Sam Gerig
David Young, the head coach of the Hamilton Southeastern boys golf team, has been a successful and influential leader throughout the years. One of the traditions Coach Young and the team uphold at the start of every season is defining their goals—what they hope to accomplish both on and off the course.
The team’s objectives include winning, leaving a legacy, and most importantly, becoming better people. A key goal, as Coach Young emphasizes, is “to build team culture, because that’s what a successful season truly looks like.”
While high school golf often centers around building a strong record and chasing state championships, the team recognizes that the memories and bonds formed during their time together are what truly last. When golf is over at the end of the day, they’ll still have each other and the shared experiences from their seasons.
When asked about his most meaningful moments as a coach, Coach Young shared, “The memories that are directly connected with my players’ goals are the memories that I look back on and cherish.” He understands that the most lasting moments may not occur during a match or even within the high school season, but perhaps 10 years down the road—when former players still maintain the relationships they built on the team.
Coach Young instills a strong team dynamic as a core part of his coaching philosophy. He acknowledges that “golf is a game that’s mostly played in your head,” and stresses the importance of supporting one another both on and off the course. Even in an individual sport like golf, leaning on teammates can be essential. “We know that scores are combined,” Young explains, “and someone two or three holes away from you has your back—even if you don’t realize it.”
One of the most important lessons Coach Young has learned over the years is the value of unity. “Coming together to work for one common goal is just about as strong a team culture as you can build,” he says. “Coaches can’t just come in and start directing their players.” He believes a successful program is built on relationships—whether with players, parents, alumni, or the athletic department. “One coach can’t shape a program alone. It takes all of those components and people working together toward a common goal.”
This year, the HSE boys golf team is setting its sights on a run to the state championship—and plans to leave everything out on the course. But no matter how the season ends, Coach Young knows that the impact he’s made will last far beyond the final round. His players will always be teammates—and friends—for life.