March is Celebrating Women in Golf Month, a time to honor the incredible women who are making a difference in the golf industry. This month, we are proud to spotlight Merrick Parker, Operations Manager at City of Atlanta Golf Courses, whose remarkable journey showcases the power of passion, determination, and leadership. Merrick’s rise from beginner to industry leader is a true inspiration for anyone looking to carve out their path, no matter where they start.
From Beverage Cart to Operations Manager: A Journey Fueled by Passion
Merrick’s introduction to the world of golf wasn’t planned—it was a chance opportunity that turned into a life-changing passion. In 2017, Merrick was looking for a summer job and took a position running the beverage cart at Chastain Park Golf Course, not knowing much about the game itself. With just a course map in hand and a desire to learn, she began her journey in a role that many might have viewed as a temporary job.
However, Merrick quickly discovered that the world of golf was more than just a job—it was a community, a passion, and an industry she could immerse herself in. From interacting with golfers to observing operations, Merrick’s enthusiasm grew rapidly. Her natural curiosity and eagerness to learn helped her transition from running the beverage cart to managing the pro shop, and eventually, overseeing operations at all four City of Atlanta Golf Courses. Merrick’s story is a testament to the power of embracing new opportunities and letting passion drive progress.
Mentorship: The Key to Success
Merrick credits much of her success to her boss and mentor, Jeff King, who helped guide her through the early stages of her career. “He took me under his wing and shared his vast knowledge of the industry,” Merrick recalls. “Without his support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.” As her boss, Jeff’s mentorship provided Merrick with the confidence and skills needed to grow in an industry she was just beginning to understand. His belief in her abilities and willingness to teach her the ropes gave Merrick the foundation to thrive in golf.
Now, as a leader herself, Merrick has made it a priority to pass on that mentorship to others. She strives to be the same kind of mentor for her team—someone who believes in their potential, no matter their starting point. Merrick is proud to offer guidance and support, just as she received early in her career, and in doing so, she’s helping to foster the next generation of golf leaders.
Breaking Barriers in the Golf Industry
Like many women entering traditionally male-led fields, Merrick saw the opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to the golf industry. While her early lack of experience could have been seen as a hurdle, she embraced it as a chance to learn and grow. With a passion for the game, a strong work ethic, and an ability to connect with others, Merrick quickly proved her value. Her eagerness to take on new challenges and her dedication to continuous learning earned her the respect of her colleagues and paved the way for her successful career.
Merrick believes that anyone, regardless of gender or experience, can make a meaningful impact in this industry. “Golf is a sport for everyone,” she says. “It doesn’t matter where you start; it’s about how much you’re willing to learn and grow.” Merrick’s rise in the industry is a perfect example of how persistence, hard work, and dedication can break through any barriers.
Empowering Women in Golf: Creating Opportunities for the Next Generation
Merrick is passionate about creating opportunities for women in the golf industry. She is especially proud of the growing representation of women in leadership roles and works to ensure that her team reflects this positive change. “Half of my operations team is female, and we’ve recently added a talented female course manager to Chastain Park Golf Course,” Merrick shares.
Her leadership extends beyond just her team. Merrick has also introduced initiatives aimed at encouraging women to get involved in the sport. Through the women’s leagues and clinics offered at the City of Atlanta Golf Courses, she’s creating spaces for women of all ages and skill levels to connect with the game. For Merrick, it’s about creating an inclusive environment where every woman feels welcome and empowered to succeed.
A Mother’s Influence: Leading by Example
Merrick draws much of her leadership inspiration from her mother, who was one of the few women in engineering during the 1970s. Her mother’s ability to overcome adversity and thrive in a male-dominated field has been a driving force in Merrick’s own approach to leadership. “My mother taught me that persistence and hard work are everything. She showed me that with the right mindset, you can accomplish anything,” Merrick reflects.
Merrick carries her mother’s wisdom into her work every day, focusing on fostering an environment of growth, respect, and opportunity. Her journey shows that leadership is about more than just making decisions—it’s about helping others rise along with you.
Dream Round at East Lake Golf Club
If Merrick could play a round of golf anywhere in the world, it would be at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, a course that holds special significance to her. The memories of attending the Tour Championship, especially when Tiger Woods won in 2018, are unforgettable for Merrick. “Playing at East Lake, where so many historic moments have taken place, would be the ultimate experience,” she shares.
Looking Ahead: The Future is Bright for Women in Golf
As Merrick looks to the future, she is hopeful about the increasing role women will play in the golf industry. “There’s no doubt that women’s involvement in golf will continue to grow, both on the course and in leadership roles,” she says. Merrick is proud to be part of this movement, and she’s committed to helping pave the way for the next generation of women leaders in golf.
She believes that by continuing to create opportunities, mentoring others, and breaking down barriers, women will increasingly shape the future of golf in powerful ways. “We are building something special, and I’m excited to see how the game evolves.”
Book Your Tee Time at the City of Atlanta Golf Courses on GolfNow
Celebrate Women in Golf Month by supporting women-led initiatives in the golf industry. Book your tee time at one of the City of Atlanta Golf Courses today and experience the courses Merrick helps manage.
Alfred “Tup” Holmes Golf Course
