Shirley Spork, LPGA Founding Member
Monterey Country Club – Palm Desert, California

In the realm of golf, the name Shirley Spork is recognized with special meaning as one of golf’s finest teachers. She is truly a "Pro’s Pro" and a "Teacher’s Teacher." She has instructed thousands of golfers in her many years of experience. Though her contribution to golf has been bountiful, her first love has always been teaching. Men, women and juniors have gained enjoyment and competitive knowledge from her patient and sincere efforts.

Graduating from Eastern Michigan University, Shirley taught elementary, secondary and college golf. In 1950, she turned her attention to competition becoming a professional player, while giving clinics and golf exhibitions along the way. Having established a reputation for outstanding instruction, as well as vast golf knowledge, Shirley’s fame quickly spread throughout the golf industry. In 1957, she was the keynote speaker for the PGA National Convention.

In 1950, Shirley became a professional player. As a charter member of the LPGA, she was one of the top ten money winners in 1951. Her competition on the Tour took her as far as the LPGA Championship, where she was runner-up in 1962. Early in her career she was the Michigan Women's State Champion, Women's National Intercollegiate Champion, and the California Derby Open Champion. Shirley still loves the competition, attesting to this fact are her victories in the Senior Division of 1984 & 1987 LPGA T&CP Western Section Championship. She was also runner-up in the LPGA T&CP National Championship, and the Marilynn Smith Founders Cup Senior Team Event.

Shirley's contributions can only be outnumbered by the numerous awards and honors she has received throughout her career. Her background includes being twice voted LPGA National Teacher of the Year. She received the Joe Graffis Award for contribution and outstanding service to the educational advancement of golf. She was the Western Educational Director for the National Golf Foundation, and in 1950 a founding member of the LPGA Teaching Division. In 1989, she was inducted into the Michigan Hall of Fame, and was voted one of America’s Outstanding Teachers by Golf Digest Magazine. She served on the Board of the National Educational Committee of the LPGA, and was an advisor to the Women’s Pro Golf Tour. She continues to serve on the board of the California Women’s Amateur Championship. In 1994, Shirley received the Byron Nelson Achievement Award, and in 1998 the Ellen Griffin Rolex Award for life long service to the LPGA and dedication to teaching the game of golf.

Shirley has lived the great game of golf from tee to green. She continues to put back all of that which she has received. Though a gifted competitor, continuing to play in LPGA sectional and national senior golf events, her true love is in teaching. Shirley can be reached for a lesson by calling (760) 346-1115.