For the third consecutive year, I had the honor of attending the GOLF Magazine Top 100 Teachers Summit, one of the most meaningful professional gatherings in golf instruction. Held this season at Cabot Citrus Farms in Brooksville, Florida, the Summit brings together a select group of the game’s leading coaches, innovators, and educators. Being invited back is both humbling and deeply rewarding, particularly as someone proud to represent the golf community in western Pennsylvania.
The Summit is intentionally intimate, designed to encourage open discussion, collaboration, and the sharing of ideas among instructors at the highest level. Each year reinforces how much there is still to learn and how valuable it is to learn alongside peers who are equally committed to improving the craft of teaching.
I stayed offsite with a group of friends that included Top 100 Teachers, Teachers to Watch, and invited guests, which set a relaxed and collegial tone for the week. Before registration, I spent time on the range and putting green with Mike Dickson of McG Golf Academy and Leighann Albaugh of Magnolia Greens, then enjoyed a round on the unique 11-hole wedge course with Chris George of Kingsmill Resort. Given a limited amount of play this past year due to injury and a demanding teaching schedule, it was encouraging to see my short game and putting hold up well.
(Mike Dickson of McG Golf Academy and David Kuhn of Kuhn Golf Academy)
Following registration, the Summit opened with a fireside chat featuring Mike Adams and Bob Ford, moderated by Eric Johnson, who teaches at the Yellowstone Club and part-time at the Turn Club just north of Pittsburgh. The discussion set a thoughtful tone for the days ahead. The opening reception that followed provided an opportunity to reconnect with friends and colleagues from around the country, and I was fortunate to be asked to participate in an impromptu lesson filmed by Claire Rogers of GOLF.com.
(David Kuhn and Bob Ford, legendary pro from Oakmont/Seminole)
Tuesday’s educational sessions began with Joe Plecker, who delivered an outstanding presentation on ground force instruction based on more than 30 years of experience. Jason Birnbaum followed with insights into his long-term coaching relationship with PGA Tour player Chris Gotterup, a topic that resonated with me given my work with junior and developmental players pursuing competitive pathways.
Tour coach Kevin Kirk offered a compelling discussion on the challenges facing American player development, particularly during the transition from high school to college and professional golf. His big-picture perspective highlighted the need for continued evolution in how we support talented young players.
One of the morning’s highlights came from Rick Murphy, a longtime friend and colleague, who spoke about functional movement and its role in creating functional golf. Drawing from extensive research at the Gray Institute, his presentation blended science and practical application in a way that instructors can immediately use.
The afternoon sessions included a live putting lesson from Jason Sutton, discussions on motor learning and communication from John Dunigan and Kevin Sprecher, and an excellent presentation by Carol Preisinger focused on putting practice and skill development. The day concluded with the Top 100 Teachers happy hour, where new members were welcomed and long-earned recognitions were celebrated.
Wednesday’s final sessions maintained the same high standard. Parker McLachlan shared his approach to short game instruction, followed by insights into long-term player development from Tour coach Adam Schriber. Dr. Jim Suttie delivered a thoughtful presentation on timing and rhythm, while Daniel Gray addressed safe and effective speed training. The Summit concluded with Mike Malizia, who emphasized blending technology with an understanding of how students think, communicate, and learn.
As the event wrapped up, I had the opportunity to reconnect with fellow Pennsylvania instructors Dom DiJulia and Lou Guzzi, along with many others who continue to support and challenge me professionally. Even during the trip home, conversations about golf, coaching, and player development continued right up to boarding.
(David Kuhn, Dom DiJulia and Lou Guzzi – All listed at Best in State in PA by Golf Digest)
Each year, the GOLF Magazine Top 100 Teachers Summit reinforces why this profession is so special. The learning, the relationships, and the shared commitment to excellence are exceptional, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring those experiences back to the players and community I serve.
