Pullman native returns to promote Palouse Ridge

Jeremy Wexler, Pullman native, came full circle in the summer of 2008, when he returned to the rolling hills of the Palouse, where his family’s roots had been firmly planted over five generations. This time, Wexler brought his wife and two sons, and accepted a post as head golf professional at Washington State University’s Palouse Ridge Golf Club, a public course owned by the university. His local connections and experience were a perfect fit for the Club. In 1993, after graduating from Pullman High School, Wexler entered the U.S. Army, serving three years as an infantry specialist, and earning his Expert Infantryman Badge. He then returned to Pullman and WSU where he earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 2000. However his love of golf soon led him away, this time to Temecula, Calif., and the Professional Golfer’s Career College. There he earned an associate’s degree in professional golf management, graduating valedictorian of his class in 2003. Next stop was Scottsdale, Ariz., where he spent five years at TPC (Tournament Players Club) Scottsdale as assistant golf professional, teaching lessons as a Tour Academy Master Instructor. But his home turf beckoned once again and he found himself coming home to play where he did as a kid growing up, albeit on a bit of changed landscape. “I could just see that this was going to be something special,” he says of the newer Palouse Ridge course. Other than both the old and new courses being player friendly, there’s no comparison, he says. A highly-acclaimed premier course, Palouse Ridge opened that fall, built to championship standards in a links-style design. Considered a wildlife habitat, this eco-friendly course complements the countryside beautifully and was recently enrolled in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program. Q: How does it feel to be back on your old stomping grounds? Are you here to stay for the long term? A: It feels like home. Q: What do you feel distinguishes Palouse Ridge to receive the accolades of #2 Best New Golf Course by Golf Digest & GolfWeek in 2009? A: One of WSU’s mottos is “World Class, face to face.” Palouse Ridge Golf Club really showcases this phrase. Besides the panoramic breathtaking views of the Palouse region, each hole is very unique. The “links style course” is blended or almost stamped into the rolling hills. We have 5 sets of tee markers. The course is very playerfriendly from the forward tees however more challenging the farther you move back. Q: What’s the secret to a good swing? A: Balance. Q: When are you at your best in your game? A: Right before I tee off the first hole of the day. Q: What motivates you to continue your pursuit of excellence in the sport of golf? A: Golf and the sport is always evolving and expanding. Being a PGA Member, I’m always responsible to obtain education in the business of golf and the golf field.