(Allendale, Mich.) Mike Sullivan is back in college but as a teacher, not a student. Sullivan, a PGA professional, is bringing a quarter-century of experience to The Meadows Golf Club at Grand Valley State University and its expansive teaching and practice facility. And with the summer-like weather he’s open for business, helping area golfers get their games in shape.
Sullivan is on the staff of the distinguished Kendall Golf Academy, joining some of the leading teachers in Michigan. As the new Director of Instruction for Kendall Academy at The Meadows, Sullivan is offering expanded lessons and clinics for the novice, weekend and competitive player alike.
“As a teacher, I’m excited Kendall Academy again will partner with The Meadows and its outstanding facilities,” said Sullivan, a fine competitive golfer at various professional levels for the past 27 years. “I like teaching and introducing people to the game, from the person who has the thrill of getting the ball into the air for the first time to the accomplished player. The PGA’s big push is growing the game and that really motivates me.” Sullivan assumes the role at The Meadows previously held by PGA teaching professional Derek Radley who’s continuing his coaching and caddying duties with Ladies European Tour player Sara Brown.
Originally from Fraser, Michigan, Sullivan attended and graduated from Ferris State University’s Professional Golf Management Program with a bachelor’s degree. His first job was as an assistant to Dave Kendall at Cadillac Country Club. Both moved on from there in notable fashion. In 1996, Kendall founded his academy in Ypsilanti at Miles of Golf and along with a staff of professionals has now tutored thousands of students, many boasting junior, amateur and pro titles. Recently, five Kendall Academy instructors were ranked in the “top 15 teachers in the state” by Golf Digest.
Sullivan continued his career at North Shore Country Club in suburban Chicago under noted pro Bill Ogden who served the membership for 47 years.
After two years at North Shore, Sullivan was appointed head professional at the Dubuque Golf & Country Club, one of the top clubs in Iowa.
Michigan still was in Sullivan’s blood however and he returned to serve 14 years as head professional at storied Gull Lake Country Club. Teaming up with teaching pro Mike Bender, Sullivan offered his members a series of 3-day golf schools that proved highly popular and effective. Years later, Bender became the National PGA Teacher of the Year and is best known for working with past Masters champion and Tour standout Zach Johnson.
A past board member and Tournament Chairman of the Michigan PGA, Sullivan had a brief stop at Island Hills GC before rejoining Kendall Academy in 2012.
“Having someone of Mike’s reputation and experience be a part of both Kendall Academy and the Meadows is an unbeatable combination,” said Kendall, twice named Michigan PGA’s Teacher of the Year. “His passion for teaching is a perfect fit for a university setting.”
Sullivan teaches the whole game with particular emphasis on the part that often causes the most frustration and strokes – the short game.
“I like to teach the game from the green backwards, emphasizing the short game where most shots are taken and often wasted,” Sullivan said. “I’m particularly impressed with The Meadows’ practice facilities-its upgraded short game area, putting green, bunkers and its large range area.
“This weather’s been a great start to the season and everyone at The Meadows has been so helpful,” said Sullivan. He can be reached by phone at 269-720-2388 or email at sullivan.mike99@yahoo.com
Contact:
Terry Moore
All About Golf
terry50moore@gmail.com
616-490-0433
