“Consequently, my students learn, get better and go away with the ability to self-improve,” he adds.

A PGA teaching professional for over 20 years, Wade has seen countless students come and go, all with a sense of accomplishment and newfound purpose. In fact, nine of his juniors went on to become PGA professionals themselves. Wade has also helped a number of young golfers earn scholarships toward continuing education. Not to be outdone, his senior golfers are making strides as well. One in particular, a 65-year-old nurse, improved her game so dramatically she can now keep up and play regularly with her younger colleagues and friends.

Wade attributes his students’ success to a focused approach at each level, from beginner to advanced. Wade works with new golfers to first master the basics. Intermediate golfers are encouraged to keep it simple when building on their mastered fundamentals. One step at a time – don’t over-complicate your golf game, or your life. Finally, advanced players concentrate on two things: short game and understanding how your own swing “works.” Within these specific guidelines, Wade has helped thousands improve their skills and “self-correct” when necessary.

“I love the game,” says Wade. “The personal interaction that comes with teaching it is very gratifying. I really like watching my students succeed and get more enjoyment out of the game.”

As busy as he is on the lesson tee, Wade still manages to practice his own game and maintain a level of play that has seen him qualify for State Opens, the Metropolitan Open, the Long Island Open and his local Senior Club Professional Championship. Wade first played the game at age six and went on to tee it up for his team at Calhoun High. This led to competing in the State Amateur; later, his talent for the game blossomed into a career, and he earned his PGA Membership.

Wade typically practices alone, focusing 30% of his efforts on the full swing and 70% on the short game. Overall, he spends about 30% of his practice time on the range and 70% out on the course. Wade’s favorite shots are 100-yard wedges and any length or break putt. He loves putting but admits those 10-footers for Nassaus are often the most challenging shots he ever has to face. “Putting and 100-yard wedges are probably the strongest parts of my game,” notes Wade. “Mid-irons are great, too,” he adds.

When things get dicey out on the course, Wade relies on such strengths to bring him back, but he also tells himself, “Don’t quit.” Wade puts it into perspective by reminding himself that his golf game is a small thing compared to his real life, especially when he thinks of his wife and kids. Ginger, a tennis pro and league director, is a “great wife and mom,” according to Wade; together they have six children: Tracy, Jeff, Jonathan, Abby, Michael and Melanie. Throw in Zoey, the family parakeet, and Wade has plenty to think about outside the game of golf.

A 10-year resident of Malverne, New York, Wade is the Head PGA Professional at Eisenhower Park Golf Course on Long Island. His favorite courses to play include Bethpage Black, site of the next U.S. Open, Southern Hills and Oak Tree. He wouldn’t object, either, to a trip to Ireland for a few rounds at Ballybunion. Typically dressed in tan and green or tan and white, Wade claims to have no superstitions about the game he loves. He simply enjoys the many challenges it poses to an individual.

“I am motivated by my own children and junior players to play well and to teach the game successfully to others,” says Wade. “Students come to me wanting to know if I can help them play better,” he adds, “I believe I can.” And when he’s not on the course or helping others take it up a notch, you might find Wade on the tennis or basketball court. Learn more about lessons with Wade by e-mailing him at abc123golf@aol.com. Thanks, Mike!