As the Palos Verdes Golf Club marks its centennial, we delve into the life of one of the club’s most dedicated figures Mr. Jim Gormley, whose passion for the game and commitment to the club have left an indelible mark.
Gormley’s love for golf began at a young age, driven by the allure of the sport’s challenges and the camaraderie it fosters. His journey as a golfer is a testament to his dedication and skill, attributes that have defined his career and relationship with Palos Verdes Golf Club.
While Gormley’s personal achievements on the greens are noteworthy, his story is deeply intertwined with the history and evolution of the club itself. Reflecting on his early days, he credits influential figures like Mark Fowler for steering him back to the club when he was on the verge of accepting a position on the East Coast. “Mark was the one who talked me into coming back here. He believed in the potential of what we could achieve together,” Gormley recalls.
The Palos Verdes Golf Club, now celebrating 100 years, is rich with stories and legacies. Gormley’s role at the club is significant, particularly in his efforts to promote the LPGA and junior golf programs. His dedication to nurturing young talent and fostering a welcoming environment for female golfers has been instrumental in shaping the club’s inclusive culture.
Gormley’s tenure as the head professional at Palos Verdes was not handed to him on a silver platter. It was the belief and support of the club’s board members and many others that gave him the opportunity to prove himself. “They took a chance on me, a young kid without much experience but with a willingness to work hard and do the right things for the club,” Gormley reflects with gratitude.
He and his wife Melinda love and appreciate their PV life and relish in the joys of raising their three daughters Megan, 22, Bridget,19 and Paige 14, on the hill. Megan graduated from Georgetown University in May. She was the captain of the Women’s Golf Team and is starting her Master’s in Sports Management and using her final year of eligibility to play for the golf team. Bridget is a rising sophomore at Texas Christian University, majoring in business with a focus on finance. Paige is entering 8th grade at PV Intermediate School and competes with the Next Level team at Fusion Dance Studio.
The family leads a busy golf focused life. “I recently served as President of the Peninsula Chapter of National Charity League, Inc. and volunteer my time in the community and through my children’s schools and activities,” Melinda says. “Jim and I met at PV Golf Club after my dad arranged a golf lesson for my sister and I and we are celebrating our 26th wedding anniversary this August, so PVGC holds a special place in our life.”
As he walks the course today, Gormley sees more than just fairways and greens; he sees a tapestry of memories, friendships, and the spirit of a family and community that has grown stronger over the years. His influence at the club is seen not just in the programs he’s initiated but in the very culture that defines Palos Verdes Golf Club.
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the club, Gormley stands as a symbol of its enduring legacy. His story is a reminder of the passion and dedication that keep the spirit of golf alive and thriving at Palos Verdes. As the club looks to the future, Gormley’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of golfers to carry forward the rich traditions and values that make Palos Verdes Golf Club a cherished institution.
In Gormley’s own words, “It’s about the history, the people, and the love for the game. That’s what makes Palos Verdes Golf Club so special.” And as the club embarks on its next century, it does so with the promise of continuing the legacy that Gormley and others have so passionately built.
Megan Gormley: Following in her Father’s Footsteps
Megan Gormley, following in the footsteps of her golf pro father Jim, graduated from Georgetown University in May with a major in political science and a minor in theology. As the captain of the Georgetown University Women’s Golf Team, she was named Big East Player of the Year in 2024.
This fall, Megan will begin her Master’s in Sports Management at Georgetown while using her final year of eligibility to continue playing for the women’s golf team. She is excited to return to the place, where her dedication to both academics and athletics will undoubtedly continue to shine.
