KemperSports Golf Professional Feature: Joe Smith

KemperSports is one of the largest employers of PGA professionals in the country. In conjunction with our ongoing player development initiatives, we will share features on golf professionals within the KemperSports portfolio of properties – experienced individuals dedicated to growing the game and sharing their passion for golf with others.

 

Joe Smith
PGA Head Golf Professional at Swenson Park Golf Course (Stockton, CA)

 

Q: What motivated you to begin teaching?
A: I began teaching the game purely out of my love for the game and desire to grow it.

 

Q: What has been the most impactful moment in your teaching career thus far?
A: I am impacted every time I listen to golfers, teachers and other PGA members.  I believe I can learn from everyone.

 

Q: What advice do you have for a beginner picking up the game?
A: Golf can and should be fun.  Make it fun and social first, then try to improve.  Laugh at mistakes; we all made the same ones.

 

Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job?
A: Growing the Swenson Junior Golf League from 4 juniors to over 200 junior members in just over 3 years.

 

Q: In your opinion, what makes golf great and fun?
A: Well I just played in a tournament and on my team was my 9 year old son, 12 year old daughter, 71 year old father and my wife.  You will not find a better way to spend time with the ones you love.  The people make it fun.