News
Meet the Pro
JAY Kennedy
A Lifetime of Dedication to Golf by Ann E . Butenas , contributing writer
Raised in a home situated on the 12th fairway at Manhattan Country Club in Manhattan , KS , it seems that golf was always destined to be a part of Kennedy ’ s life . He was introduced to the game at an early age , participating in junior golf programs and spending countless hours perfecting his swing on the very course he called home .
However , Kennedy ’ s journey to becoming a golf professional was not without its challenges . Starting as a ball picker on the driving range at just 12 years old , he slowly worked his way up the ranks , honing his skills and steadily improving his game . By the time he was a senior in high school , he had achieved an impressive three handicap , a testament to his dedication and natural talent .
After briefly attending Kansas State University , Kennedy made the decision to pursue a career in golf . “ I decided working was more my cup of tea ,” he reflected . “ I knew I wanted to be a golf professional somewhere .”
As such , in the summer of 1991 , Kennedy packed his bags and headed to Kansas City , where he took a job as an assistant professional at Lakewood Oaks Country Club in Lee ’ s Summit , MO , working with head professional Rick Reynolds . Kennedy held this position until 1998 when the winds began to shift .
Working under the guidance of experienced professionals , Kennedy earned his PGA Class A status in 1997 and set his sights on becoming a head golf professional . Recognizing the need for more hands-on experience , Kennedy soon took on the role of Head Golf Professional at Belton Municipal Golf Course in 1998 . This position would ultimately shape the course of his career .
In the world of golf , there are those who play the game and those who dedicate their lives to it . Midwest PGA Section member Jay Kennedy falls firmly into the latter category . A humble yet accomplished man , Kennedy has thrived in the golf industry for nearly three decades , making a name for himself as a dedicated golf professional .
When the course underwent renovations and reopened as Eagles ’ Landing Golf Course in 1999 , Kennedy ’ s role expanded to overseeing the entire golf operations for the City of Belton . His dedication to the course was evident as he worked on the construction crew during the renovation , learning new skills and truly investing himself in the project .
12 May 2024 TEE TIMES GOLF GUIDE