“The Remarkable Journey of Michael Block: From Club Pro to PGA Championship Cinderella”

Golf‘s Cinderella Stories: Michael Block and the Club Pro at the PGA Championship

The Background

Each year, the PGA Championship invites 20 PGA club professionals to compete amongst the best golfers in the world. The “Club Pros”, as they are affectionately called, often arrive to the tournament as unknowns, but occasionally, they make a name for themselves and provide one of golf’s Cinderella stories.

This year, Michael Block, a 45-year-old club pro from Southern California, took advantage of his opportunity, playing solidly through two rounds at Harding Park in San Francisco and finishing T39, ahead of many past major champions. Despite missing the cut in his previous two PGA Championship appearances, he remained upbeat in his post-round interviews and maintained perspective on his achievement, stating that, “I’m just a club pro and I’m having fun at the PGA Championship.”

The Philosophy

The Club Pro’s role in the PGA Championship highlights the beauty of the sport in a unique and profound way. Golf is one of the few sports where amateurs can play with and against professionals, and the idea that a “regular guy” can tee it up alongside the best in the world is part of what makes golf special. It speaks to the sport’s deep roots in the community and the idea that golf is for everyone.

Beyond that, the Club Pro’s perspective on the game is often a refreshing and necessary reminder for fans and professionals alike. The desire to win at all costs can sometimes overshadow the joy of the game, and the Club Pro, with his amateur roots and love for the game, is a reminder that golf can be both competitive and fun.

The Editorial

The role of the Club Pro at the PGA Championship is often overlooked by the media, but his contribution to the tournament and the sport cannot be understated. Michael Block’s performance is just one example of the impact that these professionals can have, whether it be inspiring golfers in their local communities or motivating fans across the country.

Yet, despite this contribution, the PGA struggles with ways to promote and highlight these individuals. The decision to not provide live coverage of the Club Pro event is incomprehensible. If golf truly wants to celebrate the grassroots of the sport, it needs to also feature the everyday golfers that make up the core of the game.

This year’s PGA Championship will be remembered for the playoff between Collin Morikawa and Paul Casey, but let’s not forget about the contribution of Michael Block and the other club professionals. They embody the spirit of golf and are a reminder that when it comes to the game, we are all in it together.

The Advice

For amateur golfers, the Club Pro’s story should serve as inspiration. It’s easy to feel intimidated by the great players and tournaments on television, but the truth is that golf is a unique sport that allows amateurs to stand beside the best in the world. Whether it’s through playing in local competitions or through volunteer work, there are many opportunities to get involved in the golf community and be a part of something larger than oneself.

For the PGA and the media, it’s time to recognize the Club Pro’s contribution to the sport. It’s essential that the PGA provides more coverage of these individuals, highlighting their stories and their accomplishments. Golf’s grassroots are important, and it’s time for the sport to celebrate them.