Families That Play Golf Together, Have FUN together!

Caroline Murphy is a 30-something wife and mother who has spent the better part of the last 13 years involved in education. She has held the role of a classroom teacher, technology integration specialist, instructional designer, adult trainer, educational consultant, voice-over specialist for educational software and tutor. She is a native New Yorker (Long Islander to be exact) who is now in South Florida, by way of the Washington DC/Baltimore area. Over the last few years she has focused on combining her expertise in technology, education and consulting to reach out to fellow moms through smartypantsmama.com. She and her husband Tom along with their four-year old daughter Isabella participated in the family golf clinics during PGA Free Lesson Month and look forward to participating in more family golf activities during Family Golf Month. Caroline Murphy is always hunting for a bargain. The Miami resident stays busy as a wife and mother, but she also maintains and edits a blog, SmartyPantsMama.com, giving advice to readers on topics such as shopping, vacations, parenting and more. In May, Caroline ventured out to a local golf course with her husband, Tom, and four-year-old daughter, Isabella. They participated in a free family golf clinic during PGA Free Lesson Month, and for the Murphys, it was a hole-in-one. Although Caroline has accompanied her husband, an avid golfer, on several golfing excursions, she had little on-course experience besides driving a golf cart. “I had played mini-golf,” she said with a chuckle, “but that doesn’t really count.” However, while Caroline knew golf was a great sport, she did not yet understand why her husband was always so anxious to play. Taking that free lesson with her family gave her a greater appreciation for golf, and she is ready to get back on the course. “For me, the free lesson was an awesome experience,” Caroline added. “I am anxious to go play again.” The lesson also made an impression on Isabella, who was playing golf for the first time. “Now, when we drive by golf courses, she (Isabella) gets excited and says, ‘Let’s go play golf there!’” Caroline said. “I’m sure golf is going to become a family activity now.” John Pallot, a PGA Professional at Biltmore Golf Course in Coral Gables, Fla., gave the Murphy family their free lessons in May. PGA Free Lesson Month added free family golf clinics in 2010, giving families the opportunity to learn and participate in the game of golf together. “Tom’s swing technique was a little off, so we were able to make a few adjustments to help correct the problem,” Pallot said. “While Isabella was swinging the club, we showed Caroline some fundamental golf techniques, focusing on the proper grip and posture,” Pallot added. “Tom was not only excited about the improvement in his game, but he was also thrilled that Isabella and I were participating in his favorite pastime,” Caroline said. After attending the lessons, Caroline blogged about the event and it was her most popular post in the month of May. Her advice about golf for other mothers: “Don’t be intimidated by the sport. It is truly a sport for all ages.” Based on her great experience with PGA Free Lesson Month, Caroline is now encouraging people to participate in other family programs during Family Golf Month and throughout the rest of the year. “Anytime The PGA of America hosts events like this, I think it is really important for mothers and families to take advantage of the opportunity, especially since it’s free!” In the end, Caroline got a bargain and new way to bring the family together. “I don’t think you can ever be too old to start golf. It is an opportunity to develop a new hobby you can pursue with your family.”