Classic Club Insider

MEET THE TEAM K nown for his dedication to providing a first-class golf experience, PGA Head Golf Professional Derek Mazzoni's expertise and passion for the game have made him a valuable asset to Classic Club. In this Q&A, he shares his source of in- spiration for pursuing a career in golf, his most memorable moments at Classic Club, and the invaluable advice he re- ceived that shaped his career: u u u What inspired you to pursue a career as a golf professional? Growing up in a small Iowa town, I played golf from a young age on the 9-hole course across from my house. Though I did well in high school, I didn't consider golf as a career until a news- paper article highlighted a college stu- dent on a golf internship and explained what a career as a "golf professional" en- tailed and how to obtain it. I was hooked after reading that article, and transferred to New Mexico State Uni- versity to enroll in their Professional Golf Management program. The rest is history! u u u What's the most memorable moment at Classic Club? Well, it's been a very short and quick two years so far since I came on board, but I'm continually fasci- nated and inspired by the 30 to 40 non- profit organizations, and the special people associated with each event, that choose to utilize Classic Club each year to promote and further enhance their mes- sage and own charitable efforts, maximiz- ing their full fund-raising potential for their organizations. A founding ideology from our owners, The H.N. & Frances C. Berger Foundation, is "helping people help themselves" and being able to help these organizations continue to do what they do and promote their message is a true feel-good moment each time myself, and our team, is able to facilitate a successful event for them at Classic Club. u u u If you could play a round of golf with any professional golfer, past or present, who would it be and why? I had to think about this one, but I keep coming back to John Daly. Yes, it would be amazing to play with greats like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, or all the way back with Ben Hogan or Bobby Jones and being enam- ored with their golf swings. But golf to me, in this stage of my career, is about enjoy- ing the game, the outdoors and time spent on the course. So, having a slightly competitive but friendly wager to play for, enjoying some music and a cold refreshment with a fun "personality" – that's pretty much all I have to say about why I would choose John Daly. u u u As a golf professional, what's the best piece of advice you've ever received, and how has it influenced your career? "Golf is everywhere, see where it takes you." From my small-town golf course that could be mistaken as a cow pasture, I've been very fortunate to work at highly re- garded facilities across the country; some recognized and awarded by national golf publications (current: wink-wink). In being open to letting the game of golf lead me to different areas of the country, I've met some really good people, worked in environments that have molded my career, and gained experiences that not everyone gets or is open to experiencing. A passion for the game Classic Club's PGA Head Golf Professional Derek Mazzoni is dedicated to providing a first-class golf experience CLICK HERE TO INQUIRE ABOUT GOLF INSTRUCTION AT CLASSIC CLUB

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