspapers.com}} In April, they played the Tennessee Tech Spring Intercollegiate Golf Tournament. Murray State won while Douglass "captured medalist honors for the fifth time this season." It was his final victory of the season. During his senior year, he was referred to by The Paducah Sun as "the top golfer in Murray history."

In the summer, Douglass returned to Massachusetts. In July, he played the Massachusetts Amateur. Douglass reached the semifinals where he faced Bill Mallon. Mallon, a future PGA Tour pro, was the clear favorite. He was the two-time defending champ and had won his previous 16 matches in the event going back a number of years.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=July 12, 1975 |title=Douglass ambushes Mallon, gains State Amateur final |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436552585/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=25 |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass, however, won four holes on the front nine to build a sizable lead. Mallon birdied the 12th and 14th holes but "Douglass didn't panic." He won the 16th hole and "startled" Mallon with a 3 & 2 victory. In the finals, Douglass faced Bobby Caprera, the captain of Duke University's golf team. The finals were 36-holes long. It was a back-and-forth affair and the match was all square after 30 holes. However, Douglass made a number of mid-range putts down the stretch to win the match, 2 & 1, and secure the championship. After the event, Douglass told The Boston Globe, "Of course this is the biggest tournament I've ever won."{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=July 15, 1975 |title=Douglass rides hot putter to 2 and 1 State Amateur victory over Caprera |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436566204/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |via=Newspapers.com}} A week later, he began play at the New England Amateur at Vesper Country Club. In the first round, Douglass eagled the par-5 11th hole on the way to a two-under-par 70. He had a one-stroke lead.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=July 23, 1975 |title=Douglass, 70, leads huge N.E. Amateur field |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436560878/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=35 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the second round, however, Bill Mallon "surged ahead" with a four-under-par 68.{{Cite web |date=July 24, 1975 |title=Mallon Leads NE Amateur |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/855309181/?match=1&terms=%22new%20england%20amateur%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-30 |newspaper=Morning Sentinel |page=12 |via=Newspapers.com}} The final two rounds were played over one day. Mallon shot over-par in the morning round but Douglass shot a 75 to fall four behind. In the final round, however, Douglass went "charging into contention" with consecutive birdies on #4-6 "to move into a momentary tie." Douglass "faded" on the back nine, though, and "had to settle for the runner-up spot" behind Mallon.{{Cite web |last=Harrison |first=Rick |date=July 25, 1975 |title=Mallon fights off late surge to win amateur golf crown |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/48111516/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Lowell Sun |page=17 |via=Newspapers.com}} In August, Douglass qualified for the U.S. Amateur. Douglass reached the fourth round, defeating future PGA Tour pro Lance Ten Broeck along the way.{{Cite web |date=August 29, 1975 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436579968/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Evening Globe |page=32 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |date=August 30, 1975 |title=Bay State's Douglass ousted in Amateur |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436580524/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=17 |via=Newspapers.com}} In September, Douglass returned to Murray State to finish his degree.{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=George |date=July 23, 1975 |title=Douglass (70) Grabs N.E. Amateur Lead |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/240816974/?terms=douglass |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=Hartford Courant |page=53 |via=Newspapers.com}} He did not play golf during the semester.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=June 13, 1976 |title=Douglass feat a rare one for sure |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436545598/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=86 |via=Newspapers.com}} Instead he focused on his studies. In December, he graduated with a degree in Business Administration.{{Cite web |title=1980 PGA Tour Media Guide |url=https://pgatourmedia.pgatourhq.com/static-assets/page/header/files/1980_pgatour.pdf |publisher=PGA Tour}} Despite the success, Douglass did not intend to turn professional. "It could turn from enjoyment into work," he told the Globe. "I'd prefer to stay an amateur instead of trying to go out there and beat your brains out."{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=July 15, 1975 |title=Douglass shuns pro career |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436566997/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-29 |newspaper=The Boston Evening Globe |page=23 |via=Newspapers.com}}

In the spring, he returned to New England. During the summer of 1976, Douglass had one of the best season's in the history of Massachusetts amateur golf. In May, Douglass played local qualifying for the U.S. Open. At Wellesley Country Club, Douglass shot 147 to finish one back of medalist Jeff Lewis.{{Cite web |date=May 25, 1976 |title=IN BRIEF: Golf: Lewis tops qualifiers |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436557303/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Evening Globe |page=29 |via=Newspapers.com}} Sectional qualifying was held at Stanwich Golf Course in Greenwich, Connecticut. Douglass shot rounds of 74 and 75 to get into a playoff for the last spots. He birdied the first hole to move on to the tournament proper.{{Cite web |last=Van Stone |first=Ray |date=June 9, 1976 |title=Borek Wins Medal in Open Sectional Qualifying |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/60582339/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Bridgeport Post |page=46 |via=Newspapers.com}} He was the first amateur from Massachusetts to qualify for the U.S. Open since the 1940s. The 1976 U.S. Open was held at the Atlanta Athletic Club. In the first round, Douglass played excellently, scoring even-par through the first 15 holes and was on the leaderboard. He closed poorly, shooting three-over-par over the last three holes. But his 73 (+3) put him near the top ten.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=June 17, 1976 |title=Douglass cards 73 in US Open play |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436563725/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Evening Globe |page=80 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |date=June 18, 1976 |title=Douglass shoots 73-not too bad for Openers |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436566503/?terms=douglass&match=2 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=53 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the second round, he played much worse but made a "rare" birdie on the 18th hole to ensure that he made the cut.{{Cite web |date=June 19, 1976 |title=Douglass makes cut despite 76 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436568670/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=22 |via=Newspapers.com}} He ultimately finished third low amateur only behind Mike Reid and John Fought.{{Cite web |date=June 21, 1976 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436052508/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Evening Globe |page=24 |via=Newspapers.com}} He later said his experience at the U.S. Open stimulated thoughts about becoming a professional golfer. "I liked the professional climate about it," he told The Boston Globe. "I wasn't thinking about a pro career before. Now I am."{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=June 27, 1976 |title=Worcester CC boasts history |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436060571/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-31 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=67 |via=Newspapers.com}} A week after the U.S. Open, Douglass began play at the Massachusetts Open at Worcester Country Club. In the final round at the challenging course, Douglass matched par to tie for the round of the day. He entered a sudden-death playoff with Bob Menne and Paul Barkhouse. However, Douglass three-putted the first playoff hole to finish second.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=July 1, 1976 |title=Barkhouse beats crowd, wins Open |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436550417/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=39 |via=Newspapers.com}} Despite the loss his good placing, in the words of The Boston Globe sportswriter Joe Concannon, "added weight to [Douglass'] credentials as the man to beat."{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=July 8, 1976 |title=Douglass escapes at State Amateur wire |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436574979/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=29 |via=Newspapers.com}} In July, he began play at the Massachusetts Amateur as defending champion. The event was at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts. In the first round, Douglass had to win the 18th hole to defeat unheralded teenager Dave Lane, 1 up. However, he easily won his next four matches to reach the finals.{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Tom |date=July 9, 1976 |title=It's all for young at State Amateur |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436578321/?terms=douglass&match=5 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=30 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |date=July 10, 1976 |title=Golf Scoreboard: State Amateur Golf Summary |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1074049262/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Morning Union |page=20 |via=Newspapers.com}} Like the previous year, the finals would be two rounds long. He would play Peter Teravainen this time. Also like last year's finals against Caprera, the match turned out to be a back-and-forth affair; there were a total of six lead changes and a number of ties. On the 36th hole, though, it looked like Douglass had the match in hand, possessing a 1 up lead. However, the "seemingly-beaten" Teravainen made a difficult 18-foot birdie putt to force extra holes. On the 37th hole, Douglass had a birdie putt of similar length to end it. "I said, 'It's now or never,'" Douglass told himself. He made it for his second straight Massachusetts Amateur title.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=July 11, 1976 |title=Douglass captures second straight Amateur on 37th |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436220562/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=110 |via=Newspapers.com}} Later in the month, he played the Francis Ouimet Memorial. Douglass was victorious once more, again winning with a lengthy birdie putt on the final hole.{{Cite web |last=Botty |first=John |date=August 1, 1976 |title=Douglass stays hot, win Ouimet title |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436145391/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=86 |via=Newspapers.com}} In August, Douglass attempted to qualify for the U.S. Amateur. At final qualifying at Spring Valley Country Club, Douglass generally played poorly but birdied the final two holes to get into a playoff.{{Cite web |last=Botty |first=John |date=August 17, 1976 |title=Douglass stages rally to make US Amateur |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436146869/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=27 |via=Newspapers.com}} He then birdied both holes of the playoff to move on.{{Cite web |date=August 17, 1976 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436146883/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=27 |via=Newspapers.com}} "That was the greatest finish I've ever had," he told the Globe. At the end of the year he had the lowest handicap of any golfer, professional or amateur, in the entire state of Massachusetts.{{Cite web |date=November 20, 1976 |title=Bay State Boasts Low Handicappers |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1059610381/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Republican |page=10 |via=Newspapers.com}} In addition, by virtue of his excellent play through 1976, Douglass won the Massachusetts Golf Association's inaugural Player of the Year award.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=August 8, 1976 |title=Douglass shoo-in for MGA award |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436158481/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=81 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |date=October 15, 1976 |title=Wilcox of Winchester elected MGA president |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/439787275/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=36 |via=Newspapers.com}}

As of November 1976, Douglass had turned pro. He had financial sponsors to support him.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=May 23, 1978 |title=No easy way through the Open door |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436998873/?terms=douglass&match=4 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Evening Globe |page=29 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |last=Heeran |first=Dave |date=November 21, 1979 |title=Year of the rabbit: Mike Donald hopes to nibble some green on PGA Tour |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/234874957/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=Fort Lauderdale News |pages=13–14 |via=Newspapers.com}} Despite the financial security and strong amateur career, Douglass' transition to the pro ranks was not smooth. Douglass played the Fall 1976 PGA Tour Qualifying School but played "disappointingly" and did not move on.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=December 25, 1976 |title=Good cheer to all sports |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436302286/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=21 |via=Newspapers.com}} In early 1977, Douglass started playing the Florida minitours.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=March 20, 1977 |title=MGA gets good yardage from its new Beetle |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436623450/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=81 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=April 3, 1977 |title=The Masters - it all starts here |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436597821/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=87 |via=Newspapers.com}} However, he did not have much success. "It's been a drought," he told The Boston Globe. "I played the Space Coast mini tour, but I never really did anything."{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=May 22, 1977 |title=Mallon shakes slump, is ready to rampage |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436584519/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=92 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the spring, he intended to play Spring 1977 PGA Tour Qualifying School at Pinehurst No. 2 in Pinehurst, North Carolina. However, Douglass became ill the first day and opened with an 80. "I came down with some bug that first day," he said. "I had a splitting headache and couldn't do anything right."{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=June 12, 1977 |title=PGA alters school rules |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436596334/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=84 |via=Newspapers.com}} Though he played better for the remainder of the tournament he still missed the 54-hole cut.{{Cite web |date=June 3, 1977 |title=Douglass over by seven, misses PGA school cut |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436316159/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=30 |via=Newspapers.com}} In June, he failed at qualifying for the U.S. Open.{{Cite web |date=June 8, 1977 |title=Palmer (142) qualifies for 25th U.S. Open: Framingham's Mallon makes field first time |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436320664/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=66 |via=Newspaper.com}} "I just played really terrible all afternoon," he told the Globe. In the summer, he played "the New England circuit."{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=July 9, 1977 |title=Nets brave Knicks' clout |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436602349/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=17 |via=Newspapers.com}} His play improved though was erratic. In June, he finished solo sixth at the Vermont Open.{{Cite web |date=June 22, 1977 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436596157/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=68 |via=Newspapers.com}} In July, he played excellently at the three-round Greater Bangor Open. In the final round, he built a four-stroke lead at the turn, lost it by the 16th, but finished birdie-birdie to win by one.{{Cite web |last=Cushman |first=George |date=July 18, 1977 |title=Douglas wins Pepsi-GBO event |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/662661661/?terms=douglas&match=14 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-25 |newspaper=The Bangor Daily News |page=10 |via=Newspapers.com}} In August, however, at the Maine Open, he was not in contention, finishing in joint 14th place.{{Cite web |date=August 13, 1977 |title=sports scorecard: GOLF |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/853803189/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=Journal Tribune |page=10 |via=Newspapers.com}} Days later he began play at the two-round Western Massachusetts Open. He opened with a one-under-par 69 to put himself near the lead.{{Cite web |last=Sgood |first=Dick |date=August 17, 1977 |title=Stranahan keeps touch |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1072509911/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Morning Union |page=36 |via=Newspapers.com}} However, he shot over-par in the final round but still finished in the top ten.{{Cite web |last=Regan |first=Jim |date=August 18, 1977 |title=Jay Dolan Recalls First WM Win |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1059710407/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-25 |newspaper=The Republican |page=32 |via=Newspapers.com}} Late in the year, he played the National Golfers of America Tour, a minitour in Arizona. At the circuit's stop in Scottsdale, Arizona, was tied with Ray Arrino entering the 72nd hole. Douglass "had a chance to win" on the par-5 18th; however, his five-foot birdie putt missed. Arinno and Douglass entered a three-hole aggregate playoff. Douglass' "tough-luck" day continued. He hit his approach to within a foot on the first playoff hole to assure birdie but Arrino holed a 48-foot pitch shot to match him. On the third playoff hole, Douglass had a six-foot birdie putt to tie. However, he "misfired" giving Arrino the win.{{Cite web |date=October 22, 1977 |title=Arrino claims NGA in 3-hole playoff |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/119901843/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-07 |newspaper=The Arizona Republic |page=D-4 |via=Newspapers.com}}

In early 1978, Douglass elected to play the Asia Golf Circuit. His play improved. In February, he played the Hong Kong Open. He shot a second round 66 to move into contention.{{Cite web |date=February 25, 1978 |title=Hsieh leads Hong Kong |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/911162645/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Reporter Dispatch |page=B6B |via=Newspapers.com}} In March, he opened with a two-under-par 70 at the Thailand Open put him within two of the lead.{{Cite web |date=March 3, 1978 |title=S. African in lead |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/295183017/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Press Democrat |page=4D |via=Newspapers.com}} He then recorded three consecutive rounds of 71 to finish solo second, only behind Hsu Sheng-san. He was the only player to score under-par rounds every day.{{Cite web |date=March 6, 1978 |title=Taiwan pro wins golf title |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/262226761/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=Honolulu Star-Advertiser |page=C-4 |via=Newspapers.com}} Later in the month, he played the Malaysian Open. Douglass opened with a 67 to take a one-stroke lead over Simon Owen.{{Cite web |last=Kingsley |first=Bob |date=March 17, 1978 |title=SPORTS LOG: Golf: Douglass leads Malaysian Open |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436981705/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=37 |via=Newspapers.com}} He finished in the top ten.{{Cite web |date=March 20, 1978 |title=Sports Focus: Jones wins Malaysian |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1071662004/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Morning Union |page=20 |via=Newspapers.com}} Later in March, he played the Singapore Open. Australian golfer Peter Thomson selected Douglass as one of his favorites.{{Cite web |last1=Frida |first1=Ernest |last2=Singh |first2=Dharsan |date=March 23, 1978 |title=Brian Jones is tipped to complete a double |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19780323-1.2.115.2?qt=%22bruce%20douglass%22&q=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |newspaper=The Straits Times |page=31 |via=National Library of Singapore}} Douglass himself was pleased with his recent performances. "I must admit that I have been fairly consistent and I think I can improve even further," he told reporters.{{Cite web |last=Miller |first=Brian |date=March 23, 1978 |title=Five-under-par enough to win |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19780323-1.2.71?qt=%22bruce%20douglass%22&q=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |newspaper=New Nation |page=17 |via=National Library of Singapore}} In the pro-am, Douglass played well, finishing joint third.{{Cite web |date=March 23, 1978 |title=All the Pro-am Scores |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19780323-1.2.115.8?qt=%22bruce%20douglass%22&q=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |newspaper=The Straits Times |page=31 |via=National Library of Singapore}} He was at 14th place on the Order of Merit at the end of the month.{{Cite web |last=Kee Chan |first=Lim |date=March 31, 1978 |title=Gerald's the favourite at Warren |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19780331-1.2.91.8?qt=%22bruce%20douglass%22&q=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |newspaper=New Nation |page=17 |via=National Library of Singapore}}

In May, he returned to Massachusetts. Despite the good play in Asia, the quality of his play while in the United States continued "regressing." Douglass attempted to qualify for the PGA Tour again at Spring 1978 PGA Tour Qualifying School.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=May 21, 1978 |title=Golfers head for Oak Hill on the way to US Open |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436986821/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=80 |via=Newspapers.com}} However, he withdrew after 33 holes. It was his third failure at tour school.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=July 16, 1978 |title=Participants praise new Amateur format |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436981390/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=93 |via=Newspapers.com}} He also attempted to qualify for the 1978 U.S. Open.{{Cite web |date=May 23, 1978 |title=SCOREBOARD: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436998940/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Evening Globe |page=32 |via=Newspapers.com}} However, 154 total "didn't even rate a playoff shot at an alternate's berth." After the event, Douglass told The Boston Globe: "I have a desire problem. The enjoyment is gone. Golf is work now. I tell you, I have no plans at all now." He decided to not play golf at all for a month. In June, he resumed play. However, the rest did not seem to help him. Late in the month, he finished in 29th place at the Massachusetts Open.{{Cite web |date=June 29, 1978 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436998756/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=44 |via=Newspapers.com}} In July, he played the Greater Bangor Open as defending champion. Douglass, however, "had his problems" in the first round and opened with a three-over-par 73.{{Cite web |last=Cushman |first=George |date=August 11, 1978 |title=Videtta, Robertson share Pepsi-GBO lead; fire 69's |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/664170450/?terms=bruce |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-26 |newspaper=The Bangor Daily News |page=8 |via=Newspapers.com}} He followed with a 79 and was not in the picture thereafter.{{Cite web |date=August 12, 1978 |title=Sports log: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/664170853/?terms=bruce&match=2 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-26 |newspaper=The Bangor Daily News |page=19 |via=Newspapers.com}} In August, he played the Maine Open. He did not place well, finishing T-31st.{{Cite web |date=August 19, 1976 |title=Maine Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/852968480/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=Evening Express |page=12 |via=Newspapers.com}} In August, he "severely" sprained his ankle. In his words, "he ripped the ankle to shreds."{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=May 18, 1980 |title='New' Douglass aims for Open |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/429008578/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=83 |via=Newspapers.com}} "I couldn't played golf for five months," he told the Globe. He got a job at as a laborer at a sheet metal factory. He worked at that job for the remainder of the calendar year and did not play any golf while his ankle healed.{{Cite web |last=Montville |first=Leigh |date=November 8, 1979 |title=A story of sweet success... and dismal failure |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436854125/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=43 |via=Newspapers.com}} The five month reprieve from golf was actually useful, though, as it, in Douglass' words, "brought my incentive back."

According to The Boston Globe, "after three years of frustration" Douglass' game improved in 1979.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=May 27, 1979 |title=Palmer has doubts about 'minor' tour |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437006188/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=32 |via=Newspapers.com}} Early in the year, he once again played the Asia Golf Circuit. In March, he played the Thailand Open. In the third round, Douglass shot a 66, the round of the day, to move into joint second, one back of Ireneo Legaspi.{{Cite web |date=March 18, 1979 |title=Legaspi's 210 leads 3 by 1 in Thai Open |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/483680995/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=Daily News |page=250}} Douglass shot over-par in the final round though still finished in the top ten.{{Cite web |date=March 19, 1979 |title=The Day in Sports: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/384591272/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Los Angeles Times |page=11 |via=Newspapers.com}} In April, he played the Korea Open. In the final round, Douglass shot a 69, the round of the day, to record a high finish.{{Cite web |date=April 16, 1979 |title=First-year golfer wins Korea Open |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/910758177/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Reporter Dispatch |page=C7 |via=Newspapers.com}} He later credited his good play in Asia as a catalyst for future success. In the summer, Douglass played the National Golfers of America mintour again. In early August, Douglass closed with a 67 in an event in Phoenix, Arizona.{{Cite web |date=August 4, 1979 |title=SPORTS LOG: Golf: Lopez expands her lead |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436873916/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=22 |via=Newspapers.com}} He finished in joint fourth.{{Cite web |date=August 4, 1979 |title=Bodney fourth place |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/150676372/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=Reno Evening Gazette |page=13 |via=Newspapers.com}} The following week, he played a four-round event at the Los Serranos Country Club in Chino Hills, California. Douglass opened with a 65 (−6) to take "sole possession of second place."{{Cite web |title=sports briefly |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/860840778/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=Journal Tribune |page=18 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the second round, he shot another 65 to take the lead.{{Cite web |date=August 9, 1979 |title=Douglass leading in Chino golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/62479215/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The San Bernardino County Sun |page=D-2 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the final round, Douglass recorded a four-under-par 67 to win by one.{{Cite web |date=August 11, 1979 |title=The Day in Sports: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/387633437/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Los Angeles Times |page=11 |via=Newspapers.com}} He intended to try out for the PGA Tour once more at PGA Tour Qualifying School.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=August 19, 1979 |title=Match play adds zest |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436869534/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=50 |via=Newspapers.com}} It was his "fifth shot at qualifying." At Regionals, held at Fairfax, Virginia, Douglass was successful, moving on to finals at Waterwood National Country Club in Huntsville, Texas.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=October 20, 1979 |title=Another Fadden miracle? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436858306/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=21 |via=Newspapers.com}} At the finals for Fall 1979 PGA Tour Qualifying School, Douglass "cruised on the flat Waterwood layout, playing as well as he ever had." Douglass opened with a one-under-par 70 to tie for the lead.{{Cite web |last=Kingsley |first=Bob |date=November 1, 1979 |title=SPORTS LOG: Miscellany: Douglass cards 70 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436852599/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=58 |via=Newspapers.com}} He remained in the top ten after the next two rounds.{{Cite web |date=November 2, 1979 |title=Golf: PGA School Scores |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/899642745/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Monitor |page=5B |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |date=November 3, 1979 |title=Sportscope: PGA School Scores |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/895190776/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=Mount Vernon Argus |page=B17 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the final round, he shot even-par to finish T-4 and earn playing privileges.{{Cite web |date=November 4, 1979 |title=Sports Log: Golf: Two Bay Staters qualify |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436853046/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=62 |via=Newspapers.com}}

In 1980, Douglass played his rookie season on the PGA Tour.{{Cite web |last=Anthony |first=Meyer |date=March 30, 1980 |title=Will Cook Succeed Fought? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/942224325/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=News and Record |page=58 |via=Newspapers.com}} The first tournament he attempted to qualify for was the Phoenix Open. He was unsuccessful.{{Cite web |title=Bruce Douglass: PGA Tour Results |url=https://www.pgatour.com/player/01289/bruce-douglass/results |access-date=2025-01-21 |publisher=PGA Tour}} The following week, he qualified for his first tournament, the Andy Williams-San Diego Open Invitational. Three weeks later, he made his first cut at the Joe Garagiola-Tucson Open.{{Cite web |date=February 20, 1980 |title=Sports Scene: PGA |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/378858426/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=Auburn Journal |page=C-3 |via=Newspapers.com}} However, Douglass did not immediately build on this success, struggling in the early part of the season. The week after Tucson he played the Glen Campbell-Los Angeles Open. He shot rounds of 78 and missed the cut by a wide margin.{{Cite web |date=February 23, 1980 |title=L.A. Golf Scoreboard |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/285536598/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Times Recorder |page=7-A |via=Newspapers.com}} The following week he played, the Bay Hill Classic at Bay Hill Club and Lodge. He opened with an 85, the second worst round of the day.{{Cite web |date=February 29, 1980 |title=Thursday's results |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/227325073/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Orland Sentinel |page=4 |via=Newspapers.com}} He ultimately missed the cut by 15 strokes.{{Cite web |date=March 1, 1980 |title=For the record: $300,000 Bay Hill Classic |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1065994054/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-09 |newspaper=The Plain Dealer |page=4-B |via=Newspapers.com}} He later described Bay Hill as the "toughest course I've ever played."{{Cite web |last=Abadie |first=Chuck |title=Bruce Douglass manages to keep optimistic outlook |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/277461163/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=Hattiesburg American |pages=11–14 |via=Newspapers.com}} In April, he played the Magnolia Classic in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Douglass opened with a 69 to put him near the top ten. In the second round, Douglass shot "a three-under-par 32 on the front side" to approach the lead. However, in the middle of the round there was thunder and lightning. The round was ultimately cancelled. Douglass's good score was expunged.{{Cite web |last=Cleveland |first=Bobby |date=April 12, 1980 |title=Storm causes Classic delay |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/277461163/?terms=three&match=1 |url-access=subscription |newspaper=Hattiesburg American |page=11 |via=Newspapers.com}} Two weeks later, he played the Greater New Orleans Open. Douglass opened with a 69 to approach the lead.{{Cite web |date=April 25, 1980 |title=The Sentinel Scoreboard: Golf Scores |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/938216255/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Sentinel |page=26 |via=Newspapers.com}} However, he failed to break par for the remainder of the tournament and finished well down.{{Cite web |date=April 28, 1980 |title=$250,000 New Orleans Open golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1065518212/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Plain Dealer |page=4-B |via=Newspapers.com}} In June, he played Atlanta Classic. Douglass opened with rounds of 71 and 73 to make the cut on the number.{{Cite web |date=June 7, 1980 |title=scoreboard: PGA |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/623221228/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Charlotte News |page=2B |via=Newspapers.com}} He shot a third round 69 (−3) to move near the top 25.{{Cite web |date=June 8, 1980 |title=For the record: $300,000 Atlanta Golf Classic scores |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1066496918/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Plain Dealer |page=14-B |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass closed with a 77, though, to finish T-60.{{Cite web |date=June 9, 1980 |title=scoreboard: golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/965314016/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Bee |page=2B |via=Newspapers.com}} In the summer, Douglass attributed his weak play to putting issues. "It's been very, very discouraging," he said. "The main problem has been erratic putting." In July, he played the Sammy Davis Jr.-Greater Hartford Open. In the first round, Douglass "limped home" with a 74. In the second round, however, Douglass shot a five-under-par 66, "the lowest of his rookie season," to make the cut on the number.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=July 26, 1980 |title=Simons still Hartford leader |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/428506521/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=23 |via=Newspapers.com}} On Saturday, he actually improved on this play, recording a "stunning" round.{{Cite web |date=July 28, 1980 |title=Twitty shades Simons in playoff |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/428509046/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=23 |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass birdied nine of the last 12 holes for a 63 (−8).{{Cite web |last=Berlet |first=Bruce |date=July 27, 1980 |title=Golf Was Fun Again For Bruce Douglass |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/368505737/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=Hartford Courant |page=11C |via=Newspapers.com}} He briefly tied for the lead.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=July 27, 1980 |title=Twitty snares lead in Hartford: Douglass toes for day's low round with 63; Simons 2 back |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/428507091/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=67 |via=Newspapers.com}} The tournament, however, concluded "on a somewhat disconcerting note." Douglass' bogeyed the final hole for a one-over-par 72. Though he was near the lead for much of the weekend he finished outside the top 20. The following week, at the IVB-Golf Classic in Philadelphia, Douglass' missed the cut by a stroke.{{Cite web |date=August 2, 1980 |title=Sports Board: PGA Philadelphia Classic |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/623505834/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Charlotte Observer |page=11A |via=Newspapers.com}} In September, he earned a sponsor's exemption to his hometown tournament, the Pleasant Valley Jimmy Fund Classic. However, Douglass was unable to take advantage, missing the cut.{{Cite web |date=September 7, 1980 |title=Contrasts at PV: Beard, Doyle |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/428348541/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=54 |via=Newspapers.com}} He ultimately finished the season at #185 on the money list, well outside of the threshold to earn membership. Douglass later described it as "a very bad year."{{Cite web |date=June 12, 1981 |title=Golfers can identify with Bruce Douglass |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/2988122/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-01 |newspaper=Ukiah Daily Journal |page=6 |via=Newspapers.com}} However, late in the season Douglass played excellently at Fall 1980 PGA Tour Qualifying School. At finals, held at Fort Washington Country Club in Fresno, California, he earned "a wire-to-wire victory" defeating the nearest competitor by seven shots.{{Cite web |last=Farris |first=Bruce |date=October 26, 1980 |title=Norris is one of 27 'winners' |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/704501937/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Fresno Bee |pages=H1–H6 |via=Newspapers.com}} According to The Fresno Bee, it was "some of the most awesome golf ever seen in Fresno." Douglass "gained his playing privileges for the second time."{{Cite web |last=Giblin |first=Ron |date=November 7, 1980 |title=Women pros will play Millbrae course |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/736324704/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=Oakland Tribune |page=D-8 |via=Newspapers.com}}

Douglass played his second season on the PGA Tour in 1981. At his first event, the Joe Garagiola-Tucson Open, he failed to qualify. Shortly before his next event, the Phoenix Open, he received a new set of Ping irons from Karsten Solheim, the founder of the company.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=September 13, 1981 |title=The naked dilemma of Bruce Douglass |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436953347/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22%20golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=56 |via=Newspapers.com}} This reinvigorated his game. At Phoenix, Douglass made his first cut of the year. At his second tournament, Bing Crosby National Pro-Am, Douglass birdied three of the last five holes to make the cut on the number.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=March 18, 1981 |title=Douglass finally in driver's seat |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436886768/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=65 |via=Newspapers.com}} By virtue of making the cut at Pebble Beach he automatically qualified for the following tournament, the Wickes-Andy Williams San Diego Open. He played well in San Diego, finishing in a tie for 19th place.{{Cite web |date=February 9, 1981 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/532445902/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Berkshire Eagle |page=32 |via=Newspapers.com}} The following week, he played the Hawaiian Open. Douglass shot a second round 66 to get into a tie with Tom Watson and Hale Irwin for second place, two back of leader Nick Faldo.{{Cite web |date=February 14, 1981 |title=PGA Tour rookie Faldo takes Hawaiian lead |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/534039718/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Berkshire Eagle |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass shot under-par in the final two rounds to finish T-12.{{Cite web |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436878132/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=32 |via=Newspapers.com}} He utimately made six cuts in a row. His good play got him into the Players Championship for the first time. He made the cut.{{Cite web |date=March 21, 1981 |title=SPORTS LOG: Golf: Jaeckel leads TPC |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436865407/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=26 |via=Newspapers.com}} In April, he received an invitation to Memorial Tournament. He was one of only a handful of golfers to receive a special invitation from the host, Jack Nicklaus.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=April 25, 1981 |title=Will Orr, Cheevers cash in on Rock? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436872100/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=28 |via=Newspapers.com}} In June, he was in contention at a couple of events for a short time. At the Atlanta Classic, he shot a third round 69 (−3) to briefly break into the top ten.{{Cite web |date=June 7, 1981 |title=Atlanta Classic: Complete scores |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/973458023/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-01 |newspaper=The Atlanta Journal |page=4-D |via=Newspapers.com}} The following week, at the Westchester Classic, Douglass opened with a three-under-par 68 to take the clubhouse lead.{{Cite web |last=Lyons |first=Dennis |date=June 12, 1981 |title=Hey, where was Douglass when the lights went out? |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/927075093/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-01 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=B4 |via=Newspapers.com}} Entering the final round, he was still in contention, one out of the top ten.{{Cite web |title=Westchester Golf Classic |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/927076372/?terms=douglass&match=2 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-01 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=D2 |via=Newspapers.com}} Shortly thereafter, however, the season went "downhill" for Douglass. In July, he missed the cut at the Western Open.{{Cite web |date=July 4, 1981 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437023189/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=20 |via=Newspapers.com}} Later in the month, he missed the cut at the Quad Cities Open.{{Cite web |last=Slater |first=James |date=July 22, 1981 |title=Unsung 'rabbits' multiply on tour |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/870863050/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Virginia Gazette |page=25 |via=Newspapers.com}} Putting remained his key shortcoming. "My putter had gone sour the last {{frac|3|1|2}} weeks," Douglass said. "I was getting mad all the time and my anger didn't help at all." Late in July, he played better at the qualifier for the Anheuser-Busch Golf Classic. He was the medalist at the event.{{Cite web |date=July 21, 1981 |title=Veteran Rabbits Try To Qualify |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/234281909/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |page=24 |via=Newspapers.com |newspaper=Daily Press}} However, Douglass shot 76 and 78 at the event proper and missed the cut by a wide margin. In the seven events entering the Pleasant Valley Jimmy Fund Classic he had failed to qualify or missed the cut in all of them. At Pleasant Valley, however, he "surged into contention" with a third round 69. The good play was ephemeral, though, as he shot several over-par in the final round to finish outside the top 25. Douglass made his last five cuts of the year but without any high finishes finished well outside the top 60 threshold to earn membership.

The following season, in 1982, would be his final full year on the PGA Tour. Early in the season, Douglass had a reasonable amount of success. At the Hawaiian Open he closed with rounds of 69 to finish T-16.{{Cite web |date=February 15, 1982 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436948844/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-02 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=32 |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass made the cut at the next tournament, the Glen Campbell-Los Angeles Open.{{Cite web |date=February 20, 1982 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/947297189/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-02 |newspaper=The Toronto Star |page=23 |via=Newspapers.com}} The following week he made the cut at the Doral-Eastern Open.{{Cite web |last=Fowler |first=Bob |date=February 28, 1982 |title=Big money is all the wage |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/227286596/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-02 |newspaper=The Orlando Sentinel |page=C-1 |via=Newspapers.com}} By virtue of making the cut, he qualified for the next tournament, Bay Hill Classic. His following tournament was the tour's flagship event, The Players Championship. In the second round, Douglass recorded a three-under-par 69, one of the rounds of the day, to make the cut and move into the top 25.{{Cite web |date=March 20, 1982 |title=Sports Board: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/623634683/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-02 |newspaper=The Charlotte Observer |via=Newspapers.com}} He was in the top 100 of the money list at this point, within the threshold to earn membership.{{Cite web |date=April 6, 1982 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/654169425/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-02 |newspaper=The News and Observer |page=3B |via=Newspapers.com}} In April, he played the Magnolia Classic. The event was held at Hattiesburg Country Club in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Douglass opened with rounds of 69 and 68 to put him in contention, five back of Payne Stewart's lead.{{Cite web |date=April 10, 1982 |title=Golf: Magnolia Classic |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/635437507/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Fort Worth Star-Telegram |page=6D |via=Newspapers.com}} In the third round Douglass "blistered" the course, shooting a record-tying 63 (−7).{{Cite web |last=Potter |first=Jerry |date=April 11, 1982 |title=Douglass' 63 claims lead in Magnolia |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/183598409/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=Clarion-Ledger |via=Newspapers.com}} He held a three shot lead over a number of players, including Stewart.{{Cite web |date=April 11, 1982 |title=Former Mass. champ leads Magnolia golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1072612001/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Morning Union |page=C-14 |via=Newspapers.com}} It was his first 54-hole lead on the PGA Tour. "I've never been leading a golf tournament, so this is kind of new for me," he told reporters after the round.{{Cite web |last=Arnold |first=Van |date=April 11, 1982 |title=Blistering 63 gives Douglass lead |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/279215204/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=Hattiesburg American |page=1D |via=Newspapers.com}} On Sunday, Douglass played with Stewart in the final group. Stewart birdied the 6th hole to cut the lead to two. Then there were birdie-bogey exchanges on the 7th and 8th holes; Stewart suddenly had a two-stroke lead.{{Cite web |last=Cleveland |first=Bobby |date=April 12, 1982 |title=Stewart charge wins Magnolia |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/279216695/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-11 |newspaper=Hattiesburg American |page=11 |via=Newspapers.com}} "It was pretty much downhill from there," Douglass later said. Douglass then missed a one-foot par putt on the 10th and bogeyed the following hole too. He did not make a birdie on the way in. He ultimately shot a three-over-par 73 to finish joint second, three back of champion Stewart. For the remainder of the season, Douglass played much worse. He missed the cut or failed to qualify for his next five events. In late June, he made the cut at the Manufacturers Hanover Westchester Classic.{{Cite web |date=June 26, 1982 |title=on the record: golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/800204955/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-02 |newspaper=The Memphis Press-Sinclair |page=29 |via=Newspapers.com}} However, he missed the cut at his next two events, the Western Open and the Greater Milwaukee Open. By mid-July, according to The Boston Globe, Douglass was becoming "dangerously close to falling out of the PGA Tour's top 125 in money winnings which is the qualifying requirement for next year's all-exempt tour."{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=July 17, 1982 |title=NCAA basketball tourney expands to 52 teams in '83 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437217671/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=28 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the middle of the summer, however, he was briefly in contention at two events. In late July, at the Anheuser-Busch Golf Classic, he opened with a 67 (−4) to put him in solo fourth, two back of Bruce Lietzke.{{Cite web |date=July 23, 1982 |title=Lietzke Leads Williamsburg |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/810888307/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-02 |newspaper=Anderson Independent-Mail |page=4 |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass shot over-par in the second round but remained the top ten.{{Cite web |date=July 25, 1982 |title=Anheuser-Busch Classic |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437225416/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-02 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |via=Newspapers.com}} However, he closed with a ten-over-par 81 to finish in last place.{{Cite web |title=SPORTSSTATS: GOLF |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1151352725/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-02-02 |newspaper=The Birmingham News |page=2D |via=Newspapers.com}} The following week, Douglass played the Canadian Open. He opened with a four-under-par 67 to tie Greg Norman and Brad Bryant for the lead.{{Cite web |date=July 30, 1982 |title=IN BRIEF |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/368772889/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=Hartford Courant |page=D5 |via=Newspapers.com}} However, over the weekend Douglass concluded with rounds of 74 and 80 to finish T-66. Over his next seven events, Douglass missed the cut or failed to qualify for in five of them. Entering the final event, the Walt Disney World Golf Classic, he was outside the top 125 on the money list had to earn at least $6,500 to earn membership for the following season.{{Cite web |last=Roberts |first=Ernie |date=October 30, 1982 |title=BC to enlarge Alumni Stadium for '83 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437237140/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=26 |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass did not come close to this metric; he only earned $836 at the event.{{Cite web |last=Van Handle |first=Judy |date=November 1, 1982 |title=SPORTS LOG: Golf: Sutton wins final event |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437344182/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=42 |via=Newspapers.com}} In November, he participated in 1982 PGA Tour Qualifying School at TPC Sawgrass. Douglass played poorly, failing to break 75 in the tournament.{{Cite web |date=November 22, 1982 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437268202/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=40 |via=Newspapers.com}} He did not qualify for the PGA Tour or its offshoot tour, the Tournament Players' Series.{{Cite web |last=Van Handle |first=Judy |date=November 22, 1982 |title=SPORTS LOG: College: BU in; AIr Force to Hall of Fame |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437268184/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-10 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=34 |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass played a handful of tour events in 1983 but did not do anything of note. "After three years of frustration" he decided to retire from the PGA Tour.{{Cite web |last=Kelly |first=Steve |date=June 17, 1984 |title=Bruce Douglass: Selling his game instead of shirts |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1073522987/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Morning Union |page=D-7 |via=Newspapers.com}}

In 1984, Douglass retired from the career of a touring professional to work as a club professional.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=March 25, 1984 |title=TPC back on trial this week |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437276428/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-11 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=55 |via=Newspapers.com}} In April, he began work as an assistant professional at Winged Foot Golf Club. It was considered one of the "most prestigious assistantships" in the country.{{Cite web |last=Stogel |first=Chuck |date=February 3, 1986 |title=Winged Foot pro banking on a new career |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/896088315/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=Mount Vernon Argus |page=D8 |via=Newspapers.com}} He also noted that he aspired to be "a head pro some day in the Metropolitan PGA section." During the era, he played a number of significant events in this free time too. In May, he qualified for the local PGA Tour event, the Westchester Classic.{{Cite web |last=Glauber |first=Rob |date=June 5, 1984 |title=Classic hopes duffed for 2 area amateurs |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/911270804/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Reporter Dispatch |via=Newspapers.com}} With a second round 68, Douglass made the cut.{{Cite web |date=June 9, 1984 |title=the scoreboard: golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/99107637/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=Detroit Free Press |page=37 |via=Newspapers.com}} During the era, he attempted to qualify for the 1984 U.S. Open. The event would be held at his home club, Winged Foot. He was unsuccessful at sectional qualifying though.{{Cite web |date=June 6, 1984 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1050794699/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=Tarrytown Daily News |page=2C |via=Newspapers.com}} Before the 3rd round of the event proper, however, while he was opening up the pro shop, he was abruptly notified that he could play as a marker for Scott Simpson who was playing without a partner. Douglass decided to play with Simpson and outplayed him, shooting a three-over-par 73. Late in the month, at the Massachusetts Open, Douglass shot a final round 69 (−3), "the round of the tournament," to finish joint second.{{Cite web |last=Newman |first=Howie |date=June 28, 1984 |title=Quigley wins Open... again |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/948240197/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Daily Item |page=18 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |date=June 29, 1984 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/664780891/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Bangor Daily News |page=10 |via=Newspapers.com}} He earned $2,500. Later in the summer, Douglass had much success at a number of local Met PGA events. In July, he played the Metropolitan Insurance Pro-Junior better-ball tournament with partner Mark Loomis. The pair finished joint runner-up.{{Cite web |date=July 17, 1984 |title=Scoreboard: MGA Pro-Jr. golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/927561454/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=2C |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |last=Arrichiello |first=Peter |date=July 17, 1984 |title=Bensel-Healy team for win |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/927561471/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=C3 |via=Newspapers.com}} In July, he attempted to qualify for the Westchester Open. He was successful, earning medalist honors.{{Cite web |last=Arrichiello |first=Peter |date=July 18, 1984 |title=Winged Foot's Douglass qualifies for WGA Open |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/927562159/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=C3 |via=Newspapers.com}} At the event proper, Douglass birdied seven of the first 12 holes during the final round to take the lead. Meanwhile, a birdie on the par-4 18th hole "proved to be the difference." Douglass won by one.{{Cite web |last=Carpiniello |first=Rick |title=Winged Foot's makes a name for himself |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/927543480/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-27 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=C5 |via=Newspapers.com}} In September, Douglass played the Met PGA Assistants Championship. He finished joint third place.{{Cite web |last=Glauber |first=Bob |date=September 12, 1984 |title=Asst. pro credits head pro for tourney win |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/929077960/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=C1 |via=Newspapers.com}} In late September, he played the Assistant PGA Professional Championship at his boyhood course, Thorny Lea Golf Club in Brockton, Massachusetts. He finished in solo sixth place, eight behind champion Fred Funk.{{Cite web |date=September 22, 1984 |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437456928/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=30 |via=Newspapers.com}}

In 1985, Douglass had much success on the Met PGA. In April, he played the Met section's inaugural event, the Metropolitan PGA Pro-Am Bestball of Four. Douglass shot a "blistering" four-under-par 67 to win the individual division while his team won the pro-am.{{Cite web |date=April 27, 1985 |title=Winged Foot's Douglass fires 67 to win first Met PGA tournament |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/911341864/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Reporter Dispatch |page=C5 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |date=April 27, 1985 |title=Met PGA Pro-Am golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/927659022/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=C2 |via=Newspapers.com}} Days later, he played the Met PGA's Pro-Assistant Championship, paired with Winged Foot head pro Tom Nieporte. The pair finished in the top five.{{Cite web |date=April 30, 1985 |title=Met PGA Pro |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/896128834/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=Mount Vernon Argus |page=2C |via=Newspapers.com}} In July, Douglass played the three-round New York State Open at Grossinger's Country Club in Liberty, New York. In the second round, he fired a six-under-par 65 which "catapulted him into contention." He tied the course record and moved into joint third place, three back of leader Jim Thorpe.{{Cite web |last=Stogel |first=Chuck |date=July 10, 1985 |title=Winged Foot assistant Douglass closes in on leader Thorpe |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/927546684/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=C3 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the final round, Douglass "turned in a creditable card" with one-under-par 70 but it was not enough. He finished where he started the day, in joint third.{{Cite web |last=Stogel |first=Chuck |date=July 11, 1985 |title=Douglass falls short of State Open golf title |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/927547320/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=C7 |via=Newspapers.com}} In August, he played the Metropolitan Open. At the pro-am, Douglass "scorched the back nine" leading to a 66 (−5) to win the individual division of the event. In addition, he led his pro-am team to an outright win.{{Cite web |last=Seligman |first=Bob |date=August 20, 1985 |title=Douglass' low pro honors highlight MGA Open Pro-Am |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/929102106/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass maintained his good play the following day. In the first round, he recorded "the shot of the day," a hole out at the 13th hole for eagle. This led to a two-under-par 69 and solo second place start, one back of leader Gene Borek.{{Cite web |last=Picker |first=Gene |date=August 21, 1985 |title=Borek 68 leads by shot |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1112802600/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=The Star-Ledger |page=82 |via=Newspapers.com}} He continued with good play the following day, recording another 69 to take a two shot lead over Borek and David Glenz.{{Cite web |last=Picker |first=Gene |date=August 22, 1985 |title=Douglass' 69-138 leads Glenz, Borek by 2 shots |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1112803675/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=The Star-Ledger |page=70 |via=Newspapers.com}} In the final round, however, "difficult pin placements took their toll on the leaders" including Douglass. He shot a three-over-par 74 to finish to solo second, two behind champion George Zahringer. Because the champion, Zahringer, was an amateur Douglass was able to collect the first prize cheque though.{{Cite web |last=Picker |first=Gene |date=August 23, 1985 |title=Zahringer 68-210 wins Met Open by 2 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1112804720/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=The Star-Ledger |page=57 |via=Newspapers.com}} In September, he played the Met PGA Pro-Pro Championship. With rounds of 66 and 71, the pair finished one back, in solo second.{{Cite web |date=September 6, 1985 |title=Moser-McLean win Pro-Pro title |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/911683455/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=The Reporter Dispatch |page=4C |via=Newspapers.com}} In October, he played the Met PGA Assistants tournament at Birchwood Country Club in Westport, Connecticut. Douglass was the only player to match par and won, defeating Bob Miller and Jim O'Mara by a stroke.{{Cite web |date=October 10, 1985 |title=Golfer Douglass earns player of year crown |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/927722727/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=D3 |via=Newspapers.com}} With the victory, Douglass secured the Met PGA's Assistant's Player of the Year award.{{Cite web |title=Assistant's Player of the Year |url=https://metpgajuniorgolf.com/past-champion/assistants-player-of-the-year/ |access-date=2025-01-05 |website=Met PGA Junior Golf}}

In early 1986, however, Douglass made a "stunning announcement." He decided to resign from Winged Foot and started work as an investment banking executive for Morgan Stanley. According to the Mount Vernon Argus, it was considered a particularly stunning decision because Douglass was an assistant at one of the top clubs in the country and "seemed headed for a lucrative head spot." Douglass referred to the career change as a "tough decision" but also "a 'one in a million' opportunity" that he could not pass up. In the ensuing years, Douglass was still tangentially involved with the golf industry, playing the minitours and working as a golf coach. In 1987, he played a minitour in Mexico, the International Players Association. In February, at an event in Ensenada, Douglass tied for fifth with Antonio Garrido, a European Tour pro, three back.{{Cite web |date=February 3, 1987 |title=The Day in Sports: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/402515528/?match=1&terms=%22bruce%20douglass%22 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=The Los Angeles Times |page=6 |via=Newspapers.com}} In May, Douglass won the circuit's stop in Guadalajara, earning $22,000.{{Cite web |date=May 26, 1987 |title=The Day in Sports: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/402982200/?terms=douglass&match=2 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=The Los Angeles Times |page=8 |via=Newspapers.com}} In August, in an event in Mexicali, Douglass tied for fourth with José María Cañizares, another European Tour pro.{{Cite web |date=August 4, 1987 |title=The Day in Sports: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/402522346/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=The Los Angeles Times |page=6 |via=Newspapers.com}} Douglass beat PGA Tour pros like Rafael Alarcón and Tom Purtzer. During this era, Douglass also worked as the informal instructor of Geoffrey Sisk, a college golfer. Sisk was also from Massachusetts and would move on to the PGA Tour as well. "My game was just deteriorating," Sisk told The Boston Globe. "But thanks to Bruce Douglass, I think my game has turned around."{{Cite web |last=Harber |first=Paul |date=June 2, 1987 |title=Sisk back in business |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/438790320/ |url-access=subscription |access-date=2024-02-21 |page=76 |via=Newspapers.com |newspaper=The Boston Globe}}

In early 1981, Douglass got engaged to Kelly Merten. In November, they were married. His wife was also a professional golfer.{{Cite web |last=Concannon |first=Joe |date=July 1, 1984 |title=Qualified words from Douglass |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/437420545/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-12 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=75 |via=Newspapers.com}}

His sister-in-law, Lauri Merten, was also a professional golfer.

• In 1975, Douglass was awarded Murray State's Most Valuable Player (MVP) in golf{{Cite web |last=Turley |first=Mike |date=May 1, 1975 |title=Murray State Athletes Honored at Banquet |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/1016134369/?terms=golf |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-29 |newspaper=The Mayfield Messenger |pages=6–7 |via=Newspapers.com}}
• In 1976, Douglass won the Richard D. Haskell Award, bestowed to the Massachusetts Golfer of the Year{{Cite web |title=Mass Golf {{!}} Players of the Year |url=https://www.massgolf.org/competition/player-of-the-year/player-of-the-year-men-2/ |access-date=2025-01-05 |website=Mass Golf}}
• In 1985, Douglass won the Metropolitan PGA Section's Assistant's Player of the Year award

• 1974 Murray State Invitational, LSU Invitational
• 1975 University of Kentucky Intercollegiate, University of Kentucky Invitational, Tennessee Tech Spring Intercollegiate Golf Tournament, Massachusetts Amateur
• 1976 Massachusetts Amateur, Francis Ouimet Memorial

• 1979 Los Cerannos tournament

• 1987 Guadalajara tournament

• 1984 Westchester Open
• 1985 Metropolitan PGA Pro-Am Bestball of Four, Met PGA Assistants tournament

• 1977 Greater Bangor Open
• 1985 Cardinal Shehan Pro-Am{{Cite web |last=Stogel |first=Chuck |date=August 22, 1985 |title=Douglass closes in on crown |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/929102646/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-13 |newspaper=The Standard-Star |page=3 |via=Newspapers.com}}

Source:{{Cite web |title=Bruce Douglass |url=http://www.golfmajorchampionships.com/players/1917 |access-date=2025-01-05 |website=Golf Major Championships}}

Source:

Amateur

Tri-State Golf Matches (representing Massachusetts): 1976{{Cite web |date=August 29, 1976 |title=Douglass heads Tri State lineup |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436618928/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Sunday Globe |page=84 |via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite web |title=Scoreboard: Golf |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/436631314/?terms=douglass&match=1 |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-01-06 |newspaper=The Boston Globe |page=26 |via=Newspapers.com}}

• Fall 1979 PGA Tour Qualifying School graduates
• Fall 1980 PGA Tour Qualifying School graduates

{{reflist}}

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Category:American male golfers

Category:PGA Tour golfers

Category:Golfers from Massachusetts

Category:Sportspeople from Brockton, Massachusetts

Category:1953 births

Category:Living people

Category:20th-century American sportsmen