THE
PROFESSIONAL
THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE
Volume 16 Issue 11 December 2020
REBOOTING RETAIL
Get your sales back on track in 2021
INDOOR INSIGHTS
Swing studio set ups
NEW MEMBER CATEGORIES LAUNCHED
THE ALL NEW THE #1 DRIVER ON THE PGA TOUR Contact your local Titleist Area Sales Manager to find out more about this exciting new driver. Or learn more at www.titleist.co.uk
CONTENTS FEATURES
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UNDERSTANDING THE NEW MEMBERSHIP STRUCTURE We look at how Members will be recognised within the new categories
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YOUR SECRET WEAPON ON THE SHOP FLOOR Keeping your shop stocked effectively
TRAVEL
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LUXURY LINKS STAYCATIONS
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Staying closer to home? Experience an iconic Open venue with your members
HOT WINTER DESTINATIONS 2021 offers a chance to travel somewhere special
COACHING
THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE
Editor: Jane Carter PGA News and Features: steven.carpenter@pga.org.uk adrian.milledge@pga.org.uk Equipment and Trade Editor: nick.bayly@pgapublishing.co.uk Advertising Sales: ed.beale@pgapublishing.co.uk Recruitment Advertising: recruitment@pga.org.uk Contributors: Antje Derks, Golfbreaks.com, Crossover Technologies, Me and My Golf Photographers: Getty Images, Adobe Stock Production Assistant: Kelly Lewis Design: Andrew Beavis
INSIDE THE PGA
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PGA National Headquarters Centenary House The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B76 9PT Tel: 01675 470 333 Fax: 01675 477 888
ROBERT MAXFIELD This month from The PGA’s Chief Executive
PGA NEWS
MEMBER IN THE SPOTLIGHT Perfect Partnership- Neil Webb
INTERNATIONAL
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REPRESENTING THE PGA BRAND GLOBALLY The PGA licenses its brand to exclusive properties around the world
PGA RETAIL
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THE ULTIMATE BUNKER PLAYER
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ARE YOU USING IMAGES LEGALLY?
MANAGING EXPECTATIONS Neil Howie, managing director of Callaway Golf in the EMEA region, reveals how the company has been fairing during the Covid-19 crisis
BRINGING IN THE BUSINESS No longer just for winter, indoor swing studios can make money all year round
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Peter Ball on the importance of creating engaging coaching
MARKETING
Latest product launches and industry news
The PGA Professional
Me and My Golf spend time with Jason Day
BRINGING FUN TO LIFE
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TRADE NEWS
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This magazine contains images taken prior to Covid-19
A round up of what’s happening across The PGA and its regions
Everything you need to know about photography copyright laws
MEMBERSHIP
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YOUR BENEFITS A selection of special deals and offers secured for you by The PGA
RECRUITMENT
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#makinggolfhappen
SITUATIONS VACANT
The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited accepts no responsibility for the products or services offered by the advertisers in this publication nor does it necessarily agree with any views expressed, statements or claims made by the advertisers in this publication. ©The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited 2020 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photography and recording, without the written permission of the copyright holder, application for which should be addressed to the copyright holder (PGA). ®PGA is a registered trademark of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited Prostate Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1005541) and in Scotland (SC039332). Registered company 02653887 www.facebook.com/thepga www.linkedin.com/company/ professional-golfers-association www.twitter.com/thepga www.instagram.com/thepga www.youtube.com/thepga
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PGA Principal Partners
Making the Business of Golf Happen PGA Partners
Centenary House, The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B76 9PT www.pga.info PGAŽ is a registered trademark of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited.
#makinggolfhappen
FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE
T
his month sees the culmination of almost two years of consultation and planning as we roll out the three PGA Member categories as part of our overall PGA 2020 Vision. It is exciting to see it finally becoming a reality and we are delighted with the response we have received from both Members and the wider industry. The 2020 Vision initiative brings a level of stability which many will be seeking after the challenges of the last few months. The realisation that golf clubs - owner or volunteer run - need to be better equipped in all facets of running a successful business has never been more apparent. An organisation where every person involved with the golf club and the wider golf industry can find support, learning and build valued relationships is more relevant now than at any other time.
“
able to develop their skills and keep pace with the demands of their roles. PGA Learn - the new CPD Platform - will be at the heart of that development and as it launches this month we hope you will find time in your busy schedules to look at the digital platform and what is has to offer. The Value Blocks and the new Members’ expertise model also outlined in this issue of the magazine demonstrate a clear pathway of learning, upskilling and specialisation which any PGA Member can follow to enhance their existing skills, promote their own value and enhance their own career development prospects. The PGA Business Management Group and the Club Volunteer by PGA groups also launch this month and will be of interest to your volunteer members and other industry colleagues. They will not of course be ‘Members’ of the Association or entitled to use the brand in the same way that full PGA Members can,
Putting the interests of Members first has been paramount in all our thinking and decision-making.
Whilst Covid-19 has presented many difficulties and challenges in all areas of our lives, one of the positives has been the opportunity for organisations and individuals to re-evaluate the way they operate and look at their relevance - in our case, both to Members and to the industry we operate in. Putting the interests of Members first has been paramount in all our thinking and decision-making. The objective of ensuring that a Member can now be recognised for their skills in their sector of expertise – whether Professional, Coach or Manager - underpins the work we have done in developing the new categories. We have long recognised that the role of the PGA Professional has been changing - and the pace of that change has been accelerated by Covid-19. Golf clubs face increasing pressures – financial, environmental and others - and more and more they are turning to the professional workforce to implement the right decisions at the right time. The role of the PGA Professional is therefore ever evolving. The introduction of the new categories and all their associated development and learning will ensure that our Members are seen to be relevant and importantly, constantly
The PGA Professional
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but we hope that by having a relationship with us and directly with you at club level, they will develop a greater understanding and appreciation of the importance of the PGA Professional role and the value you bring to a business whilst enhancing their own skills. Thoughts now turn to Christmas and hopefully you will get to spend time with your families over the festive period. It’s a time for reflection but most importantly after the last nine months, to looking to the future. The PGA continues to work with our industry colleagues to understand the learnings from Covid-19 and whilst golf has fared better than many, it is important we build on that for the more positive times ahead. PGA Members throughout Great Britain and Ireland have continually risen to the many challenges presented by Covid-19 and your efforts have been widely applauded by every sector of the industry. On their behalf, again, thank you and my best wishes to you and your families for Christmas and the New Year.
Robert Maxfield Chief Executive
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2020 VISION
UNDERSTANDING THE NEW MEMBERSHIP STRUCTURE We take a closer look at how Members will be recognised in the new categories, what they need to do to move through the bands and who will be assessing their performance.
Y
ou will undoubtedly be well aware of the very significant changes to The PGA’s existing membership structure. In previous issues we have explored the new membership categories and the four Value Blocks that underpin them – now we can expand further to show you how it all fits into the wider membership framework and the new PGA Members expertise model. The extensive Member study conducted back in 2017 has been a key driver behind the Association’s 2020 Vision. You told us that you wanted to be able to specialise, but just as importantly, you wanted the industry to understand what that speciality actually meant. The existing APAL system does at least recognise a hierarchy, but it’s never been properly communicated what the different specialities within the PGA brand are. Everyone was grouped together in one term – PGA Professional – despite the fact that there are some 84 different roles across the whole of the PGA Professional category, with many specialisms within those roles. Our 2020 Vision provides a great opportunity for this to be addressed.
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The new categories and the associated Value Blocks (already covered in the October issue) sit at the centre of the expertise model. This new model enables us to support the PGA Member more than ever before, as well as promote and communicate the value of employing a PGA Member to the wider industry. 1. Member Training, Support & Development: Providing a framework for CPD and training to equip our Members and meet capability gaps 2. Promotion of Members: Communicating and promoting the skills, competencies and expertise PGA Members have gathered through personal development (CPD, the PGA training programme and their own industry experience) 3. Member Assessment: Providing a framework for Member assessment and a new APAL system that recognises Members’ specialities and hierarchy 4. Member Recruitment: Helping to drive the recruitment of PGA Members to the industry, promoting expertise and specialism Read on for a deeper exploration of the Member assessment component of the PGA Members expertise model.
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2020 VISION
PGA MEMBERS’ EXPERTISE MODEL MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES & BANDS MEMBER ASSESSMENT
ASSESSMENT FRAMEWORK FOR BAND PROGRESSION & SELF REFLECTION
PGA MEMBERS’ EXPERTISE PGA COACH
COACH
Specialist Knowledge: ADVANCED Coaching COACH
Business SPECIALIST Management COACH
MASTER COACH
PGA PROFESSIONAL
Golf Growth & Development
MEMBER TRAINING, DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT
Professional Representation
MEMBER PROMOTION
PROFESSIONAL
Specialist Knowledge: ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL Professional
DRIVES CONTENT STRUCTURE & REQUIREMENTS
Golf Growth & Development
Business SPECIALIST Management
PROFESSIONAL
Professional Representation
SUPPORTING AND PROMOTING MEMBERS ALIGNED TO CATEGORIES, BANDS AND VALUE BLOCKS
PGA MANAGER
MANAGER
Specialist Knowledge: Management SENIOR
Business EXECUTIVE MANAGER
MANAGER
MASTER MANAGER
Golf Growth & Development
INDUSTRY EXPERTISE REQUIREMENTS
Professional Representation
PGA MEMBER VALUE & SPECIALISMS
GOLF INDUSTRY EMPLOYERS The PGA Professional
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PGA COACH
PGA MANAGER
2020 VISION
COACH
THE NEW APAL DESIGNATIONS MANAGER
PGA PROFESSIONAL
PGA MANAGER EXECUTIVE MANAGER
GA MANAGER
SENIOR MANAGER
MASTER MANAGER
MANAGER
EXECUTIVE PGA MANAGER MANAGER
MASTER MANAGER
PGA COACH COACH
PROFESSIONAL
SPECIALIST PROFESSIONALADVANCED PROFESSIONAL COACH
ADVANCED SENIOR PROFESSIONAL MANAGER PGA PROFESSIONAL
ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL
MASTER MANAGER
SENIOR MANAGER
ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL
SPECIALIST COACH
MASTER COACH
COACH
SPECIALIST COACH
PGA COACH SPECIALIST PROFESSIONAL MASTER COACH
ADVANCED COACH
SPECIALIST COACH
COACH
PROFESSIONAL
MANAGER
EXECUTIVE MANAGER
ADVANCED COACH
PGA PROFESSIONAL
MANAGER
EXECUTIVE MANAGER
SENIOR MANAGER
PGA COACH
SPECIALIST PROFESSIONAL
MASTER COACH
ADVANCED COACH
SPECIALIST COACH
HOW DO YOU GET RECOGNISED AS PGA COACH OR MANAGER? MASTER COACH
MASTER MANAGER
CATEGORY AND BAND MOVEMENT Member Re-Categorisation PGA PROFESSIONAL
For PGA Professionals
For members within each category
PGA PROFESSIONAL
PGA MANAGER
ACH
PROFESSIONAL
COACH
SPECIALIST ADVANCED COACH PROFESSIONAL
ADVANCED COACH
MASTER COACH
PGA MANAGER
PGA COACH
MANAGER
SPECIALIST EXECUTIVE PROFESSIONAL MANAGER
ALLOCATION CRITERIA
MASTER MANAGER
PROFESSIONAL
COACH
SENIOR MANAGER
If you want to be recognised as a PGA Coach you apply through The PGA. You will have to demonstrate that you are regularly coaching and then you will be allocated the use of the PGA Coach brand. Similarly, if you are looking to be recognised as a PGA Manager you will need to complete an application that demonstrates six months’ experience working in a management role. Successful applicants will then be able to use the PGA Manager brand. Those that have completed the PGA Applied Golf Management Studies degree and turned Professional will automatically be able to access this PGA Manager speciality.
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Band Progression
ADVANCED SPECIALIST PROFESSIONAL COACH
ADVANCED COACH
MASTER COACH
MANAGER
SPECIALIST EXECUTIVE PROFESSIONAL MANAGER
PROGRESSION CRITERIA
SENIOR MANAGER
MASTER MANAGER
Members looking to be recognised for their impact and achievement throughout their careers will be assessed against a new APAL system. Previously, Members have been able to be recognised in higher designations through application and assessment by the APAL council. The new business strategy has allowed us the opportunity to make significant changes and improvements to this system. The following pages articulate the changes to the assessment process which is designed to be significantly more straightforward and transparent.
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2020 VISION
PROGRESSING THROUGH THE BANDS BAND PROGRESSION - ASSESSMENT CRITERIA PGA PROFESSIONAL
PGA MANAGER
PGA COACH
PROFESSIONAL
COACH
ADVANCED COACH
10% 10% 10%
10% 10% 10%
ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL
SPECIALIST COACH
10% 10% 10%
EXECUTIVE MANAGER
MASTER MANAGER
60% 60% 60%
10% 10% 10%
70% 70% 70%
20% 20% 20%
Specialist Knowledge: Coaching
Golf Growth & Development
Specialist Knowledge: PGA Professional
Professional Representation
Business Management
SPECIALIST COACH Criteria
SENIOR MANAGER
20% 20% 20% 50% 50% 50%
MASTER COACH
ADVANCED COACH Criteria
SPECIALIST PROFESSIONAL
20% 20% 20%
20% 20% 20%
Business Management
MANAGER
Golf Growth & Development
ADVANCED PRO Criteria
Professional Representation
SPECIALIST PRO Criteria
Specialist Knowledge: Business Management
Golf Growth & Development
SENIOR MANAGER Criteria
Professional Representation
EXECUTIVE MANAGER Criteria
The above graphic demonstrates the Value Blocks that are specific to each of the new PGA specialities. These Value Blocks represent the fundamental skills and competencies required to be a PGA Professional and will therefore provide the criteria against which future assessment will be made. Additionally, the graphic depicts the relevant weighting which will be attributed to each of the Value Blocks throughout the marking process. The marking criteria alongside the detail below the Value Blocks will guide PGA Members as to what to include in their applications and to what depth. An example of the marking sheet, with the relevant percentages and the breakdown of the individual Value Blocks into their specific expertise areas, can be found below. PGA PROFESSIONAL - Progression Assessment Scoring Application for:
ADVANCED
SPECIALIST MAX SCORE
Specialist Knowledge
50%
100
-
-
33
Golf Operations
-
-
Other Specialist Knowledge
-
Coaching
A PGA Professional is trained to be the go-to person in all matters relating to golf.
Equipment Retail Rules of the Game
ASSESSMENT PROPORTIONATE TOTAL SCORE
CRITERIA SCORING Insufficient Moderate
Good
23
33 33
23 23
35.0%
-
-
70
MAX SCORE
Business Management
20%
120
Business Planning & Strategy A PGA ProSales & Profit fessional is trained to add Customer Service & Satisfaction value in the Leadership & Employee critical areas Development of business performance. Financial Management
20
Legislative & Legal Compliance
20
20
A PGA Professional is fully committed to promoting and growing the game.
20%
40
Game Promotion
20
Participation
20
A PGA Professional is a respected representative of their PGA Business/ Employer and The PGA.
10%
100
PGA Representation
20
Ambassador & Role Model
20
Reputation
20
Personal & Professional Development
Playing & competing
OVERALL ASSESSMENT AWARD
20
20 18 14
10
14.33%
10 14
ASSESSMENT PROPORTIONATE TOTAL SCORE
SCORING Insufficient Moderate
Good
Very Good Outstanding
CRITERIA SCORING Insufficient Moderate
Good
18 14
MAX SCORE
Professional Representation
Very Good Outstanding
20
MAX SCORE
Golf Growth & Development
Good
20 20
ASSESSMENT PROPORTIONATE TOTAL SCORE
CRITERIA SCORING Insufficient Moderate
THE ASSESSORS
Very Good Outstanding
16.00%
ASSESSMENT PROPORTIONATE TOTAL SCORE
Very Good Outstanding
18 14 14 10
20
73%
ADVANCED PRO
14
7.00%
Each application will be assessed by three individuals with proven experience within the speciality. These scores will be moderated for consistency prior to being submitted to the Executive Committee for ratification. The APAL council will be retained exclusively for the assessment of those seeking consideration for Master status. In the majority of circumstances applications will be self-generated, however under the new system representations can be made through regional committees in exceptional circumstances.
2020 VISION
TRANSITIONING TO THE NEW SYSTEM All members with APAL designations will automatically be transitioned to the new membership bands as per the graphic below. Those with an APAL designation that wish to be recognised in the higher bands of the new specialities (i.e. PGA Coach or Manager) will need to submit an application to allow The PGA to access their previous APAL submission and ensure that the application is justified by a predominance of experience in the relevant coaching or management speciality.
APAL MEMBERS - TRANSITION PGA PROFESSIONALS - Automated Transition PGA PROFESSIONAL MASTER
PROFESSIONAL PGA PROFESSIONAL
ADVANCED FELLOW ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL
SPECIALIST PROFESSIONAL
FELLOW PROFESSIONAL
ADVANCED
ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL
YOUR APAL QUESTIONS ANSWERED I already have signage that refers to me as an Advanced Fellow… am I able to continue to use this designation? Yes, as of 2021 The PGA however will not be assigning any more Members to the Fellow or Advanced Fellow designations and will be encouraging people to move across to the new system. The PGA is also aware that as these designations have previously been awarded it remains the right of the individual to continue to use them. I have a Level 4 coaching qualification, will this have an impact on the future assessment process? Yes, those with Level 3 coaching qualifications will automatically be attributed Advanced Coach status. Those that have Level 4 coaching qualifications will automatically be awarded Specialist Coach status. Everyone with these qualifications will be contacted individually.
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I hold a Director of Golf PGA qualification... what happens to me? Those with the PGA Director of Golf or GCMQ qualification will automatically be assigned to the PGA Senior Manager status. Everyone with these qualifications will be contacted individually. What happens next? The APAL Council meeting which would normally take place in February has been cancelled to allow time to transition to the new system. Forthcoming communications will concentrate on the new application form, how to compile a successful application and information regarding future administrative processes. The PGA will start to receive submissions from March 2021. Learn more in the Members area at pga.info
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SPECIALIST PROFESSIONA
Mark Smith - PGA Professional Stamford Golf Club
Graphic Designer Business Development Consultant Central Invoicing Executive Buying Terms Manager EMP Marketing Editor
Foremost Golf For more information contact our National Business Development Manager, David Murch +44 (0) 7712 842 720 • david.murch@foremostgolf.com
2020 VISION
“I THINK THE EASE OF ACCESS TO PGA LEARN AND ITS ‘WOW’ FACTOR WILL INCREASE CPD AMONG THE PGA MEMBERSHIP EXPONENTIALLY.”
Following the recent unveiling of The PGA’s 2020 Vision, Dr Paul Wiseman, PGA Executive Director – Education, outlines the transformation of the Association’s traditional CPD system into a new digital platform offering a modern, flexible and informal way of working
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B
eing tasked with leading a complete CPD revamp for a 119-year-old Association just two days into a new role would seem like a daunting task for many. That was the situation Dr Paul Wiseman was faced with when he took on the role of PGA Executive Director – Education at the beginning of 2018. “It was my second day at The PGA,” recalls Wiseman, who has been involved in the education sector at many different levels for more than three decades. “Chief Executive, Robert Maxfield, made it clear to me that The PGA’s CPD platform had to change and it needed to be updated. “That’s really when the work started. It’s been a long process as we’ve had to understand what the issues were and where we were going to go with it. That took a lot of research but luckily there had been a huge survey that had taken place towards the end of 2017 which gave us a lot of data to have a look at and see what the issues were.” As a result, The Association’s new digital CPD offering - PGA Learn - moves away from the previous points-based system and now offers a modern, flexible and informal way of learning. Wiseman explained: “We looked at what lots of other organisations were doing and we decided to move to an hour-based system. We don’t think it’s too much to ask for Members to engage in some active form of professional learning for 15 hours a year to gain accredited status. “Gone are the days when Members would send in hard copies to PGA HQ. This will now be done as you go along in a seamless way as we move away from an oldfashioned CPD model to something more modern and efficient. Perhaps most importantly, the new platform won’t take Members long to fill in so hopefully that will encourage more of them to become engaged in CPD.” Available 24/7 through the Members’ Area of the website, the new platform will enable access to a growing library of relevant digital content, covering a wide variety of topics and resources. Content will come in the form of webinars, podcasts, blogs, e-learning courses, videos, templates and ‘how-to’ guides, all produced by The PGA, its partners,
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2020 VISION and other well-known providers of high-quality education. “The platform we decided to go with is the Agylia Learning Management System. They have worked with other big organisations, such as HSBC and Deloitte, and what we’ve got is a Netflix feel which will be embedded within the Members’ area of the PGA website. “All Members have to do is login to the Members’ area and they will be able to access the new portal which will lead them to a bespoke personalised learning locker. Here they will be able to access a whole repertoire of different experiences, delivered in different ways and accessed at a time that is convenient for them. “This is a significant move away from having the PGA Training Academy at The Belfry as the heart of formalised CPD, to reflecting and reacting to what Members really want, and offering a CPD platform that fits into their lives and where they are located. “One of the most exciting elements of PGA Learn is the ability for Members to access the platform on mobile and tablet devices. I think this ease of access and its ‘wow’ factor will increase CPD among The PGA Membership exponentially.” The PGA’s 2020 Vision initiative sees its core membership categories evolve into PGA Professional, PGA Coach and PGA Manager. Two new group membership categories are also being introduced, called the Business Management Group and Club Volunteer by PGA for those working or volunteering in golf. Of course, they will not be PGA Members, rather members of those two groups. The Association’s new CPD offering aligns with the new criteria set out in the membership categories, with PGA Learn now providing
The PGA Professional
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Members with attractive content for number of core skills, knowledge and competence levels, all of which underpin each of the membership categories. Wiseman explained: “We’ve got a huge amount of content which before had been hidden or wasn’t attractively presented. We’d communicate classes or webinars through our PGA Connect newsletter but we’re going to change that. “The content will be much more visible and presentable, and we hope to attract lots of different partners and organisations who might want to provide and support us with different learning activities. “There’s a star system similar to what you’d find on Amazon where people select a resource or an asset and they’ll be able to rate it. We’ll then keep the ones that are popular and rated highly, and get rid of the ones that aren’t. “One thing that’s for sure is that with PGA Learn you’re never going to reach the end. This is a continuous process and we don’t need any more evidence of that than this year and what we’ve been through with COVID-19. “Who would have thought we would go through such an horrendous episode 12 months ago and changing the way we work has required significant learning. We can’t really look too far into the future, but building governance structures and review processes to ensure we move it forward and we continue to improve it.” For more details on PGA Learn, visit the Members area of the website. www.pga.info
#makinggolfhappen
KEY ELEMENTS OF PGA LEARN Ease of access There is no need to remember another username and password as you’re already registered to PGA Learn. Simply access the new platform by logging in to the Members area of the PGA website. Personalise your content Easily access content you want to see by using the ‘My Content’ dashboard. This area displays content you have indicated a particular interest in and can be customised by updating your ‘Areas of Interest’ via ‘My Profile’ within the Members’ area of the PGA website. Provide valuable feedback The platform’s commenting capabilities enable you to enjoy conversations around individual items of learning content, such as eLearning and microlearning courses, videos and support documents. You can also give content star ratings to show others what is popular and provide feedback on the type of content being delivered.
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NEWS
Derek Nash – A life well lived Derek Nash, a Life Member and former chairman whose career embraced playing alongside Jack Nicklaus in The Open, working in the Cayman Islands and guiding the Association through a turbulent period, has passed away at the age of 87. “His was a life well lived,” said Alan Walker, a PGA Master Professional and former Captain, paying tribute to Derek, who was chairman from 1985 until 1988. Peter Alliss, another former PGA Captain, also paid fulsome tribute and added: “He fitted in and worked very hard for the Association. “He cared about it, the people, the game and those who played it. He was a really tiptop professional.” Despite being born into the game - his father became a club-maker and his elder brother owned a golf shop – Derek cannot possibly have imagined the way his career would unfold. Having spent two years as an apprentice club-maker and then completing his National Service with the RAF, Derek joined Stoneham Golf Club, Southampton, as an assistant in 1954. His three years there, followed by spells
as a playing assistant at Porters Park, Hertfordshire, and assistant at Finchley Golf Club, north London, led to him being appointed head PGA Professional at Pinner Golf Club, Middlesex, in 1961. He was there for 16 years before taking on a similar role at nearby Ruislip Golf Club. Derek had won the PGA Assistants’ Championship a year before moving to Pinner, adding his name to a list of winners that was to be joined by Tony Jacklin, the future two-time major champion. Later, as joint-chairman of the Ryder Cup committee, Derek was party to the decision that appointed Jacklin as the European team
captain for the four matches from 1983 onwards. It proved an inspired choice as Jacklin led Europe to victory in the two matches contested during Derek’s reign as PGA chairman. Derek retired a decade after the second of those triumphs in 1997 having spent six years in the Cayman Islands setting up and establishing The Links at SafeHaven. Prior to that he had served Ruislip Golf Club for 16 years, three of which coincided with his spell as PGA chairman. “It was a period of turbulence,” recalled Dr Phil Weaver, OBE, Derek’s successor as chairman. “But Derek had a very steady hand and guided the Association through those choppy waters.” Robert Maxfield, The PGA’s chief executive, added: “The role Derek played in guiding the Association through the significant changes required to embrace the modern demands in governance of a professional sport should never be under-estimated.” The PGA expresses heartfelt condolences to Janet, his longtime partner, and daughters Susan and Wendy.
Owen Mulhall (1942-2020)
Fred Private (1931-2020)
Cyril Whiting (1924- 2020)
Owen Mulhall, an accomplished coach who served Dun Laoghaire Golf Club for more than a quarter of a century, has passed away at the age of 78. Owen spent a decade at Croydon, Addington Palace and West Kent Golf Clubs in south London before returning home to his native Ireland in 1971. After spending some time in Dublin under the guidance of John Jacobs, he was appointed professional at Rathfarnham Golf Club near Dublin. Two-and-a-half years later he landed the prestigious position of head PGA Professional at Dun Laoghaire Golf Club, Co Dublin where he remained for 27 years. Owen retired in 2009 and was plagued by serious health issues in his later years. He is survived by his second wife Eileen, and children from his first marriage: daughter Sharon and sons David and Owen.
Fred Private, an Honorary Member who served the Aquarius Golf Club in south-east London for more than half a century, has passed away at the age of 89. Fred began his career in golf as an assistant to Tom Cotton at Beckenham Golf Club in 1957. He was there for seven years before becoming an assistant at nearby Aquarius. He was appointed head professional in 1967 and earned a reputation as an accomplished coach and a hugely popular figure amongst fellow PGA pros in the area. Fred was made a PGA Honorary Member in 2005 and two years later was presented with the Southwark Civic Award, in recognition of his 40 years’ service as a golf pro and his professionalism and dedication to Aquarius Golf Club and its educational activities.
Cyril Whiting, a member of the dynasty of professionals that served Open Championship venue Royal St George’s for an unbroken spell of 77 years and a regular golfing partner of James Bond’s creator, Ian Fleming, has passed away at the age of 96. As well as being a skilled club-maker and coach, Cyril, who was made a PGA Honorary Member in 1989, was an acomplished player, winning the Kent Professional Championship in 1959 and the Kent Open Championship six years later. His prowess as a player was alluded to in Goldfinger, Fleming’s book that features a golf match between the villain of the piece, Auric Goldfinger, and Bond. Cyril retired in 1988 and continued to live in Sandwich in a house named after the famous 6th hole at Royal St George's, The Maiden.
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NEWS
The PGA’s most senior Member passes away James Taylor (1917-2020) James Taylor, The PGA’s most senior Member and a recipient of the prestigious John Panton award for outstanding service to golf in Scotland, has passed away at the age of 102. James, or Jimmy as he was known, became involved in golf through his aunt when he was nine and in 1931 began an apprenticeship as a club-maker with J R Carstairs in his home town. His career was put on hold for six years during World War II when he served in the Royal Army Service Corps in Europe, emerging unscathed from the horrors of Dunkirk, before being posted to the Middle East and Africa. Jimmy resumed his career as a club-maker when hostilities ended and, following his marriage to Ann in 1950, moved to East Kilbride and continued his trade with McLays in Glasgow. However, the closure of McLays following the death of its owner in 1955 prompted a partial change in the direction of his career.
Jimmy opened a sports shop in East Kilbride and continued to make clubs for two Glasgow firms, Pirrers and Donaldsons. He was asked to take over the professional’s shop at East Kilbride Golf Club on May 21, 1959, the day his two sons, identical twins Alistair and Stuart, were born. Both inherited their father’s golfing skills: Stuart, who became a PGA professional and succeeded his father when he retired in 1986, won the Scottish Boys Championship in 1977; Alistair became the youngest winner of the Scottish Amateur Strokeplay Championship a year later. Jimmy was made a PGA Honorary Member in 1989 and received the John Panton Award 20 years later. He was also presented with a commemorative plaque by the Association when he turned 100 in December 2017. Jimmy, who was pre-deceased by Ann in 2018, is survived by Alistair, Stuart and Jean his daughter.
Raflewski returns home World-renowned short-game coach, Gareth Raflewski, has returned to his roots after opening his first performance golf academy in Europe at PGA National Ireland Slieve Russell. The academy in Ballyconnell, Co.Cavan, features a state-of-the-art performance studio and is being led by PGA National Ireland’s Head Professional Gordon Smyth. Raflewski – who is based in Canada but grew up in Omagh, Northern Ireland – has worked with 65 of the game’s best players across the LPGA and PGA Tours. Golfers across Ireland can improve their game using the same methods that have made the coach such a global success, using some of the latest technology in the game. Smyth, who is a life-long friend of Raflewski, commented: “I’ve been like a sponge, absorbing as much information as possible from Gareth, and I can’t wait to pass on the skills and knowledge of one of the most respected coaches in world golf to a new golfing audience.”
Carne Golf Links to stage Irish PGA Championship One of Ireland’s youngest venues, the challenging and visually stunning Carne Golf Links, will officially open its Wild Atlantic Dunes course next year by hosting the country’s oldest tournament - the Irish PGA Championship. The original 18-hole course that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean on Ireland’s west coast in County Mayo was the last to be designed by the celebrated architect Eddie
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Hackett and was completed in 1995. An additional nine holes known as the Kilmore, which was opened in 2013, plus the back nine of the Hackett course form the Wild Atlantic Dunes – the stage for a tournament that was first contested in 1907. The 54-hole tournament will be staged from August 5 – 7 and will be preceded in June by an annual pro-am that carries a €20,000 prize fund.
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ON THE MOVE The latest PGA Member appointments. A 17-year career as the head professional at Bastad Golf Klubb has come to an end for Per Hanson. He has taken up a similar role at Royal Appelgarden Golf Club. Paul Aitken has spent a big chunk of his career at Golf Can Guyan Spain but he is now a teaching professional at SGA Golf Academy China. Elsewhere overseas, Louis Wolcott is now a managing director at Trendy Golf USA, Graham Forbes has taken up a club professional role at Pro Sports International – Dubai, and Ian Clark has also moved to the Far East as an assistant professional at Trump International – Dubai. In the South, Joanne Taylor is now coaching at Walton Heath Golf Club, Mark Wood is the Head Professional at Alresford Golf Club and Harriett Matthews joins Paultons Golf Club as a teaching professional. One move in the East sees Dan Barton join Cannington Golf Club as their new manager, while Craig Shave joins Whetstone Golf Club as a teaching professional. Two moves in Ireland see Mark Peat join Dun Laoghaire Golf Club while David Ryan is now a club professional at East Cork Golf Club. In the North, Alex joins the coaching team at Mottram Hall Golf Club, and Carl Nicholas is a teaching professional at Original Green. If you would like to feature in this column send your details to membership@pga.org.uk
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NEWS
GreenClub energised by surge of interest GreenClub’s first official partner could be a high-profile Open
Championship venue amid a surge of interest from within the golf industry. On the back of the official launch of the company last month, PGA Principal Partner, GreenClub, has seen huge interest from golf venues eager to explore the prospect of generating their own energy from on-site solar installations. The overall aim is to invest in partnerships with golf venues to reduce energy costs and generate new revenue streams in progressing towards carbon neutrality – a concept which has already caught the attention of several venues, including one where the famous Claret Jug was presented in recent times. With the costs of installation covered, it’s an enticing prospect for many clubs and venues – whether those venues have played host to the golfing greats or weekend hackers. GreenClub chief executive, Liam Greasley, explained: “We’ve had a huge amount of interest since the launch last month, which has been very encouraging. “We’ve had a lot of very positive conversations, including one high-profile Open Championship venue, which has expressed a keen interest in working with us. It’s clear that many within the golf industry agree that this could be a game-changer for them. “While it is fantastic to be discussing potential plans
O’Rourke hitting it big in British Columbia Padraic O’Rourke has been voted PGA Professional of the Year by his peers in British Columbia in western Canada. The 37-year-old, originally from Galway, Ireland, is the Head Professional at Fairmont Chateau Whistler, one of Canada’s top resorts. O’Rourke started his career in Ireland before landing a job at world renowned Pine Valley in America. A short spell in the Caribbean was followed by a move to Canada eight years ago and he is now regarded as one of the leading PGA professionals in the country. “The PGA is a wonderful career but as I say to my assistants, you can get swallowed up very quickly in the industry if you are not willing to work hard and make connections,” said Padraic, who is in charge of 25 staff at the Canadian resort. “Not to sound grandiose, but I could have come over and been happy with my bit, but you have got to push forward, make the connections and get yourself out there.” O’Rourke gets great pleasure out of developing his staff at Chateau Whistler, which is also the biggest ski resort in the world. “It’s what I enjoy most,” he added. “Helping my staff develop. I love working with members and visitors and even doing a bit of teaching, but it’s quite fun getting them in shape and watching them go on to get great positions all over the world.” The PGA Professional
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with larger and high-profile venues, the attraction of our proposition is that it can work for so many different clubs and venues, regardless of size. “The good thing about our proposition is that it is scalable. Smaller venues can see a huge difference just as much as the bigger properties.” For more information, visit www.greenclub.energy, email info@greenclub.energy or call 0800 999 1904.
Wildlife introduced at Vipingo Ridge’s PGA Baobab Course
Vipingo Ridge is now home to four new species of animals as part of a project to create a wildlife sanctuary on its 2,500-acre estate. Ten years after the project was first conceived, in conjunction with Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) and Lafarge, impalas, elands, oryxs and water bucks can now be spotted at Kenya's only PGAaccredited course. In addition, more impala, zebra and giraffe are being relocated to the site from similar climatic areas in the coming weeks. The vision for the sanctuary is a sustainable and thriving ecosystem with Kenya’s wild herbivores roaming free and adding to the spectacular experience on the ridge. Alastair Cavenagh, Chairman at Vipingo Ridge, commented: “There has been a real buzz among the community here with our residents sharing photographs of the animals around the ridge and providing hugely positive feedback. We look forward to sharing the excitement with holiday guests and golfers too.”
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NEWS
Scott blows final whistle on his career Malcolm Scott, who has retired as head PGA Professional at Alresford Golf Club in Hampshire, experienced a myriad of changes to his role during the four decades he was there. Scott, who arrived at Alresford in 1980 after spending two years in Kenya, recalled: “I inherited a small, brick shed and at first had to beg or borrow clubs, balls, gloves and other things to sell to members. “But it soon took off and after five years the club built me a new shop, which was expanded again in 2004.” The expansion was matched by a necessary increase in marketing both his retail operation and coaching skills at club and county level. “Marketing has become a hugely important part of the day-to-day life of a club pro,” he added. “You have to market yourself and keep up with the opposition, otherwise you just get walked upon. “I’ve been a Foremost member for the
last 28 years and they have helped me a huge amount. “They also introduced me to social media. None of that entered my head when I started. I just had a board outside the shop and used a felt pen to publicise the latest offer! “The coaching side has also changed. It used to be a bog-standard lesson on the practice ground. “Now we use launch monitors, talk about fitness, eating properly, practising with a purpose, and course management.” In addition to Foremost, Scott had an equally helpful ally in The PGA in helping his career flourish. “I’ve always been a keen PGA Member," continued Scott, an Advanced Fellow Professional. “Years ago there was a PGA diploma in golf management. “That was the first part of education that ever came about. We were crying out for education and the Continuous
Professional Development (CPD) courses that followed were also hugely helpful. “The diploma in golf management was a wonderful insight into the running of a golf club and tournaments, especially pro-ams.” In that latter respect, Scott and his wife Jane ran an annual pro-am which ran for 28 years and was widely acknowledged as the best in the county. Jane, who worked in tandem with her husband for 35 years, has also retired. A longer version of this article can be read by visiting www.pga.info.
Burrell launches mentoring programme Golf clubs might have experienced a boost in membership numbers post COVID-19 lockdown, but Gilliam Burrell believes now is the time to empower clubs to retain them. Burrell has teamed up with accountant, Eileen Sheehan, to roll out Empower 360, an online club training and mentoring programme aimed at helping golf club management teams address fundamental aspects of club governance and revenue growth. “In my experience over the last 35 years working in the industry, you can see the lack of business strategy in the clubs because they are largely run by volunteers,” said Burrell, an Advanced Fellow of The PGA. Burrell and Sheehan will provide virtual training to facilities, guiding them to develop best-practice processes and tactics to grow the club’s performance. Burrell added: “It’s much less expensive if you can provide your members with tangible reasons to remain members and have an emotional attachment to the club and not just become car park members who play their golf and go away without spending any time in the golf club.” To find out more visit gillianburrell.com, call 087 2586788 or email Gillian at burrellgillian@gmail.com.
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Major winner Nicholas lands coaching role at Redditch Alison Nicholas, a PGA Professional who won the women’s US Open and captained Europe’s Solheim Cup team, has been appointed head teaching professional at Redditch Golf Club in Worcestershire. The 58-year-old qualified as a PGA pro in 1989 and competed on both the Ladies European and LPGA Tours for two decades. She is just one of just two Britons to win the women’s US Open, emulating Dame Laura Davies’ achievement in 1987 at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club, Oregon, 10 years later. The two went on to form a formidable partnership for Europe in
the Solheim Cup, an event Nicholas played in six times. In addition, she captained the team twice - in 2009 and when it was victorious at Killeen Castle, Ireland, two years later. Nicholas retired from the Tours in 2004 to concentrate on coaching but has continued to play in WPGA events, most recently in the WPGA Championship at Kedleston Park, Derby, in September when she finished third. Nicholas commented: “I am very passionate and dedicated to growing the game with our younger members and also enhancing players at all levels.”
December 2020
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NEWS
Delfortrie lands Director of Golf role at PGA Catalunya Resort
PGA Catalunya Resort, Spain’s no.1 golf resort, has appointed PGA Member Dirk Delfortrie as its new Director of Golf. With more than 20 years’ global golf experience, Delfortrie will oversee PGA Catalunya’s two award-winning courses and The Golf Hub – the resort’s innovative coaching, club facility and Toptracer range – focusing on creating world-class golf experiences for all. “PGA Catalunya is an amazing destination, you can play two of Europe’s finest golf courses and improve your skills at our stateof-the-art Golf Hub,” said the Dutchman.
“I’m fortunate to have an outstanding team that embraces the same passion for introducing young people to the game of golf via our Sergio Garcia Junior Golf Academy, including Enric Lopez, our Head Professional. “Ultimately, it’s about creating unforgettable memories and experiences for our diverse golf audience. By combining world class courses, state-of-the-art technology and overall enjoyment, all in one of Europe’s most naturally beautiful locations. Our vision is to become the home of golf wellness.” Delfortrie spent eight years in California early in his career, coaching at the Butch Harmon School of Golf and playing a part in the launch of Callaway Golf’s club-fitting programme. He also worked in Portugal, Scotland and the Netherlands before arriving at PGA Catalunya Resort in Girona, home to the highly acclaimed Stadium Course, a threetime host of the Open de España.
Otto launches state-ofthe-art indoor facility Fife-based PGA Fellow Professional, Julie Otto, has opened a new purposebuilt indoor golf facility with high-tech simulator that allows golfers to develop their skills and practice both on a simulated range and golf courses. The Golf Studio, situated just nine miles from St Andrews, brings a unique dynamic to golf coaching, using cutting-edge technology. Julie commented Julie. “This facility together with my particular coaching methodology represents a unique offering for all golfers looking to improve their game. “Whilst we continue to see the challenges that COVID-19 presents, we are operating with stringent hygiene and social distancing measures, ensuring the welfare of clients at all times.”
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INTERNATIONAL
REPRESENTING THE PGA BRAND GLOBALLY MICHAEL JONES Director of Golf – Turkey, Antalya Golf Club I joined the PGA National Turkey, Antalya Golf Club, team as the Director of Golf in January 2018. My reason for taking the position was not only to further my career as a professional, but to return to one of the places that I love to be. I worked at the resort for four years in the early 2000’s as the Head Teaching Professional. My role and day-to-day duties involve insuring that the outside facilities and staff are equipped and prepared for running smoothly and efficiently on a daily basis, catering for up to 500 guests a day. My role also includes promoting our properties around the UK and Ireland during the summer months (low season), enhancing and improving the overall experience of the visiting guests, conducting interviews and golf clinics, hosting with our management numerous golf tournaments from all over Europe including some of the flagship PGA events. The PGA National branding has been a great addition to Antalya over the past decade. It has opened many doors to help develop the status of the facility and its five-star hotels, (Kempinski the Dome Hotel & Sirene Belek Hotel), on a global stage. We have also developed mutual invitations and friendships with other PGA National resorts around Europe and Russia. I really love working within such a top class and unique facility. It has been a real privilege and challenge for me. I love the country, the people and not forgetting the wonderful Turkish cuisine.
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GORDON SMYTH Head Professional – Ireland, Slieve Russell I turned professional in 2000 and qualified three years later under Brendan McGovern (Headfort Golf Club). I joined Slieve Russell in 2007 to take up the role as head professional and golf shop manager. Slieve Russell was always regarded as one of the top resort courses in Ireland at the time and I was very excited to be joining such a prestigious club. It’s highly acclaimed 18-hole championship course and nine-hole academy course forms part of the magnificent 300-acre estate which also includes a four-star hotel, a 222-bedroom hotel, a spa, a leisure centre, a conference centre and three top restaurants restaurants. Having started out in 2007 as the Head Teaching Professional at Slieve Russell, I progressed to become the facility’s Head Professional and now I am the Head Professional/Golf Manager. I am really privileged to be working at only one of only nine PGA Nationals in the World. I am extremely proud to be a Head Professional at a PGA National and also to call Slieve Russell – PGA National Ireland. The PGA brand is world renowned and for us to be able to have a connection to this brand only further enhances our reputation both domestically and internationally.
December 2020
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INTERNATIONAL The PGA licenses its brand to an exclusive batch of golf properties around the world as it expands its portfolio of branded courses and academies. Each property that carries the PGA brand is in distinguished company, alongside venues including the PGA National at The Belfry in England and the PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles in Scotland.
There is only one PGA National per country, featuring courses of the highest standards, capable of hosting international golf tournaments whilst being accessible to the general golfing public. PGA Professional speaks to four PGA Members who work at PGA Nationals around the world. We find out how they came to work at their facility and what their current role and responsibilities are.
PAUL DENNIS Director of Golf - PGA National Czech Republic, Oaks Prague
DANNY HEARD Director of Golf Academy – PGA National Cyprus, Aphrodite Hills
I qualified as a PGA Professional in 1997 at Clevedon Golf Club, in the south west of the UK. I worked in London at Wisley Golf Club and Old Fold Manor Golf Club before joining Troon at The Grove in 2004, where I was part of the team when Tiger Woods won the 2006 Amex WGC. I moved to the Middle East with Troon in 2007 and I’m now working at my ninth facility and eighth country with Troon. I started working for the company as an assistant golf pro and I’m now the Director of Golf at Oaks Prague, PGA National Czech Republic. I joined PGA National Czech Republic in April 2019. Troon asked me to make the move to assist with its opening. It’s an amazing facility that I could see becoming one of the finest in Europe. I was keen to be part of a development that would grow over the years with new aspects of the experience coming online over time. I am the Director of Golf at the facility and my role involves everything from running the operations on a day-to-day basis, to assisting with the design of the future clubhouse. The PGA licence is only given to a leader in the market, as a stamp of approval on design, construction, facilities and overall experience. That has been recognised by golfers in the region and the course was recognised internationaly by winning two awards at the 2020 World Golf Awards. It’s great to have the PGA brand associated with the club and I’m proud to have been chosen by Troon to lead the team here in delivering our globally recognised experience. The facility will be one of the best in central Europe, and of course it has been and will continue to be a great achievement for me to be part of the opening here.
In early 2009, Andrew Darker (current Director of Golf at Aphrodite Hills) contacted me and mentioned there was a coaching role coming up at the venue in Cyprus and would I be interested. I moved out here in May 2009. I had played a few PGA Europro Tour events and won regional pro-ams so I still enjoyed competing, but the chance to move abroad to a great resort with an even better climate really appealed to me. It was also a chance to teach full-time and not necessarily have pro shop commitments that many professionals do. I currently work as the Director of the Golf Academy with my partner, fellow PGA Member, Giles Johnson. We formed a company called GD Golf In The Sunshine in 2010 to run the coaching element here at Aphrodite Hills. I spend most of my time coaching golfers from all over Europe, all standards and both residents of Cyprus and tourists. The biggest benefit I feel from being accredited the title of PGA National is the continual improvement of the golf course and coaching facilities from the resort owners. As well as having a great working environment, it’s helping us all improve as coaches too. Hosting two European Tour events back-to-back is obviously huge, not just for Aphrodite Hills, but also for golf in Cyprus as a whole. It will be great to see a few more courses on the island too and really put it on the map. To have the chance to work at one of only nine PGA Nationals across the world looks great on my CV. It’s also good to know that you represent the training programme that you went through as a young professional and that The PGA is also proud to have us represent them.
The PGA Professional
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December 2020
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TRADE Q&A
Callaway Golf MD Neil Howie in the spotlight
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TR A DE N E W S
Golf Pride launches corded Pro Only putter grips GOLF PRIDE has launched an all-new collection of corded Pro Only putter grips that have been individually crafted for enhanced hand comfort and positioning. Each model is instantly recognisable through a colourcoordinated star on the end cap.
The Pro Only Red Star (72cc,78.5g) boasts a horseshoe shape with an arched paddle front for thumb placement and a slight pistol kick in the back for hand heel pad placement. The Blue Star (81cc, 88g) features an angled profile with a wide, flat paddle front for thumb placement, and an angled back shape for comfortable finger positioning, while the Green Star (88cc, 90g) has an oval shape with an arched paddle front for thumb placement, and a slight upper hand flared back for optimum finger comfort and hand positioning. Bruce Miller, Golf Pride’s product manager, said: “Our rubber Pro Only series has proven to be extremely popular since its release last year. With three time-proven shape options now available in a sporty, white design, there is a corded Pro Only grip to suit every golfer.”
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FootJoy Stratos shoes max out on cushioning and comfort FOOTJOY’S NEW Stratos shoe, which are avialble at retail from this month, promise to offer the ultimate in on- and off-course comfort. Key to achieving the high levels of in-shoe comfort is an all-new cushioning material called StratoFoam, a proprietary foam blend which absorbs shock for maximum cushioning and energy return, and provides optimal support for swinging and walking. The uppers are made from soft, premium NappaLuxe leather upper supplied by Pittards of England, utilising a proprietary tanning process to achieve a luxurious, supple feel. They also feature an athletic-fit construction with an integrated tongue for all-around comfort and a reinforced heel for greater rear foot stability. The all-new VersaTrax+ outsole is designed to provide improved grip through a channelled tread pattern that not only minimises grass and mud gathering on the outsole, but also features non-linear nubs so that shoe is always able to find the next traction element to catch onto the ground. The new outsole configuration features different hardness of materials to provide enhanced grip any surface – a harder TPU for on-course grip and a softer TPU for traction on firmer surfaces, making it ideal for wearing on and off the golf course. The FJ Stratos was recently named as the ‘best-in-class’ shoe in Cornell University’s recent turf grass/green friendliness testing. Richard Fryer, FJ’s Director of Product Management, said: “A golf shoe needs to connect your foot to the surface that you’re playing on, but it also needs to provide exceptional comfort. Our StratoFoam midsole was designed specifically for golf, providing cloud-like comfort while absorbing and returning the most energy, which results in less foot fatigue after a round.” Offered in four colour options for men (white, grey, navy and cognac) and two for women (blue/green or silver), the FJ Stratos comes with 12-month waterproof warranty and has an RRP of £159.99.
December 2020
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TR A DE N E W S
Bettinardi unveils new putter range Callaway to merge with Topgolf CALLAWAY GOLF HAS merged with Topgolf to provide the golf equipment company with a new source of growth. Callaway first invested in Topgolf in 2006, and already owned 14% of the driving range chain before it confirmed its intention to become a majority shareholder and merge the two companies. After the deal, which is expected to be completed early next year, Callaway will own 51.5% of the merged entity, with Topgolf’s shareholders owning the remaining 48.5%. Topgolf, which was founded in 2000, currently operates 63 locations around the world, including three in the UK, serving more than 23 million customers in 2019, 50 per cent of which identify themselves as ‘non-golfers’. Topgolf also owns Toptracer, whose ball-tracking technology is central to the user experience. Chip Brewer, President and CEO of Callaway, who will lead the combined companies, said: “Together, Callaway and Topgolf create an unrivalled golf and entertainment business. This combination unites proven leaders with a shared passion for delivering exceptional golf experiences for all – from tour pros to new and aspiring entrants to the game. Callaway’s strong financial profile will enable the combined company to accelerate innovation, develop exciting new products and experiences.”
Besso offers pros peace of mind for prized possessions PGA MEMBERS looking to insure expensive equipment, be it their clubs, portable launch monitors or other vital tools of their trade, should consider taking out a policy with Besso Limited, a Londonbased insurance company which has partnered with Hiscox Insurance to provide an ‘All Risks’ insurance cover for accidental physical loss or damage to these valuable items. Available to anyone with a permanent residence in either the UK or the European Union, the policy offers peace of mind against loss, theft or damage to your gear, whether you suffer a break in at your pro shop, swing studio or car, or whether it was lost, stolen or damaged while coaching at home or overseas. For more details, or to purchase All Risks cover online, visit www. besso.co.uk or call 020 7480 1000. The PGA Professional
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BETTINARDI GOLF has unveiled an all-new range of precision-milled putters for 2021 – the Studio Stock, Queen B Series and the Inovai 7.0 – all of which are available to pre-order now for shipping in February. All models are made in the company’s factory in Chicago, using a variety of unique face milling technologies, including Bettinardi’s new Roll Control Face, which boasts an asymmetrical groove design that promotes more topspin at impact and shortens the distance the ball takes to get into a true roll. The Studio Stock series features four new models in seven variations, including the Studio Stock 17, which boasts the first-ever soft Tri-sole design in a production lineup, along with the traditional SS18 blade. The line also reintroduces the SS7 compact half-moon mallet and the SS28, which is available in a spud neck, centre shaft and armlock options. The Queen B Series features three new models – 6 (wide-body blade), 11 (compact mallet) and 12 (traditional blade), all of which are made from a 362g block of carbon steel and feature micro-honeycomb face milling for players who prefer a firm, responsive feel at impact. They are offered in a stunning new rose gold PVD finish. The Inovai range sees the introduction of the 7.0, which offers the highest MOI design Bettinardi has ever produced.. Precisionmilled from stainless steel and military-grade aluminum, bi-metal technology optimises weight distribution with more mass in the rear of the putter, providing high levels of forgiveness and stability. The 7.0 also features Bettinardi’s Feel Impact Technology face.
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TR A DE N E W S NEWSBURST Cobra unveils first 3D-printed putter Cobra Golf has launched the first of a new range of products that are manufactured using 3D printing technology. Lisa Lovatt is taking over as Ping Europe MD from John Clarke
The new KING Supersport-35 putter, which has been developed over the last two years by Cobra engineers and teams at Hewlett Packard (HP) and Parmatech, features a fully 3D printed metal body with an intricate lattice structure to optimize weight distribution and deliver the highest-possible MOI in a blade shape without the need for additional fixed weights.
Clarke steps down as MD of Ping Europe after 24 years
In addition to the 3D-printed design, the Supersport-35 Putter features a face insert designed in partnership with SIK Golf, which utilizes its Descending Loft Technology and signature face to create the most consistent and accurate roll on every putt. It also features a high MOI heel-toe weighted design for maximum stability, and a plumber neck hosel with a 35-degree toe hang suitable for slight arc putting strokes. RRP: £349, RH only.
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John Clark, Ping Europe’s long-serving Managing Director, is to step down at the end of this year, with the company’s current General Manager, Lisa Lovatt, taking up the position. Lovatt, 51, will begin her new role on January 1, with full responsibility for all of Ping Europe’s operations in Gainsborough, Cheadle and the four Ping offices in Europe. She will report directly to Ping chairman and CEO, John Solheim. Clark, 64, who has worked at Ping Europe for 26 years – 24 of these as Managing Director – will retain some small responsibilities at the company on a parttime basis and will also continue as a board member of both Ping Europe and Ping in the USA. “This management transition isn’t a sudden decision, in fact, it is something we have been working towards for the last two or three years,” commented Clark. “The appointment of Lisa as General Manager in 2018 was the first step, and her success in that role means she is ready to lead this new phase of our future. This year has been incredibly challenging, but golf has bounced back strongly. We have great product coming next year, so the stage is set for Lisa and her team to have a fantastic year in 2021.” Lovatt joined Ping Europe in 1994 to lead the company’s apparel and soft goods division. She transitioned into operations and was responsible for developing operational support services over a long period of sustained expansion. This included responsibility for purchasing, customer services, production, warehousing and shipping, and her success in this multi-faceted role led to her being appointed General Manager in early 2018. “I am delighted to be taking up this new role and look forward to building on the incredible work that John and the team have carried out over the 24 years of his tenure,” said Lovatt. “I’m excited about driving the company forward in 2021 and beyond, but I’d like to thank John, on behalf of everyone at Ping Europe, for the tireless service that he has given to the company over the years.”
11/04/2019 21:03
December 2020
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TR A DE N E W S
Motocaddy launches laser rangefinder MOTOCADDY HAS EXPANDED its move into the distance measurement device market with the launch of a laser rangefinder. The new PRO 3000 laser offers accuracy to within a yard with seven-times magnification and a range of up 1,300 yards. Featuring PinLock technology with vibration and visual confirmation, the PRO 3000 boasts a highresolution LCD display, while the pin can be locked on from up to 450 yards away. It also includes slope compensation (competition legal with slope disabled); background noise filtration to make it easier to lock onto a target, and an adjustable eyepiece for clearer visuals. The waterproof unit comes with a hard-shell carry case with carabiner bag clip, and it can also be attached to a Motocaddy accessory station for easy access out on the course. It is powered by a 3V Lithium battery and is offered with a two-year warranty for an RRP of £269.99.
Wilson unveils new Staff Model players irons WILSON GOLF has expanded its range of players irons with the launch of the new Staff Model CB irons, which go on sale in January. Joining the Staff Model Blade and Staff Model Utility iron launched last year, the Staff Model CB forged irons are designed for low handicappers and are an evolution of the brand’s Tour V6 Irons, the most widely played model among Wilson’s tour staff, including Padraig Harrington, Kevin Streelman and Ricky Barnes. Boasting a forged carbon steel face, backed by an integrated Impact Mass Area, the CB irons provide a solid, muscle back-like feel, while the cavity back design delivers maximum consistency during shot shaping.High-density tungsten weighting is placed in the toe of the long and mid-irons to enhance stability at impact and lower the centre of gravity for reliably consistent shots. The irons have a nickelchrome plating with a mirror finish. Offered in 4-PW, they will have an RRP of £849 (steel only).
Zen rolls out next gen Green Stage PGA Professionals looking to offer the very best indoor putting coaching should take a look at the new Zen Green Stage, the world’s first fully-adjustable connected playing surface for golf. Completely redesigned for 2021, the new Green Stage offers precise Wi-Fi control from a mobile or tablet, and can be connected to swing studio technology for the complete indoor golf experience. For coaches, it offers both full-swing and putting data capture in the exact same place, maximising efficient use of floor space, enabling accelerated learning and better lessons. When used with a launch monitor, it enables you to capture data that more accurately mirrors real-world playing conditions. The 2021 Zen Green Stage can be integrated with a wide range of golf technologies, including launch monitors, golf simulator software, AR and VR systems, putting analysis and ball-Tracking systems and 3D force plates. 30
The stage also now forms the centrepiece of Zen’s new Studio Design & Installation service, working with worldwide partners to produce next-generation indoor golf experiences. For a tailored quote, call 0114 262 6933 or visit www.zengreenstage.com..
December 2020
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TR A DE N E W S
GolPhin delivers path to golfing success DESPITE THE impact of the pandemic on retail and golf club closures, the team at junior equipment specialists GolPhin For Kids has never been busier and continues to build its brand globally. This year the Ayrshire-based company was awarded ‘Best Kids Clubs’ by Golf Digest, an accolade they have won three out the last four years. It currently offers two club ranges, the GFK which are specifically designed for beginners aged 3-10 years old, while the GFK+ are the more advanced player aged 7-14. The equipment harnesses aerospace technology to produce age appropriate clubs and balls designed to make the game fun from the very first hit with easy-to-use equipment. Last January GolPhin launched its MyPathway2Golf digital app at the 2020 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando and also created a golf education programme for both primary and secondary schools, both of which were extremely well received by show attendees. “The app is amazing,” said PGA Professional and GolPhin’s Operations Manager, Alan Tait. “The feedback we have had from pros and coaches and the kids themselves has been
overwhelming. The app allows the coach to communicate with the kids and the families through the app, as the children progress through six levels from bronze to diamond on a ‘pyramid of progression’. “The coach can assign the children skills tests for on and off the course, send them quizzes and tips and can also upload their own videos via the app. Connectivity with the children is absolutely key, as is having a tool to actually measure their progress. The kids love it and it really makes it fun for them. The app plays a huge part in recruiting and retaining juniors at the clubs.” Tait added: “Since the launch of the pilot for our EdugolPhin schools programme, over 17,000 kids have been introduced to golf with a conversion rate of 9.8%, meaning 1,700 kids have taken up the game regularly at local participating MyPathway2Golf venues to continue their golfing journey. All the golf activities in the school are aligned to the national curriculum so the children are learning and achieving a range of positive outcomes while developing their golf skills.” For more details, contact Alan Tait at alan@golphin.co.uk or go online at www.golphin.com.
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TR A DE N E W S
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PGA Professional Matt Masters started using the Superspeed system to enhance his own swing speed back in 2015, and gained 20 yards of carry within a month of following the training regime. After becoming SuperSpeed’s European sales manager in 2018, he has recently been promoted to European Superspeed’s European Director of Sales and is Director of Sales Matt Masters leading the company’s expansion across the UK and Europe. Masters commented: “I am really pleased to take on this new role as European Director of Sales and have enjoyed working throughout the UK and Europe to educate golf pros to the benefits of our training products and the business potential we offer too. It will be an opportunity to further grow the European operation and I’m relishing the challenge and looking forward to meeting many more coaches .” For more details, email matt@superspeedgolf.com, call 07876 598041 or visit www.superspeedgolf.co.uk.
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December 2020
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ARE YOU ALWAYS THINKING ABOUT YOUR BRAND, YOUR WEBSITE AND HOW TO MARKET YOURSELF - BUT DON’T REALLY KNOW WHERE TO START?
Provision: Connecting fans and brands with engaging events FOUNDED IN 2004 by PGA Professional Konrad Brochocki and former PGA Professional Nick Clemens, Hampshire-based Provision Events specialises in connecting brands and their audiences through engaging, interactive events. The Eastleigh-based company, which also has offices in North Carolina, USA and Dubai, has successfully delivered thousands of fan zone activations at the biggest sporting events across the world, primarily in golf, but also in football, rugby, tennis, cricket and many other sports. Provision has delivered campaigns for a wide range of governing bodies and golf brands, including PING, Callaway, the European Tour, The R&A, The PGA and the Ladies European Tour, with the focus always on giving audiences memorable brand experiences, getting clubs in hands and offering engaging challenges and coaching on behalf of its varied clientele. Provision has a team of 25-plus industry experts working across client services, design, production and event management, with no job too big or too small, including work with individual golf clubs and PGA Professionals. As Provision COO Konrad Brochocki says: “As an experienced PGA Professional, and with Nick Clemens being a former PGA Professional, we fully understand the needs of coaches and golf clubs at all levels and are well equipped to provide a solution. We create websites, apps, printed materials, course or tournament maps, on-course signage, rebrands and logos and much, much more. “Whether it’s to design a single poster for your upcoming event or create a new brand image and website for your coaching business, we can help. No matter the size of event or budget, we can work with you to deliver something that will engage and inspire.” For a free consultation to find out how Provision Events can help your business, email info@provisionevents.co.uk or call 02382 002 528 or 07879 263874. The PGA Professional
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As passionate golfers ourselves, Provision are in a unique position to understand the needs of PGA professionals and clubs. We will support you in diversifying your offering and getting you noticed by the right people. Our Design Studio produce industry leading print, digital and 3D output, enabling us to provide a solution for whatever requirements you have. We offer a free consultation service where we conduct a full review and make recommendations for your next steps.
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TRADE Q&A
MANAGING EXPECTATIONS NEIL HOWIE Managing Director Callaway Golf EMEA & AP
Neil Howie, managing director of Callaway Golf in the EMEA region, reveals how the company has been fairing during the Covid-19 crisis and why he’s hopeful of better things for all golf retailers in 2021 The pandemic has obviously been difficult for a lot of golf businesses, but how has it impacted on Callaway’s operations in the UK and across Europe? It’s tricky to answer that one succinctly given all the moving parts during 2020. We’ve tried to remain ‘open for business’ throughout the year and manage priorities (employee wellbeing, a myriad of new operating safety protocols, regional government guidance, etc) with as much transparency as possible. Business planning has evolved from ‘Doomsday’ in April to quarterly revenue records in Q3. All in all, a quite extraordinary year for everyone. How have you been supporting your key retail accounts during this time? We made the decision right at the outset that we wouldn’t furlough our customer-facing staff (sales and credit controllers). We knew that our retail partners were likely to need some navigational support as we sailed through uncharted waters together, so we wanted to be available for them. Whether it was support from a payment or inventory management perspective, we tried to help. What are the main issues you’re having to deal with for your on-course retailers? Initially it was support in managing outstanding debts and balancing stock, but more recently it’s been trying to keep up with a demand that was completely unseen by anyone only a few months ago. Production schedules were understandably put on hold back in April, as no-one wanted a glut of unsold product swilling around the system in late summer, but then, when golf re-opened, the surge in interest was incredible and it was frankly impossible to build golf
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December 2020
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TRADE Q&A
clubs fast enough. I appreciate this has been frustrating because everyone wants to make up for lost time at retail, but despite massive increases in production capacity and the diversion of all freight to air, we’re still chasing back orders. My sincere apologies to all who are trying to manage customer expectations. Rest assured, it is in all our interests to catch up as soon as we possibly can.
Our R&D and procurement teams have worked incredibly hard all year to ensure the ’21 launches remain on track.
What have on-course sales been like since retail’s return in June? Business has been record breaking since June. Across our product portfolio we have seen huge demand and, whilst it’s hard to catch up on a missed April and May, the numbers are seriously impressive. My thanks to all our retail partners for their support and patience this year. I think the ‘rounds played’ and new membership figures rather speak for themselves in reflecting how golf is perceived right now. It will be interesting to see how this second lockdown plays out. The differences this time are that we’re in November, so the demand for golf isn’t quite as voracious as it is in April, and also our retail partners seem to have adapted well to the ‘click and collect’ methodology as we’re still taking good orders from them. Big Bertha has clearly played a key role in Callaway’s success story over the last 30 years, how has the new B-21 range gone down with retailers and consumers? We’ve had a phenomenal reaction to the new BB and BB Reva line ups. Independent performance stats confirm just how good these products are. We knew from our own testing that we were on to something, but to see and hear the buzz post launch has been incredibly gratifying. In fact, we sold out our initial forecast within a few weeks of introduction. Big Bertha has always excelled, especially in the game improvement category, but the 21 range is on a whole new level. Has the timing of futures launches been changed in light of the pandemic and what should retailers be looking out for from Callaway in 2021? Our R&D and procurement teams have worked incredibly hard all year to ensure the ’21 launches remain on track. The products will be introduced to our retail partners over the coming months with most of them deliverable in Q1 of next year. As always, we are very excited by what we are going to launch. We place so much focus on technical innovation and, once again, the R&D boffins at HQ in Carlsbad have delivered ground-breaking technologies that should enable retailers to maximise their profit potential. The Chrome Soft range seems to have firmly established itself as a tour-level golf ball. How pleased are with its acceptance on tour and its performance at retail? It’s about to get a whole lot more interesting. We’ve invested over $50m in our ball plant in Massachusetts in the past couple of years and the first new ball to be born of this investment will be released next year. Watch this space, but expect to see it used comprehensively on Tour. The consistency and quality of this new product will be – in my opinion – second to none.
The PGA Professional
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#makinggolfhappen
You’ve had some great performances from Callaway’s tour staff in recent weeks. How important is it for Callaway to have its equipment in the hands of the game’s best players? They provide fantastic visibility and are an endorsement of the product technology and performance. If the best in the world are prepared to put their faith in your product, you know it’s pretty good. Our Tour counts in Europe are incredible. At the BMW PGA Championship, we dominated the driver, fairway wood, hybrid, iron and putter counts, with Odyssey usage at 58%. Ultimately though, the performance of our equipment and how it benefits us regular golfers has always been the backbone of our strategy. Our founder, Ely Callaway, once coined the phrase ‘demonstrably superior and pleasingly different’ to sum up our attitude toward product. We try to hold true to that mantra today. Callaway has recently announced a merger with Topgolf. The two companies clearly have synergies, but what do you think will be the main benefits for Callaway? Subject to sign off by shareholders of both companies, and provided the relevant regulatory approval is granted, I believe that the merger will be extremely beneficial for both companies. Together we form an unrivalled golf and entertainment business. The synergies are incredible and the opportunities for collaboration and development between Callaway, Topgolf and Toptracer have the potential to be truly ground-breaking. ●
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INDOOR STUDIOS
BRINGING IN THE
BUSINESS Indoor swing studios are no longer just for winter, they’re high-tech facilities that can make money all year round – as many PGA Members can testify
M
any PGA Professionals have made significant investments in indoor studios in recent years, offering state-of-the-art custom fitting, high-tech coaching and quality simulator game play, all of which has served to keep income ticking over, and, in some cases, pouring in. While many early studios were fairly basic affairs, initially designed to simply combat the poor weather of a typical British winter, the new generation of indoor set ups are high-tech facilities that offer a bespoke service that draws in golfers from far and wide, and earning their operators money at all times of the year. Here we feature case studies of PGA Members who have set up successful indoor operations and how it is helped improve their service to golfers, as well as their bottom line, and highlight some of the key technologies that can help you create a profitable indoor facility.
Tim Allen, Director of Golf Cowdray Park Golf Club, West Sussex www.cowdray.co.uk
Tim says: “Cowdray Park has seen various improvements over the past few years, but the construction of our golf studio during the winter of 2018/2019 was the next phase of improving the club’s academy facilities. Located on our full-length driving range, the structure was built by the Cowdray Estate’s own maintenance team to a very high spec and included using panels of timber sawn from trees felled on the estate. The project received valuable input from Steve Joy from Golf Swing Systems, who supplied some of the interior materials. The studio opened in March 2019 and the last 18 months has seen the coaching options flourish as the weatherproof facility has really expanded and enhanced the service we can offer to members. Our coaching team – PGA Pros Matt Watson and Harry Smith – have both been fantastic in really driving this forward and their expertise in using Trackman 4 has helped countless members and visitors to improve their games in a comfortable environment. They are both keen to further develop their skills using Trackman University, which is a valuable resource. The impact of the studio on pro shop sales has been noticeable too, with revenue up by 10% compared to the previous year, primarily Indoor studios, such as PGA Pro Julie Otto's new facility in Anstruther, are proving due to a significantly better custom-fitting a boon for coaching, fitting and simulator game play (See story on page 19) service."
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December 2020
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INDOOR STUDIOS
Joel Saunders, PGA Head Professional Verulam Golf Club, Hertfordshire www.joelsaundersgolf.co.uk Joel says: "After a couple years being in my current role I put a proposal to the club to build a studio and they were fully supportive of the idea. I’ve now got a really good-sized indoor studio, which has allowed me to focus heavily on custom fitting and coaching. I already had a decent fitting business when I spent my time lugging my launch monitor to the driving range, but my income from fitting doubled when I opened the studio. I now do all my fittings indoors, as it allows me to control the environment, and I also do indoor coaching year-round. As far as fitting technology is concerned, I started out with Foresight Sport’s GC2 when I was fitting outside. I added the HMT attachment to it after a year and that was a huge upgrade. Around a year ago I upgraded to the GCQuad, and then added the putting software. This has really helped me with putter fittings, which are becoming increasingly popular, and has been a really worthwhile investment. Selling two sets of irons per month covers the cost of my GCQuad, which isn’t too difficult, and it helps me generate so much business. I get a lot of customers from around the area in the studio, not just members, and I also get a lot of repeat business as people upgrade their equipment every few years and remember the level of service they received. It’s hard to imagine how I would run my business without a studio now.”
I get alot of repeat business from customers who want to upgrade their equipment and remember the level of service they received. The PGA Professional
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#makinggolfhappen
PGA Professionals Liam McGrossan & Harry Varney, Tee Box London www.tee-box.co.uk Liam says: “Harry and I have been friends from our junior club days and have always been passionate about coaching, We had been toying with the idea of setting up our own studio for several years, and finally managed to get the funds together to launch Tee Box London in September last year. The whole process took nearly three years and we ended up having to build the studio ourselves. We currently employ seven PGA Professionals at our facility, which is near St Pauls, and our aim is to offer quality indoor coaching to golfers of all abilities in the heart of the city of London. The studio occupies a 2,000 sq ft space, encompassing four teaching bays, each of which is equipped with Trackman 4 and duel integration UHD cameras. We chose Trackman as no other launch monitor can produce the data it does as reliably as it does. The reporting is also invaluable to our members and no other device has the capability to quantify improvement like Trackman. In just 12 months we have succeeded in building up a client list of over 200, and although the pandemic has obviously had a significant impact on our business, we have enough loyal customers to keep it ticking over when we have been allowed to be open. The first lockdown halted some amazing momentum and unlike other golf facilities in London that continued to charge their members despite being closed, we didn’t do that. This put the business under greater strain, but our reputation saw us bounce back very strongly from the first lockdown, and we anticipate doing the same in December, providing government restrictions allow us to re-open. The process of setting up the studio was unimaginably difficult from start to finish, and it took a big personal toll on both us, but we have learned a lot of new skills along the way and are both incredibly proud of what we have been able to achieve in such extraordinary times. We have already expanded the facility and are looking forward to opening up other sites in the future.”
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December 2020
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INDOOR STUDIOS
David Griffiths, PGA Head Professional West Herts Golf Club, Herts www.dgprofessionalgolf.co.uk David says: "As soon as I became head pro here, I knew that opening a studio would be critical to generating year-round revenue streams. We opened our studio in January this year, just a couple of months before we went into the first lockdown, and although the timing seemed unfortunate, I’m pleased that we were able to get it open before things properly shut down. The studio is housed in what was an old indoor hitting room at the back of the pro shop. I built and decorated it with the help of my dad. Due to the nature of my contract with the club, I paid for it all out of my own money, and although the budget was tight, I’m really pleased with how it has turned out. I got some useful advice from Christian Baker over at Sunningdale, who had set up a similar studio, and we used Golf Swing Systems for all the nets, mats and monitors and got some great advice from GSS’s Steve Joy. For coaching and fitting technology, I went with Trackman 4. Although it is isn’t the cheapest, it’s well worth it, and having not used it before I was very pleased with the level of support we’ve been offered throughout. I should have paid it off by next month, and the number of fittings and lessons I’ve been able to give with it means that the investment has been repaid many times over. Since opening I’ve been really busy with coaching and fittings, and my hardwear sales have been a significant uptick on the back of it. I have fitting carts Ping and Mizuno, and we’re starting with Callaway in the New Year. Of course, you have to be competitive on price, but members are much more willing to buy from me when they’ve had such a personal experience either through a lesson or a fitting. We also offer simulator play and the bays were booked out solidly during the weekends in January and February, and will hopefully be so again when we can re-open this winter. The studio is big enough to conduct socially-distanced fittings, and we’ve got all the safety protocols in place. Before the pandemic, I reckoned on it taking 15 months to break even on the overall investment in the studio, and although it will take a bit longer now, I’m confident we’ll be in the black within 18 months or so. We’ve picked up 70 or so new members this year, many of whom have been in for lessons and fittings, so I’m hopeful that when golf properly comes back we’ll be in a good position to make full use of the studio again."
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Duncan Woolger, Advanced PGA Pro Moor Park Golf Club, Herts www.duncanwoolgergolf.com Duncan says: "Moor Park installed a putting studio about four years ago in a room inside the clubhouse, but it wasn’t been overly used, and when I joined the club last year, I felt that the space could be used for more than just putting. We have another room which was already kitted out with a Foresight GCQuad that mainly gets used by equipment retailer Complete Golfer for fittings, although we can use it to give lessons. However, there wasn’t an indoor area where the members could learn, practice and play without the need of someone being with them or having plenty of space between the coach and player. After approaching Moor Park CEO Amy Yeates, who is also a PGA Member, she went to the board and gave me permission to set up the Swing Suite, as it was going to be financed personally and not by the club. Having got the go-ahead, we transformed the putting studio into a full swing suite, and fitted a hitting net, mats and installed Trackman alongside the existing SAM Putt Lab. Choosing the installation company was a little bit more problematic, because there are so many excellent companies on the market available to us, but after discussions with the club they agreed that MIA Sports had provided a fantastic service the first time around and we felt very comfortable with using them again. Getting the word out to members was fairly easy, as I’m in daily contact with members. Steve Jones, Trackman’s regional sales manager, hosted an excellent training day for me last month, where we invited members in to see the room and check out the capabilities of the simulator software. Unfortunately, one week later we moved into the second lockdown, but I know that when we get back to being able to teach or practice indoors, the studio will more than pay its way. My intention is to still teach outdoors when the weather allows, but it’s a huge plus to be able to come indoors if I need to, while the simulator hire means that I have another source of revenue, as well as providing an additional service for the members."
You have to be competitive on price, but customers are much more willing to buy from me when they've had a personal fitting or a lesson. 39
A S SS K Y EE N S PO R TS O N
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INDOOR STUDIOS
Simon Hanson, PGA Head Professional, Kemnay GC, Scotland www.simonhansongolf.com Simon says: "I opened my indoor studio two years ago to maximise my income from lessons and fittings during the winter months – which can be long up here in Scotland. When it came to tech, I was very much focused on affordability and SkyTrak suited both my budget and my needs as a teaching tool. I tested it for about a month, but within a week I was totally sold on it. The accuracy, functionality and user-friendliness were all far better than I expected. It gives essential feedback meaning that you can explain yourself quickly. The customers are instantly seeing everything they need to know on the screen. The only downside is that there is no club data, but I realise that the SkyTrak is not currently designed to do that. I paid off the balance for unit within six months, and everything I now do with SkyTrak is pure profit. I‘ve since sold six units to club members, from which I earn a kickback. The studio has proved a real boon to my business, as I’m now able to teach in all weathers, and I often rent out the studio to members who can use it as their own personal practice facility or for simulator play with friends play on The Golf Club 2019."
Luke Bone, PGA Professional, Farnham Golf Club, Surrey www.farnhamproshop.co.uk Mike says: “Back in 2016, we took the decision to transform an outbuilding that the club had previously used for storage into a state-of-the-art studio. I installed Foresight’s GC2 + HMT launch monitor and within a year we had doubled our hardwear sales with one particular equipment brand, while my profit margins from coaching increased ten-fold just 12 months after opening. That trend has continued and last winter I was teaching around 30 to 40 lessons a week, which has changed my coaching revenues dramatically. With the help of the GC2 I also coach things that I never used to before, such as lie angle or dynamic lie to improve ball flight. I knew the importance of these factors, but I couldn’t see it in action when I was on the driving range. Acquiring this technology has revolutionised my coaching and made it more focused and enjoyable. My passion and enthusiasm for fitting and coaching never left, but it has certainly increased now we have the studio and the launch monitor.”
Kit out your studio with Golf Swing Systems Golf Swing Systems was set up to supply all of the equipment needed for the growing number of indoor golf studios that are being set up by PGA Professionals in a wide variety of settings, from golf clubs and driving ranges, to standalone venues in city centres, industrial estates and private homes. With over 20 years of experience, the GSS team has full knowledge of all the latest simulators, launch monitors, video coaching systems, biomechanical technology, plus a wide range of practice aids, and can advise PGA Members what products are right for the way they coach or play and what will suit their budget. To get your studio off the ground, simply email GGS the dimensions of your space and they will produce a 3D scale drawing of your room incorporating the latest technology. Bespoke enclosures and netting can be designed to suit your space, while the company will also take care of installing all the equipment.
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Golf Swing Systems fitted out the studio at Shooters Hill GC in London
The company has a demonstration facility near Guildford, Surrey where, by appointment, you can view its range of simulator technology, golf enclosures and projection screens and discuss your project. For more details, visit www.golfswingsystems.co.uk or call 01483 266 679.
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RETAIL
THE SECRET WEAPON ON YOUR SHOP FLOOR P XPOS chairman Phil Barnard explains why effective product management is key to keeping your shop stocked with things your customers will want to buy
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roduct and inventory management can consume a huge amount of time and can be the biggest drain on cash. Selecting the right product, achieving the right levels of stock and doing this, along with all the other demands, is hard. Get it right and you can make good margin. Get it wrong and you lose sales, waste capital and, potentially, put your business in peril. With all the risks, you’d think most retailers would make product management one of their main priorities. However, it can often be seen as afterthought. Understanding why we need good product data is key to the future success of every retail business. Here are some of the questions I hear the most: Where am I going wrong? For those preferring to deal with customers, instead of spread sheets and barcodes, the thought of programming products into a system is a nightmare. As a result, retailers try to make short cuts to simplify the process. Grouping similar products together reduces the number of items listed, whilst still allowing a product to be sold. However, a lazy approach to product data will rob your
business of the opportunity for long-term success. How can I find the time to manage my stock during a busy season? Retailers often argue they don’t have time to manage their stock properly. “If I spend an hour managing my products, it’s an hour I haven’t spent looking after customers”. While I wouldn’t argue that looking after customers is a priority, the reality is that the two need to go hand in hand. Product management can be done in your down time and it shouldn’t be seen to be an either/or option. Time spent managing stock costs money. Right? Wrong. The real cost comes from not managing stock. The average UK pro shop has £16,000 worth of dead stock (anything that has been hanging around for over a year). This is product that was poorly purchased, possibly as it was the wrong size, colour, model or quantity. If more effort was put into analysis and product management up front, this cost could be severely reduced. Add to this the margin you will lose when
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RETAIL The average UK pro shop has £16,000 worth of stock that is over a year old
Keeping detailed data on past sales will help you buy more effectively in the future
trying to get rid of your old stock through clearance sales and you’ll see it’s better to have got it right in the first place. How does this help my retail buying group to help me? Members of retail groups rely on them to negotiate with brands on their behalf. In order to do this effectively, buying groups need detailed sales information. How can they negotiate deals, or choose the best performing brands, if they don’t have the tools to help them? How does this help my retail buying group to help me? Many golf retailers rely on their retail group to negotiate with brands on their behalf. In order to do this effectively, buying groups need detailed sales and margin information. The better the outcome of negotiations between buying groups and brands, the better the costs will be for the retailer. How can they negotiate deals, or choose the best performing brands, if they don’t have the tools to help them? Over recent years, better product data has helped the golf industry tremendously: providing a better commercial environment for all. An improved understanding of the market has helped groups identify what is moving through to the consumer, leading to better buying. This has resulted in more
exciting products, new ways of selling and more realistic sales targets. As a result, retailers are making more margin and ultimately customers are happier. Better data in the golf industry has also changed pricing. We have moved from a situation where brands were discounting 2 months after launch, to one where most brands now stick within 10% of launch pricing until the month before the release of the next generation of product. This hasn’t happened by chance. This is the result of better data for all. Why is product management important for online and click & collect selling? Any retailers with aspirations to sell online, or through an app, have to manage their products extremely efficiently. Without full product management, you can’t offer any form of distanced selling. Your database will need to hold full size, colour and attribute information to enable customers to select products they’re looking for. Customers don’t simply want to buy ‘a shirt’ – they want the white one in a large. Likewise, they just don’t want ‘some shoes’ – they want the black spikeless ones in an 8.5. How does XCODES save me time? Most retailers will spend hours each week entering product details into the sales
system, to ensure all their inventory is properly identified. Over a month, that could amount to 15 or 20 hours. Those with larger ranges, or online stores, could spend many times this. The team at XPOS recognised this issue some years ago and developed XCODES to try and ease the burden. XCODES is a ‘live’ directory, built into XPOS, which currently contains 1.2 million products from over 200 leading brands. The benefit of XCODES is that it gives the retailer product descriptions, variant details, barcodes, prices, images and web information straight from the brands for the majority of stock items held in golf shops. With ‘scan & go’ technology, a new product range can be identified and loaded into the system with just a few clicks. This offers all the benefits of correct product data, without the hard work and endless typing. How does XCODES save me money? XCODES helps retailers reduce costs by lowering the overhead of managing product data from multiple suppliers. Our average customer has over 12,000 product variants in the system. Imagine how much time it would take to type in all those product ID’s. Should all golf retailers use XCODES? A significant advantage to XCODES is the standardised format of the information. Not only is the data better, but XCODES ensures the data is the same for everyone. As the data comes from the brands, it means that everyone is talking the same language. This removes the disconnect when people use different data to talk about the same thing. The future opportunities to streamline information, process and extract more value for all partners – retailer, retail group and brand - is significant. Retailers can make, and receive, orders at the click of a button. Eventually, they won’t need to enter the data, as they will get it directly from the brand. When everyone in the supply chain talks the same language, we all benefit. ●
Phil Barnard is Chairman of XPOS and European Partner of Golf Datatech. To find out more about XCODES, click the CHAT button on www.crossovertec.co.uk or email matt.peace@crossovertec.co.uk.
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TRAVEL
A MESSAGE FROM GOLFBREAKS What a strange year this has been. Who’d have thought in December last year what would lay ahead for us in 2020.
BEN FOSTER Head of Pro Travel M: 07471 034 852 E: bfoster@golfbreaks.com
Whilst it has been challenging in many different ways it has been great to see a boom in the golf industry through the summer months. We were lucky with golf being one of the last sports to close down and one of the first to open back up. With golf perceived as a safe way to exercise, we saw many people returning to the game and new players starting their golfing journey. Various reports showed the number of visitor green fees were up by over 50% across June, July & August in comparison to the previous year and membership was also booming with an average increase of nearly 20%.
Golf travel also saw similar results with staycations so popular, many golf courses and resorts were at full capacity for the majority of the summer and autumn months meaning golfers that were due to go abroad could still enjoy playing some of the amazing golf courses the UK has to offer. This month we take a look at some stunning venues further afield, perfect for a luxurious trip in 2021 and some of the UK’s most iconic Open venues if you and your group would prefer to stay closer to home. Let’s hope 2021 doesn’t throw as many challenges our way and you are able to enjoy your golfing getaways with members across the world again. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas & Happy New year form everyone at Golfbreaks. Looking forward to seeing you back on the course in 2021!
Ben Foster Head of Pro Travel
WHY BOOK WITH GOLFBREAKS
JOE BOWREY Senior Travel Consultant T: 01753 752880 E: jbowrey@golfrbeaks.com
EARN 5% commission SAVE with our market leading rates & bespoke packages at over 2,500 venues worldwide PEACE OF MIND with our market leading customer service levels EXPERT advice from our dedicated Pro Travel team EASY access to your quotes, bookings and make payment through our online portal EXCLUSIVE Breakpoints loyalty scheme
FRASER CARR Senior Business Development Manager North UK, Scotland & Ireland M: 07801 831 929 E: fcarr@golfbreaks.com
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JAMES MARTIN Business Development Manager South UK
CALLUM KIRBY Personal Travel Assistant T: 01753 752880 E: ckirby@golfbreaks.com
M: 07849 083 479 E: jrmartin@golfbreaks.com
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TRAVEL
LUXURY LINKS JAMES MARTIN Business Development Manager South UK M: 07849 083 479 E: jrmartin@golfbreaks.com
STAYCATION Staycations in the UK witnessed a boom this summer and it’s not hard to see why. With hundreds of fantastic golf courses and resorts to choose from, there is something to suit everyone. If you’re looking to stay closer to home in 2021, why not push the boat out and experience some of the most iconic Open Championship venues with your members this summer.
£899 From
ENGLAND’S GOLF COAST Based in Southport, play two of the most revered Open Championship venues; Royal Birkdale and Royal Lytham & St Annes. Can you remember the Big Easy’s last win at Royal Lytham back in 2012…we certainly can! Staying at the contemporary Bliss Hotel in the centre of Southport, you are within walking distance of all the town has to offer.
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PLAY: 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF ROYAL BIRKDALE, ROYAL LYTHAM & ST ANNES, SOUTHPORT & AINSDALE STAY: 2 NIGHTS BED & BREAKFAST THE BLISS HOTEL SOUTPORT
£749 From
ENGLANDS’S NO. 1 COURSE Royal St George’s is host to The Open Championship in 2021 and is home to more majors than any other course in England. Also ranked #1 in England’s Top 100 golf courses, your members are sure to remember this trip for a long time to come. You can also play the highly acclaimed Royal Cinque Ports and the ever popular Prince’s.
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PLAY: 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF
ROYAL ST GEORGE’S, ROYAL CINQUE PORTS, PRINCE’S STAY: 2 NIGHTS BED & BREAKFAST THE LODGES AT PRINCES
£1049 From
GOLF’S GREATEST TEST Carnoustie, the world’s 10th oldest golf club, dating back to 1839 is a permanent fixture on The Open rota and will be forever etched in golfing folklore due to Jean van de Velde’s collapse in 1999. Coupled with Kingsbarns, one of Scotland’s most prestigious courses and a round at St Andrews New or Castle course make this one of golf’s greatest tests for your members.
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PLAY: 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF CARNOUSTIE, KINGSBARNS, ST ANDREWS NEW OR CASTLE COURSE STAY: 2 NIGHTS BED & BREAKFAST CARNOUSTIE GOLF HOTEL & SPA
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TRAVEL
HOT WINTER
DESTINATIONS
JOE BOWREY Senior Travel Consultant T: 01753 752880 E: jbowrey@golfrbeaks.com
After 2020 put a lot of golfers’ overseas breaks on hold, 2021 offers the chance to catch up with missed golf breaks and travel somewhere extra special to experience some of the finest golf courses the world has to offer whilst immersing yourself in different cultures. This month we take a look at some of our most popular venues for Pro Travel in Winter. Long haul breaks, perfect for mixed groups with golf and an array of fabulous activities and experiences on offer.
ARNOLD PALMER’S BAY HILL - FLORIDA, USA
★★★★★ Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge is a bucket list venue for golfers visiting Florida. With a championship course on site, that plays host to the PGA Tour’s ‘Arnold Palmer Invitational,’ your members can walk in the footsteps of the tour pros. Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge features three 9-hole loops. The Champion and Challenger 9’s compose the 18-holes that you see the pros play at the PGA TOUR’s ‘Arnold Palmer Invitational.’ The gently undulating terrain, immaculate fairways and greens, and mix of water hazards make this a challenge for any level of golfer.
£899 From
What do our experts think? “This resort is an ideal setting for an unforgettable American golf holiday. With luxurious accommodation, numerous on and offsite activities – not to mention one of the world’s iconic golf courses - this is the perfect destination for golfers and nongolfers alike.” Fraser Carr – Pro Travel team
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AT A GLANCE
5 nights room only and 3 rounds of golf from £899
27-holes onsite Lodge accommodation 4 restaurants & bars 20 minutes from downtown Orlando
Season: Winter
Temperature: 24ºC high; 13ºC low Travel time from the UK: 9 hours Transfer time from airport: 25 minutes Preferential rate for PGA Professionals
For more information or to book your next break, get in touch with our dedicated Pro Travel Team 01753 752 880 | pga@golfbreaks.com |
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@Golfbreaks_Pro |
@golfbreaks_pro_travel
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TRAVEL
THE CASCADES HOTEL SUN CITY - SOUTH AFRICA
★★★★★ This grand 5-star hotel has everything imaginable onsite including casinos, safaris, championship golf and excellent spa facilities, something to keep every member of your group entertained! The par-72 Gary Player Course at Sun City has some great holes with incredible views. The Lost City Golf Course is also excellent and a great experience to play. What do our experts think? “Sun City is a fairytale golf holiday destination that must be experienced and The Cascades Hotel is a great base from which to do it. With amazing golf courses and the opportunity to venture out on a safari, Sun City is an excellent choice for a mixed members trip.” Callum Kirby – Pro Travel team
AT A GL ANCE
5 nights bed & breakfast and 5 rounds from £899
18 holes on-site Hotel accommodation 2 restaurants and casino Gary Player Health Spa
Season: Winter
£899 From
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Temperature: 31ºC high; 18ºC low Travel time from the UK: 11 hours Transfer time from airport: 2 hours Preferential rate for PGA Professionals
TAMARINA GOLF & SPA BOUTIQUE HOTEL - FLIC-EN-FLAC, MAURITIUS
★★★★ Tamarina Hotel is a wonderful 4* boutique hotel, set amongst a beautiful natural beach on the Western Coast of the Island. It has all you can require for a relaxing golf break, with spacious comfortable rooms, a natural white sand beach and fantastic golf course nearby. The wonderful par 72 Championship golf course lies between the Rempart mountain and beautiful lagoon. During your round, your group can enjoy outstanding views of the surrounding area, whilst being treated to carefully manicured fairways and greens. What do our experts think? “If you are looking for a more relaxing break in a quiet, secluded place, then Tamarina is for you. You can enjoy great golf and great food, all for a very reasonable price. By far the best 4* boutique option on the Island.” Joe Bowrey – Pro Travel team
AT A GL ANCE
7 nights half board & 4 rounds of golf from £819
18 holes Hotel accommodation 3 bars & restaurants Wellness centre
Season: Winter
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£819 From
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Temperature: 29ºC high; 20ºC low Travel time from the UK: 12 hours Transfer time from airport: 1 hour 15 minutes Preferential rate for PGA Professionals
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COACHING
THE ULTIMATE BUNKER PLAYER -
JASON DAY
PGA Professionals Andy Proudman and Piers Ward (Me and My Golf) are here to share with you some of the great insights and techniques they have gleaned from spending time with some of the world’s top players.
Relevant YouTube clip: https://youtu.be/Om7e1l0rDUA
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COACHING
J
ason Day is renowned for not only being one of the best putters in the world, but also for being one of the best exponents of the short game, and when it comes to bunker play in particular, it’s hard to find anyone better! We were lucky enough to spend some time with Jason and got to quiz him on his unique style when it comes to bunker play. His technique yet again demonstrates that there is no one way to be successful in this game!
SWING TECHNIQUE This is where Jason’s technique is very unique, when compared to his peers. As I mentioned, he likes to set up with a square stance, which seems to be the modern approach in bunkers nowadays, but when it comes to executing the shot, Jason likes to play a “high cut.”
SET-UP Jason likes to set up with a square stance, with his sternum above the golf ball. (Pic 1) This is a little different to many others who
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1 like to have the sternum a little behind the ball. One of the main reasons for this is that Jason likes to take minimal sand through impact, so positioning his sternum over the ball helps create an entry point much closer to the ball. This could be great for amateurs who struggle with “bottoming” out too early. Jason likes to use his most lofted club, the 60-degree low wedge, in bunkers. The main reason for this is it allows him to be more aggressive in playing the shot. Another adjustment he makes to help him with this is significantly lowering the handle of the club, (Pic 2) by increasing the flex in his legs and pushing down on the grip end of the club. He likes to feel like the loft is almost pointing away to the left and this offers more of the bounce of the club to improve interaction with the sand.
To do this he creates an “out to in” swing which is more across his body. (Pic 3) One main swing “feel” or thought that he focuses on when playing these shots is keeping his “levels” through the swing, this helps him achieve a consistent entry point and depth of divot. What was noticeable about Jason when playing these shots is how hard he hits the sand and how aggressive he is. You will also notice when he plays these shots, he produces a very high, full finish. (Pic 4) Something that could benefit many amateurs who are not quite as consistent with how much sand they take.
4 It does go to show that there are so many ways to do things in golf, and it’s always good to have tools and options to explore with our students when it comes to helping them become the best they can be. If you want to know more about the work Andy & Piers do, connect with them in the following ways:
2 Email: info@meandmygolf.com | Website: Meandmygolf.com
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COACHING
TO LIFE ! n u F
BRINGING
n BY DAVID COLCLOUGH, HEAD OF COACHING AND SPORTS SCIENCE & PGA MASTER PROFESSIONAL, PETER BALL
PE
TER B ALL
Last month I wrote an article which looked at the meaning of ‘having fun’ as it relates to children and junior coaching. The article suggested that if you have a broader appreciation of what children mean when they say they are “having fun”, you can adapt your coaching accordingly, and ultimately deliver more effective sessions. PGA Master Professional Peter Ball contacted me to say how much he enjoyed the article and how it resonated with his approach to coaching children. Peter has been working with children all his life and is truly a Master Coach in this context. He offered to share some of the ideas he has integrated into his coaching over the years, and which bring to life some of the suggestions which came from the last article. What follows are insights from Peter on how to create fun and engaging learning environments for a huge spectrum of players, as well as why he believes it is so important. OVER TO PETER It is important as a PGA Professional to be able to construct an engaging practice session / lesson, so that when the player is away from you, they can use games and drills to help their understanding and progression. The games must be engaging and challenging and be quick to set up and easy to use. The good thing about the games listed in this article is they give players from beginner to elite level ideas on how to set up their own practice sessions. These games simulate pressure, as well as creating an engaging learning environment which can be played either on their own, against another player, or within a team environment. The sessions can be measured and scored, and all the games can be made more difficult as the players’ progress. Before setting up a task, or game, one of the most important things is to try and find out the player’s
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needs, and/or set out the outcomes or agreed goals from which the players will learn. Games can then be adjusted to create an engaging learning environment for any level of player. These games should be set out in a way where the player can either learn a skill, or refine a skill they already possess, and all the players that participate should begin with a learning outcome. From the coach’s perspective, when introducing a game to a session it is important that there are at least one or two learning outcomes, and possibly two or more subsidiary ones which the participants are unaware of. GAME 1 The first game I wanted to share with you involves placing cones around a putting green, usually using two yellow cones as the tee markers and a white cone as the hole. The object of the game is for two players to play against each other, and try putting the ball towards the cone, but not actually touching the cone. The winner of the ‘hole’ is the person who manages to get closest to the cone, but they forfeit if they touch the cone. This game can be used for three outcomes: DISTANCE - because all the holes are set at different distances this will influence the length of the swing and distance control. DIRECTION - as you go round the green the player needs to alter their alignment based on the everchanging slopes of the green. TACTICAL AWARENESS - if the ball touches the cone the player loses the hole, so the player will learn to monitor the performance of their opponent, as in Match Play.
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COACHING
These games simulate pressure, as well as creating an engaging and learning environment which can be played either on their own, against another player, or within a team environment.
Cones are always set up to represent nine / 18 holes of golf and pressure will build on the participants as they proceed around the course. The winner of the game is the first player to nine points. If working with beginners you can also incorporate etiquette, as well as bringing in safety elements at the same time. GAME 2 – ‘PONTOON’ The second game can be used on the putting green for chipping, as well as the practice area for helping a player learning how to pitch. As before, we put in teeing areas for the players to play from. We then draw a large rectangle on the green and divide it into 9 squares, each numbered from 1 to 9, these can be sequentially or random. The objective of the game is to chip balls into the box and get as close to 21 as they can. If the player goes over 21 then they go bust and forfeit the game. This game can be played individually or in teams and is an excellent game especially for better players at building pressure. Whilst on the putting green I would initially ask them to roll the ball from their hands as though they were bowling, using their eyes and the movement to judge and feel the distance. We would then move on to using three different weights of ball (light to heavy) to improve their feel and then get them to attempt this using both right and left-handed clubs. GAME 3 One other game that can be used for putting, chipping, and pitching, involves placing a square of cones level with the hole and behind the hole. Ensure the square is large enough to begin with – on the putting green it might start out 20 feet x 20 feet. Get the player to stand 30 foot away with 20 balls and they must get 20 balls to finish inside the square.
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Should they miss – a ball too short or long, or to the side, then they must start again. With the target being to get 20 balls to finish inside the square, from around ball 15 the pressure builds dramatically. As a player becomes more proficient and the technique improves, the size of the square can gradually be reduced in size. Even if the player does not fulfil the task the first few times improvement can be measured by the number of balls they succeed in getting into the square the first time. This is excellent practice and it is recommended that players keep a notebook of their scores and progress. This format can also be used on the practice range to teach pitching. The square should be an appropriate size for the level of players that you are with, making the task achievable for their level. It will need to be a lot larger than on the putting green, but there are various outcomes which can be achieved. FINAL THOUGHTS Having fun and creating games for players to enjoy, which can also help them with their practice, is not just about improving their practice routines and technique, it’s also about creating the theatre in which they can perform and express themselves and their individuality. For those who wish to carry on playing to the very highest of levels you are installing the principles of ‘learning outcomes’ and ‘routines’ which will help them achieve consistent and measurable improvement for years to come. Thank you to Peter for taking the time to share his expertise and insights with us. Good luck with integrating some of his ideas into your upcoming sessions. ●
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MARKETING
EVERYTHING
YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LICENSING PHOTOGRAPHS AND COPYRIGHT LAWS. n BY ANTJE DERKS
Photographs should form a major part of your online content and social media feeds. Copyright, licensing and the legal side of showing your images is something you might not have really considered before, but it is important that you understand the laws that are in place are to protect you and your intellectual property - as well as those of others. This also applies to edited images - especially if you like overlaying stock images or editing in new elements to jazz up your post. You can’t just help yourself to an image on Google - you need to have permission to resume it. It may sound like a minefield, but in this article we will explore copyright, reproduction, permissions and how to protect your own work. WHO OWNS THE COPYRIGHT ANYWAY? The second any original content is created - be it a video, a photograph, a piece of writing or a painting - the copyright belongs to the person who created it. So for example, if you have taken images of your course to build up your stock bank, you own that copyright. There is no need to register it anywhere like you would if you wanted to register a trademark - but, because you made it, it legally belongs to you and anyone wishing to reproduce it must seek your permission. Indeed, there is nowhere to legally register your copyright in the UK and while some people choose to watermark their images, there is
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You simply can’t lift a picture from Google images and use it willy nilly for your own purposes - especially not if you stand to benefit financially. no legal obligation there either. Once you’ve created it, it is automatically copyrighted to you. The only exception I can think of is if you are working for a company taking images for them - like an estate agent for example -then they would own your images. However, that is not quite the end of the tail. If you are taking pictures or videos of your course and there is no one else in the shots, then you are set. It gets more complicated if there are people in your pictures - clients perhaps. While you still own the copyright because you took the image, the person featured in it will have some jurisdiction over the rights of its usage. If you use the image with a client in it for example, you will need to get them to sign a release form. Don’t worry, there are plenty of free template release forms available online and they’re simple to complete, but you must complete one with the person featured. The same goes for video content. There is a
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MARKETING was lovely and we all enjoyed it. Until he was sued for copyright infringement by some of the major record labels. When music is played, the artist benefits from royalties, but in this instance they didn’t and it proved an expensive mistake. SELLING YOUR COPYRIGHT Now it may be that you have a natural gift as a photographer and some of your shots are generic and not specific to your club or client. In that case you might want to allow people to use your images - be it for their own use, for commercial websites or for social media posts. You might even want to sell them to photo banks like Getty or Shutterstock. Usually, it is fairly easy for people to ask you directly for permission. You can grant it and charge them accordingly, but you will be able to retain some rights. For example, the buyer won’t be able to adjust your work, you will still have a say in how it is used - if for example if the buyer intends to use it in a way that you think may damage your reputation. You can also object to being identified as the original creator of the piece. However, you also have the option to waiver these rights. They are known as ‘moral rights’. If you do choose to renege your rights, then you need to make this clear in writing, when you give permission for your images to be used. Without this written consent it won’t be possible to prove legally that you consent to the use of your images and worse still - you won’t have any right to the money you have got for it. Usually, images for personal use are given free of charge, but the second it is used commercially, you want to get paid for it. great website called JotForm.com. They have endless customisable consent document templates that you can download and brand and most are free. WHAT IS MEANT BY COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT? The internet is a blessing and a curse. The second you put your images and videos online, they are open to copyright infringement. The reverse is also worth bearing in mind. You simply can’t lift a picture from Google images and use it willy nilly for your own purposes - especially not if you stand to benefit financially. If your image gets used in the following ways without your consent, then you are the victim of copyright infringement. Unless your consent has been sought, your images and videos may not be reproduced, copied in derivative works, distributed, be displayed publicly, or - in the case of video content - performed in public. In these instances, you can and should - take action against the offending party and request that your images be withdrawn. This is also valid if your work has been used ‘by accident’, changed so they look different and even posted with you named as the owner. You can enforce your right of ownership and usually any breaches are settled with a fee that is agreed between the two parties. It is worth noting here, that an acquaintance of mine did a Friday night disco on a Facebook live stream. It
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Lastly, it is worth remembering that these guidelines apply to everyone, including you! Copyright infringement can be costly if you lift an image for use without consent. It is worth starting to build up your own bank of stock images and gain consent of those who feature them in a professional- and watertight way! Equally, if you want to use images online, your best - and safest bet - is to check out some of the commercial image banks mentioned above. That way, you can pay to use a particular image and know you won’t get stung further down the line.
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MEMBERSHIP
ENJOY CHRISTMAS FOR LESS WITH PGA BENEFITS There’s no need to search the internet for hours looking for deals. Hit the High Street or your favourite sites in confidence with great savings from PGA Benefits.
THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but with PGA Benefits, we’re about to make it even better. We’ve compiled the discounts available to PGA Members to help you save on everything from Christmas shopping to party season entertainment (whether that’s indoors or outdoors). Visit benefits.pga.info to access these offers and more.
PGA MEMBER SUPPORT Business Relationship Officers (BRO’s) are in place to support you, The PGA Member. They are here to help forge stronger links within the industry and provide PGA Professionals with a free service, designed to support and improve the personal and professional lives of our Members. A wide variety of support is provided such as Business Reviews, Contracts & HR, Negotiating Retainers, Marketing & Retail Advice, Coaching Support, Developing Customer Relationships, Identification of targeted Training Courses/ Educational Opportunities, Building Relationships within your Golf Club/Facility and more. For more information contact membership@pga.org.uk or call 01675 470 333
Health and Wellbeing Support
Shopping sprees for less Great leading brand savings from PGA Benefits include:-
The PGA is committed to providing support for its Members and offers access to a 24/7 service provided by Insight Healthcare. A totally confidential helpline which is manned by trained counsellors who can provide help and advice on any matter that is causing anxiety, concern or depression. The service is also available to Members’ close family and employees. If you feel you or someone close to you needs help, the number to call is 0333 000 2082.
• Exclusive discounts with T.M.Lewin* • Choose the ultimate tech from Apple* • Limited Time Offer: 3 years for 2 on TOTUM Pro membership*. Offer expires on 31 December 2020. Entertaining Christmas in 2020 might be a little different – but you can still deck the halls, enjoy the perfect turkey and Christmas pudding and toast your family and friends online or hopefully in person. • Save up to 40% off home movie streaming from Rakuten TV* and Chili.com* • Save on your Christmas food and drink shop with SVM Classic Gifts Whether you’re buying for him or her, these offers for PGA members make perfect presents. • 10% online discount at foyles.co.uk* • Unlimited magazines free for 1 month, plus a free £10 Amazon voucher with Readly* *Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers subject to change without notice and correct at time of print. T.M. Lewin - Offer cannot be redeemed against previous purchases, used in conjunction with any other promotion, voucher, bundles, discounted offers and when purchasing gift cards. Apple - Discounts are subject to availability and subject to change without notice. Use the discounts for you and your nearest and dearest. Each year you can purchase: 3 x iPad 3 x iPhone 3 x Mac 3 x Apple Watch 10 x iPod Unlimited accessories. Currently the following products are not discounted: AppleCare +, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, Apple Watch Hermes and Apple Watch Edition, Apple Watch Studio Foyles - Unfortunately the discount is not applicable against certain items, including but not limited to already-discounted products, events, gift cards, book tokens, theatre tickets, and A Year of Books. The discount is not applicable to postage costs. Foyles reserves the right to alter products included or excluded from the scheme, and to add to or amend these terms and conditions. Totum Pro - Offer ends on 31st December 2020. The discount is not available on the PASSaccredited proof of age ID bundle. Rakuten - Voucher terms and conditions will apply. Each individual voucher is worth 350 Rakuten Points, the equivalent of £3.50 in value for 1 movie rental in standard resolution on Rakuten TV. A Rakuten TV account is required to avail of the voucher value, setting up an account is simple and free with no ongoing subscription, simply use the vouchers to pay for what you use. Visit www.rakuten.tv/uk for further conditions apply please refer to the voucher page within “The Cinema Society” for full details. PGA Benefit web pages are managed and run by Parliament Hill Limited. Within those benefits are some benefits negotiated directly by PGA, and these are identified on the benefit web page.
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Legal Advice If you live in the UK and ROI, free legal advice is available from ARAG plc. 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0330 303 1846.
PAYE/National Insurance advice BDO LLP offer a free helpline to members. Contact michael. hepburn@bdo.co.uk or call on 0131 347 0355
VAT Advice For VAT advice, contact Tom Newman at PGA Headquarters on 01675 470 333 or email thomas.newman@pga.org.uk
Public liability Insurance Cover is included in your subscription fee. Contact emma.hadlow@ pga.org.uk or call 01675 470 333 for your individual certificate. For any claims contact Howden on 0121 698 8050. Visit the dedicated PGA insurance site at: pgainsurance.co.uk
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MEMBERSHIP
Speak to our Specialist Nurses
0800 074 8383* prostatecanceruk.org The helpline is open
Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Wed 7pm-9pm
IT Services* Offering members a free IT health check of their business; up to three months free managed IT services when taking out a contract with an option to leave within the first three months if you change your mind. For more information contact 0207 078 3795 quoting PGA.
*Calls are recorded for training purposes only. Confidentiality is maintained between callers and Prostate Cancer UK.
CBD products Coca Cola European Partners* CCEP are delighted to offer PGA Members free coolers for their retail facilities. To arrange delivery/installation, please contact John Balchin on jbalchin@ccep.com. Wholesale & delivery of products can be arranged via Chapple & Jenkins.
Cannaray CBD are offering PGA retailers a no-commitment, saleor-return kit worth £560 free of charge. For more info go to PGA benefits or visit www.cannaray.co.uk. To order, email scoop@cannaray.co.uk
Affiliate Bonus Wholesale and Delivery Service* We are delighted to offer PGA Members in England & Wales a reliable wholesale & delivery service for soft drinks, crisps, confectionery and much more. Members can expect a wide range of brands that are competitively priced with free delivery and no minimum order. A complimentary gift is available to all new PGA account holders. Contact Tim Swingler on 07519 111582 or tim@ chappleandjenkins.co.uk, visit www.chappleandjenkins.co.uk for more info.
Turf Maintenance Equipment Take advantage of a special offer on the Prostripe Rear Roller Mower for your clubhouse surroundings. For more product information, visit ‘toro.com/prostripeuk’. To place an order on this offer or learn more, please share your contact details at pgamembers@toro.com
Become a SkyTrak Show Case Dealer and earn a bonus 40% affiliate fee on your first sale and 20% fee on any future sales. Call 01844 296358 or email sales@skycaddiegps.co.uk for more info.
Rangefinder Savings PGA Members save over £150 on the new SkyCaddie SX500. Call 01844 296358 or email sales@skycaddiegps.co.uk for more info.
Incentive Programme Incentive programme of up to £500 in commission when recommending customers to purchase an all-weather home putting green. Call 01730 829 608 or visit huxleygolf.com
Special Product Offers Loch Lomond Whiskies Loch Lomond Whiskies would like to offer all PGA Members in the UK a discount of 15% on all Loch Lomond Expressions available to buy on our website. Visit lochlomondwhiskies.com and enter the discount code PGA15 at checkout to receive your discount.
Special offers on selected LG products for PGA members. For the most up-to-date offers, log into member benefits, select the ‘Shopping’ section. Or contact the team at lgvip@lge.com for any orders.
Golf Carts Card Payment Services* Preferential rates to PGA Members for accepting credit and debit cards. Call 0330 123 1241 quoting PGA.
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To discuss your golf cart requirements, contact Kevin Hart, Sales Director – EMEA at: kevin_hart@eu.irco.com or call +44 1785 280 344. Members in Ireland can contact Liam Ross at The Buggyman at: liam@buggyman.net
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December 2020
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MEMBERSHIP
Personalised Luggage PGA Members receive 20% off our luggage range. To view the full range visit www.asbrigolf.co.uk/pga-members-luggage Contact sales@asbri.co.uk or 02922 678 842 quoting membership number.
GreenClub GreenClub will work with golf facilities to identify the potential of installing roof or ground-mounted solar installation which can reduce energy costs by up to 40%. GreenClub will support with surveys, audits, planning and design and subject to meeting required criteria, will fund the entire project. For more information visit www.greenclub.energy, email info@greenclub. energy or call 0800 999 1904.
Travel Insurance* 20% off † travel insurance for members and their families as well as £10 every time someone takes out a policy on your recommendation. For every 10 policies sold in 1 calendar month, we will give you an additional ±£100. For more info log into member benefits, select the ‘Finance & Insurance’ and ‘Over 50s Travel Insurance’ section.
Aphrodite Hills Golf & Spa Resort 25% off for members on holiday residences public rates and 20% off hotel package rates (terms apply)††. For availability and prices email: Hotel Packages – reservations@aphroditehills.com Residences – reservations_mgr_AH@atlanticahotels.com For pro coaching groups, check with PGA Travel Partners.
Antalya Golf Club Vehicle Leasing Offers* Exclusive contract hire rates on a selection of BMW and MINI models through BMW Group. Visit www.bmwpgasales.co.uk, call 0207 514 3599 or email pgasales@bmw-issd.co.uk
XPOS Sales and Stock Management XPOS is the sales and stock management solution for golf retail, used by professionals to reduce stock and improve profit. PGA Members quote PGAX01 to receive three months free XMAIL, the integrated customer email service. Contact on 01454 418 395 or via the CHAT button at crossovertec.co.uk
Golfing Packages Commission Access to bespoke golfing packages for you and your club members through the dedicated Golf Pro Travel Team. Receive 5% commission on your booking. Contact 01753 752 900 or email pga@golfbreaks.com to book your next trip.
Discounted Airfares Offering all PGA Members discounted airfares across the whole network, with checked golf bag clearance (subject to availability). Contact the Traveleads sports team on 0113 242 2202 or email pga@traveleads.net quoting your PGA membership number.
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Attractive, all-inclusive rates for members and family. For The Sirene Hotel contact: volkan.cavusoglu@sirene.com.tr For Kempinski The Dome Hotel contact: michael.jones@agc.com.tr
Argentario Golf Resort & Spa 20% off the flexible rate at www.argentariogolfresortspa.it. For availability and prices on bespoke packages for members/clients, email booking@argentarioresort.it or call +39 0564 810292 quoting PGA Member
Slieve Russell Golf & Country Club 20% off B&B rates on www.slieverussell.ie For availability and prices email slieve.reservations@slieverussell.ie on or call +353 49 952 6444 quoting membership number.
Formby Hall Golf & Spa Resort Rates from £95pp including use of the pool and health club. Spa days from £49 pp. PGA deals available Sun – Thur. Members receive 10% commission on new golf bookings for groups of 12 or more. Contact Mark Williams on 01704 875 699 or reservations@ formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk quoting your membership number. For more detailed information and to take advantage of these and other fantastic deals, log into www.pga.info, select Member Benefits then click ‘Find out more’. *Only available to PGA Members in the UK. Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers subject to change without notice. †Discount only applies to the base premium of your travel insurance quote and does not apply to any medical screening premiums where relevant. Offer ends 31 December 2020.’. Terms and Conditions apply. ±£10 for every travel insurance policy sold, plus an additional £100 for every 10 policies sold in 1 calendar month. Please allow up to 45 days to receive your cashback. Cashback will be paid to you directly via The PGA. If the policy is cancelled within the 14 day cooling off period no payment will be made. ††Pay directly in the hotel; flexible cancellation policy; valid only in low and mid-season; the discount can only be applied on the flexible rate and not on other rates or special offers.
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Improve your cash flow with free Faster Funding* by First Data Up to £150 toward cancellation fees with current service provider No minimum monthly charges on transactions Want to find out more?
Call 0330-123-1241** and quote PGA firstdata.com/pga-cards
Join First Data and apply for Faster Funding* to improve your cash flow. Get paid sooner after a busy day’s trading, the way it should be!
Join hundreds of PGA members who already enjoy fast and secure payment solutions using the latest technology. * Businesses must be trading for over 12 months to apply for faster funding, successful application is subject to approval. Faster Funding promotion is free for PGA Pro Shops who are new to First Data and will continue the length of the merchant contract.
Lines open between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.
**
© 2020 Fiserv, Inc. or its affiliates. Fiserv is a registered trademark. Other products referenced in this material may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. 699058 2020-11 ® PGA is a registered trademark of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited
EMPLOYMENT O P P O R T U N I T I E S
John O’Gaunt Golf Club - PGA Head Professional John O’Gaunt Golf Club is a private members club, established in 1948, with a rich history and a progressive outlook, both on and off the golf courses. With over 1000 playing members, the Club has a clear and challenging vision: to realise the full potential of our 2 very different but equally challenging 18-hole courses, our practice facilities and historic clubhouse; to reinforce our position as a renowned golf club, one to aspire to be a member of in the Eastern Region; and to provide an enjoyable and memorable golfing experience for all.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a PGA Head Professional, as a self-employed contractor, but working in a mutually beneficial arrangement with John O’Gaunt Golf Club, helping to develop and modernise the ‘traditional’ service model into an innovative business-oriented offering by working in a truly joint and collaborative manner, while keeping the Club member at the heart of all activities. An exciting opportunity has arisen for a dynamic, pro-active, innovative and engaging PGA professional and their team to work in an open and trusted manner with co-located Club staff, specifically the Golf Operations Manager, as part of a joint team delivering the range of services and functions aligned with the needs and vision of the Club:
• • • • • • • • • •
A welcoming ‘one-stop shop’ Golfer’s Hub for members and visitors. Management and coordination of the tee sheet, competitions and handicaps. Processing and marketing of visitor green fees and golf societies. Management, rental and development of buggy operations. Developing all-inclusive coaching programmes for members and non-members of all ages and abilities. Greater use and long-term development of our practice facilities and the implementation of new technology for use by the Pro’s team and members. Operating a golf shop that provides: expert advice; regular member updates and offers; access to online retail; high quality custom fitting; and club repair services. Developing the game of golf through: existing member engagement, including playing with a full cross-section of all ages; supporting Club teams; organising Pro-Ams and playing representative golf; new member recruitment and integration, developing pathways into the game; and building community outreach programmes. Working with the Course Manager to consider set-up and development of the golf courses. Developing mutually beneficial business opportunities through the shared and managed use of the Club’s website and social media platforms.
The Person
The successful ‘partner’ will have excellent interpersonal, communication and organisational skills and be a first-class coach with proven commercial acumen. Ultimately, they must possess the drive and determination to play a pivotal role in the commercial development and long-term growth of John O’Gaunt Golf Club. In return, the successful candidate will benefit from the full support of the Club in the development of their business to ensure that it can thrive and prosper in parallel with the realisation of the Club’s vision.
The Process
Applications for this role are sought in the form of a Letter of Application, a CV and a high-level business plan overview (comprising no more than four A4 pages), supported by evidence and examples of how this opportunity can be delivered in conjunction with the Club. Short-listed candidates will be invited to present their proposal in more detail and discuss specific business arrangements with a small group comprising members of the General Committee, representatives from the wider membership and senior Club staff. Requests for additional information required to support a business plan overview, or to arrange an informal site visit, are to be directed, in the first instance, to the General Manager; all applications are also to be submitted to the General Manager (manager@joggc.co.uk).
Application Deadline: 18 December 2020 Short Listed Candidates Informed: 23 December 2020 Business Plan Presentations & Proposal Discussions: Week Commencing 4 January 2021
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EMPLOYMENT O P P O R T U N I T I E S The County Sligo Golf Club - Club Professional Co. Sligo Golf Club is a prestigious 18-Hole Championships Links Golf Course situated in the heart of Yeats Country, in the North West of Ireland. Along with the aforementioned Championship course, Co. Sligo G.C. also boasts a separate 9-Hole course, a covered 6-bay driving range, and 5 short-game practice areas. Commonly regarded as one of the premier members’ golf clubs in Ireland, the Club has over 800 Members, with an outstanding junior section comprising of a further 100 Members. Founded in 1894, Co. Sligo was built upon the core values and traditions of golf. Since then, the Club has progressed into modern times thanks to our relentless commitment to constant improvement and development, all the while offering a first-class service to both our Members and guests. We seek an experienced, energetic and committed Club Professional. The Club anticipates the successful candidate will live within a daily commutable distance and provide a comprehensive service to members and guests whilst assisting us in meeting our challenging aims and aspirations. The Professional must: • Be PGA Qualified with a minimum of 5 years’ experience. • Have demonstrable business acumen and experience in running a Golf Shop as operating the Shop is a requirement of the position. Custom fitting and club repairs are an essential part of the service. • Deliver professionally all the requirements of a traditional Golf Club ensuring that members expectations are met and exceeded especially in the area of coaching. Experience in the use of technology for teaching purposes is essential. • Have a sound knowledge of the World Handicapping System and the Rules of Golf • Be IT literate. • Demonstrate exceptional interpersonal skills. An attractive remuneration package will be available for this position. Please reply with a cover letter and C.V. in strict confidence to our Club Secretary at the following email address: clubsecretary@countysligogolfclub.ie Closing date for applications is Friday 8th January 2021 at 5pm
Bransford Golf Club - Head PGA Professional Bransford Golf Club is set at the foot of the Malvern Hills in the finest rolling Worcestershire countryside, and is a stunning Florida-style golf course that offers a challenge to all levels of golfer. Open to local golfers, hotel guests & our 500+ membership, our unique golf course features no less than 14 lakes and two challenging island greens. There is a total of six par 3s, six par 4s and six par 5s across the 18 holes. Bransford Golf Club also has varied practice facilities ranging from chipping & putting Greens through to a covered practice range. We wish to appoint an enthusiastic PGA Professional possessing excellent business development skills with a passion for not only progressing players but also the business elements of the club. Essential Skills and experience: • Experience of operating a golf shop • Experience in managing retail stock • Experience of coaching across all levels of ability & age groups • Experience in both managing and developing a team • Exceptional customer focus Bransford Golf Club is looking to offer either a service contract or an employment contract to the qualifying Head Professional. Applicants should indicate which of these options they would prefer and propose an outline of the terms under which they would ideally like to operate. CV’s and proposals along with any enquires must be sent to Adam Richards via e-mail: Adam.Richards@Bankhouseworcester.com. Application Deadline: December 31st 2020 60
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EMPLOYMENT O P P O R T U N I T I E S Cavendish Golf Club Trainee or registered assistant required for busy members’ club. Must be self-motivated, enthusiastic and embrace the opportunity created in retail and coaching. Shop hours required with excellent customer service. IT and organisational skills essential. Apply with CV and cover letter to Lee Marshall: professional@cavendishgolfclub.com
Lenzie Golf Club Lenzie Golf Club located on the Eastern outskirts of Glasgow is a private members Golf Club which was founded in 1889. We are actively seeking to welcome to our team an experienced PGA Golf Professional. On the retirement of our current professional, we are looking for a self employed fully qualified individual who will first and foremost be there to look after our membership as well being responsible for the delivery and development of all aspects of golf. Excellent communication skills and customer service are vital. We have a highly active playing membership in all categories so future development in this will be essential including the use of modern technology for coaching programmes. You will be required to work closely with our management team to continue the improvement that we offer our members which will include a well stocked shop and assisting the administration and organisation of all club competitions. If you feel qualified for this position, please apply with CV and covering letter to Billy Grant Captain billygrant17@sky.com by 31/12/2020.
Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club, Lancashire An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the team at Royal Lytham & St Annes GC, host to 11 Open Championships. We are looking for an enthusiastic individual with innovative ideas to enhance and drive the business forward with members, visitors and online. Is committed to providing the highest level of customer service and works well both independently and within a close team. In addition, you will be given access to world class teaching facilities including indoor swing studio and ample time to play. Applications with covering letter should be emailed to Ben Squires at professional@royallytham.org
NUMBER PLATE FOR SALE
G9 PGA
On retention ready to put on your car
£1100
Surrey National Golf Club Qualified or final year assistant required at busy proprietary club, with a 22-bay driving range and indoor coaching studio. Excellent customer service essential. Successful applicant will be required to work 30 hours in the Pro shop, with good teaching opportunities available. Please reply with CV to chris@surreynational.co.uk Single Plane Golf Academy Inviting CVs for 2 dedicated, forward-thinking PGA qualified instructors, who enjoy seeing the success and improvement of amateur golfers through their coaching. Sponsored training of the SPA system in the USA provide an exciting national program of golf instruction events planned for 2021. Send your CV to leslie9529@gmail.com Sherborne Golf Club, Dorset Sherborne Golf Club is seeking a proactive individual with a desire to grow in a positive learning environment whilst seeking exposure to all aspects of operating a private members club. Shop hours required and Coaching opportunities available. Customer service skills, punctuality and reliability essential. Contact Alasdair Danson-Webster sgcmanager@sherbornegolfclub.co.uk 07939640860. Hendon Golf Club Training applicant or first year Assistant required to join the Professional team at Hendon. The role includes retail, repairs, coaching and playing. A flexible shift system will allow for Coaching and Playing time. Apply with cover letter and CV by email to Matt Deal mdgolfuk@yahoo.com The Pro Shot Golf Club, Buckinghamshire An exciting opportunity has become available for a hardworking PGA Coach. Due to demand we require an additional coach to support in building a large lesson following. This is a real opportunity for a dedicated individual to grow a relatively new business. Please send your CV to patrick@proshotgolfclub.com by 31/12/2020 Worthing Golf Club Assistant Professional, Trainee/Qualified, required early 2021 to join our team at Worthing Golf Club, a very busy 36 hole club with covered driving range, custom fit centre and buoyant retail shop. Great opportunity for someone who is hard working, energetic and personable. Please contact Michael at mikehenninggolf@gmail.com
INTERNATIONAL Golf Anlage Duesseldorf Grafenberg (Golf Forum GmbH) For the new Season 2021 on, we are looking for a new Professional to join our Team. We are nine professionals in sum & an out of the ordinary Team. We are Dutch, Argentine, Irish and German. We offer a place with terrific earning potential. Contact: jb.wittmann@web.de
Would make a fantastic Xmas gift Contact Katiesusiemaiatkins@gmail.com or Call Katie Dalby 07791 749907
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M E M BE R I N T H E SP OT L IGH T
PERFECT PARTNERSHIP MY CAREER PATHWAY I started playing golf at the age of eight with my Dad. I can still remember him asking me if I fancied trying the game. We headed up to a local driving range close to Grimsby and that was it. After leaving school I decided I wanted to start my PGA training and luckily a position came up at Pannal Golf Club, Harrogate, to become an assistant pro with Murray Burgess. I qualified in 1995 and went abroad. Other than a few months between jobs, I haven’t been back to the UK since. At some point later around 2003 I was looking for a way out of golf coaching. I didn’t want my life to be just about golf. Coaching and talking about golf day in, day out just wasn’t fulfilling me. I kept going, but eventually gave up my teaching role in Germany in 2008 and headed to the Middle East where I had spent a few years previously as a pro at the Emirates Golf Club between 1998 and 2002. I met my life and business partner, Elisabeth or Liesl as
Neil Webb moved away from the traditional coaching role to launch his own clothing brand with former Ladies European Tour player and his life partner Elisabeth Esterl.
she is known (Esterl) at the Dubai Ladies Masters in 2009. She played on the Ladies European Tour for 17 years, winning three times, and also played in the Solheim Cup. We hit it off immediately, but both of our lives were a quite complex at the time and it took a while to evolve. To cut a long story short, we have been together ever since and in 2010 we started work on creating our own clothing brand. MY CURRENT ROLE I now run Esterl Golf together with Liesl but I’m much more ‘back of house’. It was a logical decision to use the surname that Liesl has built up in the game for our brand, in particular in our main markets of Germany and Austria. I do most of the digital work, from website and social media, to photography and content creation, but I guess my main role is to be the one who comes up with the ideas. I always wanted us to manage our company cashflow smartly. I learned about creating websites, marketing and design and just about anything else that needs doing which would otherwise take a huge lump out of our budget. Liesl is a real doer. She takes any idea that we have discussed and just gets it done. That’s a great skill to have and we are lucky to have the combination that we do. We don’t have the same skillset but we do have the same goals. We are one of only a few clothing brands in golf owned and operated by two golf pros. CAREER INFLUENCE There have been a lot of people who have helped me along the way, in many different forms. My good friend and ex-Dubai colleague,
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Andrew ‘Red Dog’ Whitelaw, who is now the General Manager at Portmarnock, has always been there to help me and he’s been a very supportive person during some challenging times. Warren Jacklin deserves a mention too. We have a nice friendship and he took me on when I needed a job at his club close to Heidelberg, Germany. My daughter was born there and Warren was very supportive at that time. Last but by no means least, Liesl. I have a lot of admiration for her, not only as a determined individual and a nice person but also for what she has achieved on a professional level. None of her family play golf and she comes from a tiny club in Bavaria, yet she travelled the world without any support from home, made her own money and had a very successful golf career. BEST ADVICE I WAS GIVEN When times get tough, use your network. He won’t remember saying it and it will sound like name dropping, but none other than Thomas Bjorn gave me this advice when we were discussing my intention to leave Dubai in 2002. I’ve always kept it in mind and my close network hasn’t changed much for many years. Networks do not have to be huge, but we should never be too proud to ask for help. BEST ADVICE I WOULD GIVE My advice is to try and look beyond the bounds of the course, the range and the clubhouse. It’s very easy to ‘hide’ in golf, in particular in a golf club and become completely absorbed by it, but we have to remember that golf is very niche. Pros spend so much time at the club that life on the outside can pass us by if we are not careful. If you are feeling uncomfortable in whatever it is you are doing, consider changing things or adding to your skillset. It might seem like an impossible thought, but I know several pros who have taken the plunge and changed their career path and that’s okay. Needs must, bills keep coming and sometimes we need to be open to change. ●
December 2020
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