WE ARE GOLF
Featuring David Havens, PGA
David's Journey
NEEDS TO BE UPDATED. For Maggie Hartman, PGA, golf has always been more than a career—it’s been the constant in her life. Over the past 16 years, she’s given 2,100+ lessons to 650+ students, mostly juniors, finding joy in their growth both on and off the course.
As a kid, the golf course was where Maggie felt most at home—surrounded by mentors who shaped her path. Today, she pays it forward by helping young golfers find their footing, their confidence, and their love for the game.
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 (NEW TOPIC)
"All players, with all shots, should hold a balanced finish – also known as a 'trophy pose'."
"Here's my tip for getting up and down around the greens more often. On your next chip, pay attention to the break and the curve it takes, especially if it rolls past the hole. With this info, you don’t have to worry so much about reading your next putt and stressing about which side is the high side or the low side. You just saw how the ball rolled. Use that knowledge and knock your putt in the hole!"
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.”
~ Brandon 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 Tips for Parents of Competitive Juniors (NEW TOPIC?)
Parents need to focus on supporting their juniors while the players compete, develop emotionally, and enjoy the game we all love.
- Never force them to stay at the golf course. Leaving should never be the reward - "We can leave when you make 3 more putts."
- Reward effort, not outcomes. Make it their idea & honor their autonomy.
- Never golf hungry. Eat first.
- You both should be having fun. If that changes, ask a PGA Pro for help.
- Ice cream has never made things worse.
David Havens, PGA
Director of Instruction - Eagle Ranch Golf Course
(808) 298-8012
mauihavens@gmail.com
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