Local caddie receives elite scholarship
Walled Lake Northern’s DesRochers honored to be an Evans Scholar
When Phillip DesRochers started as a caddie in the summer after eighth grade he didn’t know much about golf. That’s common with beginners carrying the bags.
Four summers later, he’s not an expert but certainly knows the basics when it comes to golf.
DesRochers, who will graduate from Walled Lake Northern, was named one of 31 Evans Scholars in the state of Michigan. The elite scholarships are awarded to caddies who meet the selection criteria: a strong caddie record; excellent academics; demonstrated financial need; and outstanding character. Each scholarship covers a full ride for four years and is estimated to be worth $120,000.
“It’s just like kind of an honor not many people get it, I was proud of myself for getting it,’’ DesRochers said. “It’s nice to know I have financial freedom after I’m done with college and I can focus on my future and my job, everything that I want.’’
He caddies at Edgewood Country Club in Commerce Township.
“I love most of the members there, they’re really nice and just going out and walking as a job and helping others, it’s fun for me,’’ DesRochers said.
If the governor allows caddies this summer, he will return.
“The members were super supportive, we hosted our own Evans Scholar event. That’s when people come and donate, sponsor the event and to help raise money to donate to the Evans Scholar program,’’ DesRochers said.
The Western Golf Association,
headquartered in Glenview, Ill., has supported the Chick Evans Scholarship Program through the Evans Scholars Foundation since 1930. One of golf’s favorite charities, it is the nation’s largest scholarship program for caddies.
DesRochers will study computer science at Michigan State.
“I’m really into math and everything, math goes into the computer science area,’’ DesRochers said. “I’m a fan of technology and I’ve heard there’s a lot of job opportunity with a computer science degree.’’
While he enjoys being a caddie he still hasn’t taken up the game of golf. That could change, though, since his grandfather bought him a set of golf clubs to celebrate his Evans Scholarship.