My First Tee journey started back in 2001 as we were introduced to the concept of life skills education through golf when I was the Head Golf Professional at Riverview Golf Course. I became the Executive Director and Lead Coach in 2005 of The First Tee of San Juan County, beginning the journey into the unknown.
Fast forward to today and the organization has grown way beyond anything I would have imagined. From a local grass roots operation to a regional youth development power, the trip has been a roller coaster ride of emotion…and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I am a PGA Golf Professional that got his start as a caddy way back in 1986 in Cincinnati, Ohio. I earned my PGA accreditation through the New Mexico State University PGA Golf Management School where I graduated in 1996. I made my way back to New Mexico and landed in Farmington in 2000, met my wife, Kelly and raised our two kids, Quinn and Annie (one who plays Division 1 Golf at Nebraska and the other who will be playing Division 1 Golf in 2025 at Florida Gulf Coast).
I am passionate about paying forward to the next generation all that was given to me by my many PGA mentors growing up. I love the game of golf and have seen firsthand what it can do for kids, families and veterans. It spans generations and is the greatest gift in teaching the core fundamentals needed to be successful in life’s journey.
I am a die-hard Cincinnati fan (Bengals, Reds, Bearcats) and have seen the band Phish 34 times. I have also been awarded the PGA National Player Development Award in 2021 and am the 2024 Sun Country PGA Golf Professional of the Year.
As the Executive Director since 2018, I’ve seen firsthand how First Tee can transform lives. My inspiration to join First Tee came from watching the incredible impact it had on my own kids. With a background in marketing and having owned my own business, I’ve honed skills that are essential in the nonprofit sector. I’m proud to be part of the First Tee network and all the opportunities it brings to connect with like-minded individuals who are equally passionate about empowering young people through golf.
I love sharing the story of First Tee because it’s not just about golf; it’s about building a community where everyone can succeed. From veterans finding camaraderie on the golf course to young girls discovering their inner strength, to individuals with special needs competing to win in an inclusive space – every story fuels my passion for this work.
I’m a lifelong learner and thrive on high adventure. I love all things mountains and music festivals. Hiking with my family is my favorite weekend activity and I think that ice cream should be a food group!
I joined First Tee in June 2024, driven by a passion for coaching that began during my time at Western New Mexico University. I was fortunate to learn from two incredible mentors, Coach Kent Beatty and Kristen Kennedy, who shaped my approach to coaching and inspired me to help others grow through golf. I graduated from Kirtland Central High School in 2009 and went on to play Division II Golf at WNMU, where I won five tournaments and achieved a 22nd place finish at the Division II National Championship.
After earning my degree in 2014, I stayed on as a graduate assistant for the women’s golf team and coached until 2019, also serving as Head Golf Professional at the University Golf Course. In 2019, I moved back to Farmington, taking on the Assistant Golf Professional role at Riverview Golf Course before moving to San Juan Country Club.
Joining First Tee has been the most rewarding chapter of my career, as it allows me to impact lives by teaching life skills through golf and fostering strong community relationships.
Fun Fact: Volleyball is such a huge part of my life; we play volleyball every Sunday at the park with my family and friends.
