Meet the Pro
Deb Richard
A Legacy Beyond the Fairways
by Ann E . Butenas , contributing writer
Few names in the world of golf evoke both respect and admiration the way Deb Richard ’ s does . An iconic figure in women ’ s golf , her contributions to the sport and society go far beyond her prowess on the golf course . In life as an esteemed LPGA Golf Professional , Richard has enjoyed many blessings , but she also has a deep understanding of what it means to bless others .
Starting Young , Scaling Heights
Growing up in Manhattan , KS , Richard ( pronounced Ri-shard ) began playing golf at age 11 . Although she was involved in various sports and excelled at all of them , golf became a focal point after a local golf pro , Ron Schmedemann , noticed her innate talent . While at the Manhattan Country Club golf course one weekend , Schmedemann took notice of the young Richard ’ s obvious knack for the game and approached her dad with a fortuitous coaching opportunity .
“ Ron wanted to private coach me and told my dad he would never charge for a lesson for me , but it was conditioned on me wanting to do it ,” she recalled . “ I loved being coached and couldn ’ t say ‘ yes ’ fast enough .” Richard did admit that , while she excelled at other sports , golf was a bit more of a challenge for her initially ; however , her natural ability , coupled with her intense competitive spirit , translated into a winning combination . To this day , she continues to credit Schmedemann for seeing in her what she did not initially see and owes him a debt of gratitude for his vision . After all , her early days in the game were not all birdies and eagles , but the mentorship of Schmedemann helped mold her raw talent and built the foundation of the golfing professional she became .
“ This game has made everything possible for me , and I thank him for seeing in me what I did not see ,” said Richard .
An Illustrious Amateur Career
When not working or on the course , LPGA Golf Professional Deb Richard spends quality time with her best friend Burlap .
( Photo contributed .)
During her amateur years , Richard ’ s achievements were nothing short of extraordinary . Victorious in the 1979 Kansas Junior Girls Championship , the Kansas Girls High School Championships from 1979-81 , and the Kansas Women ’ s Amateurs from 1982- 83 , her momentum was unstoppable . Her crowning glory was in
12 January 2024 TEE TIMES GOLF GUIDE