“The Tribe is a Game Changer” – Leighton Smith named T.O.Y.

“The Tribe is a Game Changer” – Leighton Smith named Teacher of the Year

The Teacher of the Year Award bestows special recognition on a Colorado PGA Professional for excellence in golf instruction, along with overall performance. Congratulations Leighton Smith, PGA of Leighton Smith Golf, for being this year’s award recipient!

Since turning pro in 2011, Leighton knew he wanted to teach and help golfers reach their full potential. He has worked alongside golf legend Hank Haney teaching some of the best junior golfers in the world, but in 2017, Smith decided it was time to take a leap of faith and start his own business. “I’m truly trying to change what golf instruction looks like, I want to be different. I started The Tribe in 2017 because I saw the need for true coaching, versus just instruction. Being a coach allows me to be a guide in someone’s golf story.” Smith started “The Tribe” with the goal of having an accountability system built into his program. Leighton didn’t allow the pandemic to slow him down. Despite COVID19, The Tribe program grew over 200%. He’ll tell you, “The Tribe isn’t golf instruction, it’s a movement, and I’m trying to make it better week after week” and that’s exactly what he’s doing. “I want to be remembered for my impact.”

What does this award mean to you?

It means so much – for a few key reasons. Being self-employed and taking that leap of faith in 2017 when I started my own business, it’s validation, I’ve put my blood sweat and tears into this. Being a part of something awesome, being a part of other people’s stories – their golf games, making friends, being a part of other “speed dial.” Working hard for four years, I didn’t know if I had what it takes, but I’ve been able to build the relationships, and it’s humbling. It means that there’s success, and other people are a part of that. This isn’t a solo thing – it’s all the people who have believed in me and have given me the opportunity to be their coach.

What are the qualities that you possess that you believe supported you in winning this award?

I have to practice what I preach, and it’s about the process. For me and my business and my dreams, it’s a long runway, and it’s not about how quickly I can take this flight, it’s about your cornerstones: being accountable, holding others accountable, learning about other people’s “why.” I feel like being able to understand the real “why” as to why they’re calling me, if they’re making the investment, I want to sit down and understand their background. It’s a two-way street though: me as a coach, and them as a student. We have to hold each other accountable. I want this to be the best golf investment you ever make.

What are the tools that you use in your professional career that have helps you with your success

Having a support system, my own personal Tribe. My wife and 2 boys, mentors, other coaches, PGA Professionals, entrepreneurs, friends who keep me grounded, and my faith. But staying grounded is also incredibly important, I am thankful for those who surround me and who support me.

As it relates to golf, what is the best piece of advice would you give to others?

What are you chasing? What is your pursuit of happiness? Being an entrepreneur, trying to take control of my finances, my family, it’s hard to navigate, so really determining what you’re chasing – finding my own why. Find your dream and work backwards from there, versus just grinding to grind aimlessly, without a purpose.

What’s your proudest moment of being a golf professional?

When we find success, when I get the text that someone did what they set out to achieve. It makes me proud of my tribe and the system. There’s adversity first, so when adversity is matched with success and their efforts pay off, it makes my effort worth it too. It can be a frustrating game, so when people achieve their goals, it makes me proud. This award makes me proud. The collective effort that this is, from my Tribe, my wife and family, it’s something I’ll cherish forever.

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Steve VanDyke, PGA, Elected as President of Colorado PGA’s West Chapter, Alongside Newly Appointed At-Large Directors

By Steven Bartowski • 19 Apr, 2024

Larkspur, CO - The West Chapter of the Colorado Professional Golfers' Association (COPGA) proudly announces the election of Steve VanDyke, PGA, as its newest President, alongside the appointment of esteemed At-Large Directors. PGA of America Golf Professional Steve VanDyke brings a wealth of experience and a profound dedication to the West Chapter PGA of America Golf Professionals and Associates, making him an ideal candidate to lead the West Chapter. With an almost 20-year career as a Class A PGA of America Golf Professional and a passion for the sport that shines through in every endeavor, VanDyke is poised to steer the Colorado PGA West Chapter toward a future marked by excellence. "It is an honor and a privilege to serve as President of the West Chapter PGA," said Steve VanDyke, PGA. "I am deeply committed to advancing the interests of our members, promoting the growth of golf at all levels, and fostering a vibrant and supportive community within the region. Together with my fellow directors and the entire West Chapter membership, I look forward to charting a course that ensures the continued success and vitality of the West Chapter PGA." Joining President VanDyke in this new chapter of leadership is a group of distinguished At-Large Directors whose expertise and vision will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of the Colorado PGA West Chapter. These directors bring diverse perspectives, extensive industry knowledge, and a shared commitment to advancing the golf industry and enhancing the professional lives of PGA of America Golf Professionals. The newly appointed At-Large Directors are: Cody Hasten, PGA Head Professional at Haymaker Golf Course Jim Pratt, PGA General Manager at Aspen Glen Golf Club (beginning a new term) Continuing with their At-Large Director roles are: Loren Forney, PGA Member Trey Johnson, PGA Assistant Professional at Vail Golf Club Mark Matz, PGA Head Professional at Beaver Creek Golf Club Tim Tafoya, PGA Director of Golf at Tiarado Golf Course We would like to thank Luke Brosterhous, PGA, who served selflessly as West Chapter President before VanDyke. During his term, Luke was instrumental in raising the standards for education and the West Chapter Cup Matches. Luke will now slide into the Honorary President role on the Board. Their combined talents and dedication to the principles of the Colorado PGA will undoubtedly enrich the West Chapter's initiatives and programs, benefitting both members and the broader golfing community. "We are thrilled to welcome Steve VanDyke as our new West Chapter President and to introduce our esteemed At-Large Directors," said Cathy Matthews-Kane, PGA President of the Colorado PGA Section. "Under their leadership, we are confident that the West Chapter PGA will continue to thrive and uphold its legacy as a beacon of excellence for the members of the chapter. We are also excited to welcome Mr. VanDyke to the Section Board of Directors as West Chapter President." For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Steven Bartkowski CEO/Executive Director Colorado PGA Section PGA REACH Colorado Foundation 303.996.1593 sbartkowski@pgahq.com About the Colorado PGA West Chapter: The West Chapter of the Colorado PGA encompasses those Members and Associates that work west of the Continental Divide in the state of Colorado. The West Chapter is made up of approximately 100 Members and Associates with over 50 facilities being located in the Chapter. The West Chapter is governed by Officers elected by the Chapter Membership. The Core Purpose of the Chapter is to deliver the member programs and services of the Colorado PGA on the Western Slope. The West Chapter provides continuing education, pro-only, and pro-am tournaments.