Dina Taylor Pinson has excelled as both a women’s golf coach at DeLand High School in Florida and a business owner in the agriculture industry. Her career reflects her unique blend of leadership, dedication, and expertise in two distinct fields: sports and pest control. With a track record of two Volusia Flagler Coach of the Year awards, she has proven herself as a talented coach deeply committed to shaping athletes’ lives on and off the golf course. Simultaneously, she has built a thriving business, Taylor Lawn and Shrubcare LLC, a trusted brand in her community.
Ms. Pinson’s journey began with her studies in agriculture education at the University of Florida, where she laid the groundwork for her future business, Taylor Lawn and Shrubcare LLC. She became an agriculture pest control certified operator in 1998 and has successfully managed her company. Even in the primarily male-dominated agriculture industry, she has carved a prominent place for herself, demonstrating her ability to overcome barriers and flourish as a woman business owner.
Impressively, Ms. Pinson has left her indelible mark on the world of sports. She was a two-time All-American golfer and Southeastern Conference individual champion during her college years, representing the University of Florida with distinction. Her love for golf has been a driving force throughout her life, and although she briefly considered becoming a professional in the sport, she found her true calling in coaching. In 2019, Ms. Pinson earned her first Volusia Flagler Coach of the Year award during her debut year at University High School in Orange City, Florida. Under her leadership, the team completed an undefeated regular season, a remarkable feat for any coach, especially in the first year. Her peers quickly recognized the exceptional abilities that led to this prestigious honor. In 2023, she again achieved an undefeated season, coaching the women’s golf team at DeLand High School. Her leadership propelled the team to regional competitions and a state series tournament for the first time in the school’s history, earning her a second Coach of the Year title.
Ms. Pinson’s coaching philosophy focuses not only on improving her players’ golf skills but also on their overall development as individuals. She emphasizes academic excellence and encourages her players to pursue future opportunities in golf or through scholarships for their education. Her dedication to her athletes extends beyond the sport, as she invests time in helping them develop life skills that will serve them long after graduation. Her success is grounded in a deep understanding of both golf and the challenges her athletes face in today’s world. Unlike her upbringing, which was free from social media distractions, Ms. Pinson acknowledges the pressures of today’s digital landscape. She works to create a supportive and positive team culture, ensuring that her players are equipped to handle the demands of school, athletics, and social life. By fostering an environment of compassion and discipline, she motivates her players to stay focused and engaged despite the many distractions they face.
Beyond her accomplishments, Ms. Pinson has made significant strides as a woman in the pest control industry. Since founding Taylor Lawn and Shrubcare LLC in 2005, she has established herself as a respected business leader in her community. Her ability to balance the responsibilities of running a business with those of coaching is a testament to her work ethic and dedication. She credits her achievements to the values instilled in her by her parents, emphasizing the importance of hard work, focus, and respect.
Throughout her life, Ms. Pinson also has drawn strength from her faith, providing her with a strong foundation and guiding her through personal and professional challenges. She remains committed to giving back to her community through her business and mentoring the next generation of young athletes. She aspires to enhance her golf coaching skills further and possibly transition into college-level coaching. While she has a particular fondness for the University of Florida, she is open to opportunities at other institutions within Florida, recognizing the importance of staying close to her family and community. In addition to these aspirations, Ms. Pinson envisions opening a golf teaching facility to continue sharing her expertise and passion for the sport.
Committed to excellence, Ms. Pinson’s prowess as a golfer, coach, and business owner illustrates her mastery of diverse professions, which she balances with her personal life. Her coaching style focuses on athletic performance and personal growth, earning her the respect and admiration of her peers and athletes. Whether guiding her team to victory on the golf course or running her business, she brings meticulous care, attention, and commitment to everything she does. Her personal drive and her desire to give back to her community ensure that her impact will be felt for years to come.
At the heart of Ms. Pinson’s career is a love for golf and a deep commitment to inspiring young people. While she finds joy in the sport, her ability to help her players grow and reach their goals brings her the most satisfaction. She is motivated by the knowledge that she makes a difference in athletes’ lives, helping them develop as golfers and people prepared to face life’s challenges. Ms. Pinson’s greatest personal pride remains her SEC individual championship, a distinction that places her among a select group of athletes. However, her true legacy lies in her ability to inspire and mentor the next generation.