May 28, 2019

Tripp Pritchett has been hired as the golf professional at East Mississippi Community College’s Lion Hills Center & Golf Course.

Pritchett will oversee management of the Pro Shop at the facility, which includes an 18-hole golf course, a pro shop, league tournaments and junior camps. His first day on the job was May 13.

“I am really enjoying meeting the members and guests,” Pritchett said. “I would encourage people to come out and check out what we have to offer. The golf course is in great shape and the greens are really rolling well. We are going to have great deals at the pro shop throughout the summer.”

Prior to accepting the position at EMCC Lion Hills Center, Pritchett was the golf professional at Highland Park Golf Course in Birmingham, Ala. He is a 2015 graduate of the PGA Golf Management program at Mississippi State University.

A Jasper, Ala., native, Pritchett’s father introduced him to golf at an early age and he played the sport throughout high school. He later realized he wanted to pursue a career in the field of golf.

“It is something I am very passionate about,” Pritchett said of his chosen profession. “It is long hours but if it is something you enjoy, there is nothing to it.”

As the resident golf professional, Pritchett will also offer private golf lessons.

“Minor adjustments in how you grip the club and set up on the ball can often make a big difference in your swing and how well you play the game,” Pritchett said.

EMCC Lion Hills Center & Golf Course Director Cheryl Hubbard said she is excited to have Pritchett on board.

“I think Tripp will be a great asset to our golf operations here at Lion Hills,” Hubbard said. “He is knowledgeable about golf course management and is committed to ensuring those who use our facility have the best experience possible.”

In 2017, the greens on holes 10-18 at the golf course were converted to Tif-Eagle, which is among three new Ultra-Dwarf Bermuda grasses touted for offering improved ball speed, putting consistency and overall playability. Last year, the greens on holes 1-9 were converted to the premium grass that has become the industry-leading standard at high-end golf courses across the country.

Recently, all the golf carts at the facility were replaced with new electric golf carts powered by lithium batteries.

“The lithium golf carts are lighter so there is less wear and tear on the carts and the golf course,” Pritchett said. “Since they are lighter, they are a little faster too. All of the new golf carts are equipped with USB ports for charging convenience and with coolers so people don’t have to bring their own coolers with them anymore.”

Memberships are available at the golf course, which is also open to the public. The golf course also offers a driving range. There is no charge for use of the putting and chipping greens.         

Call the pro shop at 662.328.0492 or email Pritchett at jpritchett@eastms.edu for information about green fees, golf course amenities or private golf lessons.