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Q. What is your fondest memory from your time at Mississippi State?
Friday night baseball games, early Saturday rounds at “The Yard”, and BBQ lunches at Sonny’s
Q. When and how did you identify what career path in the golf industry you were passionate about?
After graduation, my first “real” job was at Cherokee Country Club in Knoxville, Tennessee. For the first time I had the opportunity to work under a golf professional, Don Jones, PGA, that owned his own shop. Since then, I have worked for three other PGA Professionals that have owned their own shops. That is the path I see myself going down when I move on from Southern Hills.
Q. When and what got you into the game of golf?
I was lucky enough to grow up in a big family with a lot of golfers. My dad, older brother, and several uncles are all avid golfers, and we had a huge yard that allowed my family to hit shots right in front of the house. This was probably a huge help for my mom… when she wanted some peace and quiet, she would casually suggest I go out and hit some golf balls for a while!
Q. What is the most memorable experience that your career in golf has provided you?
It is hard to pick just one. I have been very fortunate to have been able to travel around the country a bit and see some really great places and visit some other awesome PGA Professionals.
Q. Describe your proudest moment as a PGA Professional.
Being named 2018 PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year for the South Central Section. Any time you are recognized by your peers for the work you are doing at your club and in your section is extremely special.
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?
Matt Heitmueller, PGA Head Golf Professional - Green Island Country Club
I grew up playing a lot of golf with Matt’s father and younger brother at the famed Cullman Municipal Golf Course, and I never would have considered what was then called the PGM Program if not for always hearing about Matt being “one of the pros” at this great private club down in Columbus, Georgia. When trying to figure out where my first internship would be, it only made sense to go and work for Matt and PGA Director of Golf Richard “Do-right” Korytoski. Those two gentlemen had a big influence on the beginning of my career.
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Daniel Byrd