A simple moment we experience as a child can sometimes lead us down a path that will impact the rest of our lives. For lifelong member Connor Gaunt, that moment happened in a pasture located in the center of First Electric Cooperative’s service area. From the view of his stroller, he watched his father take swing after swing at a small white ball that would eventually lead the future golfer down an extraordinary and green path.

Before Connor could walk, he had an internal love of golf, and once he could, he had a club in his hands. Before age 10, he was traveling to compete in golf tournaments and was quickly ranked within the top 25 in the nation. As a sophomore at Cabot High School, he committed to playing for Arkansas Tech after graduating in 2019. During his time at Arkansas Tech, COVID-19 interfered, but it still set him up for success. He was later invited to play for Louisiana State University (LSU).

LSU not only greeted Connor with their welcoming culture but also granted him the opportunity to excel in his sport and education. His experience at LSU led him to become an All-American, a quarterfinalist at the 2023 U.S. Amateur, and a proud graduate holding a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s in business administration.

Connor has accomplished many things and is now appearing in the professional golf scene. Those cherished moments with his father in an Arkansas field have impacted Connor’s life in many ways. When asking Connor what accomplishment he would want to be most remembered for, his answer is one with sincere gratitude, “that I use my talents not to highlight myself but instead to highlight God’s greatness.” Before the beginning of each game, he prays that his actions represent the Lord and that he can honor Him through his gift. A lesson to remember is that during those seemingly simple moments, be present, for those moments could lead your life for years to come.