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Alessandra Maurtua - Member Spotlight
Alessandra Maurtua, PGA
Assistant Professional | Walden on Lake Conroe Golf Club
ADM Certified and Specialized in Executive Management
How have you implemented the American Developmental Model (ADM) at your facility?
Using the PGA Coach app is so easy to navigate and simple when it comes to creating lesson plans for all Junior Academies. We are able to plan the whole season ahead of time by using a variety of games, and we are able to keep our coaches on the same page for the game plan each day.
What differences have you seen at your facility and/or with your students since utilizing the ADM model?
The biggest difference we have seen is that the kids are having a lot of fun during practice. It’s not just hitting balls all the time but also developing different sets of skills that make them a well-rounded athlete. We are letting the kids be kids and have fun while developing skills.
How do you see ADM affecting the future of sports?
I hope more people start using ADM. I believe if we are going to have more kids getting involved with sports, us focusing on games that develop skills will help them in the future when they decide to specialize in a sport. Because of ADM they will find themselves having an easier transition to the sport they decide to specialize in.
Why would you encourage someone to obtain the ADM certificate through the PGA of America?
Obtaining ADM certification to me is a no brainer! It won't take but just a few hours of your time and the benefits we get as coaches are worth every second spent on it. You have the ability to create lesson plans through the app and share them with the other instructors which ensures your team is on the same page.
What benefits have you seen from setting up your PGA.Coach profile?
One of the benefits I have seen through my PGA.Coach profile is the advertisement they do for you and the use of their brand draws many more potential clients to the site. I have received emails requesting lessons from people that found me through the website that otherwise maybe would not have found me on other platforms.
How was your experience completing the PGA of America continuing education program and becoming a Specialized Professional?
My experience was great. It is always important to continue growing and educating myself, and the process was very simple. Everything is online and you can do it from anywhere you want!
What aspects of this program did you find interesting?
I really enjoyed going through the simulations and having to make “real decisions” and seeing how each decision you made affected the outcome.
What is one thing that sticks out that you learned while going through the process?
The one thing that stuck out for me while completing my Executive Management Specialization was the importance of knowing your numbers and how different scenarios affect overall performance.
How have you implemented what you learned in your day-to-day basis?
We went over several financial scenarios throughout the Specialization process and I have been able to learn more by having monthly meetings with our owner and getting more comfortable knowing the financials. The knowledge gained through the specialization process really helps with understanding and being a part of all conversations in those regards.
How do you feel that being Specialized in Executive Management has strengthened you as a PGA professional?
I feel that being Specialized has made me a better professional and has helped me become even more involved with our department head meetings. It has also allowed me to have a better understanding of the financial impact of every step we take and how to make sure the club is operating profitably.
Why would you encourage others to complete the continuing education program?
I would encourage everybody to go through the different education channels the PGA offers. I feel that in such a competitive industry, the more you can learn and put into practice the more you will differentiate yourself from everybody else. It's always good to continue to grow and push yourself out of you comfort zone.
In what ways has completing the continuing education program benefited you as a PGA Professional?
It has made me more involved and aware of the importance of networking with fellow professionals. That I’m now able to pick their brains and use their hands-on experience to see how it lines up with the knowledge gained through the Specialization process.
Do you plan to further your continuing education by becoming a Certified Professional?
Yes, I do plan on continuing my education and getting my Certification within the next year, with my ultimate goal of obtaining Master Professional status.
What is your personal motto?
Never stop learning, get comfortable with being uncomfortable.
What would be your go to song at karaoke?
Any Mamma Mia song! (warning ear plugs will be needed)
What is your favorite golf memory?
I would have to say my favorite golf memory is a rather recent one. I was able to play nine holes for the first time after over 10 years with my dad but the best part is that my kids were able to play with us.
If you could play a round of golf with anyone, living or dead, who would it be? Why?
If I could play a round of golf with anyone it would be Annika Sorenstam. In my opinion, she is the best female golfer we have ever seen and such a good role model for many.
If you could give a piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
If I had to give my younger self a piece of advice, I would say don’t be afraid to try new things and get out of your comfort zone. Something will be learned from every experience which makes you better. And always write your goals down!
