SDGA Graduate Overcomes All Odds to Become a PGA Member

2008-07-29

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ORLANDO –– The San Diego Golf Academy (SDGA) is known for taking students from the classroom and into the golf industry, but one particular graduate has inspired all and is a role model for the SDGA student body and alumni. Ryan Ely, an SDGA ’99 graduate is a Class A-ranked PGA member despite having a left arm debilitated by the effects of cerebral palsy.

“The Playing Ability Test (PAT), part of a long list of requirements standardized by the PGA of America for Class A membership is a challenge for any golfer, and for one of our students to succeed with hard work and perseverance, in spite of what others would deem an automatic setback, makes everyone at SDGA so proud,” says Brad Turner, a PGA professional and Director of the SDGA Orlando Campus.

Ely, 33, is an assistant professional at Hawk’s Landing Golf Club at Orlando World Center Marriott Resort, and says about his accomplishment, “More than anything, it’s showing people that this game is possible.”

SDGA was founded in 1974 and offers a 16-month program of golf instruction and golf business management at four campus locations. Graduates are provided with the education required to get the golf job of their dreams. The SDGA is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) and by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), a national advocate and institutional voice for self-regulation of academic quality through accreditation.

For more information on the San Diego Golf Academy, please call 800.342.7342 or visit www.golfacademy.edu.