Michael Rielly

Michael Rielly, age 10, thrives on challenge and hard work. This fifth-grader at Queen of Angels Catholic School already has seven years of golf experience to his name and a goal to play Division-1 golf and lacrosse at Duke University.

Specific, short-term objectives are in place for Michael to achieve his long-term dreams. He teamed up this year with Cody Barden, White Columns Director of Instruction, after working with other golf instructors. "He's not like other coaches," Michael says. "He teaches you how to fix your own problems and not go to him all the time for the answers." While Cody instructs with positive communication, Michael notes that junior golfers need to work for his praise. "Everything [you do] can't be good all the time. Don't expect for him to say 'good job' every time-you have to work hard and prove yourself. Cody actually challenges you-this keeps it fun," he says.

At the heart of Michael's instructive hours are diverse exercises and drills. "Cody and I have been working on my irons-I've improved in that," Michael says. He adds with a laugh, "And I could never hit my 3-wood before, until Cody took away my driver and forced me to use it. Now it's my favorite club!"

Over the last couple years, Michael has been at the top of his game in his age category. He had Top-10 finishes in all 9 events he's played, including 1 win and two 3rd place finishes in the 12-and-under age bracket. Michael took 2nd place in Atlanta Junior Golf Year-end Skills Challenge, including 1st place in Chipping and Putting. Last year, he took 2nd place in the White Columns Junior Club Championship and finished 3rd in the US Kids Championship.

Michael's diligence has benefited all areas of his life-from academics (he's part of the National and Georgia Associations for Gifted Children), other sports (like lacrosse), and even in learning the guitar.

Michael will be one to watch in the coming years, as he anticipates increased golf tournament participation and hopes for top finishes.