The Gate November 2017 | Page 8

Staff Spotlight: Zack Parker Position Senior Coach Describe your role at BGGA? I have the privilege of influencing, mentoring and creating an environment for young athletes to learn grow and evolve both on and off the course. What’s your favorite part about your job? Allowing players to defy the odds and make their dreams become a reality. How did you get started in golf? My grandmother was extremely passionate about the game and cultivated my love for the sport at an early age. Why do you love the game of golf? I love how individual sports expose a player’s character and inner strength. Golf is a game that continuously forces the athlete to learn who they are and what makes them successful. There isn’t a player in the game who hasn’t experienced adversity or pain and therefore I love that the game teaches everyone grit, resilience and perseverance. What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received? Don’t judge people by their words judge them by their actions. What is your favorite home-cooked meal? Lasagna What is always stocked in your refrigerator? Pepperoncini If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful places in every season. I grew up on a lake in the mountains and yearn to provide the same opportunity for my daughter. Is there anything you are addicted to? Or can’t live without? Relationships What movie do you watch again and again? Leap is currently my daughter’s obsession Where is your favorite place to travel and why? The Sun Juan Mountains of Colorado have been one of my favorite places to travel to since I was a young kid. It’s truly hard to find a mountain range with more versatility for adventure in any season. However, the true draw is to create memories in the wilderness with my family and allow my