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Dave Youpa

The director of golf at Industry Hills knows that a proper grip on the club - and on life - is the key to succes

By Southland Golf MagazinePublished: July, 2007

Dave Youpa was 6 years old when he first picked up the game in Downer's Grove, Illinois. That's a long way from the City of Industry, where he now resides as the director of golf at Industry Hills Golf Club.

And what a journey it's been.

"Golf has been a great experience in my life," said Youpa, who's been imparting knowledge on students since he became a PGA apprentice in 1992.

What's the best golf tip you've ever received?

To make a good turn. What I mean is that most people when they play golf, it's all about lifting the club up and taking a swat at it. Good golfers make a turn. I was taught to hit the golf ball with my whole body. The turn begins at address. I turn my back to the target on the take-away. I then turn my whole body back at the target.


What's the most common problem you see in your students, and how do you fix it?

It's a lack of practice and grip pressure that is too tight. When people learn to play golf, they're always squeezing the golf club. I fix it by teaching them how to grip the golf club properly and lightly.


What's the most satisfying thing about being a golf teacher?

I get pleasure in helping somebody improve. It makes the game so much more enjoyable for them. Their happiness, success and enjoyment makes me happy. If I can teach you to play really well, you'll love it. That's what's most important to me.


Who's swing on the PGA Tour do you most admire and why?

Ernie Els. It looks so effortless. Ernie's swing is just so balanced and so smooth. I am marveled by it.


What was the first thing that attracted you to the game?

Grandpa Youpa. He was a golfer and he took me golfing. I loved spending time with him. It was nine holes of golf and McDonald's. It was just the best.


What is your favorite part of the game?

As I've gotten older, I find that the competition against other players is more attractive to me. I like the camaraderie.


What's your best round ever?

A 69 on the Babe Zaharias course at Industry Hills.


What's your greatest achievement in golf?

Becoming a Class A PGA member is my greatest achievement. It only took me 14 times to pass the playing ability test. I think that may be a Southern California record.


What is your most treasured golf possession?

The crystal trophy that my management team at Industry Hills (Betty Kuan, Matt Mallars and Art Guevara) got me when I won the 2004 Golf Professional of the Year award.  SG