Carlos Santos USGTF Level III Member Keysville, GA

My story begins about seven years ago when I joined and began playing golf at a nine-hole golf course. I was not very good at the game, but became determined to become as good as possible and enjoy the game to its fullest. The only way this was going to happen was to take some lessons, and I did. My improvement was so dramatic that I wanted to learn to teach the game so I could give back to the game the satisfaction I had gotten from taking lessons.

In March of 2002, I attended a certification course in Myrtle Beach. I had a wonderful time, learning more that I ever imagined, and made many new friends. The instructors were great: patient and very knowledgeable. I received my full certification and did a little teaching on the side when I had time off from my job.

On January 21, 2004, I was involved in a chemical accident in which I received second- and third-degree burns over 13 percent of my body. I knew then that I was not going back in to the chemical industry.
All of the sudden, an opportunity fell into my lap. There was a golf course in Wrens, Georgia, just outside of Augusta, at which I had done a junior clinic two years ago. The owner and the parents were very pleased with my teaching. Well, awhile ago the owner approached me and asked if I would be interested in becoming the teaching professional at his facility. Of course, I accepted the offer.

I am now the teaching professional and pro shop manager at Brushy Creek Golf Club in Wrens. My love for the game and the teaching of the game cannot be described in words. I would just like to thank the wonderful staff at the USGTF for providing me with the skills and the opportunity to pass on my knowledge to others who are interested in the game.

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