Growing up with golf...
In 1964 my dad took me to a golf course, he heard about a man that worked with juniors who would be able to coach me, his name was Art Prior. Art Prior owned PAR-MOR Golf Course and Driving Range - one of the most unique golf facilities in East Lansing, Michigan. Par Mor had two - 9 hole courses, one a regulation 9 hole course, and a 9-hole Par 3 course. There were 28 stalls on the driving range, a large practice putting green and a large practice chipping green. During the winter months Art would put up large nets in one of the maintenance buildings where kids could practice & hit balls inside. Players from Michigan State University Men's and Women's Golf Teams would also practice at his facility.
Whenever I was around Par-Mor and Art Prior - I was in a very positive place - golf was (and is) everything to me.
I played in every junior tournament possible for girls in the state of Michigan and competed from the age of 10 until college. I was winning and placing in the top 5 of many local and State tournaments. It was fun to find my name in the local sports section of the Lansing State Journal. My scrapbook has photos, newspaper standings with scores and titles. Art Prior helped me with every part of my game, that would eventually lead me to my present role as LPGA Professional Golf Instructor.
I am committed to continuing my education, to learn the skills I need to provide any person the skills to play this amazing game!
~Val Patrick, LPGA Professionals Member - Seattle / Everett / Lynnwood, Washington