By Sondra Barr
Photos courtesy of Autumn Taylor
At just 9 years old, Autumn Taylor already has a clear vision for her future—and it involves fairways, flags, and a whole lot of focus.
“I told my parents I wanted to be a professional golfer when I was 4 ½,” says Autumn, who attends Mercury Mine Elementary and is wrapping up third grade. “I just like playing golf and the golf courses.”
Since that bold declaration, Autumn’s been teeing up serious dedication. She practices putting daily at home and plays nine holes every Sunday with the PGA Junior League. She also fits in as many practice sessions as possible in between school, piano, and even lacrosse.
“Probably getting good shots and getting stronger” has been the hardest part, says Autumn. But she has a secret to success: “Just be positive all the time so you have good shots—and practice.”
She plays in several local programs including Girls Golf of Phoenix, Perfect Circle Golf, and Firebirds Junior Golf Development Club. Her early tournament days began with just one hole in the “Itty Bitty division. Now? She’s moved up to no-caddy play, meaning she tracks her own score, pushes her cart, and chooses her clubs all on her own.
“Each year we keep moving her up,” says Autumn’s mom, Jenna Dye. “She started with one hole, then three holes with a caddy, and now she’s doing three holes solo. It’s been amazing to watch her grow—not just in skill, but in confidence.”
“We are very proud of Autumn. She demonstrates a lot of focus, patience, and persistence with golf. It has been so amazing to watch her grow with this sport, says her mom.
That confidence got a boost when Autumn met her golf idol, LPGA pro Lexi Thompson.
“She turned pro at a young age,” says Autumn. “This year I was able to meet her at the LPGA Tour Championship at Whirlwind Golf Club in Chandler. I was a greeter at Hole 1, and I got to shake her hand.”
While Autumn has played in too many tournaments to count—sometimes up to three a month—one moment still tops her highlight reel.
“My most exciting was when I got my first birdie at Encanto 9,” she said. A birdie in golf means the player completed a hole one stroke under par. “I made a really long putt—it felt really good.”
For kids thinking about giving golf a try, Autumn has this advice: “Start practicing putting first. Then you can go on to chipping and driving. And stay positive when you’re learning because it’s hard in the beginning.”
According to Autumn, golf is more than a game—it’s a great way to make friends, stay active, and build focus. With her go-get-’em attitude, Autumn is proving that big dreams fit perfectly on little shoulders—and you can follow her journey to pro status on her parent-managed Instagram, @autumntaylorgolf.
