Besides the physical supplement of volleyball, Lisa said Butters’ first golf coach, Kay Cornelius, saved him from experiencing any burnout as early as 5 years old. Butters saw her for lessons until about the age of 10 but still connects with Cornelius as a mentor.
“He took a hiatus from golf for like six months as a young kid,” Lisa said. “I don’t know if we would have gotten the same (advice) from a male coach.”
Through the many highs and lows of golf and volleyball, Butters documents it all on his Instagram. An increased social media presence is not unique among his peers, but Lisa, who has helped him with his social footprint, said his intent even at 16 is to show younger aspiring athletes that it’s OK to post more than just the good stuff.
Golf is undoubtedly Butters’ priority, but that won’t stop him from continuing with Aspire and playing volleyball for Perry his remaining two seasons.