VanDyk Mortgage CatchMark SportsNet Podcast: Phil Kerr, state titles, PGA

Scott DeCamp, Zach Zweigle and Brent Raeth all share an enjoyment for the sport of golf. What better way to rationalize talking about golf than to invite the 2-time state champion Montague girls golf coach Phil Kerr to join in on the fun.

On Monday, Jan. 10, the trio gathers with Kerr at the CatchMark office to record episode 12. A deep dive into their shared passion and a peek into Kerr’s backstory is the main focus of conversation.

The well-liked golf coach discusses his upbringing in his hometown of Long Island, New York and sports in the big city. He additionally touches on some early life encounters on the world renowned Bethpage Black golf course. The hosts contribute pastime stories of their own as well.

The course selection in West Michigan is dissected including some of local favorites in Oceana, Stone Gate, White Lake, and Benona Shores. Some of the areas best golfers are name dropped in the reflective conversation. Raeth defines what it means to be a “stick.”

A bit later, the fellas share their opinions of the professional golf scene and some unique experiences at PGA events. Raeth tells an anecdote of his interaction with legend Phil Mikkelsen.

The Montague golf coach discusses his beginning years of coaching and teaching in Florida in addition to both of his state championships at Montague High School. A difficult comparison is made between the two trophy teams.

Kerr discusses overcoming challenges in his ongoing battle with cancer. He shares his personal and professional growth throughout the last year.

In a podcast encompassing the ins and outs of golf, the crew manages to keep the episode under an hour largely in part to Kerr’s personal agenda.

If you’re a fan of golf at any level, you’re not going to want to miss this episode.