Eddie Merrins, born on December 10, 1930, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, was a highly respected golfer, instructor, and author who made significant contributions to the world of golf. Known as “The Little Pro,” Merrins had a successful playing career and became renowned for his expertise as a golf instructor. Let's explore the life and achievements of Eddie Merrins. 
Early Life and Golf Career:
Eddie Merrins grew up in California and discovered his love for golf at a young age. He began playing the game as a teenager and quickly showed promise as a talented golfer. Merrins attended UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles), where he played collegiate golf and achieved great success. He became the captain of the UCLA golf team and won several individual and team titles during his college career.
After graduating from UCLA, Merrins pursued a professional golf career. He played on various professional tours, including the PGA Tour and the PGA Tour Champions. Though he did not achieve notable success as a tournament player, Merrins' love for the game and his exceptional skill as an instructor set him on a path to make a significant impact in the world of golf.
Teaching Career and Impact:
Eddie Merrins' true calling in golf was as an instructor. His passion for teaching and his deep understanding of the game led him to become one of the most respected golf instructors of his time. Merrins joined the staff of the prestigious Bel-Air Country Club in Los Angeles in 1962, where he served as the head golf professional for over 40 years.
At Bel-Air Country Club, Merrins developed a reputation for his innovative teaching methods and his ability to connect with students of all skill levels. He was known for his personable and patient approach, focusing on each golfer's individual needs and goals. Merrins believed in teaching the fundamentals of the golf swing while also emphasizing the mental aspects of the game, including visualization and course management.
Merrins' impact as an instructor extended beyond his work at Bel-Air Country Club. He conducted clinics and taught at golf schools worldwide, sharing his knowledge and expertise with countless golfers. He also authored several instructional books, including “Swing the Handle” and “Playing Through.” These books became highly regarded resources for golfers looking to improve their game.
Legacy:
Eddie Merrins' influence on the game of golf is far-reaching and enduring. His dedication to teaching and his ability to simplify complex swing concepts made him a sought-after instructor by players of all levels. His teachings emphasized the importance of rhythm, balance, and tempo, helping golfers develop a smooth and repeatable swing.
Merrins' impact on the golf community extended beyond his teaching. He served as the president of the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) of America from 1992 to 1993, where he played a crucial role in shaping the future of the organization and promoting the growth of the game.
Merrins' contributions to the game were widely recognized, and he received numerous accolades throughout his career. He was inducted into the Southern California PGA Hall of Fame, the World Golf Teachers Hall of Fame, and the UCLA Athletic Hall of Fame. His influence as an instructor continues to be felt through the many golfers he taught and the ongoing popularity of his instructional books.
Conclusion:
Eddie Merrins, “The Little Pro,” was a remarkable figure in the world of golf. His passion for the game, coupled with his exceptional teaching ability, made him one of the most respected and influential golf instructors of his time. Merrins' impact extended far beyond the fairways of Bel-Air Country Club, as he touched the lives of golfers around the world through his clinics, books, and teachings.
Eddie Merrins' legacy as an instructor and ambassador of the game will forever be remembered and celebrated. His dedication to teaching the fundamentals of the golf swing, along with his emphasis on the mental aspects of the game, continues to inspire golfers of all levels. Eddie Merrins' contributions to the game of golf have left an indelible mark, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.
Update:
Eddie Merrins, also known as “The Little Pro,” was an American professional golfer, renowned golf instructor, and author. He was born on October 23, 1931, and passed away on April 3, 2021. Merrins had a notable career as both a player and a coach in the world of golf.
As a player, Eddie Merrins competed on the PGA Tour and the Champions Tour (formerly known as the Senior PGA Tour). While he did not achieve major tournament victories on the PGA Tour, he found considerable success on the Champions Tour, earning several top-10 finishes.
However, it was Merrins' prowess as a golf instructor that truly set him apart. He served as the head golf professional at the Bel-Air Country Club in Los Angeles, California, for over 50 years, and he became widely respected as one of the best golf teachers in the world. His teaching philosophy emphasized simplicity and sound fundamentals, earning him a reputation as a master of the short game.
Throughout his career, Merrins taught golf to numerous celebrities, amateur players, and professionals, including many PGA Tour players. He was known for his ability to communicate golf concepts clearly and effectively, making the game more accessible and enjoyable for his students.
Eddie Merrins authored several books on golf instruction, including “Swing The Handle – Not the Clubhead,” which became a bestseller and further solidified his reputation as a leading authority in golf coaching.
Beyond his instructional career, Merrins was a well-respected figure in the golf community, earning recognition and awards for his contributions to the sport. He left a lasting legacy as an outstanding player, a beloved instructor, and a true ambassador for the game of golf.
Eddie Merrins' impact on golf will be remembered by the countless players he coached and the enduring influence of his instructional methods. He remains an inspiration to golfers and instructors alike, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of golf instruction and the broader golfing community.
