Facility: Esmeralda Golf Course
Hometown: Spokane, WA
PGA Member Since: 2012
With a passion for coaching and a dedication to growing the game, Michelle Grafos, PGA, of Esmeralda Golf Course has transformed youth golf programs through her innovative and engaging approach.
A Spokane, Washington native, Grafos didn’t start playing golf until her sophomore year of high school. With unwavering family support and the mentorship of Hall of Fame Coach Mary Lou Mulflur and her University of Washington teammates, Grafos’ love for the game flourished. She credits the Spokane golf community, her husband Josh, and her daughter Tia for shaping her career and supporting her commitment to youth golf.
As Director of Player Development at Esmeralda, Grafos has built one of the region’s most impactful junior programs, with over 200 young golfers participating annually. Her philosophy combines fun and fundamentals, ensuring that players remain engaged while developing essential skills. Her influence extends beyond Esmeralda, as many former students return as junior coaches, continuing the cycle of mentorship and community building.
Grafos’ efforts are amplified by strong community support—including that of Les Schwab, a key partner in junior golf across the Inland Empire and Central Washington Chapters. As a proud Title Sponsor, Les Schwab’s investment has helped fund junior golf grants and expand access to programs like the one Grafos leads. This partnership enables PGA Professionals to reach more young players, deliver meaningful experiences, and build lifelong connections to the game.
In her role as chair of the Inland Empire Chapter PGA’s Player Development Committee, Grafos has spearheaded initiatives like handing out 500 free clubs to kids at the Spokane Golf Show and increasing participation in the Chapter Pro-Junior Tournament, now at full capacity for two consecutive seasons.
For Grafos, junior golf is about more than just the game. It’s about fostering honesty, respect, and hard work in young players. She encourages fellow PGA Professionals to get involved, emphasizing the joy of seeing a young golfer’s excitement after a great shot.