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Game Changers

Meeting Arnold Palmer

By Brendon Elliott, PGA
Published on

This week in Orlando as the golf community celebrates the legacy of the legendary Arnold Palmer, I am reminded of all the incredible experiences I have been fortunate enough to’ve had involving Mr. Palmer.
I’ve been lucky to play Bay Hill Club and Lodge on a dozen occasions, and more if you count the numerous almost rounds that were called due to Central Florida summer storms. I’ve played with students, friends and fellow PGA Coaches that work for me. I have spent far too much money in the golf shop, used the storied locker room, and enjoyed wonderful meals at Bay Hill.
The course itself is fantastic, and everywhere you turn, you can recall memories of unforgettable moments from the Arnold Palmer Invitational on every hole. The feeling I get at Bay Hill reminds me of the same comfort I felt at the courses I grew up playing in Central New York — a genuine, warm and welcoming feeling. It is truly a magical place.
The opening hole at Bay Hill.
The opening hole at Bay Hill.
When I won the 2017 PGA of America Youth Player Development Award, the Association produced a video to tell my story, most of which was shot at Bay Hill. All the while, my Little Linksters organization hosted 75 kids for one of our tour events right there on Mr. Palmer’s hallowed grounds.
In 2010, I was on hand when Mr. Palmer was inducted into the North Florida PGA Section Hall of Fame during our Annual Meeting. That day and evening was one of the most influential moments of my career.

That morning at Bay Hill, I pulled into the parking lot, found my spot, checked my tie before going into the clubhouse for the first time . . . and couldn’t not believe who I saw standing before me. 

Brendon Elliott, PGA
Mr. Palmer was walking his dog right in front of my car. It was just him and I, standing there. He put out his hand to welcome me, and we chatted for a few minutes. I was in awe. 
Later that night, during cocktail hour, prior to dinner and the Hall of Fame festivities, I was standing in the hallway outside of the dining room with my wife as we talked with fellow PGA of America Members in attendance. 
Then, I felt a big hand on my shoulder. I turned around to see Mr. Palmer once again as he exchanged pleasantries with us all. He asked if I had been enjoying my day at Bay Hill. I was in awe that he remembered me from many hours earlier in the day. 
I had the opportunity to chat with Mr. Palmer on a few more occasions over the years before he passed in 2016. He was as down-to-earth as you could ever hope one of your childhood heroes would be.
Shortly after my initial visit to Bay Hill, I wrote a letter to Mr. Palmer thanking him for his hospitality. Wouldn't you know it, a few days later, I received a letter back from him. That letter hangs in my office to this day. 
I have been blessed in so many ways because of golf. Each year around this time, I remember one of my most fond memories, that day in the Bay Hill parking lot when I first met The King, a man who reinvigorated my passion for the game.
Thank you, Mr. Palmer.
Brendon R. Elliott, PGA

Sorrento, FL

Brendon Elliott

Director of Instruction, Freelance Golf Writer

After 16 remarkable years of nurturing young talent and fostering a love for golf through The Little Linksters Golf Academy, Brendon Elliott is excited to announce the transition of leadership to esteemed Coach Ricky Collado in 2025. As the baton is passed, Coach Ricky will take charge of all operations and become the primary point of contact for any Linksters-related inquiries. As Brendon steps into a new chapter, the focus will shift to launching and growing BE A GOLFER, a new academy dedicated to competitive teenage golfers. This initiative will continue both in-person and remote coaching, harnessing years of expertise to nurture the next generation of golfing talent. Further expanding horizons, Brendon will also dedicate time to One More Roll Golf Media. This venture aims to collaborate with various golf media outlets and businesses, delivering high-quality written, video, and voice content. Despite these new ventures, Brendon will remain closely connected with Little Linksters. A commitment to collaboration with Coach Ricky will continue, particularly with projects like the PGA Junior League, ensuring a lasting impact and smooth transition. “I am thrilled about the future of Little Linksters under Coach Ricky Collado’s leadership. This transition marks a change and an exciting new direction for me and the academy. I look forward to contributing my efforts towards developing competitive young golfers and advancing in the golf media landscape.” ~ Brendon R. Elliott, PGA More About Coach Brendon... Brendon Elliott is a distinguished PGA Professional who has received over 25 prestigious industry awards recognizing his contributions and influence in youth golf, most notably, the 2017 PGA of America National Youth Player Development Award. With numerous appearances on the Golf Channel and local news outlets in Florida, Brendon has established himself as a respected educator and influencer in the golf industry. Renowned for his expertise in all aspects of golf, he is a sought-after speaker at golfing events and panels. In the past three years, Brendon has expanded into media, writing for esteemed outlets such as PGA.com, PGA Magazine, Golf.com, GolfWRX.com, RG.org, and many others. Elliott is also part of the “Quiet Please Golf Podcast” crew and hosts a livestream show on the Golf Live App called “Monday Evening Tee Time.” Brendon’s dedication to advancing the sport has made a significant impact on the golf community.

Meet Brendon

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