Meet the Pro
Robert Russell
Exemplifying the Heart and Soul of Golf as a Head Golf Professional
by Ann E . Butenas , contributing writer
At the heart of the Nicklaus Golf Club at LionsGate in Overland Park , KS , you will find Midwest Section PGA Professional Robert Russell . A living testament of dedication , skill , and a deep-rooted love for the game of golf , Russell ’ s influence at LionsGate has been palpable , both in terms of professional accomplishments and the relationships he ’ s fostered within the Section and with club members .
A Humble Start
Born in Joplin , MO , Russell ’ s debut on the golf course began under humble circumstances . Introduced to the game at age 13 by his father , Russell developed a quick interest in the game despite not having the best of skills in the beginning .
“ I started golfing with my dad on the weekends and realized I liked the game , even though I was terrible at it initially ,” reflected Russell .
His connection to the game , however , soon outgrew casual weekend rounds , which became evident when he emerged as a formidable talent , initially representing his high school team at Joplin High School . After high school , Russell continued to make great strides in his abilities .
His list of impressive accomplishments further grew during his time at Kansas City Kansas Community College , where he won an impressive 18 out of 24 tournaments . His undeniable prowess was sealed with an eagle on the final hole , securing the 1995 national championship . Russell also climbed the ranks to be recognized as the # 1 Junior College Player in the nation .
This milestone was just the beginning , though . Russell was soon courted by numerous D1 schools , ultimately choosing the University of Missouri at Kansas City ( UMKC ), where he earned All-American honors .
Russell ’ s dedication bore fruit at UMKC , making history as the only athlete from the school to qualify for a national event . After a triumphant collegiate career , he transitioned to the professional ranks . He achieved remarkable success over a decade , including winning a mini-tour event and gracing the greens of the 1999 U . S . Open . Russell soon realized , however , that there was more to golf than just the tournaments and the accolades .
Midwest Section PGA member Robert Russell , at age 49 , won the 2023 Watson Challenge this past June . The win was worth $ 10,000 and earned him an exemption to the 2024 AdventHealth Corn Ferry event held in Kansas City . ( Photo by Alan Hoskins )
“ While I was playing professionally , I was gone three weeks out of every month , and it began to take its toll ,” he reflected . As such , he set his sights on other avenues within the game .
12 Nov . / Dec . 2023 TEE TIMES GOLF GUIDE