Passion and Purpose
Interview with Professional Golfer, Dave Stockton Jr.
Photo by: David Lee with Paparazzo Film
Q: Reflecting on your professional golf career, what would you say were the defining moments or highlights for you on the course?
A: Winning two Nike Tour (Korn Ferry Tour) events in 1993 and then winning PGA Tour School Finals in December of that year to get my PGA Tour card for 1994. Best finish on the PGA Tour was 2nd to Greg Norman in Hartford where they now play The Travelers.
Q: Can you share any memorable experiences or challenges you faced during your time as a professional golfer?
A: My favorite memory was being my dad's Assistant Captain for Team USA at the victorious 1991 Ryder Cup at Kiawah Island over Team Europe. I was just 22 and had been a pro for only 8 months but I knew all of the guys on the Team from my years of caddying for my dad on Tour during the summers. We were one big family that week.
Q: How did you transition from being a professional golfer to your current endeavors? What motivated this transition?
A: The transition was easy. I was burnt out from the game at 37 and had a young family at home. I did on-course commentating for the Golf Channel and USA Network for a few years and then got into real estate. I have recently partnered with P2 Crew at Russ Lyon Sothebys International Real Estate. I also love teaching the game and helping people get better at is a passion of mine still to this day. I also enjoy the synthetic grass business. I’m with Back Nine Greens and I’ve had a lot of fun over the years designing really cool projects for people.
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Q: Many athletes use their platform for social good. Are there any causes or organizations you actively support or are involved with?
A: I love supporting the Navy Seal Foundation and being involved with them. What they do for Gold Star Families is amazing. Q: Looking back on your career, is there any advice you would give to aspiring young golfers who dream of playing professionally? A: You have to want it in your head and heart first. Then comes the work that needs to be put in. Such a small percentage of Pro Golfers make it to the PGA Tour. I knew at a young age I was going to make it so I set my course and plan to get there. I played all over the world to get out there and as long as I improved each year, I knew I’d make it.
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Q: What do you miss most about playing on the PGA Tour, and what aspects of your current life do you appreciate the most?
A: Obviously the friends that I played with and saw on a weekly basis. But I’m still in touch with a lot of them. I'm happy and content in my life now and so glad I left when I did because I was able to be there for my kids and watch them grow into amazing young adults.
Q: How do you stay connected to the game of golf now that you're no longer playing professionally? Do you still play recreationally or teach others?
A: I play more during the summer months up at CDA National Reserve where I sell real estate and teach at the club. When I play now, I like having a little music on the course. I've played enough stressful, serious golf in my life.
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