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Joe Quinzi: Every Student is a New Challenge
After 35 years of teaching, you’d think Joe Quinzi has seen it all. But he’ll be the first to tell you that every student presents a new challenge. “I never stop learning,” says Quinzi. “Golf is a lifetime study.”

Quinzi’s journey began at age 12 when he first picked up a club growing up in Auburn, New York. Quinzi was immediately taken. Years later he would turn professional and compete in many local Pro-Ams, PGA four ball tournaments and Opens like the one in West Palm Beach. Perhaps teaching the game has been his greatest achievement, however, having guided two sisters, Pam and Sharon Lang, to win world junior championships. In addition, many of his former students are now area club professionals.

“They stayed with me and became teachers and good players,” says Quinzi, who has the reputation of being rather strict. “I used to make them play right- and left-handed. They thought I was a little tough, but now their club members think they walk on water.” Quinzi recommends his students continue taking lessons for several years and get on a “maintenance program.” He also supports getting a personal trainer.

Once the star of his own T.V., The Golf Doctor, Quinzi is well-known in the Tampa area. “People like my lessons because I keep it simple,” notes Quinzi. “I never get discouraged with anyone’s progress or the time it takes to learn.” Quinzi’s patience and vast experience in the game make for a great combination for golfers at any level, but he is particular enthusiastic about teaching young people. “Working with junior golfers is most rewarding,” says Quinzi, who’s favorite Tour player to watch at the moment is Tiger Woods.

When it comes to his own game, Quinzi practices twice a week and spends 30% of his time on putting and 30% on driving. The balance of the time is used to work on his iron play. Shots he enjoys making the most are hole-outs with a sand or pitching wedge, while putting tends to be a little more challenging for Quinzi. He is most confident with a driver in his hands – according to Quinzi, driving is the best part of his game. Should he run into any trouble during a round, Quinzi doesn’t flinch. He just tells himself: One shot at a time.

A 23-year resident of Clearwater, Florida, Quinzi is a PGA Professional and the Director of Golf at Safety Harbor. Quinzi’s golf school locations include Atlantic City Country Club, Elmira Country Club, Delpasso Country Club (Sacramento, CA), Forest Hill Golf Club (West Palm Beach, FL) and his home site in Clearwater. When he’s not on the lesson tee facing a new challenge, you might find Quinzi under water or on the trails. He is a licensed diver and also enjoys hiking. E-mail Quinzi at dmixa@gte.net for more information on lessons. Thanks, Joe!