Kathy Gildersleeve-Jensen, PGA

Kathy was named the 2014 PGA Teacher of the Year and is the first female in PGA of America history to receive the honor. She was also recognized as a GRAA Top 50 Growth of the Game Teaching Professional in 2013, 2014 and 2015, as well as the Pacific Northwest PGA Section 2012 Teacher of the Year. Additionally, Kathy has been recognized in the Golf Digest’s Best Teachers in Your State listing in 2013 and 2015.

Facility Type: Public

Past awards/recognitions: 

• PGA Section Teacher of the Year
• PGA National Teacher of the Year
• Henry Griffitts Master Golf Club Fitter
• PGA President’s Council for Growing the Game
• U.S. Kids Golf Top 50 Teachers Honorable Mention
• GRAA Top 50 Growth of the Game Teaching Professional
• Golf Digest Best in State
• 2015 Women in Business Leadership Award

Technology used in instruction:

• Golf Coach Direct
• V1
• PuttPure
• Golf Chute
• Orange Whip & Orange Peel
• GameGolf
• Henry-Griffitts Precision Fitted Golf Clubs
• Fisher Putters
• RAKE Wedges
• Scarlett’s 4K Simulators
• aboutGolf simulator
• TrackMan
• FlightScope
• iPad and iPhone
• Convert-A-Hole Putting Trainer
• SNAG

Growth of the game initiatives: 

We have gone to PE Classes in schools, but the past couple of years I have attended High School Business Classes and spoke on the importance of Golf in elevating their careers through business golf. Explaining the benefits of golf and the business industry. Very rewarding and more new players for the future. Being the First Woman in PGA History to become the recipient of the 2014 PGA National Teacher of the Year has opened other opportunities to expose the game of golf for women. Recently, I received a non-golf award…2015 Business Women’s Leadership Award. The recipients were so impressive and most of them did NOT play golf, however they donate their time to volunteer for amazing causes. I gave a speech on how they should take up the game of golf and raise money for their causes through golf tournaments. It is easier for sponsors for come on board, fun experience and the fund raising is much easier to raise the funds for causes. Now, I am teaching groups on this particular subject. Win for all! Now, I am encouraging all Pros to look into building players, building tournaments, and raising funds that these leaders can volunteer for, learn the game and play for a lifetime.