Meet the Member: Ben Lake, PGA
Ben Lake, PGA – Biology, Boots, and Birdies
Ben Lake, PGA, is a passionate and driven golf professional whose journey began in Victoria, Texas. A multisport athlete throughout his childhood, Ben competed in rodeo, football, baseball, and golf with his competitive spirit sharpened by a constant rivalry with his twin sister. It was during his freshman year at Victoria East High School that he committed fully to golf, the sport his father had first introduced him to through junior clinics at Victoria Country Club.
As a standout in STPGA Junior Golf, Ben earned a scholarship to play collegiate golf at the University of West Alabama. He later transferred back home to the University of Houston–Victoria, joining the UHV golf team and working part-time at Victoria Country Club, the course where his passion for the game first took root. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, unsure if his next steps would lead him to the classroom or the course.
Shortly after graduation, Ben received a call from his former high school coach. “He asked me if I had ever thought about teaching,” Ben recalls. “I had thought about it and could envision myself being a teacher.” He took the opportunity, stepping into a role as a biology teacher at Victoria East. Though he enjoyed the experience, Ben found himself frequently returning to Victoria Country Club in his free time to help with lessons and continue playing the game he loved.
At the end of the school year, Ben faced a crossroads: return to grading papers or take a leap back into golf. That’s when Joe Mitchell Jr., PGA, called with news of an open Assistant Professional position at Victoria Country Club. Ben jumped at the opportunity. “I have so much gratitude and appreciation for everything Joe has done for me and my career,” Ben says. “I owe it all to him, and I wouldn't be where I am right now if not for him.”
With Joe’s mentorship and encouragement, Ben began his pursuit of PGA Membership while fully immersing himself in the operations and culture of the club. In 2024, after years of growth and hard work, he completed Level 3 and was elected to PGA Membership.
While competing in a Match Play event at Briggs Ranch Golf Club, Ben mentioned his plans to move to San Antonio with his girlfriend, who had recently graduated. He connected with PGA Members Derrick Dixon and Mike Frost, expressing his interest in future opportunities in the area. Not long after, Briggs Ranch reached out to Joe Mitchell for a recommendation and extended Ben an offer to join their professional team.
Now an Assistant Golf Professional at Briggs Ranch, Ben continues to grow his career with a clear vision for the future. “I like to say I’m a 26-year-old with 11 years of experience, but I am still very much so learning,” Ben shares. “I want to grow and work my way up, with the ultimate goal being a General Manager. I love relationship building, providing high-level customer service to my members, and would love to eventually be in a position to build my own culture at a club.”
Ben’s path has been shaped by his love for the game, his respect for mentorship, and his conviction in the value of lifelong learning—all values he now brings to one of the most esteemed clubs in Texas.
