About Me
Born on the coast of San Jose, Guatemala grew up in Denver, CO, and in Steamboat Springs, CO. Attended the University of Nebraska, earned a degree in Professional Golf Management and a minor in business.
Growing up, I was interested in golfing and decided to dive into the golf industry. I am committed to providing high levels of customer service and sharing my deep understanding of golf with any player. I believe in teaching the individual and helping them work with their physical makeup. Everyone is different in their own way, and can be guided by a PGA Professional.
I have a passion for golf operations and club fitting. I see that becoming certified in many fields provides more opportunities to connect and make the best suggestion for improving the game of golf. I also like to support others in advancing their careers, in golf or in any activity. I have been known to be clutch in critical situations. I am poised in stressful times.
A New Outlook
At Catamount Ranch and Club, where I spent my first internship, I learned a lot about golf operations and outside services. After some time, I also learned how to operate Jonas and Foretees to keep the members on time. This is where I gained an appreciation of what differences a PGA pro can make. During the Covid year, this was a very helpful and amazing chance to be close to home and get the experience I was searching for at this early point in my professional career.
During my second year in the program, I headed to Hiwan Golf Club in Evergreen, CO. This was a very hands-on learning experience where I ran the golf shop and all operations. Working there taught me many things about myself and my work ethic. I enjoyed every moment and felt like I was a part of what it means to be in the industry. On top of the amazing mountain views, the elk would walk right up to you! One takeaway from this experience was to always be proactively looking to help and find opportunities to learn something new.
After what felt like a whole year off work, I had the fantastic opportunity to apply what I had learned at Columbine Country Club. This new world further opened my eyes to the wonders of the industry, where I had many opportunities to try out new things and shadow all teaching and club fittings, merchandise, and day-to-day operations. This is where I was able to dip my toe into every category and find what path I want to go on in my career. After spending two years at Columbine, I enjoyed working on the junior program and getting involved with tomorrow’s future golfers. I also enjoyed the niche of working on tournaments, shadowing other pros, and running a smooth tournament time after time.
High School and College
I attended Conifer high school, located 30 minutes outside of Denver in the foothills, where I was an honors student and earned varsity letters in three sports. I enjoyed teamwork in track and baseball, discipline in cross country, and having a couple of years of those sports under my belt, I picked up golf and found that to be my favorite sport of all. I stuck to it and found the game fun, especially the experience of playing a game outside with family and friends.
Upon graduating Conifer High School, I went on a trip to the University of Nebraska. After seeing the campus life at a Big Ten university, I was sold. I enjoyed Husker life and started to search for what I wanted to major in. I stumbled across the Professional Golf Management program and instantly connected with the faculty there. I am proud to join the alumni of Husker nation, and will stay connected to my university forever.
Side Projects and Interests
Working in the outdoors has been a huge part of my life. From high school to the present day, I have loved being in nature and learning more about different cultures or lifestyles. One way I enjoy being outside more is by fly fishing up on the Yampa River in Steamboat. I support “Trout Unlimited” because they put back into the environment. I enjoy fishing with or guiding friends to find that monster fish everyone wants to strike a pose with!
Jr. guide with Chuck Nasty
Teaching and Coaching
I have modeled my teaching style in golf by observing many professionals and their styles. This helps me adapt to the different ways individuals learn best. As I am teaching, I am always also learning.
“What did you like about that shot?”
“What didn’t you like about that shot?”
“What would you improve about that shot?”
These three simple questions have opened a new mindset that keeps me and the student thinking about the shot they are about to take. As mentioned in the video, talking out loud is a great way to visualize the shot you want to take.