DATE: Wednesday, September 3, 1997          TAG: 9709020262

SECTION: SPORTS                  PAGE: C6   EDITION: FINAL 

COLUMN: FORE!

YOUR WEEKLY LOCAL GOLF REPORT

SOURCE: BY C.A. ``BUTCH'' LIEBLER 

                                            LENGTH:   44 lines

DON'T FORCE GOLF ON KIDS

Golf is on the threshold of experiencing one of the greatest golfers of all time in Tiger Woods. In his short time as a pro, Tiger has accomplished goals few others can attain in a lifetime. His father programmed Tiger early on to become a golfer that may set records unsurpassed by Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Bobby Jones and the like.

At the ripe old age of 20, Tiger is already a multimillionaire and already this year has won four PGA Tour events, including the Masters. He has become a hero to young and old, male and female, and to all ethnic backgrounds, and has handled this mantle with class and dignity.

As a golf professional, I have one concern: parents hoping to see their dreams realized through their children. My fear is that parents will push children at an early age into a greatness that they may never accomplish, keeping their children from experiencing the fun of growing up. I caution all parents to allow their children to experience life as a whole and not be so narrow-minded as to expect them all to become a Tiger Woods.

When I was a young man my parents encouraged me to reach out and discover all aspect of life - the social environment, sports, and the arts. They truly wanted me to experience what life is all about. As a golf professional, I encourage my children and students to do the same, introducing them not only to my love and dedication to my sports, but to all facets of life itself. I encourage them to take piano, play soccer, baseball and, yes, golf; to learn to dance, debate, chair various committees, and be active in school. My only request as a parent is that they complete their commitment to any activity in which they are enrolled.

Tiger Woods is an exception to the rule, not the rule. He is truly going to be a champion and I feel that his real successes will one day be outside of the golf arena, into areas where he can heal wounds, create diplomacy and make our world a markedly better place to live.

Please allow your children to grow on their own, experience what they want to experience - not what you want them to experience. Let them do it with your guidance and do not make their world one of single vision. MEMO: Liebler is head pro at Cavalier Golf and Yacht Club in Virginia

Beach.

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