The skill of a local golf club maker, coupled with the generosity of the Prescott Habitat for Humanity ReStore, once again have made it possible for local youngsters to have their own clubs and other golf equipment at no personal cost.
Pat Shepherd, a Prescott resident, is owner of Shepherd’s Shillelaghs Custom Golf Clubs. He has been finding, making or rehabbing clubs for kids ever since he found out there was a need. He collaborates with Prescott ReStore personnel in re-gripping, resizing and repairing golf clubs and equipment that the thrift store receives from donors. He then gives those clubs away, too. Shepherd began his business in California in 1993, but brought it with him when he relocated to Prescott several years ago. “I’ll do anything I can to help these kids get onto golf courses and play a sport they can enjoy all their lives,” he said.
Most recently, between Shepherd and the ReStore, more than 16 sets of clubs, several golf bags and golf carts and more than 250 slightly used golf balls found their way into the hands of Tom Rose, head golf coach for the Bagdad, Arizona Sultans mid-school and high school.
Rose and ReStore Operations Manager Jim Stubblefield loaded golf equipment for boys and girls into Rose’s truck so he later could distribute them at his school.
Rose said that because clubs were now available to Bagdad students, participation on his golf teams has more than tripled in the past three years.
Stubblefield said he was “…thrilled to see golf equipment get a second life among kids.”
Those interested in contributing golf equipment to ReStore can do so by contacting Stubblefield at 928 777-1777. QCBN
By Ray Newton, QCBN
PHOTO CAPTIONS:
#1 Bagdad Sultan head golf coach Tom Rose and Habitat for Humanity ReStore Operations Manager Jim Stubblefield select golf clubs and other equipment from among those donated to the local thrift store. The equipment then is donated to youngsters who otherwise would not have access to equipment.
Photo by Ray Newton
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