Posted: Thursday, July 12, 2007

Tadd Fujikawa turns pro

Send your greetings to Tadd, or weigh in on his decision to turn pro.

[Posted on October 10, 2007 at 11:32 am HST]
Hi Tadd, Go get em. Don't become another Wie circus. It's definitely hard out there on the tour, but stick with it. Wie is washed up at 18 mainly because of here greedy parents and since you are only 16, there's a lot of hope for you. Aloha from Arizona
russ oshiro
arizona

[Posted on July 13, 2007 at 11:41 pm HST]
To be honest, I was shocked at the news of your turning pro because I had been thinking that you should stay amateur at least until you finsh high school. On the other hand, I understand how difficult it is for your parents to let you play in professional tournaments. Now that you have made the decision, I simply root for you. Good luck, Tadd.
Zen
Vancouver, Canada

[Posted on July 13, 2007 at 12:28 pm HST]
Thanks for coming aboard Tadd...Anyone up for a long drive contest?
Corey Pavin & Fred Funk
PGA Tour

[Posted on July 13, 2007 at 11:46 am HST]
Sadly, the Honoluluadvertiser has demostrated both it's contempt for the truth, as well as hypocracy. They support the 1st Ammendment, but only when it fits their standard, and delete all the other comments they don't like.
Tadd
Waianai

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 11:54 pm HST]
Tadd- Keep smiling and enjoy every moment... You were a fighter from day one till now with a million dollar grin... Keep it up!
Mother of two preemies :)
Holualoa

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 11:04 pm HST]
Bad move for Tadd i wish him luck but he has stacked the odds against him more by turning pro before he was ready. Ppl in here congratulate him (as they did wie) but they cant be true fans of golf after all they think selling out for the quick cash is the best thing to do. Someone said that even w/ college he wouldnt make that much money anyway (possibly true). Did Tadd start playing golf cuz he wanted to be rich? No ofcourse everybody dreams of being the next Tiger but not many reach that level and when you see that talent come around and get wasted its sad. Look at Bobby Jones a child prodigy guided the right way turned pro as an adult in 1923 then smoked em all. That's how you become a legend, thats how tiger did it thats how legends are made. Golf needs a min age rule for pro players.
brother love
waikele

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 10:49 pm HST]
Tadd, remember to have fun out there. Think BIG! Good luck to you.
Mike Hancho
Hawaii

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 10:28 pm HST]
Best of luck to Tadd as he goes after it. He spoke with much integrity about his goals and his long run, and I can't wait until he does reach it, whether or not it's in one year or twenty. Michelle and Tadd, two golfers that I feel in time will represent Hawaii even better than they do now.
Jonathan B.
Ewa Beach, HI

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 10:18 pm HST]
attention hawaii fans & sportscasters!!!! another story to hype up...same story will develop...if he does not do well, "he's only 16"blah blah blah.....same excuse like Michelle Wie...the hype will fade.....believe me
Raymart
makati, philippines

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:55 pm HST]
Tadd, Geeevum!!! You got only one life to live and if I had your talent, I would go for it too... make Hawaii proud and show them that you are the real deal! Stay humble and always remember where you came from. Don't listen to the haters...they just wish they had yo skills.
Al
Wahiawa, HI

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:40 pm HST]
Ty Trion, Michelle Wie. 'Nough said
RT
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:30 pm HST]
GOOD LUCK TADD! Follow your dreams and not let anyone else persuade you from your goals! You can always finish college later. I wish that I had turned pro in high school and followed my dreams! I didnt so I am glad that you are! Best of luck and I know that you will suceed!
JJ
Hilo

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:11 pm HST]
Go For IT!!! ... Follow your Dreams .......... Just remember how you arrived at this Critical point in your Life. All those many days/hours of Practicing is finalling paying off. My only advice to you is: Don't let none of these so called EXPERTS try to "Remake" your golf game to drastically......Just "fine tune" what you're already doing...and Practice, Practice and more Practice....... God Bless & Mucho LUCK
Frank
California

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:10 pm HST]
We're sure you'll do just fine, Tadd! You've already made Hawaii proud, and also those of us who live in the mainland. Hope to see you play live someday in the future. God Bless you, and keep going strong! Aloha, Maile
Maile
Los Angeles, CA

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:34 pm HST]
you only live once. go for it!
journeygurl
mililani

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 6:32 pm HST]
too young, look what happened to me!!!!
michelle wie
hawaii

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 6:23 pm HST]
good luck to you,. please don't make the same mistakes as michelle wie. hopefully your parents do not make the same mistakes in their guidance.
gary miura
reno, nv.

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 6:22 pm HST]
You were special at Doral, even listening to your hole in one story. My favorite is your competitive spirit on the 18th hole, when you went for the green with a narrow landing. You hit the water and when I asked why...you said you needed to go for it because you were behind by one stroke and making it would put you in a position to win. Being from Hawaii and seeing the competition you faced...you are special and wish you much aloha and luck from Maui. You do remember Kekoa Mountcastle and his mom Aunty Iris? Eating Spam musubi on a golf cart at the Doral was really fun for me, because I could not walk after twisting my ankle on the golf path. Aloha, Uncle Cliff
Uncle Cliff Libed
Wailuku, Maui

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 5:58 pm HST]
Awesome, Tadd is no doubt one of the most likable characters to hit Hawaii in a while. He really carries the Hawaiian spirit with him.
Dean
Hilo

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 5:57 pm HST]
Tadd as other have told you, go to college get a education play more golf against other talented and up and coming players. I'm not going to compare you to miss wie or tiger woods, you are your own person with your own personality, I just wish you would sit down with your parents and really talk out your decision, weigh all your options, look at the pro's and con's of going pro or going on to play college golf and maybe break some records. Which ever you finally choose I wish you well.
skip
kaimuki

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 5:54 pm HST]
Who's Chad?
TaddFan
Mililani

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 5:33 pm HST]
The truly sad part is, thanks to Wie falling on her face (wrist or whatever) that ho has basically soured the well and eliminated the opportunity for millions in endorsements that Tadd could have made. He will earn his money though eventually. Unlike Wie, though, he'll actually earn it by swinging a golf club rather than swinging a mini-skirt tail.
Tony
Ewa Beach

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 5:26 pm HST]
What really are the goals of a young man in life? Money, fame, success and women. I wish I had it. Go for it Tadd!!! Hit a couple for me, if ya know what I mean.
John
Waianai

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 5:24 pm HST]
Yeah. Forget education, who needs it? Money will take you a lot further than sitting in some Mickey Mouse classroom listening to some jerk who couldn't do, so they had to teach.
Mike
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 4:08 pm HST]
Good Luck to you Tadd! I wish you all the best out there and take one day at a time.
alohagirl
Town

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 3:55 pm HST]
Mixed feelings. I think 16 is a bit too young to be considering being a pro at anything, but there are execptions to the rule from time to time. Now that you've made your decision, play like a pro. Don't give up, don't whine, don't make excuses. And advice? Yeah, I've got one for you. Train hard. Put in the time and practice, practice, practice. The sky's the limit for you, Tadd. Go for it!
geekgirl
kapolei

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 3:28 pm HST]
I think Tadd should have given college golf a shot. Former phenom Ty Tryon is floundering, the $10 million Sony/Nike girl is missing in action. On the other hand I really admire his grit, determination and personality. My nephews go to school with him at Moanalua. They say that he is a really nice guy. Please don't change because when you are true and genuine good things happen. Please do not let success and money ruin you like the $10 million girl, who with time will only be a fading memory of what could have been. Good luck to you Tadd!
Willie
Aiea

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 3:27 pm HST]
Remember the movie "Waterboy...YOU CAN DO IT!"
We Believe in You!
Over-priced Condos...

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 3:17 pm HST]
Tadd and all who are reading this: I am an edcuated Hawaii-bred woman struggling to make ends meet. Tadd, you are more than 1/2 my age and you have found something you love which you excel at. My education has not gotten me the jobs I've wanted (esp in Hawaii) nor the respect one may get on the mainland but most of all the MONEY that I would like! Even with all my experience, it is simply a harsh real world out there. So I support you. I have nothing but respect for you and wish you the very best. Education will ALWAYS be there. Go for your dreams, I wish I was getting paid doing something I truly love. Go for it, Tadd...ALOHA!
Dont know a thing about golf
Central Oahu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 3:16 pm HST]
First of all everyone comparing Tadd to Michelle is insulting Tadd and his parents, THEY ARE NOT THE WIES. Second, stop comparing Tiger to Tadd, Tiger lives in the continental U.S. a car ride away to the many available tournaments (juniors, amateurs, etc). How does a tank of gas compare in cost to a plane fare, hotel room..etc.), IT DOESN'T. You guys are killing me those of you that say it's not about the money, are you doing a job you absolutely love and money has nothing to do with it? Would you work for free because you love what you do and would do it for free? Sure in a perfect world money would not come into play, but guess what it is a factor. No one knows the family's situation and what has been offered to them. GET BEHIND TADD AND SUPPORT HIM AND HIS DECISION.
TaddFan
Mililani

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 3:06 pm HST]
You have a great talent and we are excited about your future. However, a word to the wise: Tiger Woods had more than enough talent to go pro at your age, and at Michelle Wie's age, but he was wisely counseled to play college golf with the dual benefit of increasing maturity and a college education. By the time he reached the pros, both his person and his game were ready for that level of heat. Look what's happened to Michelle. Who's outcomes are more attractive to you? Pretend your life is a DVD movie. Play it forward from this point and ask yourself if you like the end of the story. It's not too late to rewind and make a different decision. There's no doubt you will be a good pro. But remember, good is the enemy of great.
AN
Kaneohe

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 2:47 pm HST]
Best advice uncle gave me when I went mainland was - don't forget your roots or where you came from.
M
Kapaa, Kauai

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 2:30 pm HST]
Remember to drink a lot of beer like a true golfer when you turn 21.
Uncle Mano
Kapaa

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 2:22 pm HST]
Go Tadd! Best wishes to you! Just love what you do and it will love you back!
mia
honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 2:06 pm HST]
Hey Tadd! You go boy!!!! Good luck to you! You are one special guy. You will dominate and succeed if you really want it and it sounds to me that you want it. Keep that confidence and dream going strong...you'll make it!!!!!
deb s.
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 1:52 pm HST]
Congratulation. What's really important is that you eat, sleep, and s_ _ _ golf and that didn't happen over night since you had to sacrifice what your normal peers were enjoying but you preferred the golf ranges and courses. You are so gifted and and you know turning pro is what you really want;...do not let your age hold anything back on your professional career. "If it feels good,...do it!!" If a third party opinion you need, email me;.....sometime the sidewalk pro advices and relatives canget confusing and an outsider can give you more sound and logical reasoning;...in the future if you are playing in Japan and if you are need my services as a caddy, trainer, masseurist, interpreter, driver, bodyguard, and cook, please email me. Alvin T. Akiyama (Class of 63er-Kahuku)
Al Akiyama
Okinawa, Japan

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 1:46 pm HST]
Man enjoy your younger years. I understand that you want to play golf for a living but as a parent, I would love to see you play and win some college awards. I understand that colleges may not be knocking down your door, but just like basketball players, get some maturity under your belt and some more experience playing against opponents that are a little better than you before you play against the best in the world everyday. Don't let money influence your decision.
Kevin
Aiea

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 1:36 pm HST]
Nice work Tadd. Having see another golfer from HI hyped up and torn to shreds and not live up to their price tag, I hope to see you move onwards and upwards and make a bigger name for yourself. Congrats.
Mike
Hawai'i

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 1:25 pm HST]
You've already made us very proud! Your actions have already proven that you're on the right path. Learn from others mistakes, remember your roots, and above all - heed the advice from your parents and your heart. Good luck and see you at Augusta!
Jason
Hawai'i

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 1:17 pm HST]
Good Luck! I'm sure you put a lot of thought into your decision. Don't forget your education as part of your plan for the future!
Ed
Hawai'i

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 1:04 pm HST]
Conrats! But hopefully Tadd you thought about what Michelle is going through now same as you did great at Hawaiian Open then went down hill. Hopefully you really sat down and thought it all out my braddah
Randy
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 1:00 pm HST]
same story..hype up the "young" golf phenoms..that's all that is...something to talk about...it will all fizz out as time goes by...the best golfers are out there who are not in the spotlight....be a man & finish up the course & not be like michelle wie, who quits during tournaments.....not a good role model for today's youths
Babes
Kapolei

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:40 pm HST]
Good Luck Tad! Represent the 808 state well. Don't listen to all the haters. They're just jealous cause they've been playing golf for years, and they still can't play good like you. You do your thing, and don't let anyone or anything stop you from your goals and dreams.
Justin
Waipahu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:39 pm HST]
The level of ignorance in some of your comments are alarming. I hope my kids never meet you because they'll probably think the world is flat. The NCAA allows 4.5 scholarships. Hawaii has 6 team members, Stanford 2007 NCAA champions have 9 on their roster. EXPLAIN TO ME HOW TAD GETS A FULL RIDE. THESE KIDS GET PARTIAL ASSISTANCE. Beyond that do you think any school has promised him a scholarship? Tad doesn't play football where coaches are knocking down doors trying to get a kid to play for them. What happens if he waits and gets no offers, are any of you going to fund his college education? Move forward Tad and ignore these guys that are content treadng water.
TaddFan
Mililani

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:33 pm HST]
Tadd....whatever , dude !...Just have lots of fun, whether you win or not....people would be happy to be in your position..it's your choice and you've got my support...most importantly don't allow your ego to get in the way...if you can accept winning you best be able to accept losing....kind regards
James
San Francisco

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:32 pm HST]
Congrats Tadd!!! You got my support all the way. Follow your dreams, for you will not regret and no one should micromanage your decision(s), but you should always keep the suggestion(s) you receive in mind (esp. your parents), because they love you. Everyone has different and many paths in a lifetime, and yours is golf. Maturity will come with age and experience(s)in life, whether in college, job, traveling, etc... Higher education (college or trade school) is one path, but you have to appreciate school and eventually choose a career (a major) or else it will be worthless (it cost a lot of money too). Depends on their major, most college grads don't find job(s) in their career field(s). As I tell my two teenagers, Always be humble, and remember your Hawaii roots!
L
mililani

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:31 pm HST]
Good luck, Tadd! We'll be rooting for you!
Aunty Jean & Uncle Isami
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:27 pm HST]
DON'T DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!
kirk
waipahu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:25 pm HST]
Stop! What's the big rush? It will be a case of too early, too soon. Wait until you're 18 to increase your maturity level. Remember, you will be playing with the world's best. You have the talent to be great, but isn't this a case of being impulsive? It's easy to say "go for it," but you need to be on a sure path going for it.
Lee
San Francisco

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:22 pm HST]
Another Michelle Wie!!!! Yah!!!
Darrell
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:22 pm HST]
I wish you the very best ... just remember ... don't forget: ... your roots ... be reasonably assessible to the local media ... attend your H.S. graduation (and Project Grad) ... be careful when jogging (don't fall and hurt your wrist) ... don't over use these word's phrases "you know"; "like"; "I'm only xx"; "I don't think I have to apologize to anyone"; "I want to compete with the women of the LPGA"; ... don't attend too many major picture openings (especially in foreign countries) or NBA all star games - until you start winning! ... don't publicly whine or sulk ... there is no crying in golf!!! ... hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! ... you have too many "d"s in your name ... speak softly and carry a big driver ... be humble, keep the fire burning, let others' negativity be your motivation!!!!
Tad
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:19 pm HST]
Tadd, while I do not agree with your decision, I do want to wish you the best of luck in your choice to turn pro. If I may give you a small piece of advice here and that would be don't make the same mistakes "Team Wie" has made and for God sakes do not hire David Leadbetter as your coach. Stay humble and keep that dynamite personality of yours. Make sure what people see on camera is what they see when they approach you in public. You've always taken the time to say "thank you" to people with that smile on your face. Don't ever, ever stop doing that.
Junior
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:08 pm HST]
Tadd, When you play a Nationwide tour event be sure to get acquainted with 19 year old Aussie, Jason Day. He can give you some good advice about how to play your own game. Jason tried to force birdies when he was in contention earlier this year and faltered, however when he played his game and didn't try and force birdies he won. Good luck, Tom
Tom
CA

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 12:03 pm HST]
Not to be a hater, but this is the dumbest decision this kid is going to make. He made one cut, got destroyed in the U.S. Open, and now he wants to go pro? Whoever is pushing him should really think about what they are making him give up. The kid has game I will admit that (but not pro game). Go to college, play on their team and get a scholarship. A free ride, great golf and a great education. That in itself will be worth more than any money he will receive on tour. I hope he can take it back and become an amateur again.
Jared
Hawaii Kai

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 11:59 am HST]
I personally would have wanted you to enjoy your youth. However, we, your family know you to be special, more than anyone out there realizes. Remember that you are backed by all of us and that whatever choice you make, it is the best choice you could have made right now. There are no wrong ones. Uncle and I wish you the very best. I wish we could be at your debut.
Auntie M
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 11:51 am HST]
Congratulations on your decision to turn pro. You have accomplished a lot as an amateur and going to the next level is logical. In 5, 10 or 20 years, you may or may not have regrets but remember one thing, at the time you made the decision to turn pro, it was the right decision. Your success is not guaranteed but as long as you have the same burning desire as you do now, you will somehow find a way to succeed. Don't forget the counsel of your parents and real friends. I'm sure they will always be there for you. You are an excellent example for all young golfers around the world. Most importantly don't forget your roots and connection to Hawaii. Good luck on achieving your dream and we surely will be watching you on the long journey to winning your first major.
Byron
Waikele

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 11:32 am HST]
Geev 'um, Tadd! Oh, yeaahhhh!
Mark
Wailuku

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 11:30 am HST]
CONGRATULATIONS!! Follow your dream.. may you remain focused and succeed in your goal. Hawaii is proud of you!
rae
kaimuki

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 11:19 am HST]
Tadd, Congratulations! Here's wishing you lots of success in your new goal in life. Just keep focused on your dream and never give up.
bets
honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 11:05 am HST]
Congratulations, but remember how Tiger Woods did it- he perfected his skills while on the college team then turned pro after. Look where he is now. There's no guarantee of success either way, but remember that the rewards can be greater with experience.
Naoko
Pearl City

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 11:04 am HST]
Tadd, Go for it! BEST OF LUCK!
ed flores
Mililani

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 11:00 am HST]
Tad GO FOR IT! Make the (808) proud. All of you saying he should wait, are you willing to give the family money to help him retain his amateur status? CAN YOU GUYS EVEN READ? Part of this was financial, do any of you think air fare, hotel, cars come free when you play in a tournament on the mainland as an amateur. Why don't you guys offer a few thousand to his family, I'm sure they would encourage him to remain an amateur if you guys showed your generosity.
TaddFan
Mililani

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 10:51 am HST]
I would have to say that it's your decision... who cares what everyone else says... I think it'll be good if you turn pro. You'll give the young boys of Hawai'i someone to look up to... Just like how Michelle Wie has given young girls someone to look up to. Rather people like to admit it or not... Michelle Wie is an awesome player, but at the scrutiny of all the other pro women players out there. Tadd: Hold your head high and strive for the best.
Kehau
Hilo

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 10:37 am HST]
Go for it!!!! Best wishes on your golfing career.
Mark
San Francisco

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 10:35 am HST]
Tadd: Best wishes on your decision to turn pro at 16, but please reconsider. Look at the Michelle Wei debacle and consider taking your time to build up your game and your maturity before turning pro. Keep up the good work.
Allen
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 10:28 am HST]
Not everybody who follows Tiger's footsteps is going to turn out to be number 1 in the world. Tad...great call, make the money while you can, enjoy the talent you've been blessed before you get a little older and nagging injuries take longer to heal, and make as much money as you can. You can always go back and get your education. Good decision and best of luck.
Devin
Marina Del Rey

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 10:10 am HST]
To say that Michelle Wie going pro is a mistake? Is making 20 million a mistake? Staying amateur doesn't guarranty success and financial security in the future. Maybe going pro might've hindered her growth in golfing, but if she really has what is takes to become a great golfer she has the time and money to do it. Anyways congrats to Tad.
J
Aiea

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 10:02 am HST]
Big mistake. Still not strong enough at the amateur level. Tiger didn't turn pro till he was in college. Why won't these kids learn that you must dominant at your age level before moving on up.
jason
aiea

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 10:00 am HST]
I am impressed with Tad's conviction and passion at such a young age. He is way more mature than Michelle was at that age. He is self-driven, unlike Michelle who was parent-driven. He will do well, and like he said to his parents, we just have to trust him to make the right decision for himself. Unlike what others posted, I think Tad's parents are doing an exemplary job raising such a gifted and balanced individual.
rudy
aiea

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:43 am HST]
Life is an experience of mountains and valleys. Go for it Tadd!! Good luck and live life to its fullest!!
mike
kapahulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:40 am HST]
Tadd; Congrats on your decision. You know we will all stand behind you and root likie crazy for you to do well. While I would have liked to see you go to college and get some more experience, I think you'll be fine; you ahve the game. Keep your easy going attitude and play your game. Good luck and keep it in the short grass!
Jim
Waipahu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:32 am HST]
Michelle didn't like boxing so she failed at life.
Poi
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:31 am HST]
Congratulations and best of luck in the future. Ignore the negative feedback. Naysayers are the people who don't have the guts to follow their own dreams.
Dan
Oahu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:29 am HST]
Pressure that is what you\'ll be dealing with the BIG boys. Money is not every you\'ll be 16 years old you should enjoy your high school and college years if you decide to further your education. Remember education is your best investment!! Yes, you have the talent but there so much more to experience in life. You should already know how your future is going to be like from Michelle\'s path.
Asia
Waialua

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:27 am HST]
I like watching boxing better. You should have been a boxer so I would actually know who you are. Golfing is overrated but not boxing. Boxing is way more fun, you should try that too. You used to do judo. If you mix boxing with judo you can make your own sport called Boxudo. That would be cool. Try it, let me know how it works for you.
Poi
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:24 am HST]
Go for it, the chance to go pro may never present itself again, too many variables in life, that could leave you wondering "what if" for the rest of your life, when opportunity knocks always go for it....You can always go back to school and college, you can't always play professional sports, and very few of us can. those that think it is a mistake would do what you are if they were in your shoes, but since they are not all they offer is criticism for masked jealousy. Good luck!
Jaime
hawaii

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:13 am HST]
Tadd, don't get scared about being "immature" or not "fully-grown" like everyone is saying- Its up to you to do well and carry yourself like the adult you are. Do you follow NBA Basketball? Look at the past high school stars who went pro at 18- there are those that carried themselves like adults and professionals (LeBron James) and now have stellar careers, and there are those that flopped (Kwamee Brown). Don't let people give you the "kid" talk. You're a young adult, but an adult nontheless. Make us proud!
Andy
OR

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:09 am HST]
Tadd, congrats and good for you on making such a big decision on your own. Whether someone your age goes on in life to work (pro golf) or go to school, the most important thing is to always strive for the highest level. When people say "stay in school", thats meant for those who aren't strong enough to go back at any time. You're different- you know what you want and how to do very well in it. Apply that to golf, going (back) to school, and everything else in life, and you'll be fine.
Andrew
Eugene

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 9:05 am HST]
Where are his parents. They should have learned from Michelle Wie's parents mistake. Let the boy mature mentally and physically before throwing him to the lions. It's hard enough for adults to handle let alone a 16 year old boy. It's up to the parents to make this decision and not the boy but I guess it's all about the benjamins. DONUTS!!!!
SUPER GENIOUS MIKE
HONOLULU

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:57 am HST]
Big mistake, experience life as a youngster, finish high school and go to college and play golf there gain life experience as well as golf. Going Pro as tempting as it sounds, is placing a young person in an adult world before they're ready. The distractions will be overwhelming regardless of parental guidance.
andrew
Midwest USA

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:56 am HST]
Go for it Tad. Remember Hawaii and Keep yourself rooted in the ways that got your here in the first place. Not too many people get to immerse themselves in their dreams at 17 years of age. I hope your mada slap yo head if you forget your roots. Good luck young brotha.
BigIslandKurt
Ka'u

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:36 am HST]
Tadd much luck with you and remember to keep yourself grounded and don't get swept up with the hype like Michelle W. did. Let your game speak for you not your publicity or photo opps or magazine cover shoots or sponsor endorsements. It's you, your club, the ball, the fairway and the wind. Much luck to you.
Tony D
waipio

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:34 am HST]
If you have been offered a big endorsement contract to turn pro, I'd say go for it! If there are no offers, then what's the rush? Being offered a substantial contract would be the ONLY reason that I could see you turning pro at 16... otherwise it makes no sense at all.
Jerome
Kona

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:33 am HST]
I think you should wait, enjoy the time you have in high school, and not worry about the pressures of becoming a pro golfer. And don't miss your graduation!
Lori
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:31 am HST]
Tadd, I wish you the best in pursuing your dream. I just hope you have made the right decision to go pro at this time. Also, I hope you don't turn into a disaster like MW. But, only time will tell if you made the right decision. Best of Luck.
Tom
Aiea

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:21 am HST]
Tadd follow your heart and yours dreams will come true. You don't need to prove anything to anyone but yourself. Your well beyond your years as a golfer, but more importantly as person. Always remember to have fun and be yourself. good luck
uncle T
moanalua

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:20 am HST]
I hope you very well and avoid being a scrub like Wie. I'd love to see you go head to head with Wie and smoke her!
Rick
Ewa Beach

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 8:00 am HST]
I say go for it Chad. Most of the naysayers I have spoken to about Michelle's troubles can't break a 100. And they condemn her. Funny part is, most aren't even golfers. When you ask them to name any 5 other female golfers they can't. But they know MW. So actually MW did exactly what she was supposed to do for her sponsors, get her name out there and people hear Nike and Sony most of the times her name is mentioned. Such a terrible life she will have now. What will she do as a freshman in college with only $20 million and 2 houses? Go for it Chad, take on the world. Michelle might have opened a few doors, let's see you slam it in a few faces.
Mike
Honolulu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:49 am HST]
Please avoid michelle wie's sad mistakes
jimmy ly
tahiti

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:43 am HST]
It's wonderful that you turned pro, Tadd! All I can say is that you need to be mindful of the heavy responsibilities pro golfers have. Other than that, I believe you will be successful. You have a modest attitude and a perseverance not many teenagers possess.
kel
aiea

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:42 am HST]
I think Tadd should wait. He should gain more experience and get more exposure so sponsors will come crawling to him. He should play at the college level so incase he gets the Michelle Wie syndrome-he'll have his education to fall back on.
c
Pearl City

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:40 am HST]
Congratulations! Tadd I don't golf. But I love the game. We have so much talent in Hawaii. And you are exceptionally one of the best young golfer. We hope for the best for you. Good luck
Bernie Melendez
Kapaa, Kauai

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:38 am HST]
I'm glad that this decision is coming from you, Tadd, and not your parents or anyone else. Don't let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do. You've proven to yourself that you can do this, and that is enough proof that you can trust yourself. Great luck!
RG
Makiki

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:29 am HST]
Go for it! Make all the money you can. Then in five years you will be 21 and then decide if you want to go to college. If not use your money, buy a business and retire.
Bo Ehrig
Agoura

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:27 am HST]
you dont need the added expectations as a pro right now, regardless, just be kind to yourself and always remember why we play.
jon
kaneohe

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:26 am HST]
You only live once. The older you get, the more obligations you have. He should do it.
Shaun
Los Angeles

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:06 am HST]
Tadd, good luck to you and geeve'm. Love the game. The money will follow.
Lloyd
Makaha

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 7:02 am HST]
Follow your dream with no regrets. Life is about good and not so good decisions. Best wishes!!
GO
Oahu

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 6:58 am HST]
I dont think it's a wise decision to turn pro so young. Your education is far more important at this time and with the talent you have...a 'full ride' is yours for the taking Tadd! Get that out of the way and let the pieces fall where they may. Having one 'riches to rags' saga, (Michelle Wie)is enough to learn your lesson! Good Luck!!!
JT
Maui

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 6:54 am HST]
I can say you get what you think about and if it's in your heart then go for it. Only you should be making that decision. Your good and you will steal the hearts of world at any age. Good luck
Karla Timon
Hawaii Kai

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 6:28 am HST]
Don't do it, Tadd!
Kevin
San Francisco

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 6:23 am HST]
Sadly, another youngster following bad advice and being told to follow the rainbow to the pot of gold. Stay amateur and enjoy your young years, there will be plenty of time to get serious and play golf for a career. I bet Michelle Wie and her parents are rethinking her decision, although I think Tad is more talented and has more potential. Don't do it!
jim
mililani

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 6:07 am HST]
Ty Tryone, Michelle Wie. Let's hope we don't add Tadd to this list.
bud
ewa

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 6:07 am HST]
Go get 'em Tadd! You're my man. Also, remember that you can blame everything on your wrists, caddy, swing coach, the heat, etc. if things don't go like you planned! Ha ha ha ha ha ho ho ho ho hee hee hee.......
cd
kahala

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 5:57 am HST]
Too early... dominate the amateur circuit first...
n8tv one
AZ

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 5:35 am HST]
Anyone who saw him play at the Sony Open could not help but admire his tremendous talent and courage. As people gravitated towards him, he responded with a love and affection that could only come from deep within. He is a credit to his family. From a Son of Hawaii, he is destined to be a Son of the World. Aloha Tadd, we are with you.
James Ireijo
Cool, CA

[Posted on July 12, 2007 at 5:32 am HST]
Don't do it Tadd. Bide your time in the amateurs.
v3
Honolulu