WE ARE GOLF
Featuring David Havens, PGA
David's Journey
David Havens, PGA, truly embodies what it means to grow the game with purpose and heart. His life (and golf) story is one of resilience, generosity, and a lifelong commitment to making the game accessible to everyone.
From rebuilding golf courses in Bhutan to founding Spare for Change, his nonprofit that’s donated more than 46,000 clubs to new players, David has turned his passion for golf into impacting the lives of others – far beyond the fairways. His journey reflects a deep belief that golf can change lives — one swing and one opportunity at a time.
Q&A with David
What is your coaching philosophy?
"Fundamentals and enjoyment by way of vanilla ice cream teaching. The goal is to make sure the setup is sound, posture is correct, stance is stable; while using the skills they bring to the lesson. Everyone is different in mind and body size. Embrace it instead of changing it."
Why do you love golf?
"I have traveled the planet five times because I could hit a golf ball efficiently. I got my formal education paid for by Virginia Tech from being on the golf team but my true education from being on the different tours around the world. Golf provided me that priceless experience."
Would you rather play golf or coach golf?
"Coach. I've had my day in the sun. I want others to do it better than I did it."
"I teach golf as another language, as golf is spoken in over 200+ countries. Even though I have only been to 60 countries, the ones I have been to have all played a small part in my appreciation of a life golf has provided." ~David
David’s Favorite Golf Tips
"It’s often said, 'You drive for show and putt for dough.' However, if you drive the golf ball poorly, no one cares if you one-putt for an eight."
"The Driver is the fun factor. Learn to chase what is your max of hitting the Driver. Hit it as hard as you can. Yes, it may be wild, but you’ll know your potential and capability. My job is to teach you how to throttle it back for a guaranteed controllable swing that is manageable off the tee. The game is always evolving, and so should you."
What People Say About David
"David’s knowledge, dedication, and pure passion for helping people get better at this very difficult game set him apart. He definitely made a difference in my life.”
~ Brendon de Jonge, PGA Tour Player
“David Havens is one of the most dedicated and passionate PGA Professionals I’ve ever been around. The time he puts into his non-profit Spare for Change is truly remarkable. And he does it because he loves the game of golf and wants to see everyone have an opportunity to have a club so they can learn the game. David is growing the game, and his infectious personality has led to the incredible success of his non-profit.”
~ Scott Ashworth, PGA
"We have given out over 46,000 clubs since we became a nonprofit in 2011. I would say at least 20,000+ people. During our first few years, we only gave out one club per new player. Now I will give someone a club, then after a short period of time, three clubs. If the person is into it after that, I will give them a full set." ~David
5 Ways David is Trying to Make Golf Better.
David Havens, PGA
Director of Instruction - Eagle Ranch Golf Course
(808) 298-8012
mauihavens@gmail.com
- The biggest thing I have ever done in golf is start our nonprofit Spare for Change. It puts CLUBS in the hands of new players, both young and old. We are closing in on 50,000 CLUBS that have been given out since 2011.
- My PGA work involves teaching teachers. I’ve been a member of the PGA for almost 15 years, and to me, one of the most satisfying things I do is sharing my knowledge. Any PGA Member or Associate is always welcome to shadow my lessons and question anything I do when it comes to my teaching because I wanna pass on my knowledge.
- I believe in sharing the wealth of what I’ve built and the confidence that the PGA has given me. I still own my golf Academy on the island of Maui and allow fellow PGA Members/Associates who are looking for a start in the business or a fresh start to use it free of charge to get established. They will pay me back by passing it on to future PGA members and associates. Maria Castellanos, who is in Level 3, is currently the beneficiary. She’s a rock star and will make the PGA better.
- Leaving the last place I worked in better shape than when I first started. For example, Kaanapali golf courses on the island of Maui had very little practice facility. There was a space I developed for FREE as a practice hole/teaching area that was 175 yards. I did trade with students who helped me build out the space for Golf Lessons and access to the course, resources that were readily available to use. We had no budget for such a project, but there is always a way if you want it badly enough.
- Preaching the gospel of Golf, no matter where you are, people can be taught about the greatness of golf. I often refer to Golf as a résumé skill or another language when talking about the game. Golf is spoken in over 200 countries. I never miss a chance to explain to people what Golf could do for them.
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