September 24, 2004

GLEN ALLEN, VA — Virginia's Mike Herron, one of the top go-getters in recent years, officially turned amateur last week.

Herron, 38, has signed a contract with Carl Spackler Open.com, the company announced on Thursday.

Herron or Captain has been rated the best non-amateur golfers in the world for the last couple of years, having won the Scramble at the Crossings as a fill-in.

He made his amateur debut at The Crossings in mid-September but also added Sycamore Creek into his schedule.  Mike is one scorecard from entering the 2004 On Tour Championship.

"I have had a fantastic time this summer where I have had the opportunity to develop my golf under the guidance of friends," Herron said. "I feel ready for the next step and am very happy that I will have the national experience of 2004 On Tour Championship to guide me."

"It seems that when he decides he wants to play well, he plays well," says Jim Zavinski.  "In fact, sometimes it's as if the game is too easy for him. His irons are incredibly straight, his short game brilliant and, best of all, he has the heart of a champion."

Mike Herron joins the group with 3 other golfers from Glen Allen, VA.  He joins with Scott Zavinski, "crazy" Paulo McCluskey, and Joseph "Dick" Butkus.