THE GRASS, damp from the morning dew, squished beneath Preston Chalker’s sneakers as he walked across his backyard. In his hand, a miniature replica of the driver his grandpa, Felix “Pa” Nunley, swung with experienced ease. During his early childhood, Preston’s swing became a compilation of enthusiasm and will, and the joy on his face was gratifying, especially for Nunley. In this unassuming patch of green, a love story between a boy and a game took shape.
Nunley, whose pride for his grandson’s skill deepened with every swing, had been Preston’s golf muse. After he turned 5, they started spending weekends on the fringes of the local course, with Nunley patiently guiding Preston’s wobbly swings. The sound of the iron against the golf ball became a calming cadence — the greenery a soothing aesthetic. Preston thrives on the golf course’s green four days a week. Last year, he decided to elevate his game by joining Westwood Middle School’s talented golf team.
“I love playing with my teammates and meeting new people,” he explained. “It’s just fun to play golf.”
Diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), Preston’s challenges seemed daunting. But on the fairway, he finds peace and focus.
“Golf has really been a turning point for him,” said his mother, Amy Chalker. “He has matured and has a focus that he had never shown until he started playing golf.”
The meticulous routine — the careful placement of the ball and the measured backswing — offers a sense of control amidst the chaos. Amy, on the other hand, knew little about golf. Yet, after witnessing the power of golf transform her son, she took herself on a crash course. Preston taught her the ins and outs of the game and its fundamentals, even explaining flagsticks and sand traps. They spent afternoons laughing at the occasional stray shots that landed in the sand.
Mark Chalker, Preston’s father, dusted off his old clubs. Years had passed since the last time he played golf, but the joy of playing with his son rekindled the flame. Preston’s golf adventures are family affairs. Weekends consist of carpools with Pa and Preston’s grandma, “Ninny,” to practices and the occasional strategy discussions over lunch. When he’s not golfing, you might find him playing his favorite video games or indulging in a hidden talent — sewing pillows.
Life for the young golfer hasn’t always been easy. Adopted at 8 months old, Preston has navigated the adjustments of finding his forever home with the Chalker family over the past 12 years. While there have been challenges along the way, including some close relationships ending, Preston has found freedom in golf. His mother credits the sport with helping him navigate these challenging times.
“He has an inner strength that I admire. He also is quite a comedian,” Amy explained. “We are very proud of our youngest. He truly is my littlest best friend.”
It wasn’t long before Preston and his family began to witness his hard work pay off on the course. Coach Angela Houck at Westwood Middle School sharpened his iron swings while Nunley helped straighten Preston’s wayward drives. Occasionally “outdriving” his father and Pa are now cherished family moments.
“With the help of my coach, Angela Houck, my lessons from Barry Bishop, and the encouragement of my parents and grandparents, I’ve worked hard on improving my swing. A time or two, I’ve even out-drove my Pa and my dad,” Preston said.
One afternoon, at the WillowBrook course, magic happened. Standing on the fifth hole in a tournament against Franklin County, Preston faced a seemingly impossible 25-foot putt. The clink of the ball against the bottom of the cup sent a roar erupting from Amy — a touch too enthusiastic, earning a playful shush from her son. It was a moment the family will never forget and just one example of how impactful the support of Preston’s loved ones is on his journey.
Preston’s inspiration remains firmly rooted in his Pa. The passion for the game that he shares with his Pa transcends words.
“He is truly my person,” he explained. He advises other young athletes to “just get out there and practice.”
“My best advice to others wanting to play is to get on the course as much as possible. It helps to have family that is encouraging and supporting your passion, too,” he said.
Preston dreams big, as a college scholarship might be in his future. But even more profound than any accomplishment lies a deeper truth. His compelling story is a love letter to his supportive family and an ode to the unexpected places where passion can take root. This young golfer is on his way to carving his own path — one course at a time. And with his family cheering him on from every green, his journey will surely be extraordinary. GN
