Men’s Golf

1. Men’s Golf www.missouristatebears.com Missouri State University-901 S. National Ave.-Springfield, MO-65897 Phone 417.836.4863-Fax 417.836.8475-email nealstafford@missouristate.edu Q & A With David Jenkins 5/6/2008 Overland Park, KS- Fourth year professional David Jenkins took time out of his busy schedule to answer a few questions about college golf, life as a professional golfer, and his journey. Jenkins has gotten off to a hot start in 2008 on the Adams Golf Tour Series currently standing 7th on the money list through only 4 events. The former Missouri State Bear and Missouri Tiger’s next event is in Ruidoso, New Mexico at The Inn of Mountain Gods Classic May 15-18. During his short time off in between events, I had a few questions for David that he answered graciously from his home in Overland Park, KS where he lives with his wife Brooke. Q: What was the biggest adjustment you had to make from college golf to professional golf? Jenkins: “Becoming a student of the game.  Before I relied more on my coach to fix things in my game, while I still rely on my coach to fix problems, I am forced to have a better understanding of the swing and other aspects of the game. This allows me to improve on my own and make mid round adjustments.” Q: How do you feel you are a different player from your 1st year on tour to now your 4th year? Jenkins: “My short game is a lot better, mainly wedges.  I make better decisions.  I don't let past shots effect my next shot.  My mechanics are better through practice.  I know myself a lot better (tendencies)” Q: How has college golf prepared you as a professional? Jenkins: “My college golf coaches knew that for me to make it as a professional my mechanics had to improve.  I spent a lot of time working to make the necessary changes.” Next Page >

2. Q: How many miles to the gallon are you getting these days? Jenkins: “25.6, tops.” Q: If you knew what you know now, would your practice/play/demeanor during your college career change at all? Jenkins: “I wouldn't change a lot.  I would spend a lot more time on my wedge game.” Q: You are currently 7th on the Adams Golf Pro Tour Series Money List with $7,770 through 4 events, do you feel your game is where you want it to continue to climb that list through the season? Jenkins: “I'm moving in the right direction.  Unlike years past, I have a clear picture of what I need to work on to improve every aspect of my game.” Q: Favorite thing to do away from the golf course? Jenkins: “I hunted duck most of the winter.  I really enjoy fishing.  Being on the lake, basically outdoor activities.” Q: Any advice for college players aspiring to pursue a professional playing career after graduation? Jenkins: “Golf isn't a game of perfect swings, its a game of perfect decisions.  Control the things you can, don't worry about the things you can't.  Fall in love with practicing the short game.  And always use synthetic oil in your car.” A big thank you to David for allowing us to do this interview. You can keep track of his progress at www.adamsgolfprotourseries.com As always stay tuned to this site for more updates on current, past, and future Missouri State Bear Golfers.