Eddie Merrins, affectionately known as ‘The Li’l Pro,’ has died at 91

Eddie Merrins, known as “The Li’l Pro” and a highly accomplished PGA professional, passed away on Nov.22 at age 91, confirmed by CBS Sports’s Jim Nantz. “The famed ‘Li’l Pro’ was a giant in the game,” said Nantz.

Merrins dedicated his career to teaching the game as the longtime head professional at Bel-Air Country Club. He also coached the UCLA men’s golf team, coaching 16 All-Americans and founding the “Friends of Golf” non-profit organization. He won both the 1961 Metropolitan PGA Championship and the 1961 Long Island Open while competing in over 200 PGA Tour events. Merrins was also known as the head professional at Bel-Air Country Club in Los Angeles and was honored for his contributions to the sport. He wrote the book “Swing the Handle, not the Clubhead” and was inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame in 2009.

During his career, Merrins witnessed the evolution of the golf sport and his impact as an instructor was remarkable. His contributions to teaching and coaching made a profound impact on the generations of golfers he mentored. Merrins was a legend among the golfing community, and his passing marks the end of an extraordinary era in the world of golf.

Eddie Merrins, left, with Arnold Palmer. It was during a year when he showcased his abilities as a coach

He is remembered as one of the most distinguished teachers of the game and an inspirational coach who mentored some of the greatest names in golf. His legacy will forever resonate within the hearts and minds of all those who had the privilege of being touched by his influence on and off the golf course.