In other words, Ruvolo has seen a lot of days on the golf course. Few know better than Ruvolo that every day out there will not be the same. “Every course presents its own challenge,” says Ruvolo. “Every course has its own beauty. And every course can teach you a lesson in golf as well as life,” he adds. That’s why Ruvolo takes it one day at a time and exudes a well-balanced attitude on and off the course. Naturally, this relaxed and patient demeanor finds its way into his teaching.

“I try to provide a comfortable environment with respectful patience that breeds simple, logical basics,” says Ruvolo, who has been teaching for 17 tears. “I like assisting students to WANT to play golf and to WANT to improve, no matter what level,” adds Ruvolo. Ruvolo encourages beginners to get out on the course and play a lot. They should also make sure they are getting the “right” instruction for their game. Middle level players focus on putting and chipping with Ruvolo; this can make a significant difference in their scores and give them a taste of success in a short period of time. Ruvolo listens carefully to his advanced students, makes the necessary adjustments in their game and provides ongoing coaching and support.

”It all depends on their goals,” says Ruvolo. “I remind my students that most things in life do not happen overnight. Success will happen in time.” Ruvolo gives himself the same advice, and grace, when it comes to his own game. During a rough round, Ruvolo will tell himself, “RELAX, things will work out! And if they don't, stay relaxed and do the best you can.” Ruvolo tries to take what he can get out of the round at hand, and then move on. “An appropriate attitude will balance the worst of days,” adds Ruvolo.

When he practices, Ruvolo uses visualization techniques while executing certain shots. He will also spend considerable time working on chipping and putting. His routine varies depending on the tournament and golf course for which he might be preparing, but most of the time, Ruvolo stays centered on the basics. “All shots can be hard because they all count!” smiles Ruvolo, “But right now, wedges from 100 yards or less are challenging me because I haven't practiced them enough.” Ruvolo favors no particular shot and believes every part of your game had better be your strength when it comes to competition. All things being equal, he has the most confidence in his putting.

A member of the American Taekwondo Association (ATA), Ruvolo leans toward simplicity whenever possible thanks to his martial arts training. He tends to wear simple, basic colors out on the course, most likely white. “In Taekwondo, the color white represents purity of the soul,” says Ruvolo. He would happily throw on his nearest white shirt and hit his home city of Palm Desert, California any day of the week for a round of golf. Ask him to pick a favorite course, however, and he simply can’t. To Ruvolo, they all present a unique and special challenge.

“Golf is the best game in the world,” says Ruvolo, who currently teaches at the Palm Royale Country Club. “As in life, you have to motivate yourself to get the job done. Friends and spouses can assist in your efforts, but YOU will achieve the dream come true.” Ruvolo has experienced this many times as both a player and teacher of the game of golf. With too many student success stories to mention, Ruvolo is extremely proud of all of his pupils and their individual accomplishments.

A 17-year resident of Palm Desert, Ruvolo enjoys tennis, running, swimming and hiking. Otherwise, you'll catch him on the lesson tee helping yet another golfer develop just the right attitude – and swing. For more on lessons with Ruvolo, email him at mail@eaglelinks.com. Thanks, David!