00:00 Introduction to Kylie Leaf and Her Golf Journey
03:06 The Early Days of Golf: Family Influence and Beginnings
05:58 High School Golf: Competition and Sisterly Bonds
08:56 College Decisions: Finding the Right Fit
12:00 The Transition to Collegiate Golf: Expectations vs. Reality
14:57 Balancing Academics and Athletics: The College Experience
17:53 Mentorship and Networking: The Role of Courtney Trimble
21:02 Connections Made: The Impact of For Hire Events
21:17 Building Meaningful Relationships in Golf Networking
22:40 First Steps into the Golf Industry
24:32 The Importance of Customer Service Experience
26:44 Transitioning to a New Role in Marketing
29:11 Navigating Career Choices and Opportunities
32:59 Embracing a Dynamic Work Environment
36:40 Future Aspirations and Growth in Marketing
Kyleigh Leaf is a passionate advocate for the game of golf, currently thriving as the Marketing Coordinator for the Hilton Head Island Visitor & Convention Bureau. Her journey into golf began in 2010, thanks to her father, an athlete who recognized the potential of sports to shape his daughters' futures. Growing up in a household filled with athleticism, Kyleigh and her sisters were encouraged to explore various sports, but it was golf that ultimately captured their hearts.
Kyleigh’s first experiences with golf were quite humble; she learned to play using her father's old clubs, which were heavy and ill-suited for a young girl. However, these early challenges only fueled her determination. By her sophomore year of high school, she realized that pursuing golf seriously could open doors for scholarships and career opportunities. Her competitive spirit shone through as she sought to connect with coaches and mentors who could guide her on this path.
A significant turning point in Kyleigh's life came during her college years at Bethune-Cookman University, where she played alongside her sister on a full scholarship. The bond they shared as siblings and teammates created a unique dynamic that enriched their college experience. Kyleigh describes this time as transformative, not only in honing her skills as a golfer but also in developing her identity within the sport.
Throughout her journey, mentorship played a crucial role. Courtney Trimble of Fore Hire has been a guiding force for Kyleigh, helping her articulate her goals and navigate the complexities of building a career in golf. Their relationship underscores the importance of mentorship in the industry, providing Kyleigh with the clarity and direction she needed as she transitioned from collegiate athlete to marketing professional.
Now at the Hilton Head Island Visitor & Convention Bureau, Kyleigh combines her love for golf with her expertise in communication and marketing. Her vibrant personality shines through on her Instagram (@kyleighleaf), where she shares glimpses of her life both on and off the course. Kyleigh’s story is one of resilience, passion, and the power of relationships in shaping one's career path.
She embodies the spirit of women in golf—balancing competition with camaraderie and leveraging personal connections to forge a successful future in an industry that continues to grow and evolve.
Our Women in Golf series celebrates and showcases women's involvement and achievements in the golf industry. It features interviews with accomplished women in various roles, such as professional golfers, instructors, founders, artists, and more. The series aims to inspire by sharing the unique stories and experiences of these women, highlighting their contributions and the challenges they have overcome.
