ARNOLD PALMER – THE TEACHING PRO’S BEST FRIEND

As the world mourns the recent death of Arnold Palmer, teaching professionals should take note of how “The King” affected their world, as well. The son of a golf professional, Palmer revered the teaching profession, imparting his wisdom in books and magazines, and helping golfers worldwide learn the game. Palmer’s popularity propelled the game to new heights at the dawn of the television age. It is safe to say that Arnie was not only the first golf star of the then-new medium, but the first athletic star. His go-for-broke style, combined with charisma and telegenic looks, drew people by the score to his magnetic personality. In turn, people took up the game in record numbers, seeking out instruction in order to enjoy the game to the utmost. The teaching profession boomed during Palmer’s career, and the golf school became a staple during the 1970s and 1980s. His swing was prone to occasional wildness and the occasional hook as he “blocked” the ball through impact, much like Jordan Spieth does today. Palmer’s incredible strength allowed him to swing this way, and his trademark follow-through always gave away who was swinging, even from several fairways away. Teaching professionals everywhere should raise a toast to Arnie, and the drink of choice should naturally be the Arnold Palmer, the drink Palmer invented consisting of three parts unsweetened iced tea and one part lemonade. Thank you Arnie for what you have done, for not only the game of golf, but for people everywhere.