Central Mississippi, like much of the South, is known for its slow pace and friendly atmosphere. Those two characteristics draw both tourists and transplants alike.

Matt Stewart, the new general manager and head golf professional at the Vicksburg Country Club, said those reasons—in conjunction with the chance to fulfill a career goal—drew him to his new position.
“The opportunity arose, and here I am,” Stewart, who moved to Vicksburg after managing Cyrpesswood Golf Club in Houston, said. “I’ve been in the northeast, south Florida and Texas. I’m pretty laid back so I’m enjoying the atmosphere here. I love the job, and I love the membership here. They’re all fantastic.”

The position as general manager is something he said he as been working toward since realizing he wanted to make the days he spent with his uncle at the golf course into a career.

“I started playing golf when I was 3-years-old,” he said. “I wanted to be like my uncle, who was a golf pro and course superintendent. I was (at the course) every day out there playing. I love the game of golf. You have to love it to be dedicated to it and spend all day out there.”

Stewart said his uncle inspired him to continue his career ambitions after becoming a successful golfer in college.

“My uncle just said, ‘Don’t stop,’” Stewart said. “He told me to know the golf side of it and the golf course side of it.”

Steward said his 25 years of related experience allowed him to do just that.

His newest position at the country club is an opportunity to grow, he said, noting that he eventually wants to put in the years of work required to become a master professional in the Professional Golf Association of America.

“I want to continue to get better,” he said.

The Vicksburg Country Club includes golf, tennis, swimming and dining options for its 240 members, a number Stewart said he hopes to increase.

“It’s an exciting time right now at the club with the different type of memberships and the summer programs,” he said.

Stewart said he has spent his first month handling business responsibilities, getting to know his 15 employees, walking the property and meeting the club members.

“I haven’t had a chance to play (the course) yet,” he said, laughing. “I’ve been around it numerous time, but I haven’t’ gotten a chance to play. One of these days I’ll get out there.

“(My job) is about catering to the membership. They want to see me out and about.”