Legendary Golf Coach Eddie Merrins, Known as the ‘Little Pro,’ Passes Away at 91 Leaving Lasting Impact on Los Angeles Golf Scene

Eddie Merrins, also known as “The Little Pro” due to his short stature, was a remarkable figure in the world of golf. Merrins passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 91 after a prolonged illness, as reported by UCLA, where he served as a coach for 14 years.

His impact on the sport was far-reaching, with everyone from U.S. Open champion Corey Pavin to Fred Astaire and Mikhail Baryshnikov being touched by his teaching and guidance. Merrins’ philosophy on golf was quite unique, stating, “The game of golf is a very selfish game in the sense that you’re the only one who gets any real enjoyment out of what you do. But in teaching, you get the satisfaction of knowing that you’ve helped somebody.”

While Merrins was a skilled golfer with numerous PGA Tour appearances, his true passion lied in teaching and simplifying the game. This is evident in his book, “Swing the handle, not the clubhead,” published in 1973.

In a series of observations for Golf Digest in 2010, Merrins recounted an encounter with Arnold Palmer during the 2002 Masters. Despite a well-intentioned tip that didn’t work out as planned, Merrins’ influence on countless players was undeniable.

Born in Meridian, Mississippi, Merrins found success in his early years before joining Bel-Air Country Club and the UCLA golf team, where he led them to an NCAA title in 1988.

Merrins was renowned not only for his expertise in golf but also for his contributions to junior golf programs and his unwavering commitment to the sport. This dedication was evident even in his personal life, as he went to great lengths to address any issues affecting his game, as humorously detailed in a story about an ophthalmologist appointment.

Throughout his years, Eddie Merrins left an indelible mark on the world of golf and will be remembered as a beloved and influential figure.

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