Winter Springs, Fla. – Tuscawilla Country Club, a prestigious and family-oriented private club in Winter Springs, announced that U.S. Kids Golf has named the club’s head golf professional Carolyn McKenzie Andrews one of “America’s Top 50 Kids Teachers.” U.S. Kids Golf is a market leader in making the right clubs for youngsters and also in supporting junior golf programs throughout the country.
The 2004 list of America’s Best includes teachers in 28 states who work at public, private, resort and municipal courses. McKenzie Andrews, along with the others, was chosen for her dedication to developing youth golf in the community and an overall excellence and commitment to serving youth.
“It is very nice to be recognized for doing something I love so much,” says McKenzie Andrews. “Teaching children has always been fun and exciting to me.”
Golf is certainly in McKenzie Andrews blood. She grew up at a country club where her father was the head golf professional, and she was afforded the opportunity to be involved in his junior golf programs from an early age. It was there that she first developed her passion for helping kids play the game.
Over the past 10 years, McKenzie Andrews has racked up a great number of success stories from beginning golfers to advanced players, but she feels that teaching is more than just helping kids perfect their swings.
“Seeing a child hit a good shot or a attain a great golf score is rewarding for me, but, what really makes me smile, is watching the confidence and self-esteem that grows within a child because of improvements in his or her golf game. ”
Under the direction of McKenzie Andrews, The Tuscawilla Country Club junior golf program is offered year-round. During the summer, the club offers intensive weekly camps that include 30 hours of instruction as well as a tournament series for the club’s members. Throughout the year, Tuscawilla offers individual lessons for juniors and weekly clinics for both beginners and advanced players. Non-member rates are available for all phases of the junior program.
“My philosophy is simple when it comes to teaching children -- have fun,” says McKenzie Andrews.
In addition to her commitment to juniors, McKenzie Andrews has also played a vital role in supporting the game in Central Florida. Last year, McKenzie Andrews filled in as head golf coach for the Rollins College women’s golf team during the NCAA Division II finals when the team’s coach was suspended for NCAA violations. Rollins won the finals and defended their Division II national championship.
“Tuscawilla Country Club and RDC Golf Group are extremely proud of Carolyn and her accomplishments,” says club general manager Mike Gardner. “The professional team at Tuscawilla continues to make significant contributions to the club, community and their respected professions. Carolyn’s award exemplifies the commitment Tuscawilla and RDC Golf Group have to providing the best experience for the entire family.”