Photo via Yahoo Sports

PGA Tour rookie-to-be Ross Steelman learned the game surrounded by batting cages, go-kart track

Ross Steelman, a 25-year-old golfer from Columbia, Missouri, has secured his spot on the 2027 PGA Tour by winning the Korn Ferry Tour points title. His journey to this milestone began at Perche Creek Golf Club, where he honed his skills amid an unconventional setting—surrounded by batting cages, a go-kart track, and an 18-hole par-3 course.

Despite his unconventional upbringing in the sport, Steelman excelled in college, leading Georgia Tech to the 2023 ACC championship and finishing as the runner-up in the NCAA Tournament that same year. His standout performance included earning all-conference honors during his time at Missouri and Wake Forest, where he transferred after initially playing for the Tigers.

Steelman’s 2026 season was particularly strong, with two victories and four additional top-five finishes on the Korn Ferry Tour, earning him $803,421—the second-highest total on the circuit. His success wasn’t immediate; injuries and transfers delayed his progress, but he ultimately locked in his PGA Tour card with two months remaining in the season.

The Korn Ferry Tour title also granted him entry into prestigious events like the Players Championship and the U.S. Open, marking a significant leap forward in his career.

Steelman reflected on his journey, calling it a dream come true after years of hard work and perseverance, including overcoming setbacks and adapting to new challenges along the way.

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