CHARACTER COUNTS...

David Dyson and Rocky Andresen hosted the second Annual "Jerry Eden Banquet" for high school golfers. As I wrote last year, Jerry Eden was the first parent in Elk City who got "the ball rolling" concerning high school golf in Elk City... and several state accomplishments later, "the rest is history".

But, although during this banquet, coaches and "M.C. Dyson" recognized some of the accomplishments of the kids during the season, this get-together is, even if not obvious, to help us put these kids' character on display.

I often say that golf does not only help build and mold character, bit it also reveals one's character. Not a day goes by that a high school player comes in the pro-shop for one reason or another. They all brighten my day. They all smile and are polite, they all abide by the rules and they all are enthusiastic about golf and other things, and it shows.

There are some characteristics about our young golfers: not all people who dress appropriately are golfers, but all our golfers dress appropriately; not everyone who is polite in this world is a golfer, but all these young golfers are polite; not everyone who is nice to other people are golfers, but all our young golfers are nice to other people; not all of the people who have character are golfers (they should be, LOL), but all our young golfers have character. Golf teaches you things by just being around the game (I do encourage all kids who play golf to read about golf and famous golfers, from this generation and past generations so that you get to understand the game much better).

I truly enjoy our high school season. Win or lose, good or bad rounds, many great moments or none, you can see that they have pride in what they do, "fire in the belly" and always want to do well. Doing well is fine, but not necessary. Pursuing perfection and doing your best to improve is what is important regardless of the amount of talent that you have.  It is that journey that teaches you about yourself, and how much you can push yourself to improve as a person.

You are accepted as you are, and we don't care if you make a par or birdie, or multiples thereof.

Sure, if you do well, we will be happy for you, but it is not a requirement for our happiness or for "pleasing" us adults, including your parents.

What counts is how you make a difference in others, how you treat others, how you play the game -not talking about scores here- of golf and of life. If you have talent for a sport, it is easy to play it well, but it is not as easy as making a difference in others, regardless of the skill you display in whatever game you play. I know I only speak for me, but you have all made a difference in me... every day.

Parents, I know you are proud of these kids and thank you for the privilege of allowing me to be their guide at the golf course.