From college golf and beyond…sage advise for parents

Golf has played a major role in my life up to this point. Frankly, I don’t know where I would be without it. I have recently begun a new career in business (thanks in large part to my relationships developed on the golf course). I have met most of my close friends on the golf course, most of whom are older and wiser.

I was introduced to the game by my grandmother, a long time member at Austin Country Club.  I started much younger than most kids, not picking up a club until I was about 13 years old. I took to it quickly. All I wanted to do was be out at the golf course. After a limited amount of success, my parents and I realized I needed some professional help if I was going to achieve my goals as a golfer. I called up the head golf professional at Austin country club, Dale Morgan and asked him for a lesson. Little did I know that this relationship would be one of the biggest influences on not only my golf career but my life as well. Dale not only taught me the game of golf, he taught how to present myself, taught me the rules, showed me right from wrong, taught me a work ethic. I learned more life lessons standing on the driving range with Dale than you can imagine.

I went on to play golf collegiately at LSU and even play professionally for two years. I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything. I believe I was able to be as successful as I was because of the foundation that was laid by my parents and Dale. They helped me find someone who I could learn from and look up to. Someone who I could communicate with everyday. Dale was this figure for me.

My advice to parents would be to try and find someone who can mentor your child, if it’s you, even better, but if not, find someone who can have an everyday impact on the growth and maturation of your child. The constant presence is important.  Let them have fun, after all it is a game.