Tucson Open Player Profile:
Casey Martin

By Scott Behmer,
Senior Writer

Tucson, Az - As one of the major draws this week, golf fans flock to Casey Martin, watching to see for themselves if he truly does need a cart. Any doubt in their minds is eliminated once they see him walk around the green trying to read a putt. However, the fans soon discover that Casey Martin is more than the guy who drives a cart. He's one of the most affable, fan-friendly players on Tour.

On virtually every hole on Friday, Casey casually spoke with the fans as if he'd known them for years. Then after the round, they lined the fence straining for his autograph.

Instead of rushing to the clubhouse as he was encouraged to do by the Tour's security guard, he stayed and signed until every fan got his valued autograph. When one boy even asked for his hat, Casey replied, "See me after the round on Sunday and it's yours." I have no doubt that the boy will be wearing Casey's Nike hat to school on Monday.

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The caddy told the boy that it was important for him to read it. Then Casey returned from the tent, thanked the youngster for following all day, and gave the young fan his much-desired autograph. I saw the boy later in the day. He was telling everyone he could about meeting Casey Martin.

Earlier in the year Casey was asked about how his life has changed since he burst onto the Nike Tour two years ago. He explained that it was his faith that changed him, saying in a CNNSI interview, "Maybe that's why I am able to play better in these situations. I trust Him a lot more, and I pray a lot more. It's not that I pray to make birdies or anything like that. But I might be more dependent on Him to help me have confidence in my own ability. I am grateful for these times -- they make me realize where my talent and strength come from."

Casey knows that with one slip in the shower his career could be over. A broken leg would likely require amputation, so he's thankful for every single round.

No matter how much longer Casey plays golf on the PGA Tour, he is a perfect example of how this gentleman's game should be played. His friendly demeanor, encouraging attitude towards fellow competitors, and desire to give back to the fans make him an excellent role model for the future golfers who line the eighteenth holes all across the country.