“PRO” FILE – USGTF MEMBER JAVIER CABANELLAS

By Javier Cabanellas

Golf has taken me across borders, through decades, and deep into the minds of players at every level. With more than 40 years in the game, I’ve learned that great golf isn’t just about a repeatable swing; it’s about adaptability, decision-making and mental clarity under pressure.

As a lifelong competitor, I’ve played on elite junior circuits like the AJGA Tour and at the Future Masters in Dothan, Alabama. I earned MVP honors at my high school, (Colegio San Ignacio in Puerto Rico), competed as a Division I athlete at LSU, and became a club champion in two different countries.

But while the trophies and titles shaped my game, the journey itself forged my philosophy. I’ve watched golfers adapt to wind, turf, and terrain in ways that broadened my perspective. The winners? They are merciless with their focus. They don’t just play against the course; they dominate their own emotions, silence their doubt and commit fully to every decision. Other players just have a natural golf talent and are able to adapt quickly. Some hit it low into the breeze, others get “up and down” from lies most wouldn’t touch. But tournament golf exposes every weakness both mentally and physically. Only those who have trained their concentration like a muscle, who have made pressure their playground, are the ones still standing when it matters the most.

As the founder of 3C Golf Experience, I teach players to stay cool, calm and collected, not just in their swing tempo but in their response to challenges. Golf will always test your game, but it’s your mind that decides whether you break or bounce back.

Becoming a certified USGTF Certified Golf Teaching Professional defined my coaching journey. I’m especially grateful to the front office team at the USGTF, whose professionalism, guidance and encouragement made the certification process both smooth and meaningful. Their support reinforced the standard of excellence the organization is known for. My deepest thanks go to Bob Wyatt Jr., my USGTF instructor, who taught me how to teach golf. Today I also hold a US Kids Certified Coach and a Double-Goal Coach Certificate to expand my teaching methods to students of younger ages. I provide private and group lessons at University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida. I’m very passionate about helping others evolve into complete golfers physically, mentally, and emotionally. I am so glad that I can share all my knowledge with others. Therefore, I welcome every player willing to get uncomfortable, sharpen their edge, and build a game that holds up under pressure anywhere in the world.