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Alumni
Sp tlight: Sarah Dant
Q. What is your fondest memory from your time at Mississippi State?
Any PGM graduate would agree it’s the lifelong connections and friendships you make with people all over the country. I grew up in Minnesota and the transition south was scary. I tried to pledge a sorority, so I could meet a few girlfriends knowing I would be meeting so many guys in the program. The first week was horrible and I wanted to go back to Minnesota. My dad suggested I go out to the golf course to practice. I meet one of my best friends, Ryan Johnson, that first day and never got homesick again. After 5 years of crawfish boils, football games and late nights at The Grill, my dad said it was time to graduate and get out of there!
Q. When and how did you identify what career path in the golf industry you were passionate about?
In high school I knew I wanted to teach in some field, and golf was a great option for me. My golf pros growing up were instrumental in my development as a junior golfer. I worked at the country club where my dad was a member and I was involved in the golf operation. They inspired me to begin a career in the golf industry. After college I spent 2 years as an assistant behind the counter folding shirts and taking tee times and realized that was not an option for me. I worked hard to fill my lesson books and I spent all my spare time learning how to become a better instructor. Right away I knew my passion was going to be in teaching and helping people learn the game.
Q. What aspect of being a Golf Instructor do you enjoy most?
My business has developed over the years into more of a coaching role and a holistic approach to teaching the game. I love getting to know my clients on a personal level and helping them believe in their true potential. . Most of the time I work on changing their emotions and managing mindsets, so they can play
better golf and reach their goals. Whether it is watching a student win the Club Championship or just witnessing a golfer’s excitement when they experience hope for the first time is amazing to me. I really enjoy watching the development of a player when they put in the hard work and commitment to my program. It’s rewarding for both of us.
Q. What is the coolest experience that your career in golf has provided you?
The opportunity to travel and meet so many wonderful people. My business has been expanding into golf schools around the country and I love meeting new people and sharing my coaching concepts on how to play better golf and enjoy the game of golf. Teaching in Naples, Florida allows me to have access to people all over the country and to travel to new locations. This past winter I was able to play Pebble Beach as a XXIO staff member which was really cool.
Q. Describe your proudest moment as a PGA Professional.
Being recognized by Golf Digest as a Best in State Instructor in 2017 would be the highlight of my teaching career so far. Being recognized and voted on by your peers is a huge boost to the confidence level. It shows hard work and persistence pays off. It’s an honor to be on the list with so many incredible teachers and coaches. I’m also very proud of the business I have built over 10 years. It was a struggle in the beginning, but I’m getting to enjoy the benefits of having my own business and the flexible lifestyle.
Q. Is there a PGA Professional that you would like to say “THX“ to that impacted your career or life? How did they do so?
Rob Hary was my first golf professional who helped develop my love for the game of golf. He made sure I stayed active in competitive play during high school and helped me through the pains of growing up playing golf. He also helped me develop as a PGA golf professional by including me in the golf operation.
Willie Gibbons was the first golf professional I worked for out of college. He taught me everything I needed to know about the business and developing a successful long-term career. He also believed in me when I wasn’t sure about myself and the golf business. I would say he’s the reason I’m still a PGA Professional today.