Phil Mickelson has 5 major wins in his PGA career, yet he has finished runner up a record 6 times in the US Open. And his shot at the grand slam will have to wait another year, as lefty will miss this year's major in order to attend his daughter's high school graduation.
“When Phil made that announcement, it was a little bit of a surprise,” says Tucson native Derek Deminsky, who started an online petition in hopes of the school changing the date of the graduation. I’m not surprised he would do that for his family.”
The head instructor at Forty Niner country club here in Tucson had initially thought to start a petition to get Steve Stricker into the tournament. Stricker ended up qualifying on his own. And the two may be paired together if Mickelson does not withdraw. As of today, Mickelson had not withdrawn.
“People think I’m out holding a sign, and saying change the date. So I like to think of it more as a polite request,” says Deminsky.
As of today, the petition has gathered almost 3,000 signatures and has received national attention. The petition states that his decision shows the kind of caring father Mickelson is. But if there is any way to move it, golf fans everywhere would greatly appreciate it. Some even suggested hosting the 105 graduates at Phil’s own home.
“Sign autographs, take pictures with the kids, donate the money he wins to the school. Maybe make it easier to get behind him,” says Deminsky.
The school says they have no plans to move the ceremony, so, if no lefty...who is Deminsky picking for this year's us open? “I believe Dustin Johnson is the favorite for sure…but I’m going to root for Stricker.
The link to the petition can be found here: http://on.kgun9.com/2rVQtxr
