In college, I had big dreams. I envisioned myself traveling the world, playing on the LPGA tour, and competing at the highest level of professional golf. Back then, I was so sure of myself that I boldly declared, "I will never become a PGA member." Oh, how life has a way of surprising us!
My journey took an unexpected turn in 2020 when I found myself undergoing shoulder surgery, forcing me to take a hiatus from the sport I loved dearly. Those nine months of recovery became a period of profound reflection, prompting me to reassess my priorities and reconsider my aspirations.
As I pondered what truly brought me joy in life, I realized that it wasn’t just the thrill of competition that I longed for most. It was the simple pleasures – teaching clinics, mentoring young ones in golf programs, and sharing laughter with friends on the course. Freed from the pressure to perform for a paycheck, I discovered a newfound appreciation for the camaraderie and community that golf fostered.
It was a revelation that struck a chord deep within me. I recognized that my true passion lay not in pursuing individual success on the tour, but in nurturing a love for the game and fostering its growth within my community. It was a shift from self-validation to a desire to empower others through golf – a realization that many aspiring athletes grapple with.
Embracing this newfound purpose, I decided to pivot my career towards teaching and coaching full-time. I enrolled in the PGA of America program, recognizing it as a platform to give back to the sport that had given me so much. And while I may have set aside my dreams of full time professional competition, I still find joy in occasional bouts of friendly rivalry with fellow club pros.
This journey has been a humbling and gratifying experience. I’ve found fulfillment in sharing my passion for golf while staying connected to the competitive spirit that initially fueled my love for the game. To anyone reading this, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for being a part of my journey. My wish is to continue to grow the game I love, and inspire others along the way.