Golf Arizona May - July

MAY – JULY 2015 VOL 2 ISSUE 3

HOME GROWN

Where Are They Now? Featuring Blair O’Neal & 5 Other Former Junior Golfers (page 26)

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

Craig Hocknull’s Solving the Mystery in Reading Greens (pg 6) Pro-File on Tim Eberlein (pg 38) The Official Publication of the

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contents Golf Arizona | May – July 2015

on the cover 38 8

26 Home Grown: Where Are They Now?

Featuring Blair O’Neal and Five Other

Former Junior Golfers

course reviews 8

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Golf Club @ Vistoso: Second Chance for the Club – A Great Opportunity for Golfers Golf in the High Country: Pinetop Lakes & Apache Stronghold

features 20 25 33

Coupling Fitness and Golf in Older Golfers Product Review: Antigua’s Spring Men’s Collection Improving your Golf with Fitness: The “A-Frame” Stretch

instruction

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Craig Hocknull, PGA: The Mystery is Solved in Reading Greens Pat O’Hara, PGA: They Never Told Me This on the Lesson Tee! Derek Deminsky, PGA: Practice Like You Play

community 16 40 42 47

Tee to Green: Junior Programs & Playing Opportunities Distinguished Service Award Winner: Rose Nehring Troon Introduces Tucson TwoSome/FourSome Cards Summer Fun in Tucson

pro-files 38 Tim Eberlein: Two Time Horton Smith Award Winner

youth spotlight 49 Phoenix Valley: Lauren Blumears & George Markham 50 Southern Arizona: Andrea Trevino & Kenyon Kautz

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Golf Arizona

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Published by Golf Arizona, LLC PUBLISHING EDITOR

Rick Price, PGA Kevin Duke Associate Editor GRAPHIC DESIGN

AB Graphic Design, Inc. ADVISORY BOARD

CONTRIBUTORS

EAGLE SPONSORS

Phoenix Valley Frank Calvin, PGA Bob Doyle, PGA Tim Eberlein, PGA Scott McNevin Dale Moseke Pat O’Hara, PGA Mary Pomroy, AWGA Dave Sherman Debra Thompson Roedl Hugh Smith Kris Strauss Southern Arizona Corey Baehman, PGA Brent DeRadd Lance Eldridge Craig Jones Adam Lazarus Judy McDermott Mark Oswald, PGA Dan Wickman, PGA

Rick Price, PGA Derek Deminsky Brent DeRadd Kevin Duke Andrew Fodge Craig Hocknull, PGA Kammi Hunt Bill Ibrahim Mary Beth Lacy Ryan Larson Jeff Locke Scott McNevin Robyn Noll Pat O’Hara, PGA Kris Strauss Zac Strohfus

The Antigua Group Arizona National Arizona Women’s Golf Association Casino Del Sol Resort The Gallery Golf Club OB Sports Oro Valley Country Club Poston Butte Golf Club San Pedro Golf Course Scoreboardwhiz Southwest Section PGA Troon Golf Tucson City Golf Tucson Conquistadores BIRDIE SPONSORS

Fitness by Andrew Forty Niner Country Club Gaslight Theatre Omni Tucson National Sun City West GOLF ARIZONA MAGAZINE

phone

P.O. Box 69190, Oro Valley, AZ 85737 520-314-5611 e m a i l rickprice@gogolfarizona.com www.GoGolfArizona.com

SOUTHWEST SECTION PGA

10685 North 69th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254 p h o n e 480-443-9002 fa x 480-443-9006 e m a i l mburhans@pgahg.com www.southwest.pga.com

SOUTHWEST SECTION PGA SOUTHERN CHAPTER

600 S. Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ 85711 520-290-1742 fa x 520-326-8772 e m a i l rick@southrnchapterpga.com www.southernchapterpga.com

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ABOUT THE PGA

The Southwest Section PGA is one of 41 Sections of the PGA of America consisting of more than 1,300 members in the state of Arizona and Southern Nevada. The Southern Chapter PGA is the six southern counties of Arizona. The PGA of America is the world’s largest working sports organization, comprised of 28,000 men and women golf Professionals, who are the recognized experts in growing, teaching and managing the game of golf. Since its founding in 1916, The PGA of America has enhanced its leadership position by growing the game of golf through it premier spectator events, world-class education and training programs, significant philanthropic outreach initiatives, and award-winning golf promotions. Your PGA Professionals are the “Expert in the Game and Business of Golf.”

ABOUT GOLF ARIZONA MAGAZINE

Golf Arizona magazine is the official publication of the Southwest Section PGA, is published quarterly by Golf Arizona, LLC. This is Arizona’s number one multi-media resource for golf, designed as a unique and compelling benefit for all golfers in Arizona that cannot be found in other publications. We offer more content beyond the printed version of the magazine with updated current events on the website at www.GoGolfArizona.com. We showcase the game of golf, courses and businesses within Arizona, while celebrating the people and entities that make golf such a spectacular attraction. The magazine is available free to the public; this full color glossy magazine is distributed to all golf courses, resorts and concierges – as well as other golf-related and high-traffic locations throughout all of the Phoenix Valley and Southern Arizona. “Our mission is all about promoting the game of golf, individuals and businesses within our community.” All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or the Southwest Section PGA. Distributed throughout the state of Arizona with 30,000 bulk /on demand print circulation. Copyright ©2013.

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From the Editor

It is a true insight into what the game of golf is all about!

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s e x p e c t e d t h e Tucson Conquistadores and Omni Tucson National Golf Resort & Spa did an outstanding job with the Champions Tour inaugural “Tucson Conquistadores Classic.” Our hats go off to the local community for coming out and supporting the event. It was a great week of golf, it felt like stepping back in time. To see players that roamed the fairways of Tucson National from back as early as the 70’s when Tom Watson was crowned the Champion in 1978 to the last winner of the Tucson Open Kirk Triplett in 2006.

“It was really good to be back in Tucson,” said Mark O’Meara. “I really enjoyed my week here. I play all over the world, but it’s neat to see the hospitality that everybody here at Tucson has put forward to the players and to the sponsors.

There were a lot of kids out watching and people that love the game coming out and supporting us. So we’re so glad to be back and hopefully this is going to be something even bigger and better in the future.”

Bart Bryant said, “Oh, we love it here. All the guys as soon as we heard were coming back to Tucson were really excited to be here and we were not disappointed, it was awesome.”

Marco Dawson won the traditional Conquistadore helmet for his first Champions Tour title. He birdied the par-4 16th hole and made par on the final two holes for a two-stroke victory over Bart Bryant, and Mark O’Meara who posted a final round 66 to finish third.

The Tee to Green article offers some good information for parents and grandparents on Junior Programs and playing opportunities for kids. Our cover story captures what junior golf meant to six former junior golfers here in Arizona. It is a true insight into what the game of golf is all about!

My promise and our mission at Golf Arizona Magazine is to, “Promote the game of golf, businesses, and associations in our community while celebrating the people that play the game.”

Thank you for your support of Golf Arizona Magazine the official publication for the Southwest Section PGA. We value your input and thank you for your support in assisting us in promoting the game of golf. You may support our efforts further through advertising your business, or if you know of anyone that would be interested in promoting their business, please contact us.

We encourage you to invite a friend and share our passion by visiting our website to sign up for our FREE online newsletter and subscription for Golf Arizona magazine at www.gogolfarizona.com.

Rick Price, PGA Rick is the Director of Operations for the Southwest Section PGA Southern Chapter and is founder and Publishing Editor for Golf Arizona magazine and GoGolfArizona.com. He is a member of the Professional Golfers Association of America has over 30 years of expertise in the golf profession, member of the Golf Writers Association of America and Sports Photographers Association of America.

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Golf Arizona

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Instruction

by Craig Hocknull, PGA

The mystery is solved in reading greens O

NE OF THE GREATEST FEELINGS IN GOLF is to know that you are having a great day on the putting green. It seems like the full swing shots and short game shots are not quite as important because your putter is doing such a great job of saving your score. The logical question, however, is how can I have a great putting day every day? Every golfer should strive to be the best putter they can be. In this article, I will describe to you the three key areas to refine in order to become that solid putter.

Green reading is the most important element. Making sure you know which way is upand-down and if the balls breaking left or right is the absolute most important factor. You’re Next time you play, notice how moves off of the putting dealing with gravity. Don’t get distracted by mythical pieces of information such as ALL putts water surface towards the drains break toward the ocean or ALL putts break away from that mountain. Each putting green has its own micro-environment with it’s own mountain ranges and valleys. As the golfer, it is your responsibility to identify these key areas on the putting green, so when you approach the green complex take note of the mounds and valleys. When you approach the green your number one task is to find the lowest point of the green and drainage for the water. Look around for actual drain caps that are beside the greens then visualize rain pouring down across the green and watch the rain move down hill as it flows off of hills and into valleys. Once you have a very good feel for how the slopes have been created across the entire green, take a look at your putt. The reason why this is an effective way to read greens is that you are less likely to see what you want to see and actually read the terrain correctly. You can also feel these slopes with your feet as you walk the terrain.

Take a look at the color of the putting green as well. if you see that the grass is a darker green, then you are seeing the shaded underside of the blades of grass and therefore you are looking at a section of the green that the water would drain toward. If you see the lighter colored grass, you are seeing the reflective side of the top of the blades of grass and this area of grass is draining away from you. If you can identify where these two areas meet, which can, in some cases, be a distinct line, you are observing either a ridge top or a valley bottom.

It is my goal to help you play FUNdamentally GREAT GOLF! Enjoy looking at each putting green you play with this topographical perspective and begin recognizing the signs that will lead you to lower scores.

Craig Hocknull, PGA Southwest Section PGA Teacher of the Year 2014 Owner of Learn.Play.Laugh. Visit our website to read about our valley locations, classes, and coaches: www.learnplaylaugh.com. Call our office with questions: 602-561-4653

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Golf Arizona

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Course Review

by Jeff Locke

G O L F C LU B O F V I S TO S O :

Tucson-area favorite reestablishes its place as one of the best in Arizona 8

Golf Arizona www.GoGolfArizona.com

Second Chance for the Club

A Great Opportunity for Golfers

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hen the Golf Club of Vistoso debuted in 1995, nobody could have anticipated the financial difficulties it would face after the financial downturn that effected so many clubs. Luckily for the Vistoso, the golf was just too good for it to become a ghost town, so a Canadian mortgage firm gave Vistoso a second chance to do what it does best – treat golfers to a wonderful day of golf in the captivating Sonoran Desert of Southern Arizona. If you haven’t played it lately, it’s definitely worth another look.

The beauty of the Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course is punctuated by the views of Tortolita and Santa Catalina Mountains that can be enjoyed from just about anywhere on the property.

Ribbons of green grass unfold through groves of Mesquite, Palo Verde and stately Saguaros to provide Vistoso with a healthy element of risk and reward as well as Weiskopf ’s signature driveable par 4s.

“The concept came to me while competing at the Open Championship at Saint Andrews in 1970,” said Weiskopf.

“It’s similar to a reachable par 5, the risk-reward challenge is the same.”

Weiskopf also shook up the traditional complexion of golf holes by designing Vistoso with five par 5s and five par 3s, but still ended up with a

par-72 layout that begins with a manageable 373-yard par 4. The second hole – a par 5 named Double Cross – gives golfers a glimpse into the options that will be available to them throughout the round.

When standing on the tee, some of the fairways tend to be partially concealed by sweeping undulations and desert areas that pinch into the landing areas. However, once golfers wander down to the fairway, their true depth and breadth are reveled along with Weiskopf ’s intent. While this may frustrate some first-time players, it provides an element of discovery that keeps the experience fresh. A little local knowledge goes a long way.

The golf experience ambles on at the par-5 6th hole with another double-carry to a green that is reachable only by the biggest hitters. The 11th plays as a long par 4 with an iconic Saguaro guarding the green. Careful consideration of the yardage guide is a must at the par-4 14th, aptly dubbed “Risky.” And the golf experience finishes with two long holes (589-yard, par-5 16th and the 210-yard, par-3 17th) before unwinding with the reachable par-5 18th.

After a few years of financial adversity, the Golf Club of Vistoso is back on track and firing on all cylinders. Anything less would be a shame.

Thanks to the direction of management firm, OB Sports, and diligent ground game of longtime Southern Arizona golf stalwart, Rich Elias, the second go-round for Vistoso it sure to be much more rewarding than the first. www.GoGolfArizona.com

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by Pat O’Hara, PGA

Instruction

They never told me this on the lesson tee!”

Attention! All golfers who miss putts, of all lengths, on a regular basis…

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HERE IS A COMMON MISCONCEPTION that a golfer’s putting stroke should match up with the type of putter that is being used. For example, a face balanced putter would work best with a straight back and forth stroke while a non-face balanced putter would be more of an arc stroke. Well…that is not quite correct.

All putting strokes should have an arc to it, regardless of the type of putter. If you choose to override the natural arc of the putter, you can, but you are just manipulating the stroke with your hands and this leads the player into some inconsistencies and some short / long term problems.

Look at it this way, the reason a grandfather’s clock pendulum goes straight back and straight thru is because the pivot point is directly above the “Bob” or the weighted end of the pendulum. Both ends of the pendulum are in a vertical plane. The difference in a putter and a putting stroke is that the grip of a putter is not directly above the sweet spot of the putter. According to the Rules of Golf (Appendix II, Section D), the shaft can be no less than 10 degrees from vertical. This puts the grip end of the putter closer to the player than the club head. So this creates a natural arc to the stroke regardless of the type of putter you are using – face balanced or non-face balanced.

TRY THIS DRILL: Draw a 5 foot straight line on the practice putting green with a chalk line. Address the ball with your putter.

Swing the putter back and thru without a ball. The sweet spot of the putter should stay pointing to the chalk line from start to finish not covering the line. This is the arc at which your putter needs to swing. If your stroke does not reflect this motion from putt to putt, you are inconsistent with your stroke and will be inconsistent with your results.

Mechanics produce feel, feel reproduces mechanics.

Pat O’Hara, PGA Manager of Golf Operations at Sun City West. Twenty-six year member of the PGA of America. Certified Instructor for SeeMore Putters and Lynn Blake Golf (The Golfing Machine). Has worked with golfers of all levels of ability, from beginner to the PGA Tour.

623.544.6499 | patrick.ohara@rcscw.com

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G R E AT E R P H O E N I X & T U C S O N A R E A

JUNIOR PROGRAMS Desert Mountain Golf Club SNAG Program, Quail Program, Hawk Program Starting at $175 All Skill Levels (4-17) Rich Prange, (480) 595-4269 Emerald Canyon Golf Club Emerald Canyon Junior Golf Program Beginning-Intermediate Steve Benton, (928) 667-3366 Foothills Golf Club Foothills Junior Camp $119 and up, All Skill Levels Wilson Bibleheimer, (480) 760-1762 Grandview Golf Course Reid West Golf Academis Junior Camps All Skill Levels Nolan Sand, (623) 687-4333

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JW Marriott Camelback Golf Club 2015 Summer Jr. Camps $125.00, All Skill Levels Kurt Brown, (480) 905-7902 Kierland Golf Club Arizona Junior Golf Camp Beginning-Intermediate Dale Balvin, (602) 350-5733 Las Sendas Golf Course Junior Golf Summer Sticks Program All Skill Levels (Ages 5-15) Tracy Berman, (602) 920-8208 Legacy Golf Resort NEXUS Golf All Skill Levels Joseph DiChiara (973) 650-1612

Golf Arizona www.GoGolfArizona.com

Lone Tree Golf Club The First Tee of Phoenix $125.00 Player, Par, Birdie, Eagle, Ace (Beginner-Intermediate) Eric Kulinna, (480) 812-5283

Starfire Golf Club 2015 Junior Camp @ Starfire Golf Club $300.00 All Skill Levels (Age 7-16) Josh Wamsley, (480) 948-6000

Ocotillo Golf Resort 2015 Summer Junior Golf Camp Starting at $130 All Skill Levels (Age 5-15) Stephen Kahler, (480) 917-6660

Topgolf Scottsdale Kids Summer Academy $199.00 Juniors Ages 6-12 Cory Lehrman, (480) 240-2402

Red Mountain Ranch Golf Club Golf, Tennis, Swim, and Fun Camp $249.00 All Skill Levels (age 5-17) Scott Bunker, (480) 985-0285

Troon North Golf Club 4-Day Summer Junior Camps Starting at $180 All Skill Levels Ryan Mahoney, (480) 585-5300

Junior Programs & Playing Opportunities T R O O N I N T R O D U C I N G J U N I O R S TO T H E G A M E O F G O L F Special rates for Juniors

Participating Troon Golf facilities in Arizona:

• Juniors golf for free after 3 p.m. when playing with a paying adult*

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club | Maricopa, Arizona Copper Canyon Golf Club | Buckeye, Arizona El Conquistador Country Club | Tucson, Arizona Golf Club of Estrella | Goodyear, Arizona Lookout Mountain Golf Club | Phoenix, Arizona Ocotillo Golf Resort | Chandler, Arizona Poston Butte Golf Club | Florence, Arizona Sewailo Golf Club | Tucson, Arizona The Boulders | Carefree, Arizona The Gallery Golf Club | Marana, Arizona The Phoenician | Scottsdale, Arizona The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa | Tucson, Arizona Troon North Golf Club | Scottsdale, Arizona Westin Kierland Golf Club | Scottsdale, Arizona Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass | Chandler, Arizona

• Juniors enjoy complimentary Callaway Rental Clubs all day* • Juniors receive complimentary instruction when taking a lesson with a paying adult* Book your next round as a family and be sure to mention Troon Family Golf.

2015 Troon Junior Club enrollment/registration: $35 Valid for juniors ages 17 and younger.

For all the benefit information to join, visit www.TroonJuniorClub.com

For more information visit TroonGolf.com

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JUNIOR GOLF & TENNIS CAMP The Omni Tucson National Resort is pleased to announce the 2015 summer junior golf & tennis camp series. Kids learn patience, focus, discipline and problem solving skills.

The summer program will consist of a series of sessions, each lasting four days. Over the course of each week, children will establish the fundamentals of golf and tennis; engage in repetitive drills and exercises; and learn sport etiquette and much more. Your child may choose to spend the day enriching their skills in golf, tennis or both!

Contact: Danny Medina Director of Golf 520-877-2315 or dmednia@omnihotels.com Junior Golf Association of Arizona | www.jgaa.org Ping Junior Player Series & The Antigua Junior Tour | www.southwest.pga.com The First Tee of Phoenix | www.thefirstteephoenix.org The First Tee of Tucson | www.thefirstteetucson.org LPGA-USGA Girls Golf | www.girlsgolfofphoenix.org | www.girlsgolfoftucson.org Ricki Rarick Junior Golf | www.tucsonjuniorgolf.com Southern Arizona Junior Golf Association | www.sajga.org U.S. Kids Golf | www.arizonajuniorgolf.com Kids Golf Bank | www.kidsgolfbank.com Junior Golf University | www.juniorgolfuniversity.org

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Fitness

by Kammi Hunt

Coupling Fitness & Golf in Older Golfers

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mong many amenities at Leisure World Arizona, a 55+ community in Mesa, Arizona, are two 18-hole private golf courses. I get the opportunity to work closely with a “mature” golfing clientele. Many residents believe that playing golf is an adequate form of physical fitness – while golf can certainly be a healthy aspect of physical fitness it is not the only form of exercise that is important.

Flexibility, balance, and strength are main components of golf that are lost as people age. A good rule of thumb is that a person’s age should be the percentage of flexibility focus in their exercise program. For example, for someone who is 60, 60% of their exercise program should consist of some form of flexibility.

Open Books Exercise. Open Books is an exercise I use to improve my clients’ shoulder, chest, and spine flexibility. Mel (age 79) is lying on his right side with his knees and hips bent at 90°. With the right arm resting on the top bent knee, the left arm is bent at 90° at the elbow, starting close to the ground. He takes his left arm and opens up through his torso aiming to get his shoulders close to flat on the ground, trying to keep his hips and knees stacked and in place. Then he returns to the start position. Do the exercise starting on the left side, then repeat on both sides for the prescribed repetitions and sets. This exercise helps to increase chest flexibility and spinal rotation, helpful for the backswing in golf.

Working with numerous golfing clients, I have discovered that after giving them a program first involving flexibility and balance, they are then able to focus on strength, targeting the weak areas of their swing. Many older golfers are weak in their core area (the abdominal, oblique, and low back muscles) which are used to stabilize the body, create disassociation from the lower body to the upper body, and also generate rotation which is where power comes from in the golf swing.

Boso T-Spine Twist. The second exercise is a core focused exercise involving all of the core muscle groups, stabilization, and also spinal rotation by disassociating the upper body from the lower body. Luanne (age 67) demonstrates a Bosu T-Spine Twist. She is sitting front of center on a Bosu ball with her knees bent at 90° and feet hip-width apart flat on the floor. She tucks her hips and leans back at a 45° angle with the golf club/dowel across her chest and her arms crossed.

Without moving her lower body, she rotates her torso, twisting from left to right, repeating for the prescribed reps and sets.

My golfing clients have reported greater range of motion, better stability, and increased distance with their shots. It is extremely important to maintain the flexibility, balance, and strength components of fitness, these are easily lost as a person ages. Of course, not only are these good for golf, but for overall fitness, well-being, and longevity.

Kammi Hunt

Advanced Fitness Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer

Kammi is the Advanced Fitness Specialist at Leisure World Arizona, a 55+ community in Mesa, Arizona. She holds a degree in Exercise and Sport Science with a Coaching Minor. Certifications include: Certified Personal Training through the National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF), TRX Suspension, TRX Rip Training, Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (AFEP), Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA).

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Instruction

by Derek Deminsky, PGA

Practice Like You Play

Having trouble taking your game from the practice tee to the golf course? There’s a reason. Most people I see on the driving range are simply “exercising,” beating ball after ball with the same club, to no specific target. Unfortunately, that is not how you “play” golf. On the course, you choose different targets and the different clubs for each shot. So why wouldn’t you practice this way?

I’m a proponent of working to improve your swing, using the same club to do so. However, you need to spend time picking different targets and different clubs on the range to practice like you play.

If you have one hour to practice every week, here is how I would spend it: Spend 10 minutes working on putts from 5 feet. Go through the exact routine you would on the course. Read the putt, and line up the ball. Putt like it’s the chance to shoot your best score ever.

Spend 5 minutes rolling putts from 10-50 feet working to get the ball within 3 feet of the hole.

Spend 20 minutes with one ball, working to chip it to a hole and then putt it in. See how many up and downs you can make.

Spend 25 minutes on the driving range, “playing” a few holes.

Pick different targets and different clubs for all the shots you hit.

Go through your routine like you’re on the course.

Making your practice as similar to your play as possible is how you bring your game from the practice tee to the course.

Derek Deminsky, PGA Derek Deminsky is a Class A PGA Instructor based out of the Forty Niner Country Club in Tucson. To learn more about Derek or book a lesson, you can visit his website at www.golfbettertucson.com. To play or learn more about the newly renovated Forty Niner Country Club, visit www.fortyninercc.com.

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by Mary Beth Lacy

Product Review

Antigua’s Spring 2015 Men’s Collection Features Desert Dry Performance Cotton T

HE ANTIGUA GROUP, INC., one of the nation’s leading designers and marketers of lifestyle and golf apparel under the distinguished Antigua brand, has introduced its Antigua Spring 2015 Men’s Golf Performance Collection that introduces Desert Dry Performance Cotton (D2PC).

“The Spring 2015 Men’s Golf Outerwear Collection includes this amazing new fabric,” says Ron McPherson, President and CEO of Antigua. “It combines the moisture-wicking features of our proprietary Desert Dry moisture management technology with the natural fibers of cotton, to create a performance product that offers the best of both.”

Cotton as a fiber alone absorbs moisture quickly, but doesn’t allow the moisture to travel across the cotton knitted fibers for quicker release – like synthetic microfilament fibers. By engineering fabrics utilizing synthetic micro-filament yarns and blending them with fine natural cotton fibers, D2PC offers the look and casual comfort of cotton while maximizing the wicking properties of a performance fabric.

This season’s introduction of Antigua’s Desert Dry Performance Cotton is a great addition to the Spring 2015 Performance 72 golf collection. The D2PC styles are being offered beginning in January and have been developed sharing the same color palette that’s carried throughout both the men’s and women’s Spring 2015 fashion collections. It also offers an additional merchandising opportunity, including the reinvention of cotton into performance golf apparel.

For more details on Antigua’s Desert Dry Performance Cotton, visit www.antigua.com.

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HIGHLIGHTING SIX FORMER JUNIOR GOLFERS

HOME GROWN

Where Are They Now? At the time of first being introduced to the game of golf, not one of our six former junior golfers could have ever realized the impact that the game would have on their life.

The knowledge and wisdom gained about life and business, teaching them integrity, discipline, and respect. The whole time while developing their skills in the game, they were also developing life skills that would eventually lead them down the path of their ultimate career choice.

If you have a child or grandchild give them the greatest gift in life by getting them involved in golf. In this high tech society, we live in it is easy to allow your kids to get caught up in social media, technology, and computer games. Encourage them to get out and exercise, socialize with their friends at the golf course. Golf is a sport of a lifetime and will teach them the keys to success in life.

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— B Y R IC K P R IC E , P G A

Golf Arizona www.GoGolfArizona.com

blair

o’neal

A current professional golfer, Blair O’Neal has competed on the LPGA Symetra Tour and will also compete this year in LPGA Monday qualifiers, The Cactus Tour, and the Ladies European Tour. However, Blair got her start competing in junior golf events throughout Arizona. JGAA was her main place of competition, but she played in every junior golf program available. It was in these events that she began to develop her golf and life skills.

“Playing junior golf was the first step in my tournament career and it taught me so many life lessons. It taught me never to give up, how to deal with adversity, and what it takes to win. Competing at the junior level was vital to my career and was necessary to grow as a competitor.”

Blair’s junior career was extremely successful and she was one of the top girl’s in the state. During high school, she won the Women’s Arizona 5A State Championship and played in a variety of tournaments. Her golfing achievements were so successful that Blair went on to earn a full ride scholarship at Arizona State University. All of these major accomplishments started with the junior golf events she played in.

“I wouldn’t have been able to achieve those accomplishments without the ground work provided to me by the junior golf programs. Despite the many ups and down, golf has given me so much.”

Some of what golf has given Blair includes the opportunities to travel the world while competing in professional tournaments and meeting exceptionally people. Golf has opened the world to her.

“I believe that playing golf when you are young teaches you respect, maturity, focus, and commitment. It’s a special game, and despite not owing you anything, it gives indefinitely.”

sara

radley

A familiar face to viewers of the Golf Channel, Sara Radley is the current host of the show Playing Lessons, and the co-host of School of Golf. However, Sara says that golf was not always something she had the desire to thrive at.

“Golf was a sport my brother Josh played and I didn’t really have the desire but after he helped me I went out and played and I loved it!”

Growing up in Tucson, Sara played in every junior golf program she could, whether it was the Ricki Rarick Program, JGAA, The El Rio Junior League (which was one her parents helped run), or the Roadrunners Girls Club (now the LPGA Girls Golf Club).

She used her dedication to the sport to earn spots in larger junior events around the country and eventually earn a scholarship to play golf at Michigan State University. After her time at Michigan State, Sara turned professional and played for seven years. Junior golf was the first step in her path to all of these achievements.

“I couldn’t have done any of this without starting at the junior level and working my way up! These programs prepared me for college golf and ultimately playing on the LPGA tour.”

Sara has been married for just over a year now to as she says, “The BEST guy in the world Derek Radley.” They live in Tucson Arizona where Derek is the assistant coach for the University of Arizona Women’s Golf Team. She now has what she can only describe as a dream life and job working for the Golf Channel.

She understands the challenge golf can be at times, but she definitely loves the game. “You can golf play whether you are young or old. Golf teaches you how to handle not only the good, but also the bad! It is a game of sportsmanship, integrity and humility! It’s a grind but it’s all worth it for the lifelong friendships I have made because of the game of golf.

Golf is a great game!”

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Golf Arizona

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frank

erin

groeneveld

Erin grew up as a nav y brat, but golf found her a place in the community and later a career. Even though Phoenix is a large city, the golfing community embraced Erin and made the city feel much more like a small town. She competed on the JGAA circuit and on the LPGA USGA Girls Golf Club during her youth and she found more than just people to play golf with.

“The friendships and camaraderie were why we got up at 5a.m. every day on our summer vacations in the blistering heat. These programs provided me with an opportunity to elevate my game and to grow as a person.”

The bonds formed during those summers didn’t end when Erin and her fellow players moved on from junior golf. They became college roommates or competitors, and then they turned into fellow colleagues in the golf industry. Now Erin has turned her love of golf into a career as the USGA Programs Manager at the Arizona Women’s Golf Association. However, golf taught her so much more than how to hit a ball.

“I truly believe that there is no better sport for kids to get involved in. Golf is a game you can play for life, it teaches you about integrity, honor, patience, and life in general. I have learned more about myself while on a golf course than anywhere else.”

Erin has become an example of the value of junior golf and how it is about more than just getting kids out of the house.

“It is safe to say that without the junior programs in Arizona I would not be where I am today, and for that I am eternally grateful.

Golf is truly the greatest game ever played.”

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calvin pga

Currently the Marketing Director for the Southwest Section PGA, Frank inherited the love of golf from his father, a former PGA Tour player during the 70’s and 80’s.

Although born after his father’s PGA tour career, Frank still got the golf bug and played competitively while growing up in a small town on the border of Arizona, Nevada, and California. He mainly competed on the SWSPGA Junior Tour (also known as the Antigua Junior Tour) and golf became a valuable tool for him.

“The events were fun and helped cultivate my love for this game. Junior golf opened a whole new world of opportunities.

I was able to earn a college scholarship and take some of the financial burden off of myself (really my parents).”

However, the scholarship was just one of the numerous benefits of playing golf, as it led to Frank becoming a PGA member and earning a career in the golfing industry. Also, the lessons learned have stayed with him since his junior golf days.

“Golf taught me some life skills that are very important like honesty, integrity, patience, and commitment. It has a positive effect on your health, it can foster friendships, and it is rewarding when you practice and track your progress.”

Frank found that golf provides more benefits to junior players than activities such as staring at a television all day.

“Junior golf will get you outside vs. at home playing video games. It allows you to spend quality time with friends, family, and helps develop your character. Golf is a game that you can play for a lifetime.”

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sean

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A PGA Memb er and the Southwest Section PGA Golf Pass Director, he credits a large part of his success to the junior golf programs he grew up with. Sean started as a golfer with the Bellair G.C. junior program in Glendale at the age of 14. Bellair was the first junior program to help him learn and improve.

“The members of Bellair G.C. made it a point to promote the junior golfers at the club and give them opportunities to grow. They gave me the opportunity to play the game in tournaments – like the SWSPGA Junior Tour – outside of the club.”

Sean continued with junior golf as he played on the SWSPGA Junior Tour and also in a large number of JGAA tournaments. One story he tells is of his first tournament outside Bellair, it was the Willie Low Championship and it was won by Billy Mayfair, a future PGA Tour player. These programs and tournaments were what pointed Sean in the direction he wanted to go in life.

“Growing up at the golf course and around the people who ran the courses and the tournaments gave me direction and focus on what I wanted to do with my life. Although I did not play golf in college on a scholarship, the choice of where I went to college and what career I chose to pursue is a direct result of the passion for the game that was forged in me from my junior golf days.”

Sean is still friends with golfers he met during those blistering Arizona summers. He also understands all of the possibilities that golf provides, not just for a short time, but for a lifetime.

“It’s no lie when you hear the term ‘golf is a game for a lifetime’. A lifetime of enjoyment, a lifetime of friendships, a lifetime of possibilities.”

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A Tu c s o n n a t i ve, Mike Hayes can only be described as a golfer for life. He started on his track towards a career in golf by playing in as many as three different junior golf programs during the summer. It started with the Ricki Rarick program on Monday and Tuesday, and then on Friday he would play in the Southwest Section of the PGA Junior Golf Program. Because those two weren’t enough, Mike would fit in a JGAA event whenever his schedule would allow. He mentioned that those tournaments kept him focused and opened a whole range of possibilities in golf.

“Being able to play competitive golf three days a week made us all much better, as well as kept us all too busy to get in any kind of trouble.

It had a huge impact on our future as more than 20 of my peers at that time went on to play college golf, and later enter into the golf business.”

Mike, upon graduation from Salpointe High School in 1977, earned a scholarship to play at Pima Community College. Once his playing time was over at Pima, he decided to try his hand as a caddy, and spent three years caddying on the PGA TOUR. After that, Mike decided it was time to begin a career in the golf business. He began as an assistant golf pro at El Conquistador C.C. and became a member of the PGA of America.

Afterwards, he moved from 49ers C.C. to Fred Enke G.C. before finally become Deputy Director of Tucson Parks and Rec, running its Golf Operation. Just last year he moved from Golf Operations to Park Operations. How did Mike achieve so much in the golf business?

“I believe a lot of this was made possible because of friendships and relationships I made playing High School Golf and Junior Golf in Tucson. The game of golf can teach us all valuable life skills like, respect, honesty, integrity, as well friendships that will last you a lifetime.”

Mike also knows that golf isn’t a game for only those who want to play in college or make a career out of it, it is a game meant for everybody.

“Golf is a game for life, and even if playing junior golf doesn’t get you a college scholarship, or you don’t go into the golf profession, you will be able to enjoy the game golf well into your later years. Personally some of my fonder memories were my times as a junior golfer, which has played a large role in who I am today.”

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Golf Fitness

by Andrew Fodge, MS, TPI, K-VEST

Improving Your Golf with Fitness FIGUR E 1

FIGUR E 2

FIGUR E 3

INTRODUCING THE “A-FRAME” STRETCH Hello Golfers! For this issue I want to introduce you to the “A-Frame” Stretch. The “A-Frame” Stretch is an excellent movement preparation exercise before a workout, practice, or competitive round. This is a great stretch for the thoracic spine, chest and shoulder. This stretch is considered extremely practical for golfers, as we are moving and stretching in a plane very similar to the plane of your golf swing.

Start in a modified athletic posture (figure 1), keep your eyes down and bend from your hips. Place the left elbow on the inside of the left knee and your left hand on the inside of the right knee. Take the right hand and reach upward and behind your body, extending the right arm towards the sky (figure2). Then (figure 3) turn your eyes upward looking at the sky as well, increasing the rotation of your body and the tension of the stretch. Depending on your ability you may feel the stretch in your shoulder, back and torso. Repeat on the opposing side. Hope this stretch is a welcome addition to your golf fitness routine.

Have a Great Workout!

Andrew Fodge is a personal trainer, certified golf fitness professional and the owner of Fitness by Andrew LLC Personal Trainer Group, in

Scottsdale, AZ. Andrew specializes in golf fitness, sports performance training, and motivational techniques. Andrew and his team of personal trainers are here to provide you with a comprehensive one-of-a-kind program to help you achieve real results. Call Andrew at (602) 638-3000 or email andrew@fitnessbyandrew.com for a complimentary consultation.

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Pro-File

by Rick Price, PGA

TIM EBERLEIN, PGA

Two Time SWSPGA Horton Smith Award Winner T

IM EBERLEIN, PGA Master Professional, is the Campus Director for the Golf Academy of America (GAA) located in Chandler, AZ. His career path into the golf industry started in the year 1990 when he decided to make a career change. He started playing golf in high school at age 14 and played Division II golf and baseball while he earned his Mechanical Engineering degree from Gannon University in Erie, PA. Having a successful career in manufacturing management, at age 30 he decided to make a career change and pursue golf. He wanted to combine his love for golf and teaching. He acquired his inspiration to be a teacher while instructing high school math for the United States Peace Corp in Gambia, Africa (1996). To fast track his career he decided to attend the Golf Academy of America in San Diego, CA, and earn an Associate’s Degree in Golf Complex Operations and Management.

Upon graduation he worked as a golf professional at Brynwood CC in Milwaukee, WI where he honed his skills as a well rounded golf professional and earned his Class ‘A’ membership in less than 3 years. While interviewing for head professional positions an opportunity presented itself for him to return to GAA in San Diego as an instructor.

While advancing his career with GAA he became the Tournament Director, Academic Dean, and then Campus Director in San Diego in 1998. In 2003 he moved his family to serve in his current position as the Campus Director for GAA in Chandler, AZ. To date Tim has given over 10,000 lessons and has over 10,000 hours in the classroom.

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When asking him to elaborate on his contributions to the golf industry, he replied, “At GAA, I was able enhance and develop the GAA academic curriculum to meet golf industry standards and assist over 2200 graduates jump starting their careers in the golf industry.”

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HEN ASKED what he was most proud of as a PGA golf professional, he said, “Receiving his Master classification in Teaching and being able to help the golf industry by training future professionals and managers at GAA, serving as a SWSPGA and the satisfaction of interacting with our section golf professionals. The history of the Southwest section is impressive and there are a lot of great professionals here.”

He also took full use of his educational opportunities with the PGA of America and became a PGA Master Professional in Teaching in the year 2000 and received his MBA from University of Phoenix in 2006. Tim is actively involved with the section and has served on the SWSPGA Board of Directors for the last 4 years as the Education Chairperson.

He has been the recipient of the SWSPGA Horton Smith Award in 2010 and 2014. He currently serves on the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) Rules Committee for high school golf, and is an advisory member on the SWSPGA Governance Committee and ‘Golf Arizona’ magazine.

“

The history of the Southwest section is impressive and there are a lot of great professionals here.”

— TIM EBERLEIN, PGA

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Spotlight

by Robyn Noll

Southern Chapter PGA honors Rose Nehring with Distinguished Service Award

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HEN YOU THINK OF JUNIOR GIRLS’ GOLF in Southern Arizona, one name should spring to mind: Rose Nehring (her last name rhymes with “earring”). Rose has been active in developing junior golfers in the Tucson area for over 20 years, and in fact was recently awarded the prestigious Distinguished Service Award from the Southern Chapter Southwest Section PGA for her extensive work with juniors.

Rose started playing golf so she could play with friends when she and her husband travelled. In the early 1990s, she had gained enough courage to join the Rolling Hills Women’s League. She quickly fell in love with the game, and in 1992 assisted at a girls’ clinic sponsored by the Tucson Roadrunners WGA, which got her hooked on helping young golfers. Over the next few years she helped establish both the Tucson Roadrunners Girls Golf Club and Southern Arizona Junior Golf Association, which sponsored developmental golf programs for girls and boys in Tucson and Green Valley. Soon after, she became Team Captain for Arizona’s Girls Junior Americas Cup team, a position she has held for twenty consecutive years. She also assisted in bringing the LPGA*USGA Girls Golf program to Tucson in 2007, and has been the Site Director there since 2010.

Rose idolized her mother’s unwavering spirit growing up, and that same spirit shines through Rose herself. While she never got to have children of her own, she has become an inspiration to the girls she mentors, and a positive influence in their lives. It’s telling that she doesn’t just want them to compete, she wants them to have the opportunity to have fun, try new things, realize their potential, and gain satisfaction from their accomplishments and successes.

Rose is honored that professional golfers recognize the success of the LPGA*USGA Girls Golf program and her role in that success. She looks at the Distinguished Service Award sometimes and thinks “Wow, look what we’ve accomplished!” But modesty prevents her from taking full credit. She considers it to be a community award, for all of the volunteers and parents who have stepped forward to help girls’ golf through the years.

When it comes to the young women she mentors, she doesn’t just want them to compete, she wants them to have the opportunity to have fun, try new things, realize their potential, and gain satisfaction from their accomplishments and successes.

Rose’s Handicap has never been in single digits, and in fact she was carrying a 30 Handicap a few years ago when she won her club’s President’s Cup. She is a prime example that you don’t have to have a low Handicap to compete, or to have a major influence on the game.

Robyn Noll

Arizona Women’s Golf Association | Executive Assistant | www.awga.org

Robyn has an extensive background in non-profit management, and performs a wide range of functions for the AWGA including contributing content for the newsletter and other publications, grant writing, project management, volunteer onboarding, and fundraising. The AWGA, which is a 501(c)(3) charity, currently serves over 23,500 members of all skill levels as well as the larger Arizona golf community, and strives to preserve, promote, and enhance the best interests and true spirit of the game of golf among women in Arizona.

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Troon introduces the New Tucson TwoSome/Foursome Cards Golfers have come to love the Arizona Troon Cards and now with Troon’s growing presence in Tucson comes the unveiling of two NEW cards that will appeal to golfers living in and around the Old Pueblo.

Tucson TwoSome/FourSome Cards provide a ton of GREAT benefits at your favorite Tucson Troon- managed facilities including El Conquistador Country Club, The Gallery Golf Club, Sewailo Golf Club and The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa. Benefits include up to 50% off Golf Fees, a “2-for-1” Golf Offer at Each Club, Best Rate Guarantee, $20-$30 Replay Rates, Complimentary Instructional Clinics and more!

The 2015 Tucson TwoSome/FourSome Cards are being offered at an Introductory Rate of $99 (TwoSome Card) or $149 (FourSome Card) for a limited time only. Mention promo code “GOLFAZ” and receive 20% off any card through 7/31/15.

Cards can purchased in the golf shop of the participating facilities or online at www.TroonCards.com.

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by Kevin Duke, Associate Editor

Course Review

G O L F I N T H E H I G H CO U N T RY:

Pinetop Lakes & Apache Stronghold With summer fast approaching in Arizona, golfers can get some relief from the heat just a short drive away, going up in elevation to find some cooler temps for their rounds. Two very different courses, Pinetop Lakes in Pinetop and Apache Stronghold outside of Globe, offer golf among the pines or in the high desert to get a break from the triple digits in the Valley and Tucson.

Pinetop Lakes Golf and CC

Apache Stronghold GC

Voted the top executive course in the state by the Arizona Republic in the early 2000’s, the par 63, 4,500 yard course features two par-5s, five par-4s and a couple of challenging par-3s that stretch to 200 yards.

“Because of the par4s and par-5s, you don’t really feel like you’re on an executive course,” head golf professional Brian Zongker said. “It really challenges every bit of your game.”

On the south end of town, the tall Ponderosa Pines of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest line the fairways, making hitting it straight paramount to good scoring.

“With the pines and out-of bounds on most holes, you can’t really pound it out there,” Zongker said. “You have to play for position.”

The 320-yard par-4 sixth is typically the toughest hole on the course, a narrow dogleg right with a postage stamp green. Players may be tempted to hit driver, but an iron off the tee is likely the play.

The signature par-3 11th can stretch to 200 yards, with a very small target and water to the left, making bogey not unusual for many players.

Both nines conclude with risk-reward par-5s. Hit driver to try and reach them in two at your own peril, the pines catching any errant tee shots.

The course is semi-private with around 200 members, but tee times are available to the public most days. Pinetop Lakes is about a three-hour drive from Phoenix and four hours from Tucson, with temps typically in the 80s when it’s 110 in the Valley.

Get in some high desert golf at Apache Stronghold Golf Club, just outside of Globe, only about an hour-and-a-half drive from Phoenix or Tucson.

At 3,600 feet, it’s about a 10 degree temperature difference during the height of summer.

The Tom Doak design has received many accolades; including being ranked the 37th Top Casino Course in the Country, and No. 16 in the state Top Courses to Play by Golfweek magazine.

“It’s very scenic, with no homes around the course at all,” said Stephen Ravenkamp, director of golf at the resort.

“There are lots of elevation changes and natural routing through the canyons, so very little dirt was moved when the course was built.”

“People love the layout, and the quiet and serenity of the desert environment.”

There is no water on the course, but golfers will deal with carries over washes, and large undulating bent grass greens to test their games. Five sets of tees will challenge players of all skill levels.

With several unique holes there is no true signature hole on the course, Ravenkamp said. But the par-3 eighth, over a wash to a terraced green with three levels; the par-5 seventh with a split fairway; and the drivable par-4 15th are some of the highlights of the design.

GPS on the carts give players the layout, yardage and landing areas on each hole, and the course sits adjacent to the Apache Gold Casino, with an RV Park, convenience store and a covered rodeo pavilion hosting concerts and events throughout the year.

The lower elevation means the course is open all year long and it honors the PGA Southwest Section Pass, giving players 50 percent off their green fees.

For tee times and more information, call Pinetop Lakes at 928-369-4531, or Apache Stronghold at 928-475-7667.

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Community

by Brent DeRadd

Summer Fun in Tucson Don’t let the heat slow down your kids this summer.

Tucson has plenty of activities to keep them busy and having fun.

Summer Golf Camps

Check out Tucson’s First Tee program for kids’ summer golf camps.

Sessions are held in the mornings for youth ages 7 to 17 and are a great way for participants to learn the game or improve their skills. www.firstteetucson.org

Resort Water Slides & Pools

Several Tucson hotels and resorts have incredible summer deals where Arizonans can enjoy high-end experiences at a fraction of the cost paid by winter guests. Resort pools, water slides and lazy rivers are a great way for kids to beat the heat.

Go to www.

GetWetInTucson. com to check out summer stay-andplay deals. You will find family singalongs, poolside DJs, beach parties and “dive-in” movies among the offerings.

Oro Valley Aquatic Center

This world-class facility hosts everything from national swimming competitions to kids’ birthday parties.

The Oro Valley Aquatic Center features a 130-foot water slide, interactive and shaded splash pad, 50-meter competition pool, and an adjoining park. www.orovalley.gov/aquatics.

Mt. Lemmon Tucsonans escape the summer heat at nearby Mt. Lemmon and the community of Summerhaven.

Summerhaven sits at an elevation of 8,200 feet, approximately 1,000 feet below the summit. Summer temperatures are often 30 degrees cooler than in Tucson, which makes camping, hiking, fishing, cycling and rock-climbing popular activities. Mt. Lemmon is approximately 29 miles north of Tucson and features the University of Arizona’s Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter. www.mtlemmon.com/ summerhaven

Biosphere 2 In Oracle,

approximately 20 miles north of Tucson, is one of the world’s mostrenowned research facilities— Biosphere 2. Operated by the University of Arizona’s Science Department, Biosphere 2 offers 75-minute guided tours, plus there is plenty for kids to see after the tour, including the 700,000-gallon mini Gulf of California. www.b2science.org

“Cool Summer Nights” program on Saturdays from May 30-Aug. 29, where kids will enjoy watching the museum’s many nocturnal animals come to life.

Learn more at www.desertmuseum.org.

Reid Park Zoo

Children of all ages love meeting Nandi the baby elephant at Reid Park Zoo, along with hundreds of other exotic and indigenous animals. Enjoy the Kenya Get Wet interactive wet play area and the Wild Ideas exhibit, which features hands-on exhibits, contact animals, games and crafts. www.reidparkzoo.org

Best 23 Miles of Mexican Food

Yes, Tucson’s “Best 23 Miles of Mexican Food” are a treat during any time of the year, but families should make it a point this summer to enjoy authentic regional cuisine served by many locally-owned and operated Mexican restaurants.

Sonoran hot dogs, tacos, tamales and churros are just some of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum offerings favored by kids and their Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum parents. For a comprehensive list is ranked by TripAdvisor as one of of restaurants, please visit: www. the nation’s top 10 museums, as well best23milesofmexicanfood.com. as Tucson’s top attraction. Museum Explorers camps are offered in June So get out with your family this and July for kids. Additionally, the summer to explore what makes Tucson museum will stage its very popular such a great place to live and visit.

Brent DeRadd Brent DeRaad serves as the President & CEO of Visit Tucson. The organization markets, promotes and sells Tucson and southern Arizona as a leisure and meetings destination to potential visitors and meeting planners. Metro Tucson attracts more than 4 million overnight visitors who spend $2 billion annually.

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Junior Spotlight Phoenix Valley Lauren BLUMEARS

George MARKHAM

A PROUD MEMBER of the Pride golf team at Mountain Pointe High School in Ahwatukee, Lauren Blumears is off to Las Cruces to attend New Mexico State University this fall. She will be playing golf for the Aggies and certainly is no stranger to fierce competition. Lauren played in nine JGAA tournaments last season and finished in the top-ten seven times, including two T-3 finishes and a win at the Tucson Conquistadores Spring Championship. When asked about her favorite part of the game, she responded with, “It is all down to you, you decide how much to prepare and it reflects in your game.” Lauren also loves golf because she can meet people that she normally would not meet anywhere else; this is rather apparent when you meet her, a shining personality and no one out-smiles Lauren Blumears in the JGAA events.

IF THE BRAIN behind the swing is his tool to success, George Markham’s future looks pretty bright after Sunnyslope High School. This soon to be Oredigger is trading in the hot Arizona sun for a cooler fall and much colder winter. George will be attending the Colorado School of Mines after the summer comes to an end to become an engineer. If carrying a 4.2 grade point average and graduating with honors isn’t enough, he has played baseball and golf all four years for the Vikings.

After college is all said and done, if she isn’t playing on the LPGA Tour Lauren would love to be a Sports Psychologist.

Golf is Lauren’s only sport but certainly not her only hobby; reading and traveling are atop the activity list for her when she is not on the course. Lauren will not have to travel far to Las Cruces but certainly with her intellect and positive attitude, she will soar to new heights.

Zac Strohfus

Last season George kicked off 2014 with a win at The New Year’s Shootout and proceeded to finish in the top-ten six out of his last 9 events. He said, “I love that with golf, I can always compete with myself to improve…” and followed with, “…it’s also always fun to beat my dad.” His mother Corrine had this to say, “He honed his skills through all of those [JGAA] summer tournaments and is so fortunate to continue to play competitively in college. No matter what, golf will always be a huge part of his life and his way to relax.” George’s parents are thrilled to see him attend the Colorado School of Mines for engineering and feel, “…his possibilities are truly endless.” There does not appear to be much standing in George’s way but I’m sure whatever barriers come about, he will certainly handle with ease.

Communications Manager | Junior Golf Association of Arizona

Originally from Denver, Colorado, Zac combines his knowledge of media with his passion for the game of golf to encourage junior golfer growth and lifelong development. After three years as a Head Golf Professional in Idaho, Zac went back to school and earned his degree from Boise State University in Media Production.

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Junior Spotlight Southern Arizona Andrea TREVINO AS A SENIOR at Salpointe High School, Andrea Trevino has established herself as a winner. In what she calls her most memorable moment in golf, Andrea was part of the Salpointe team that won back to back state championships for the first time in school history. She remembers it as an exciting time and used it as fuel to motivate her in the future.

However, winning doesn’t seem to be the only part of the game she has learned, Andrea has become a master at the toughest part of golf, the mental game.

“The mental aspect is the most challenging but has taught me to be strong and work on my perseverance not only on the golf course but outside the course also.”

These skills have paid off as she looks to improve her game. In doing so, she will be able to take golfing to the next level and achieve the goal of playing in college.

“After High School, I plan on continuing to play golf at the collegiate level and helping my team in tournaments.”

Why does Andrea continue to work at golf and persevere through all the challenges she faces on the course? Part of that she attributes to the joy that comes from a new round or the satisfaction of a great shot. But she sums up why she remains dedicated to golf in seven simple words.

“Just for the love of the game.”

Ryan Larson

Kenyon KAUTZ KENYON KAUTZ, a senior at Ironwood Ridge High School, never intended for golf to be his primary sport. Originally, baseball was his sport of choice, and he started playing golf at age 12 only when he wanted to take a break from baseball. Now, Kenyon is a four time letterman at Ironwood Ridge and was named Southern Arizona player of the year for Division I high schools. However, Kenyon doesn’t want to stop there.

“My favorite part of golf is the fact that no one is perfect at it. No matter how good we become there is always more to try and achieve.”

Part of achieving more included qualifying for major tournaments throughout the country. One such tournament is the Optimist Championship, a prestigious tournament hosted in Florida that attracts top players from around the country. In order to qualify for the tournament, he birdied the 18th hole at Oro Valley Country Club in one his best and most clutch moments of his golfing career. It is times like these that explain why Kenyon plays golf.

“I play golf because it allows me to continually have goals that I can work on as I progress in life.”

Kenyon’s high school accomplishments have earned him a scholarship to play for Hofstra University, a Division 1 school located in New York. Kenyon will tee it up for the Hofstra Pride this fall as he continues working on his goals.

Junior Golf Writer

Ryan is currently a high school senior at Ironwood Ridge High School where he played four years of varsity golf. He has been living and playing golf in Tucson for the last ten years. Ryan also does a weekly sports segment on a local Tucson radio station.

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