Young people are not disposable regardless of the melanin in their skin.
Samuel G. Puryear, Jr. was blessed to meet Brandon, Shelton, Willie, Eric, Rod and their families, who lived in a crippling, drug-infested, dysfunctional environment in Atlanta’s East Lake neighborhood. Amid the blight shone two beautiful golf courses, which helped change their lives and shaped an entire community. Samuel tells the astonishing story of social injustice, a false accusation and its conceivable impact, and how their resilience met with youthful naivety enabled these kids to blossom into wonderful adults. Their journey of overcoming adversity allowed a bevy of dreams to come true, although some arrived hobbled and bandaged.
Diamonds in the Rough was written to serve as an example to other youth and families. Success is often dressed as a stranger, but upon closer inspection, it is only our reflection in an unpolished mirror. This empowering book shows that faith, inspiration, and hope are innate to each of us.
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PRAISE FOR "DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH"
“Coach Puryear is uniquely qualified to write this book. His story and the story of East Lake reflect what is good, bad, and most importantly what is possible in our lives if we will follow his lead and embody a service mind and heart.”
— Tyrone Willingham, Head Football Coach at Stanford University, University of Notre Dame and University of Washington
“A heroic tale of one black man shining his light on those often assumed as less fortunate, but are they?”
— Jermel Nakia, actor (NBC’s This Is Us)
“Sam Puryear’s new book depicts the life he has traveled with his faith and calling for serving youth.This is a must read for everyone; golfers and non-golfers alike. It will touch your heart.”
— Ed Mitchell, Ed Mitchell Technologies
“Sam did an outstanding job securing PGA Tour support for [the film From the Rough]. He continues to be a highly valued advisor to me.”
— Mike Critelli, Former CEO of Pitney Bowles, entrepreneur, health care consultant, feature film producer, speaker
“I’ve known Sam for many years to be a tireless worker and mentor who has shaped many young lives through golf. He has a real passion for the change and growth that occurs when young men see and achieve greatness.”
—Chris Tucker, comedian/actor
“The story of the young men in this book is an amazing firsthand narrative of how the game of golf helped shape the lives of people in a positive way. This story highlights the perseverance of young people overcoming some incredible odds.”
— Conrad Ray, the Knowles Family Director of Men’s Golf at Stanford University
“Sam motivated me to be a better person and a better golfer. He had a unique way of challenging me to succeed in all phases of life. I’m most thankful for my growth as an individual under Sam’s leadership.”
—Ryan Brehm, PGA Tour player, former Michigan State University golfer