Former USC standout Jamie Lovemark - and former number one ranked amateur - has made it official: he will forego his senior year and turn pro.  He debuts this week at the Canadian Open.

The PGA Tour got a quick quote from Lovemark about the transition:

"Playing professionally has been a dream for me for many years, and I'm excited that this dream is coming true," said Lovemark, who won the 2005 Western Amateur at age 17 to become the youngest champion in tournament history. "I've been able to play in a number of professional tournaments already, so I know it is a big challenge, but I'm looking forward to pushing myself and working to become a better player."

Lovemark has nearly won on the Nationwide Tour in 2007, as an amateur.  He lost in a playoff to Chris Riley at the Rochester Area Charities Showdown at Somerby. 

Clearly, his equipment loyalty was a hot commodity.  Ultimately, Lovemark chose to sign with Nike Golf.

"I'm a big fan of Nike and am inspired by all that the company stands for," said Lovemark. "They really care about the athletes and are passionate about developing products that help us get better. I'm impressed by the work they do and how they do it. They listen to the athlete and then turn around and create great products. It is such an inspirational company and I'm proud to be a part of the team."

Nike is on a roll, having won two of the three majors this year.  Lovemark has a solid amateur record on the PGA Tour.  Who knows?  Maybe he could pull something together this week at Glen Abbey.