Golf Exeter - Staff

PGA Professional Joel Jenkins
Exeter CC pro Joel Jenkins is an experienced teacher who breaks the complexities of the swing into easily understood components. He also makes the learning process enjoyable. "If it isn't fun, you're not going to come back," he said. "I use that as my philosophy whether I'm working with a beginner, a junior, mid-handicapper or the club champ." Joel also helps golfers at all abilities cope with the all-important mental aspect of the game. "You have to learn to take the bad with the good in golf. I don't think there's any other sport that combines the mental and physical aspects to the degree golf does. As Arnold Palmer said, golf is deceptively simple and endlessly complicated." Joel said he invites all members to ask him about any golf topic that concerns them. "From advice on equipment, to techniques of golf, strategy for league play or tournaments, even to what you see the pros doing on the tour, I'm here for one reason -- to help you get more enjoyment from the game."

Superintendent Dave Smith, GCSA
By virtually everyone's estimate, Exeter Country Club has never had a better course superintendent than Dave Smith. Although he is an expert agronomist in the area of turf management and landscape, Smith says it's the people side of the profession that gives him the most satisfaction. "When I see our members or someone who is brand new to the club enjoying a round and complimenting the conditions, that's what makes the long hours worthwhile." Smith said he actually enjoys the challenges presented by an ever-changing New England environment that poses special issues for turf and course maintenance. "Every day is different. Each season has its own personality in terms of how the course and the weather and the golfers all interact. This profession is more technically complex than ever before, and we can do more with the tools we have available. But our job remains the same. Establish and maintain the best possible golfing environment, in the most cost-effective manner, while preserving and protecting the beauty of nature around us."