JENNIFER SCHMIDT BIRDROW

PGA/LPGA PROFESSIONAL

(501) 204-7088

jbirdrow@hsvpoa.org

I am originally from Canada and a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma, Professional Golf Management program in 2021. Dedicated to improving my skills, I became PGA HOPE certified, attended USGA rules seminars, and in 2024 was awarded Top 50 Coach in Operation36.

Currently, I am working to complete LPGA's teacher education program alongside a 300-hour Ayurvedic Yoga Teacher training from Yoga Spirit Academy in Tulsa Oklahoma. I settled in the US and paused play to raise a family. I am pleased to join the golf staff at Hot Springs Village, eagerly waiting to offer my coaching services to the membership using video analysis, swing speed training and holistic body awareness through my company www.JBirdGolf.com.



At J Bird Golf, my company's mission is to welcome a beginner's mind, show compassion and patience and deliver results through the LPGA's S.M.A.R.T.E.R. goal process.

CHAMP DETAMORE, PGA

Granada Golf Course & Ponce de Leon Golf Course

(704) 420-2918

I’m excited to join the Hot Springs Village team at Granada and Ponce de Leon. With more than 25 years as a PGA Member, I bring experience from premier facilities including Phoenix Country Club, The Boulders, Maderas Golf Club, and The Crosby National in Southern California.

What I pride myself on most is a positive attitude and a clear, effective teaching style. Whether you’re new to the game or an experienced player, I focus on breaking down complex swing mechanics into simple, actionable steps you can take with you onto the course. My goal is to create a comfortable, encouraging learning environment where real improvement can happen.



My wife Jodi and I are thrilled to become part of the Hot Springs Village community. I invite you to contact the pro shop to schedule a lesson and experience firsthand how 25+ years of PGA expertise can help elevate your game.

JERRY FITPATRICK

PGA PROFESSIONAL

(712) 389-2014

plfitz65@gmail.com

I am a Life Member of the PGA of America. I have spent over 50 years as a golf professional at both public and private courses in the Midwest. I qualified for the PGA Tour for one year early in my career and I am a two-time United States Senior Long Drive Champion.

Since moving to the Village 6 years ago, I enjoy playing 3-4 times a week and giving individual and group golf lessons. With my experience, I feel I am well qualified to help improve the playing ability of each individual so that they can lower their score and, as a result, enjoy the game even more.   

BOB GUISEPPE

PGA ASSOCIATE

(501) 922-5543

bguiseppe@hsvpoa.org

With a lifelong passion for sports and a deep-rooted commitment to helping others achieve their goals, I bring a diverse background and unique perspective to my role as Assistant Golf Professional at Hot Springs Village. My journey began in a small town in east central Kansas, where I was a multi-sport athlete and a dreamer with aspirations of becoming a television sportscaster.

After gaining valuable experience in sports journalism and business management, I ultimately found my calling in the golf industry. Since earning professional status as an instructor in 2008 through the Professional Golf Teachers Association of America, I have enjoyed teaching thousands of individual and group lessons and working in both public and private golf sectors. My professional journey includes owning a retail golf shop, collaborating with renowned PGA professionals, and developing programs for juniors and adults alike. Currently, I am a Level II PGA Associate, actively working toward my PGA Class A certification, and remain dedicated to continuous learning and professional growth.

It is a privilege to serve the Hot Springs Village community, where I strive to help golfers of all ages and abilities reach their full potential. Whether you are just starting out or looking to refine your game, my goal is to provide expert instruction, encouragement, and a supportive environment. 

TOM HEFFER

PGA PROFESSIONAL

(501) 922-5540

theffer@hsvpoa.org

I grew up in Caledonia, New York and started playing golf when I was 13 years old. I earned a golf scholarship at Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania, where I was named to the NCAA Division II All-American Team during my senior year.

After college, I turned professional and began my career in the golf industry. I obtained Class A membership in the PGA in 1991 and was honored with induction into the Quarter Century Club in 2016. Since 2000, I have been proudly employed by the HSVPOA.

My teaching philosophy remains simple: I won’t attempt a complete overhaul of a student’s swing but instead focus on improving their existing mechanics.

My passion has always been the short game—an often-overlooked yet crucial aspect of golf. Golfers tend to spend most of their time at the range working on their full swings, yet nearly half of their total score comes from the short game. Whether it’s bunker play, chipping, pitching, or putting, dedicated practice in these areas can make a significant difference in overall performance.

DAVE KOWALCZYK

PGA PROFESSIONAL

(808) 368-4612

drivethegreen@hotmail.com

I am originally from Denver, Colorado, and started my career in golf when I moved to Hawaii in 1983. I am now a Lifetime Member of the South Central Section of the PGA. 

During my time on Oahu I held several titles including Head Professional, Director of Golf, General Manager, and served on the Board of Directors of the Aloha Section PGA. But my favorite position was Director of Instruction at the golf school I founded in Kaneohe. We emphasized introducing the game to juniors and adults alike, while also offering the latest technology to advanced players producing state champions and one national D2 college team championship.   

GARY PORTER

PGA ASSOCIATE

(501) 915-2255

gporter@hsvpoa.org

My love for golf began at a very early age when I had the unforgettable experience of meeting Jack Nicklaus after his 1972 U.S. Open victory at Pebble Beach. From that moment on, I knew I wanted a career in the golf industry.

While competing on various mini tours in Arizona, I gained valuable experience as a golf professional at resort, private, and semi-private facilities. This time further ignited my passion for teaching others the game of golf. In 2023, I joined the HSV Golf Department as Head Golf Professional and was honored to become Director of Golf in November 2024.

As a PGA HOPE certified instructor, I enjoy working with golfers of all skill levels, especially juniors, beginners, and intermediate players. I’ve hosted numerous men’s and women’s clinics over my career and take pride in helping players build confidence through solid fundamentals — focusing on grip, setup, and proper body and club positioning.

Balboa | Coronado | Cortez | DeSoto | Granada | Isabella | Magellan | Ponce de Leon