ROB MCGILL dreamed of being a pilot. He even majored in aerospace at Middle Tennessee State University. After graduation, jobs in the airline industry were scarce, so McGill, who had been working in the pro shop at Old Fort Golf Course while taking classes, took a position at WillowBrook Golf Club in Manchester. McGill soon discovered that his love for golf was the catalyst needed to turn his childhood hobby into a fulfilling and rewarding lifelong career.
“I was conflicted, and at first, I battled my entry into the golf industry because I wanted to be a pilot. Greg Perry became the first golf professional at WillowBrook Golf Club, and he took a chance when he invited me to be his golf shop manager. He then convinced me to take the Playing Ability Test to be a golf professional. I originally turned down his offer, but he convinced me and even offered to pay for it. To pass this test, you must shoot a certain score of over 36 holes in one day.”
The “chance” Perry took on McGill worked out in his favor when McGill took the grueling test and shot a 69 on the first 18 holes during his third attempt. This win opened the door for McGill to teach professionally. Later, the two men developed what they called the “First Tee” program and began offering golf clubs and instruction to underprivileged youth in Coffee County.
“After having the privilege of being part of this program, I was overwhelmed at how this game, with its instructions and accomplishments, can positively affect an individual.”
He spent 13 years as the assistant golf professional and 10 years as the head golf professional at Stones River Country Club. While there, he established several lifelong friendships, but in 2019, the head golf professional position opened up at RiverBend Country Club, which allowed him to work closer to his family.
“My wonderful wife, Glenda, has always been very supportive. I have one son, Braxton, who works and lives in Nashville. He caddies part time at Richland Country Club. These two have been a blessing to me. Their understanding and support has allowed me to continue my career to the best of my ability. It goes without saying — they are my rock and motivation.”
Growing up, McGill and his father spent many hours playing golf together, and every summer, they’d plan a trip centered on the game.
“Those trips were very special and lots of fun,” recalled McGill. “There was always great camaraderie and healthy competition. My father always understood how to treat people properly. He was a big believer in respecting others and thinking of others before ourselves. He practiced what he preached. Although Dad was not a highly skilled golfer, he was able to play decently because his personality carried over into the game. He was of the belief that getting angry or upset didn’t solve the issues — working through them with patience is what solves problems.”
The memories McGill created with his father continue to ignite his passion for working with students as young as 4. He also coaches students over the age of 90.
“I have a huge passion for junior golf, and one of my most prized achievements was winning the PGA Youth Development Award for the Middle Tennessee chapter. In addition, I was recognized as a top junior coach by U.S. Kids. I have a certification in 5 Simple Keys golf coaching and acted as director of instruction for Tennessee during its tenure.
“I have coached several championship players. Three of the five players who won the TSSAA high school state championship were coached by me, and I’ve coached several D1 players, multiple D2 and D3 golfers, two mini-tour players, and one who played on the nationwide tour.”
According to McGill, the old saying, “Golf is the sport of a lifetime,” is true.
“Not many other sports allow for generations of families and friends to compete with each other. The health benefits are exponential as well since golf courses average 5 miles in length while walking and playing. Even riding in a cart, as many do, has health benefits. Golf also has its place in the business world. Many successful business deals have been negotiated on the golf course. For our young adults going out into the corporate world, I would highly suggest they learn to play golf.” GN
