Alyssa Naeher: USA’s Star Goalkeeper Behind Historic World Cup Wins
Get to know Alyssa Naeher, the fearless U.S. Women’s National Team goalkeeper known for her clutch saves, standout World Cup performances, and dedication to the game.
Jul 27, 2025120 Shares120K Views
Wally Armstrongwas born on June 19, 1945, in New London, Connecticut. He grew up in Indiana, where he worked as a caddie on a small nine-hole golf course while still in school. He carried bags, looked for lost balls, and watched the club champion play—this early experience helped him fall in love with golf. He won the state high school golf championship as a senior before receiving a golf scholarship to the University of Florida. There, he played for the Florida Gators men’s golf team from 1965 to 1967, earned All‑American honors in 1966, and helped his team place second and third in NCAA competition. Armstrong earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education in 1968 and followed with a master’s degree in public health in 1969—all while continuing to compete in college golf.
Professisonal Career
Wally Armstrong played on the PGA Tour from 1974 to 1984, competing in more than 300 Tour events, including all the major championships like the Masters, U.S. Open, PGA Championship, and British Open. His best finish in a major came at the 1978 Masters, where he tied for fifth place, setting a rookie scoring record of eight under par.
Although he never won on the PGA Tour, he came close several times—tying for second at the 1974 Sahara Invitational, the 1975 Pensacola Open, and the 1977 Western Open. Before turning fully professional, he won the 1973 Indiana Open as a pro, his only official victory.
After his playing days, Wally became well-known as a golf instructor and author. He created the Swing the Circle teaching method, which uses simple props like coat hangers, hula hoops, and brooms to help golfers feel the correct circular swing motion, rather than relying on complex mechanics. He also founded the national junior golf program called SNAG, which has taught millions of children basic golf in a fun and easy way. He produced the bestselling video series “Maximizing Your Game”, which sold over 400,000 copies, and he authored or co-authored several books including In His Grip, The Mulligan, Practicing the Presence of Jesus, and Finishing the Course.
Wally continues leading clinics and speaking events around the world—reportedly more than 1,500 outings in over 20 countries—combining golf lessons, personal stories, and faith-based inspiration. His peers, including Hall of Famer Gary Player, have praised him as “the true master of teaching the feel of the game”.
Professional Wins
Wally Armstrong has one official professional win. He won the 1973 Indiana Open, which remains his only recognized victory as a pro golfer.
Although he did not win on the PGA Tour during his career from 1974 to 1984, he came very close several times. Armstrong tied for second at three events: the 1974 Sahara Invitational, the 1975 Pensacola Open, and the 1977 Western Open.
So in total, his professional wins count stands at one tournament title, the 1973 Indiana Open.
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