For David Newton, the value of golf extends far beyond that of a mere pastime. He credits the game with shaping not only his character but also his professional success, arguing that it cultivates virtues that can be translated into achievement in one’s career. Yet the opportunities golf affords are not reserved for the privileged members of a country club. David Newton’s own experience stands as a testament to that claim.
From a very early age, David developed a love for golf and eagerly sought a way to gain access to a course. Without a membership at a local country club, this was no easy feat. He resolved that working at the course would be his best option. The eager eleven-year-old soon encountered another obstacle: an age requirement for employment. Fortunately, because of his height, his age was never questioned, and David secured a job as a caddie. Despite being considerably younger than his fellow caddies, he quickly distinguished himself and rose through the ranks motivated by the prospect of being able to caddie 36 holes in one day. He still remembers the first time he rose through the ranks enough to complete this feat. After receiving his largest paycheck yet, he ran to the payphone to proudly tell his parents that, after caddying 18 holes, he had earned an incredible sum— $5.25.
David continued to caddie and work in the cart barn and pro shop throughout college. While the job strengthened his already formidable work ethic, it was the game itself that instilled the most enduring lessons. Golf demands patience, discipline, and resilience. A poor shot is solely rested on the individual; no teammates, bad officiating, or luck can be scapegoated. Above all, the game requires integrity. Players are expected to call penalties on themselves, even when no one else is watching. In learning to hold himself accountable, David cultivated a quiet honesty and self-discipline that distinguished him both on and off the course. The combination of hard work and character made him stand out to members of the club, and by high school he was selected to accompany them to local and state tournaments. He also had the opportunity to caddie in larger events, including the Western Open, a PGA Tour event, as well as at Tour Qualifying School, where professional golfers compete for the opportunity to earn status on the tour. These opportunities reflected not only his skill, but the trust he had earned.
Working on the golf course throughout college, David began to see yet another value of golf emerge. The poise, discipline, and integrity he had cultivated over the years did not go unnoticed. Doors began to open not merely because he was present among influential members, but because of the character he consistently demonstrated. He built relationships, earned trust, and carried himself with a professionalism beyond his years. Through these connections, he was given the opportunity to interview with and was ultimately hired by a club member to work at a Chicago-based commercial real estate company. It was there that David’s career in commercial real estate began, setting the course for his professional future.
Now established in his profession and a member of three country clubs that once seemed far beyond his reach, David finds himself in the position of the very individuals who helped shape his path. Remembering the doors that were opened for him, he seeks to do the same for young people who display the work ethic, integrity, and quiet determination that once defined his own beginnings.