Nov. 28—Lance Strickland, an avid golf enthusiast and Meridian Community College’s esteemed golf coach, has never been one to confine himself to the golf course year-round. While his love for the sport runs deep, the 26-year-old often puts his clubs away from November to February to avoid golf overload.
However, Strickland’s occasional hiatus from the game has not hindered his growth as a player or a coach. The former MACCC Player of the Year and two-time NJCAA PING All-American honoree at MCC has honed his skills to become an exceptional amateur golfer and a dynamic coach. Notably, he emerged victorious in the Mississippi Golf Association’s Mid Amateur Championship held at Northwood Country Club in early October.
Reflecting on his performance at the championship, Strickland excitedly expressed, “I stroked the ball really well…Got around the golf course exactly how I wanted to.” However, he added, “My putter really held me back, which was bizarre.” Battling with his putting, Strickland persevered and overcame the odds to secure the championship title, earning recognition for his impressive skills and commendable sportsmanship.
Strickland’s journey to victory was not without its challenges. He faced formidable competition, notably having to battle back from a two-stroke deficit to eventually clinch the title. Sharing his elation, Strickland acknowledged the special significance of claiming the trophy, dedicated to his lifelong friends at Briarwood Golf Club and specifically, to his friend Robert Sanford, who had been battling cancer.
When asked about his personal connection to golf, Strickland narrated, “Golf is a personal battle for me every day. It’s a game of internal strength and resilience, teaching me to navigate through different challenges, much like life itself.”
Lamenting the need for some time off, Strickland emphasized the value of taking breaks from competitive play. He attributed his mental fortitude and team-oriented mindset to his formative years as a three-sport athlete, highlighting the influence of those experiences on his golfing career and coaching approach.
Transitioning from player to coach, Strickland’s trajectory at MCC has been marked by an enduring commitment to the program. Reflecting on his transition to head coach, he candidly admitted, “It’s been a little bit hard at first, but things are really picking up for us. I’ve got a really good recruiting class coming in, and I think MCC golf is about to start heading into a new direction that I think is going to be better than ever.”
Despite his role as a coach, Strickland continues to be an active participant in amateur golf, expressing his desire to compete in various tournaments. As he contemplates his future in the sport, Strickland remains grounded, acknowledging the influence of his family, friends, and the joy he derives from coaching aspiring athletes.
Looking ahead, Strickland’s passion for golf shines through as he envisions a fulfilling future, whether it involves competing in championships or nurturing the growth and development of his students. His unwavering dedication to the sport and his role as a mentor augur well for the future of golf at MCC and beyond.
Contact Christian Knox at [email protected]
Daniel Miller takes readers to the greens with his passion for golf. He offers coverage of major golf tournaments, player achievements, and insights into the sport’s rich history, making him a trusted source for golf enthusiasts.
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