In the world of high school athletics, there are coaches who make a difference, and then there are coaches who redefine excellence. Coach David Kuhn, the mastermind behind Peters Township High School’s golf program and a leader in the sport across Pennsylvania, has achieved an honor that places him in the latter category. Recognized by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) as the National Coach of the Year for golf, Coach Kuhn has etched his name in the history books. As only the second Pennsylvania coach ever to receive this distinction, and the first in golf, his contributions to the sport and his student-athletes are nothing short of extraordinary.
At our publication, we take great pride in this achievement, as David is not just a coach but also one of our esteemed contributors. His insights into golf, coaching, and player development have enriched our readers and offered valuable perspectives on the game. It is with great admiration and celebration that we highlight his remarkable career, his coaching philosophy, and the incredible impact he has had on young golfers throughout the region and beyond.
A Legacy of Excellence
With a career spanning 25 seasons as the head coach of Peters Township High School, Coach Kuhn’s record speaks for itself: 416 wins to only 43 losses, multiple district and state championships, and an undefeated regular season seven times. His teams have consistently performed at the highest level, capturing six WPIAL titles, one PIAA state championship, and three state runner-up finishes. Under his leadership, the program has been a dominant force in one of the most competitive districts in Pennsylvania.
Beyond the numbers, Coach Kuhn’s influence extends far beyond the golf course. His coaching has propelled more than 35 players from Peters Township alone to collegiate golf, with over 100 total college golfers coming from his junior program, including champions at the WPIAL, state, and tournament levels across multiple schools. Many of his protégés have gone on to excel at the highest levels of amateur and professional golf, competing in prestigious events such as the U.S. Amateur, at the PGA Tour Americas and the Korn Ferry Tour.
Developing the Next Generation of Golfers
One of Coach Kuhn’s most significant contributions to the game is his commitment to junior golf. Through the Kuhn Golf Academy, he has introduced thousands of young players to the sport, mentoring them and shaping their skills to prepare them for high school, collegiate, and even professional careers. His junior golf programs have become a model for player development across Pennsylvania and the tri-state region, ensuring that the sport continues to thrive for generations to come.
His dedication to teaching extends beyond his academy. As the Director of Instruction for LagMaster Sports Training Aids and a certified instructor in AimPoint and Wright Balance, he has leveraged cutting-edge techniques to enhance player performance. His expertise has been recognized at the highest levels, earning him invitations to the prestigious GOLF Top 100 Teachers Summit and publication credits in GOLF magazine and Golfer’s Lifestyle magazine.
Leadership in Golf Administration
Coach Kuhn’s impact on high school golf goes beyond his own team. As a longtime member of the WPIAL Golf Steering Committee and its current Co-Chairman, as well as a current PIAA Golf Steering Committee member, he has played a pivotal role in elevating the quality of high school golf in Pennsylvania. His efforts have helped secure world-class venues such as Oakmont Country Club for championship play, enhancing the experience for student-athletes and raising the profile of the sport at the high school level.
Currently, he is spearheading the development of an on-campus golf practice facility at Peters Township High School. This state-of-the-art facility, featuring a driving range, putting and chipping greens, and a short-game area, is designed not only to benefit his own players but also to promote golf education in Washington, Fayette, and Greene counties through introductory clinics and outreach programs.
A Philosophy Built on P.A.R.
At the heart of Coach Kuhn’s success is a simple yet powerful philosophy: P.A.R.
P stands for Performance – Encouraging every player to maximize their abilities through dedication, practice, and competition.
A stands for Academics – Instilling the importance of education, with the team maintaining an average GPA of 3.5 or higher.
R stands for Responsibility – Developing personal accountability, sportsmanship, and integrity both on and off the golf course.
This philosophy has been the foundation of his program since 2000, shaping young athletes into not just better golfers, but better people. The emphasis on discipline, accountability, and excellence resonates far beyond high school sports, preparing his players for success in all aspects of life.
A Historic Recognition
The NFHS National Coach of the Year award is a testament to Coach Kuhn’s unwavering dedication and impact on the sport. The selection process is rigorous, beginning with nomination by the school’s Athletic Director, followed by endorsements from the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA), and final selection by the NFHS Committee. To be named the best high school golf coach in the nation is an achievement of the highest order, and it cements his legacy as one of the premier coaches in high school athletics.
As a publication that has had the privilege of working with David Kuhn, we could not be prouder of this well-earned recognition. His dedication to the game, his players, and the broader golf community is an inspiration to all who follow high school athletics.
Congratulations, Coach Kuhn, on this remarkable achievement. Your passion, leadership, and commitment to excellence continue to elevate the sport of golf, and we look forward to seeing the continued success of your program and your players for many years to come.
