Mike Richards, PGA Presented 2023 South Florida PGA Player Development Award
Michael Richards, PGA Director of Instruction at Mike Richards Golf Academy has been awarded the 2023 South Florida PGA Player Development Award.
The Player Development Award recognizes a PGA Professional who has made extraordinary contributions and achievements in the area of player development.
“Being recognized by my peers for my dedication, hard work and ability to grow the game of golf is truly very special,” said Richards. “Winning this award validates my passion for teaching over the last 36 years and I will continue to enjoy teaching and I am proud to be a PGA Member and a Golf Professional.”
As the founder and leader of Mike Richards Golf Academy, Richards is committed to
growing the game for people of all ages and skill levels. With the goal of getting kids involved early, Richards develops programs for students that fit their current abilities.
A vital part of Richards programming is PGA Junior league, which started as Team Golf, where Richards originally coached 12-15 kids and now has grown the program to 24-30 kids per month.
Additionally, Richards implemented the Get Ready Golf Program, an instructional program for ladies once a week. Over the last three years, the program has grown to 15-18 women who meet three days a week and the success helped catapult Get Ready Golf 201, a program that sees 12 students a week for advanced programming.
Lastly, Richards is committed to the PGA of America and strives to shine a light on all PGA Members. After starting Mike Richards Golf Academy in 2001, Richards has since only hired PGA or LPGA Members in good standing.
The Player Development Award is one of the South Florida PGA annual awards and honored Richards at his facility today. Click here to view all 2023 SFPGA award winners.

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