The PGA Professional - June 2019

The

Professional T H E

O F F I C I A L

P G A

M E M B E R S ’

FIRST POINT OF CONTACT

M A G A Z I N E

Volume 15 Issue 5 June 2019

How PGA Professionals are inspiring the next generation

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The

Professional

CONTENTS

JUNE 2019

THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE Editor: Jane Carter PGA News and Features: steven.carpenter@pga.org.uk

Equipment and Trade Editor: Nick Bayly nick@goodenough-bayly.co.uk

6

Contributors: Tom Davies, Antje Derks, Ben Foster, TGI, Danielle Thomas and Angela Youngman

18

Photography: Getty Images, Stroke Association and Dave Wadley

24

Editorial assistant: Kelly Lewis Design: Barbara Stanley Advertising Sales: keith.foster@pgapublishing.co.uk ben.foster@pgapublishing.co.uk Recruitment Advertising: recruitment@pga.org.uk PGA National Headquarters Centenary House The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B76 9PT Tel: 01675 470 333 Fax: 01675 477 888 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 2019 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, the Crest and PGA Pro – the Heart of Golf are registered trademarks 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

14 FEATURE 17 RAISING AWARENESS Alan Shearer teams up with Prostate Cancer UK 18 JUNIOR GOLF The role of Training Professionals INSIDE THE PGA 5 ROBERT MAXFIELD This month from The PGA’s Chief Executive 6 PGA NEWS A round-up of what’s happening across The PGA and its regions INTERNATIONAL 14 WORKING ABROAD Focus on Thailand 16 MEMBER Q&A: Chris Dodd, Head PGA Golf Professional at Ayla Golf Club, Jordan TRADE 24 TRADE NEWS Product launches and retail news 28 TRADE Q&A Edward Doling, MD of Foresight Sports Europe 30 EQUIPMENT The latest balls and the importance of fitting

Front cover: PGA Master Professional Paul Gibbons, p53

The PGA Professional

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48 36 APPAREL Gloves – grip, comfort and keeping out the weather

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT 53 ABROAD VIEW PGA Master Professional Paul Gibbons 57 YOUR BRAND Three mistakes that are holding you back

40 RETAIL Making the most of a special event – like The Open!

GOLF CLUB MANAGEMENT

TRAVEL 43 DESTINATION GUIDE The Opal Coast, Northern France 44 OFFERS Investigate Iberia 45 DESTINATION GUIDE South Carolina, USA 47 TRAVEL BUSINESS Running your first coaching break COACHING

MEMBERSHIP 60 YOUR BENEFITS A selection of special deals and offers secured for you by The PGA RECRUITMENT

48 THEORY The social and physical benefits of golf coaching for stroke survivors 51 BUSINESS Can you create your own brand of coaching?

MARKETING 54 MEASURING SUCCESS How do you know if your campaigns are working?

www.linked.com/company/ professional-golfers-association

58 GOLFER DATA COLLABORATION A national data collection scheme for visiting golfers with the PGA Professional at the heart

61 SITUATIONS VACANT New opportunities in the UK, Ireland and overseas FINAL THOUGHT 66 ENGLAND GOLF CHIEF EXECUTIVE NICK PINK Professional and amateur games working together

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www.instagram.com /thepga

3

The perfect match

Helping the golf industry do business

Centenary House, The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B76 9PT www.pga.info PGA is a registered trademark of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited.

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F RO M T H E C H I E F E X E C U T I V E CO LU MN

Investing in golf’s future Working to develop junior golfers whilst not easy, can be very rewarding – now and in future years. Chief Executive Robert Maxfield highlights how in partnership with the Golf Foundation, the PGA is supporting Members and their golf clubs in this important area.

W

hilst the challenge of recruiting new people into Professionals in this important area, and I would ask each of the game remains uppermost in the industry’s you to take the time to read about them and speak to your minds, it is sometimes easy to forget that the Golf Foundation Development Officer. We are both mindful good work continues. I often refer to Members being at the that many young participants at school level are of little value ‘coal face’. Working day in and day out to deliver on the if they can’t be converted into Members of junior sections and aspirations of the industry, whether it’s helping golf clubs more importantly develop that life-long interest in the game. to better succeed as a business, recruiting more women, or We meet with our Golf Foundation partners on a regular basis most importantly encouraging children to try the game. and remain a financial supporter of their development work.

I say most important because as every industry will tell Each of us is committed to ensuring that we convert as many you, the earlier you catch the imagination and interest of a of those 50,000 youngsters- a number we hope to see increasechild, the easier it becomes to instil a life-long relationship into Members of their local junior sections, supporting you in with whatever the activity. maintaining that relationship with Working with children is not the game in their twenties and easy. Golf clubs can struggle thirties, so that we can reignite with seeing the value of a junior their interest in later years. section which can be hard to We are here to help and recruit and then time consuming support. Thank you for all the to maintain. They often bemoan great work you do in this area. the fact that a youngster quickly loses interest and by 18 has The season is well and truly disappeared into the wide world underway and hopefully many and golf is forgotten. But each of you find some time to play one that tries the game they are golf in your busy schedules. an investment in golf’s future.

Complimentary golf afforded to Not all will reap dividends but Members is a value and popular Chief Executive Robert Maxfield and Golf Foundation Ambassador the greater number we encourage Ali Jodiyawalla, 18, of Hatchford Brook Golf Club benefit. It is therefore important at an early age, the greater in that in all your dealings with the potential reward now and in later years. other Members you are mindful of this privilege and treat it with The PGA remains a committed supporter to our respect. Use common courtesy when booking a game of golf, partner in junior development, the Golf Foundation. or taking part in a demo day, cancelling them if you can’t play They are doing some fantastic work as you will read in this and then making a phone call or sending a note of thanks. The issue, and through their various programmes have now behaviour of a few can quickly undermine this valuable privilege more than 50000 youngsters trying golf in schools. and damage working relationships with other Members. Act as But they can only act as the facilitator, encouraging you would wish others to act and we won’t go far wrong. Enjoy schools to take part. It is then the local PGA Professionals those few precious hours out on the course! who become the face of those programmes and take on the responsibility of giving youngsters their first experience of the game and hopefully instilling an interest to take it up. This first experience is all important and one that your golf clubs have a responsibility to support. It’s a joint effort with Professionals, Golf Clubs and the Golf Foundation each playing its part.

Robert Maxfield Together we are developing programmes and tools to help Chief Executive

The PGA Professional

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5

P G A N E W S

Slieve Russell announced as PGA National Ireland SLIEVE RUSSELL Ho-

course and an adventure golf

tel, Golf & Country Club

facility to inspire the next

has become one of only a

generation of young players.

Tony

handful of facilities around

Walker,

general

the world to be endorsed by

manager at Slieve Russell

The PGA.

Hotel, Golf & Country

Situated in the glorious

Club, said: “The golf and

setting of Ballyconnell in

leisure facilities that we have

County Cavan, Slieve Rus-

at Slieve Russell are among

sell has joined the associ-

the best in the country, and

ation’s branded resorts as

rebranding as PGA National

‘PGA National Ireland’.

Ireland will further enhance

The hotel provides luxury accommodation in a tranquil

Slieve Russell Hotel, Golf & Country Club

setting amongst stunning

our position at the forefront of Irish golf.

The affiliation serves as a

lakes and scenery. The venue also offers a haven

popular event featuring a collective prize fund

highly valued international seal of approval and

of comfort and relaxation with its world-class

of €1.2million since it was first held in 1997

assures visitors and owners that the course and

spa, a state-of-the-art conference centre and a

– the highest paid PGA pro-am tournament

facilities are of the highest quality.

range of indoor and outdoor leisure activities.

in Ireland.

PGA chief executive, Robert Maxfield,

Slieve Russell’s acclaimed 18-hole cham-

Designed by Paddy Merrigan, the natural

added: “The PGA National - Ireland further

pionship course has hosted two European

landscape of West Cavan provides a stunning

strengthens The PGA brand’s reputation inter-

Tour events and was home to the Irish PGA

backdrop to what many describe as one of

nationally and we look forward to promoting

Championship in 1996. In addition, the venue

the finest parkland courses in Ireland. It is ac-

Slieve Russell to both PGA Members and golf-

also stages an annual PGA pro-am, with the

companied by a nine-hole par-three academy

ers across the globe.”

The PGA donates £50k to The Golf Foundation THE PGA has underlined its continued sup-

delighted to be able to throw our support be-

port for growing the game of golf at grassroots

hind one of the sport’s leading charities.”

level by donating £50,000 to The Golf Foun-

The Foundation, with the help of PGA Pro-

dation.

riers in golf and making the sport more accessi-

sented the cheque to Golf Foundation Chief

ble for juniors to help boost participation rates.

Executive Brendon Pyle during a recent visit to

Among its success is the re-launched Junior

PGA headquarters at The Belfry.

The money will go towards funding the wide range of initiatives run by the Golf Foundation – many with PGA Professionals at the heart of the delivery.

Robert Maxwell, chief executive of The PGA, presents a £50,000 cheque to Brendon Pyle, chief executive of the Golf Foundation

“PGA Professionals play a key role in en-

Golf Passport scheme which has proved popular with PGA Professionals and is aimed at enhancing the experience of youngsters and helping clubs attract new golfers to the game.

couraging the next generation of golfers into

Brendon Pyle, chief executive of the Golf

Robert Maxfield, Chief Executive of The

the sport, with many of our Members running

Foundation, added: “PGA Professionals re-

PGA, said: “The PGA is delighted to support

junior programmes in conjunction with the

main very much at the heart of our strategy

the Golf Foundation and the fantastic work

Golf Foundation.

as the Golf Foundation continues to encour-

the organisation does in inspiring more young people to play the game.

6

fessionals, has worked hard to break down bar-

PGA Chief Executive Robert Maxfield pre-

“We are committed to doing all we can to get more young people playing golf so we are

age more young people from different backgrounds to enjoy the benefits of golf.”

June 2019

| www.pga.info

N E W S PGA

Peek awarded top PGA honour

PGA Members elected GCMA directors

HIGHLY RESPECTED in-

professional career so far,” said

ternational performance coach

Peek. “To belong to a group of

Ian Peek has attained The

PGA Professionals which in-

PGA’s highest honour after

cludes the likes of David Lead-

THE IMPORTANT role of a PGA Profes-

earning the status of Master

better, Martin Hall and Peter

sional in all areas of the golf club has been

Professional.

Cowen is pretty humbling.”

highlighted once again after four PGA Mem-

Peek has a wealth of expe-

Peek has always been keen

bers were elected to The Golf Club Managers

rience and knowledge of the

to expand his personal devel-

Association’s (GCMA) board at the associa-

opment. His 2016 Master’s

tion’s 2019 AGM.

game of golf having played

Ian Peek

full-time on the Asian, South American and

Degree Dissertation focused on the experienc-

Stuart Leech (Secretary/Manager at

European Challenge Tours before founding the

es of elite amateurs following their transition

Formby) and Andrew Rankin (Course Leader

Impact Golf Academy in Germany.

to professional golf. As a PhD student, Peek’s

and Senior Lecturer at Buckinghamshire New

The 50-year-old has worked with numerous

research focused on the varying influences

University) will join former GCMA Manager

golf federations around the world as a con-

behind successful European Tour players and

of the Year winners Andrew Minty (Director

sultant for the R&A and he is also a qualified

how those influences contributed to them

of Golf at Langland Bay), and Amy Yeates

PGA tournament referee.

‘making it’ on the tour.

(CEO at Moor Park) as GCMA directors.

Peek has presented his coaching philoso-

Peek added: “In my opinion we cannot be

Consisting of serving managers and

phies as a conference speaker all across Europe

truly successful as a coach or mentor unless we

industry professionals from around the UK,

and further afield, including at the PGA Mem-

are actively involved in our own personal de-

the makeup of newly elected board will more

bers’ International Conference in Thailand

velopment. The point of learning as a coach is

accurately reflect the age and gender demo-

and the recent European Members’ Education

to be able to pass that learning on to others.”

graphics of the association’s 1,700 members.

and Networking Day in Germany where he is based at Golf-Club Sigmaringen.

“This is without doubt the highlight of my

David Clare (Gloria Hotel & Golf Resort)

The association’s newly elected directors

has been awarded the PGA Advanced Fellow

will join GCMA chairman and PGA Member

status.

Phil Grice (General Manager and Director at Royal Norwich) and GCMA CEO Bob Wil-

Hurrion ‘putting’ on Thailand masterclass

liams on the board.

GCMA CEO Bob Williams said: “I am

WORLD-RENOWNED putting coach Paul Hurrion will deliver his popular delighted to welcome the new directors to the ‘Putting Masterclass’ at the 2019 PGA Members’ International Conference GCMA board, and look forward to driving in Thailand. the association forward with their support.

Hurrion has gained international recognition in many sports including “It’s an exciting opportunity to have so athletics, cricket and golf for his work in specialising in biomechanical, sporting and equipment analysis. many new faces at the same time, and that the Using a range of cameras, multi-screen computers, specialist 2D and 3D demographics of the board are changing.”

Software, and pressure platforms, along with his own knowledge, Hurrion can demonstrate things the human eye misses.

Although best known for his work with Padraig Harrington, helping the Irishman on his way to winning three Majors, Hurrion continues to coach several European, PGA, Asian and Chinese Tour players.

The Masterclass will run as an extra seminar alongside the PGA Members’ International Conference at the worldrenowned Laguna Phuket resort from November 11-13.

The interactive workshop will see Hurrion use detailed biomechanical analysis to demonstrate the technical elements of the putting stroke. Delegates will learn to improve their putting technique while improving their knowledge of the process of putting for their own benefit and for coaching others.

The one-day ‘Paul Hurrion Coaching Masterclass’ costs £120 and will take place on the final day of the Conference (November 13). For more information about the 2019 PGA Paul Hurrion’s popular ‘Putting Masterclass’ will feature once Members’ International Conference, including package again at the PGA Members’ International Conference prices, visit pgaconference.com.

The PGA Professional

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7

P G A N E W S

PGA supports sun protection campaign for golfers THE PGA is one of nine major golf organisa-

The campaign’s top five tips are:

tions supporting a new sun protection aware-

1. Keep sunscreen (SPF30+), sunglasses, a hat and large umbrella in your kit bag.

ness campaign for golfers.

Skin cancer is a global epidemic and the most serious form is melanoma, which is doubling every ten to 15 years. To raise awareness of the risks, a new sun protection campaign, Slip!

Slap! Swing! has launched, offering specialist tips and advice to encourage better habits.

Many golfers believe their skin is ‘seasoned’ from years of UV exposure, or protected by a base tan, however the highest mortality rates from melanoma, are in older men who spend a lot of time outdoors, are less likely to use sunscreen, check their skin, or visit their GP with

2. Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before teeing off to ensure it is effective.

3. Reapply sunscreen every two hours using a sunscreen applicator to keep palms dry.

4. Use a chubby sunblock stick to protect lips, nose and ears, which are all prone to burning.

5. Check skin every month or so and if you spot any changes, visit your GP immediately.

a concern.

YouTube Golf Day a success

PGA PROFESSIONAL Rick Shiels, the world’s most watched online golf personality, hailed the inaugural YouTube Golf Day a resounding success, as he welcomed 44 of golf’s most popular content creators to Formby Hall in aid of Prostate Cancer UK. The first-of-its-kind event brought together golf content creators, alongside celebrity and golfing stars. In total there were over 19 million followers across all of the creator’s channels.

The event, which took place on May 6, looks set to raise over £15,000 for Prostate Cancer UK. Shiels said: “To be able to raise awareness and money for Prostate Cancer UK has been amazing, the team are so passionate about what they do, it was never in doubt who I wanted to do this for. Hopefully, this is just the first event of many.”

Mike Dawson, with a score of 37 points, claimed a two-stroke vic-

Jamie Cundy and Kenton Wright are two PGA Professionals who have both survived melanoma. They feature in a short awareness film to launch the campaign.

For further information visit melanoma-fund.co.uk/golf.

Life stories PGA MASTER Professional Tony Bennett has published a book telling the stories of 18 remarkable golfers who refuse to be defined by disability.

Mulligan – Tough Love And Second Chances details the highs and lows of disability, illness, love and second chances. The book includes stories of 18 players, many of whom have fought back from personal trauma and found, through golf, there is always a brighter day on life’s fairways.

The players featured come from 14 countries, with different impairments including players with leg amputation, single-arm players, wheelchair golfers, stroke survivors, PTSD sufferers and more, all ‘Golfers First’ who refuse to be defined by disability.

Bennett, who is head of disability for the International Golf Federation (IGF) and European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA) President, said: “All 18 of these athletes have told remarkable stories of strength, perseverance and humour under difficult circumstances, and they share one thing in common: a true passion for golf and the tough love the sport has given them in return.

“It will be great if their stories can now help others who may be going through a tough time in a hospital or rehab centre, offering hope and inspiration for the future.”

The Ryder Cup European Development Trust helped support the first printing of the book and the legacy of every donation is that another book is given free of charge to a hospital or rehabilitation/medical centre.

tory to secure the title of YT Golfer of the Year.

8

June 2019

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Shane Naisbett - PGA Professional Chesterfield Golf Club

my support Team 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

P G A N E W S

On the move The latest PGA Member appointments across the UK, Ireland and overseas

Ramside Hall appoints Redpath Phil Redpath has joined Ramside Hall Hotel and Golf Club as their head PGA Professional after six years working overseas at prestigious golf venues in Dubai and Qatar.

Redpath worked at the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai, venue for the DP Tour Championship – the season finale event in The European Tour’s Rolex Series – and at The Pete Cowen and Mike Walker Golf Academy at Doha Golf Club, Qatar.

Redpath said: “I’ve been lucky enough to work at two European Tour venues in The Middle East and to learn the philosophies of Europe’s best golf coach in Pete Cowen.”

New pro at Pitlochry There will be a homecoming party for Gary Casey who takes over from Walker Cup and Eisenhower Trophy player Wallace Booth as head professional at Pitlochry Golf Club.

“I’m a coach by nature so that will be a big part of my role,” said Gary.

“Pitlochry is a great coaching centre.

The facilities, combined with one of the most scenic courses in the country, make it an exceptional place for golf.”

Simpson takes up Gullane role Gordon Simpson is excited to have taken up his new post as secretary of Gullane Golf Club, believing he has built up the ideal skill set to oversee ‘huge plans’ for the East Lothian venue.

Simpson’s PGA journey has taken him to Newmachar, Hilton Park, Chigwell and, most recently, Ladybank.

He said: “I feel this role is the culmination of all of my roles over the 30 years in the industry and I am looking to not only work on the project but to enjoy the role in a more long-term basis to allow me to enjoy being involved in the development and then enjoy the facilities once they are complete.

10

Fleetwood’s first coach heads up new academy TOMMY FLEETWOOD’S

that I continue to learn each

former coach, Norman Mar-

and every day.

shall, will head up a new golf

“Guidance is so important

academy launched by the Ry-

when you are learning the

der Cup star during the recent

game and Norman Marshall

British Masters tournament.

played a significant part in

The Tommy Fleetwood

my development as a junior

Academy opened its doors

golfer. I believe his enthusi-

at Formby Hall Golf Club,

asm and passion for junior

where Fleetwood learned to

golf are outstanding, so I am

play, with the aim of provid-

delighted he will be involved

ing more opportunities for juniors to take up the sport.

Fleetwood hopes to use

in the Tommy Fleetwood Tommy Fleetwood, right, with head of his new academy, Norman Marshall

Golf Academy.”

Marshall added: “Tommy

his Academy to help to teach youngsters about

has come back to where golf all started for him

golf’s discipline and etiquette, whilst also mak-

and set up his own academy at Formby hall.

ing the game more fun and accessible to kids.

He’s come back to me, his first coach and asked

“From a young age, sport and golf, in par-

me to run it.

ticular, have brought me a lot of happiness and

“Tommy has lit up the runway for junior

many friends,” said Fleetwood. “Golf has taught

golfers’ dreams and gone out of his way to give

me many valuable lessons along the way, lessons

something back to the area he comes from.”

Harrington’s on the menu EUROPEAN TEAM captain for the 2020 Ryder Cup in America Padraig Harrington has been announced as the guest of honour for this year’s PGA Lunch in London.

The annual event returns to London’s Grosvenor House on December 20. Threetime Major winner Harrington will be a Padraig Harrington, popular guest having established himself with PGA CEO as one of the most likeable and successful Robert Maxfield, left golfers in the world.

The Irishman has played in no fewer than six Ryder Cups and has been on the winning team on four occasions having played a total of 25 matches.

A vice-captain in 2014, 2016 and more recently in France last year, Harrington now has the honour of leading the European team at the 2020 Ryder Cup in Whistling Straits, where Europe will be looking to claim their first victory in America since 2012.

Harrington will be joined by stand-up comedian Jimmy McGhie, while BBC Radio Five Live journalist and golf hack Iain Carter is the host for the afternoon.

For more information or to book your tickets to the 2019 PGA Lunch visit ptevents.co.uk/pga-london.

June 2019

| www.pga.info

N E W S PGA

Bowen giving something back PGA

ASSISTANT

And in other transfer news…

• Staysure Tour star David Shacklady has left Mossock Hall Golf Club after more than 16 years and is now attached to Ormskirk Golf Club.

Profession-

al Thomas Bowen is launching a mental health campaign for young adults, after the sport helped him turn his life around from depression.

• Colin Sinclair has taken on a fresh challenge as the new chief executive of Nairn Golf Club. He had previously spent over a decade at Open Championship venue Carnoustie Links.

Bowen, who is based at North Wales Golf Club, will work with young adults, aged 18 to 24, through mental health charity MIND and Nant Y Glyn health resource centre in Colwyn Bay, to offer step-by-step opportunities to use golf to help them through.

“It is certainly something I have

Left to right: Vickie Furlonghart (Wales Golf regional officer), Denise Roberts (Aberconwy Mind) and Thomas Bowen

a passion for, I want to help people to turn their lives around too,” said Bowen.

“I will be working with people in a very similar position to the one I

“Golf is a very social sport, very in-

found myself in six years ago, who

clusive and ability does not matter

may not think there is anything posi-

because you can have fun whatever

tive,” Bowen continued. “I have been

your level.”

where they have been, Golf brought

Bowen’s own story involved him

me back from the abyss and allowed

not wanting to leave the house – he

me to begin socialising again and

later returned to North Wales Golf

has led me to where I am now.

Club to play a hole or two, before

“These may be people who are not

building up to 18 holes and then

used to being in a group environ-

qualifying to take his PGA profes-

ment, but they will get the chance to

sional qualifications and working as

have fun and learn with people who

an assistant pro.

may be suffering just like them.

Call in the artillery!

BOOMERS AND Swingers, brainchild of

barrels. Any successful efforts will go into an

PGA Professional Nick Solski, has taken the

end of season final to win all the contents of an

lead when it comes to disruptive behaviour on

ever-growing golf goody bag, which includes

the golf course.

fourballs at some top golfing destinations.

The Manchester-based driving range has

The money raised from the competition will

sourced three Chieftain tanks and placed them

go towards putting on golf sessions alongside

at its Astley facility for non-golfers and golfers

he On Course Foundation for injured ex-ser-

alike to use as targets.

vice personnel, and also weekly free sessions

The tanks, which starred in the James

for those suffering with mental health issues.

Bond film Goldeneye, were donated by a local

Solski commented: “If we can help break

businessman who bought into the project

down the stigma around mental health, we

when Solski revealed the idea for a fundraising

can encourage more people to come forward

competition.

and join the community of regulars for whom

Starting this month, users have five balls to get a hole-in-one down one of the gun

The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

coming to Boomers and Swingers is a big part of their life.”

• After working as a retail manager at the Ironbridge Golf Company for 14 years, Graham Davison has taken on a new role as head golf professional at Wrekin Golf Club.

• PGA Advanced Professional Brendan McDaid will begin another chapter in his career. The 58-year-old is now a golf coach at Spawell Golf Centre.

• Paul Dennis has taken up a new role at OAKS Prague the PGA National Czech Republic course, moving from Royal Greens in Saudi Arabia – recent host venue of the European Tour’s Saudi International event.

• Grant Williams continues his Australian adventure after joining St. Lucia Golf Links as their new teaching professional. Richard Phillips has left the PGA Golf Academy Korea to become a senior personal coach at GOLFTEC – Nanshan China, while Jussi Pitkanen is the ladies and girls coach for the Finnish Golf Union.

• Elsewhere, Gordon Robertson has joined Drumpellier Golf Club as head professional, David Callaway has left his job as an Assistant at West Hill Golf Club to become head professional at Wyke Green, and Richard Pilbury has started a new role as club professional at Windlesham Golf Club, after eight years at South Winchester Golf Club.

If you would like to feature in the ‘On the Move’ column, or would like to highlight a new appointment, send details to membership@pga.org.uk

11

There’s still time to enter the Staysure PGA Trophy The 2019 Staysure PGA Trophy is open to all Professionals (no age restrictions) and an amateur partner aged 50 or over.

Don’t miss out on your chance to win a share of the £30,000 prize fund

2019 Regional Finals Schedule Region

Regional Final

Closing date for entries

Midlands

2 July, Enville Golf Club

11 June

South West

8 July, Cumberwell Park

17 June

North

11 July, Manchester Golf Club

20 June

Scotland

12 July, Montrose Golf Links

21 June

South

16 July, Foxhills

ENTRY LIST FULL

East

22 July, Orsett Golf Club

1 July

®PGA is registered trademark of The Professional Golfer’s Association Limited.

Approved by the R&A for the payment of expenses – Rule 4-2g RA/4/2019. Staysure is a trading name of TICORP Limited.

N E W S PGA

Staysure PGA Trophy attracts almost 300 entries THE STAYSURE PGA Trophy has seen

Regional Finals. The professionals are com-

unprecedented entries in 2019 with more

peting for a total prize fund of £30,000 and

than 275 clubs signed up to compete in the

the amateurs will receive an expenses-paid

seven regional qualifiers which run from May

VIP experience, with their guests, at the

through to July.

Launched in 2018 as a partnership between The PGA and Staysure, the tournament was created to give amateur golfers

‘‘we are confident this

tournament can become one of the most popular pro-ams in the country

over 50 the chance to

’’

Charles Hine, Head of National Tournaments at The PGA

compete alongside their

Grand

Final

London

at

Club,

the rub-

bing shoulders with the legends of the game.

Charles Hine, Head of National Tournaments at The PGA, commented: “We are delighted to see

club professionals in a national contest at some

entry numbers for the Staysure PGA Trophy

of the best golf courses in the UK and Ireland.

significantly increase from 2018.

The winners of the Regional Finals prog-

“With the support of Staysure, we are con-

ress to the Staysure PGA Trophy Grand Final,

fident this tournament can become one of

which will take place at London Golf Club on

the most popular pro-ams in the country and

July 30-31 ahead of the Staysure PGA Seniors

we look forward to seeing the Staysure PGA

Championship, the flagship event of the

Trophy continue to grow year-on-year.”

Staysure Tour.

Registration remains open until three weeks

Club Qualifiers have been running across the UK and Ireland, with the winning male or

before each Regional Final.

For more information visit:

female amateur over 50 claiming the chance

pga.info/tournaments/national/the-staysure-

to play with their club pro at their respective

trophy.aspx

Pilkington wins Foremost final MARK PILKINGTON claimed victory at the 2019 Foremost Golf Professionals’ Championship, coming out on top at The Oxfordshire in a field of 126 member professionals from around the country.

Pilkington, from Porthmadog Golf Club in North Wales, shot an impressive bogey-free round of 68 (-4) to pip Peter Baker, who won the seniors category, by a single shot.

A former Challenge Tour winner and European Tour player, Pilkington was playing in the Foremost Golf Professionals’ Championship for the first time having taken over as Head Professional at Porthmadog in August 2018.

“I’m really pleased to have won against such a strong field at a great venue,” said Pilkington. “When you come to a great venue for a tournament like this it inspires you to up your game, which I was able to do.”

In the second year since the over 50’s category was introduced to the Foremost Professionals’ Championship, Peter Baker, who represented Europe in the 1993 Ryder Cup, proved a worthy winner, carding an impressive three-under par 69.

Golding eager to defend title PGA MEMBER Philip Golding is eager to

“It was a very unique tournament last year,

defend his Staysure PGA Seniors Champion-

having Staysure sponsor their first event,

ship title when the event returns to London

which was fantastic. It’s always nice to go back

Golf Club from August 1-4.

and defend a tournament and hopefully we’ll

The Englishman clinched his fifth over-50s

have the same weather as last year.”

title with a closing round of 63, nine under

Once again, the Staysure PGA Seniors

par, to come from six shots behind on the final

Championship will take place the week after

day to take the Staysure PGA Seniors Cham-

The Senior Open.

pionship title by two strokes.

With four rounds to be played and Staysure

It was Golding’s third Staysure Tour title

celebrating the second edition of their spon-

in 13 months following victories at the Swiss

sored event, Golding is expecting an enjoyable

Seniors Open and the Travis Perkins Masters

week in Kent.

in July and September 2017, respectively.

PGA Member Philip Golding: looking for a sixth over-50s title

“The Staysure PGA is special because it has

“Anytime you get to defend a tournament

the history of all the great players who have

is always special,” he said. “Winning tourna-

won it and it also has a cut after two days

To buy your tickets for this year’s

ments is what you want to do, it’s why you

which is special, because it’s the only tour-

Staysure PGA Seniors Championship visit:

play events, it’s why you set goals to try and

nament to have that outside of the Senior

eventbrite.co.uk/e/staysure-pga-seniors-

win each tournament.

Majors,” he added.

championship-2019-tickets-60758970717

The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

13

I N TER NATIONAL WO R K I N G A B ROA D : T H A I L A N D

Tee off your career in Thailand With around 250 golf courses, and a growing number of worldclass elite amateur and professionals, Thailand is something of a hot spot for PGA Professionals looking to further their careers under warm tropical skies

A

lthough it has bathed in the reflected glory of being the birthplace of Tiger Woods’ mother for many years, Thailand has a lot more going for it as a golfing nation than simple genetics, with this beautiful corner of Asia being home to a stunning range of world class golf courses, as well as a growing band of homegrown talent that is making its mark at the very top levels of the professional game.

While many young Thais recite Tiger as their inspiration for taking up golf, the fast-improving infrastructure of coaching at club and national level, coupled with the ethic of hard work instilled at an early age, has led to the country punching well above it weight when it comes to top-flight players.

While Thongchai Jaidee and Prayad Marksaeng have long been flagbearers for national golfing pride, with the pair, now aged 49 and 53 respectively, having racked up over 50 wins between them, that baton has now been passed on to growing number of younger players, including the likes of 29-year-old Kiradech Aphibarnrat and 23-year-old Jazz Janewattananond, both

14

Sisters Ariya and Moriya Jutanugarn have inspired a new generation of Thai girls to take up golf

of whom teed it up in last month’s PGA Championship in New York.

Aphibarnrat, who is ranked inside the world’s top 50, is an old hand on tour now, having won four European Tour titles, while Janewattananond, a three-time winner on the fast-growing Asian Tour, made a spectacular major debut at Bethpage Black last month, finishing tied eighth.

With ambitions to represent Thailand in the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, and earning a spot in the International team to face the US in this year’s Presidents Cup, Thailand has made an even greater impact on the women’s game, with 23-year-old Ariya Jutanugarn, who topped the Rolex rankings for most of last year, being one of three Thais currently inside the world’s top 50, along with her sister Moriya, and Pornanong Phatlum, who won the Dubai Masters in 2013 and has ten top-ten finishes to her name.

Jazz Janewattananond is hoping to represent Thailand alongside Kiradech Aphibarnrat at the 2020 Olympics

Kiradech Aphibarnrat is the highest ranked male Thai player on tour

Ariya Jutanugarn became the first Thai-born player to win a major championship when she captured the Women’s British Open at Woburn in 2016, and has since added last year’s US Women’s Open and ten other European and LPGA Tour titles to her name during her six years on tour.

The rise of Thai golf is partly due to the great help and guidance they’ve received June 2019

| www.pga.info

WO R K I N G A B ROA D : T H A I L A N D I N T ER N AT I O N A L THAILAND FACT FILE

PGA Members’ experience

GOLF COURSES: 247

Daniel Wyborn, PGA Professional, Thai Country Club

REGISTERED GOLFERS: 15,000 CLIMATE: Thailand enjoys a tropical

climate with three distinct seasons – hot and dry from February to May (av. temp 34c and 75% humidity), raining with plenty of sunshine from June to October (av. temp 29c, 85% humidity) and cool from November to January.

VISA & WORK PERMITS: To work

in Thailand you will need a work permit or business visa. You must first apply for a non-immigrant visa at a Royal Thai embassy and, once you have this, a work permit.

HEALTHCARE: Thailand and the UK do

not have reciprocal healthcare agreements.

Visitors should buy comprehensive travel and medical insurance before entering the country.

from the country’s golf authorities, investment from corporate companies such as Singha, a growing network of PGA Professionals, and partly thanks to the superb range of golf courses and golf facilities that they have at their disposal.

In a bid to attract golfing tourists, the Thai government, working in conjunction with private developers, embarked on a substantial course building programme over the last 20 years, and now boasts over 250 layouts, as well as a small, but growing network of academies, many of which are staffed by the 36 UK-born PGA Members that are currently employed in the country.

Built close to the major cities of Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket, resorts such as Blue Canyon Country Club, Black Mountain, Amata Spring, Siam Country Club, Chiang Mai-Lamphun, Laguna Phuket, Nikanti and Thai Country Club attract over 700,000 golfing tourists to the country each year. About two-thirds come from Malaysia, Australia, Japan, Korea, Singapore, India and China.

Employment opportunities exist across a wide range of positions in Thailand, from teaching professionals to club managers, and although learning the language is recommended for both work and life outside of work, it is not a barrier to entry.

The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

“I’ve been working in the Bangkok area since the late 90’s, and

much has changed in that time. After over-investment in the early 90’s, the golf market was awash with facilities, but not enough golfers, so golf was cheap and accessible. A new inbound golf tourism market developed, particularly with Japanese and Korean golfers taking advantage of the great weather and cheap golf.

Local golfers also came into the game at that time as Tiger Woods, whose mother is from Thailand, made the game more appealing.

More recently, participation has slowed among younger Thais, although heavy funding at the elite level from government and eager parents has ensured success for a growing number of Thai professionals.

Some of the challenges to overcome to get golf growing again amongst local golfers are vastly increased costs, longer playing times, lack of driving ranges and learning facilities, and, for the lady golfers, a fear of the harsh tropical sun damaging their skin.

Personal challenges that needed to be overcome included adapting to the local culture, particularly when dealing with learning situations with students, who are used to being taught in a very different style, while learning to speak the language has also helped to improve my quality of life both on and off the golf course, and to be accepted by locals as a committed expat resident.”

John Wither, PGA Professional, Banyan Golf Club

“Thailand is blessed with a great climate, a fantastic culture and

wonderful friendly people, and it has been my home now for the past 24 years. I have been the PGA Professional at Banyan Golf Club in Hua Hin for the past seven years. I work as a member of GLS Asia Management, which, as well as managing Banyan, also works on a consultancy basis with many other golf clubs throughout South East Asia. My duties include coaching, course set-up and tournament administration.

Working in Thailand is a wonderful and rewarding experience, and although there are some challenges with the language and the general pace of life, I feel very privileged to live and work here.”

James Shippey, Managing Director, Absolute Golf Services, Bangkok

“I’ve been working in Thailand for almost three years now, and in

that time it has been great to see the growing passion for golf from local Thais, with a huge number of locals playing golf regularly.

There are some great initiatives to grow the game at junior level and within the female population, and this has really been nurtured from the Thai professionals currently playing on the world stage.

Many give so much back to the development of the game across all levels, which is very inspiring to see.

From both public and government levels, golf is viewed as highly important to the economy, and it continues to be a focus from the private sector, with new courses and residential golf developments currently being constructed, while a number of older facilities, such as Thana City Country Club, are currently undergoing redevelopment to bring them up to international standards and attract play from both international and domestic golfers.

All in all, the future of golf in Thailand, and Asia as a while, is very positive, even with the global economic challenges, and it continues to outperform many more established markets.”

15

I N TER NATIONAL I N T E RV I E W

Q&A Breaking new ground Chris Dodd, Head PGA Pro at Ayla Golf Club, Jordan

How would you rate the potential for the growth of golf in Jordan?

Golf is still rather new in Jordan, therefore the

What attracted you to working

responsibility falls on our team to introduce

overseas?

the sport at foundation level, with a vision

I first moved to Yas Links in Abu Dhabi in

to attract new stars of the future. We already

2014, where I spent two years there before

have some of our junior stars representing

moving to Jordan in 2016. I wanted to further

Ayla and Jordan at a national level in overseas

my career and knew working overseas would

events, which is a fantastic start.

provide the platform to do so, along with a far Where do you see yourself in five

more attractive climate for golf.

How did you get your current role?

Chris Dodd: working overseas provided a platform to further his career

years?

I am hoping to continuously develop my

Ayla Golf Club is Jordan’s first championship

his second year of PGA training. Already we

career, whether that be remaining here at

golf facility, with an 18-hole course designed

are changing lives, offering incredible and new

Ayla, moving elsewhere abroad, or back in

by Greg Norman, accompanied by a nine-

opportunities that weren’t there before.

the UK. I would be delighted and embrace any opportunities where I can utilise what I

hole floodlit course and driving range. The opportunity to open a golf club, establish

What is the best part about living

have learnt and achieved from my experiences

the operation, and introduce the sport to

in Jordan?

so far.

the country at a professional level, was one

Aqaba has a phenomenal climate – very

I couldn’t pass up. Former Yas Links general

different to that I experienced in the UAE.

What advice would you pass on to

manager Chris White, who is now director

We enjoy a very dry heat here, without the

other PGA professionals who may

of operations at the Ayla Oasis Development,

humidity, while a welcome breeze from the

be interested in working abroad?

appointed me as head pro following our strong

north makes the high summer temperatures

The thought of moving abroad, and

working partnership in the Middle East.

more bearable.

getting out of your comfort zone, can be

What does a typical day involve?

What is the public perception of

decision I made for my career development.

My day is divided between teaching our

golf in Jordan?

The move has broadened my knowledge, and

ever-growing number of academy students;

This has changed somewhat since we first

offered me incredible opportunities to meet

visiting local hotels and collaborating with

opened in 2016. We have hosted numerous

a lot of influential people in the industry;

their marketing teams in providing ‘Stay &

professional events to expose the game of golf

collaborate with the European Tour to deliver

Play’ packages; ensuring our membership enjoy

at the highest level, creating much interest

incredible events, and work with some of the

an eventful monthly tournament calendar,

and buzz around the sport. These activations

game’s top players. You learn far more about

while working alongside the golf course

have aided in the local community enrolling as

yourself, and what you want from your career,

superintendent in presenting both our courses

members, both at full and academy level.

by getting out into the big, wide world.

intimidating, but for me it was the best

in optimal condition.

How does being a PGA

Ayla Golf Club boasts Jordan’s first 18-hole grass course

Professional differ in Jordan compared to the UK? It was initially daunting to be responsible for introducing the game at a professional level here in Jordan. However, since I started here I have had the privilege of welcoming to my team Jordan’s very first PGA professional, Walid Abu Elsamid, who currently finishing

16

June 2019

| www.pga.info

P RO S TAT E C A N C E R U K A N D A L A N S H E A R E R F EAT U R E

Premier League star Alan helps hit prostate cancer out of bounds He’s scored more Premier League goals than any other player and represented club and country at some of the greatest stadiums in the world, but nothing sets the nerves jangling more for Alan Shearer than a round of golf.

T

The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

Former England football captain Alan Shearer wearing the iconic Prostate Cancer UK “man of men” badge

‘‘

One man dying of prostate cancer every 45 minutes is staggering… that’s why I wear the badge

‘‘

he former England captain caught up with PGA charity partner Prostate Cancer UK at Close House Golf Club as part of a campaign to help beat a killer disease affecting so many in the golfing community. He said “People I know have been affected by it. One man dying of prostate cancer every 45 minutes is staggering. I didn’t realise the stat was that high.”

“We all know our responsibilities and our role in football to send out key messages because we’re aware of how many people actually watch the game, both in the stadium and on TV. So, football is hugely important for us all to send a message, to wear the badge.

Shearer has joined a host of household names from the beautiful game such as Gary Neville, Sam Allardyce and Les Ferdinand to star in a League Managers Association backed film highlighting why they wear the iconic Prostate Cancer UK “man of men” badge.

And the former Southampton, Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United striker acknowledges golf is a natural fit for Prostate Cancer UK’s work.

“It’s well known that there are so many footballers who love their golf, whether it’s watching, or whether it’s playing and so many footballers have friends in the professional game of golf as well. It’s a great match.”

Shearer’s love of golf started on the south coast as a teenager when he teed up alongside a legendary Saint. He recalled: “My first game of golf was when I was at Southampton as a young apprentice. A lot of my friends, like Matt Le Tissier, who got me into golf, started to go so I thought I’d

give it a try. I got the bug then from it, as a 16-year-old.

“I still struggle to play it now. I think it’s a hugely frustrating sport but it’s a sport that I love. But I would much rather take a penalty in front of 80 or 90,000 in a World Cup final or an FA Cup final because I know what I’m doing. I’ve practised that for years and years and that’s my comfort

zone. On a golf course, whether it’s a putt or whether it’s a drive, in front of 10 or 15,000 people at a Pro-Am, it’s far more nerve-wracking because I’m not quite sure where it’s going to go!”

Alan has joined the fight against prostate cancer to help beat a disease killing one man every 45 minutes in the UK – that’s the time it takes to play three holes of golf.

If you want to help too, visit prostatecanceruk.org/PGA2019 or call 020 3310 7041 (and 0114 218 4770 in Scotland).

17

F E ATURE

The future in your hands PGA Professionals play a prominent role in growing the game of golf at all levels but perhaps most importantly is the need for them to successfully develop the game at junior level.

Steven Carpenter highlights some of the impressive work in this sector

W

ith ever-increasing concerns over future participation numbers across the UK, Ireland and overseas, junior coaching is fast becoming an important area for the industry to address, and PGA Members have a pivotal role to play.

As the first point of contact for most junior players at a golf facility, the PGA Professional can help introduce, inspire and ignite a young person’s passion for golf.

So how can PGA Professionals get involved with junior 18

coaching and build it into a successful business model?

As the national golf charity for juniors, the Golf Foundation has made significant progress in encouraging more young people from different backgrounds to enjoy all the benefits of the game, with PGA Professionals at the heart of delivery.

Thanks to the work of more than 500 PGA Professionals across the British Isles, more than 50,000 new young people have joined a golf club in the past year and over half of those progressed on to a coaching programme delivered by a PGA coach.

June 2019

| www.pga.info

Research carried out by England Golf conducted last year, based on a UK population of 9.264 million 5 to 16-year-olds, indicates:

F EAT U R E

These coaches drive the 480 HSBC developed by a group of junior focused Golf Roots Centres which engage PGA coaches and measured significant successfully with local communities improvements in the confidence, 67% of these young people have and schools; they are at the centre commitment and overall mental experienced golf in some form. of the 250-plus golf clubs taking toughness of the young golfers This equates to 6.2 million juniors around the UK playing golf. part in this year’s ‘GolfSixes League’, involved, the Golf Foundation is now which will benefit 3,000 children and rolling out Unleash your Drive to all 20% of all 5 to 16-year-olds have taken part in more formal golf/ their families; they lead on the newly PGA coaches interested in working with initiatives/programmes. revamped ‘Junior Golf Passport’, and have young people.

This equates to recently helped create a brand new scheme “The programme has completely changed 1.85 million. to inspire youngsters to thrive in golf but also in the way I coach but it has also had a huge impact their wider lives, called ‘Unleash your Drive’. on my life,” said PGA Professional Tom Hide, who is Starting at school, PGA Professionals continue to make a based at Coastal Golf Academy at Frinton Golf Club. “Ive been major impact in the School Games with the Golf Foundation, really impressed by the changes I’ve seen in the children and their principally via ‘Tri-Golf ’, before welcoming youngsters back to parents are as committed to the programme as we are.” the club for follow-on coaching. The number of pupils taking In 10 weeks of the pilot programme, youngsters showed a part in a School Games event at a golf club grew from 9,000 statistically significant improvement in Mental Toughness which to 12,000 last year, while competitive golf in primary schools evaluates Confidence, Commitment, Challenge and Control. jumped from 40,000 participants to over 50,000.

Former PGA Captain Sir Henry Cotton, who founded the charity The Junior Golf Passport has been relaunched in 2019 in 1952, would have approved. Today, however, PGA Professionals have access to discretionary funding from the Golf Foundation, enabling them to select how they embrace and help shape the Foundation’s philosophy that golf for young people should be ‘fun, child-centred, inclusive, inspiring, innovative and enriching’.

Photo: Duncan Soar

Junior Golf Passport This is exemplified in two new launches for 2019. Firstly, the Junior Golf Passport helps improve the coaching business of the PGA Professional. It is rich in content with major modernisations to excite the next generation of players and their families. Meanwhile, the online version of the Passport has been revamped to be a resource now purely to support the coach. (A unique link with junior coaching specialist Colour Path Golf has also been devised.)

All contents have been enhanced to take each child through all the technical skills to play golf, from putting to the long-game, while guiding young players in basic course management, the Rules and etiquette, in a visually appealing way, including having each Passport section ‘stamped’ by the coach.

PGA Professionals are encouraged to attend a regional workshop to learn more about how the Junior Golf Passport can benefit their business (15 PGA CPD points available) – see juniorgolfpassport.org.

Unleash your Drive Just launched for PGA Professionals to consider this summer is ‘Unleash your Drive’, a new programme for young people which has a particular focus on developing life skills through golf.

Following a highly successful pilot project, which was The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

The participants used the techniques they had learnt in their golf lessons to better address challenges in everyday life; at school, in exams and at home.

PGA professionals can now book onto workshops in England to experience the Unleash your Drive programme for themselves (25 PGA CPD points available). You can find further details at www.golf-foundation.org.

Golf Foundation Chief Executive, Brendon Pyle, commented: “Both our revamped Junior Golf Passport and our brand new Unleash your Drive programme offer ways to really inspire young people, while also promoting the coaching business of each PGA Professional.

“Unleash your Drive can also be adapted to your coaching of the adult customer, offering a dynamic new addition to any coaching plan, while we have plenty of evidence of the brilliant results and positive impact on the lives of young people taking part. We honestly believe every coach should take a look at this very innovative new programme.”

19

F E ATURE

GolfSixes League GolfSixes League is an initiative to boost junior sections in clubs, with this inter-club, six-hole team format (six-a-side), proving a winner in its first year in 2018, reaching 102 golf clubs in 24 regional leagues, involving 1,160 juniors.

There was a 34 per cent increase in membership at the clubs involved. For 2019, 56 leagues will feature 250-plus golf clubs and 3,000 kids. All of these clubs rely on support from the PGA Professional, who is also playing a key part in ensuring more girls are involved.

A key reason why this positive progress is being made is the good relationships made between PGA pros and the Golf Foundation’s 10 Regional Development Officers (RDOs).

Contact your area Golf Foundation Regional Development Officer at www.golf-foundation.org.

Brendon Pyle added: “The Foundation RDOs really value their day-to-day working relationships with PGA professionals.

The ability to form open, productive and enjoyable working relationships with PGA coaches is a key skill sought in any RDO, and our team is really excellent in this area.

“While the last year or so has been really exciting in working together to make great progress to develop junior golf, more still needs to be done and we’ll continue to rely on PGA professionals to help us take these steps.”

Ben Smith (Ingestre Park) saw Girls Golf Rocks as a great opportunity

Girls Golf Rocks A large group of PGA Professionals are heavily involved with the ‘Girls Golf Rocks’, initiative with England Golf. The campaign encourages girls to learn and play the game in a fun and friendly environment.

PGA Professionals lead free taster sessions at their clubs, providing all of the equipment needed. One of those coaches is Ben Smith (Ingrestre Park Golf Club). “It’s a fantastic project,” he said: “I saw this as a great opportunity to deliver more outreach

CASE STUDY: ZOE ALLEN Zoe Allen (Lurgan Golf Club) has been recognised internationally as one of the world’s top 50 children’s teachers. She was named as one of only five coaches from outside the USA to be recognised by US Kids, a leading golf company that aims to encourage participation and enjoyment in the sport at a young age.

“Junior coaching makes up 80 per cent of my business. I coach a lot more juniors than adults and it really just started off by chance, trying to develop as a good coach and getting into junior coaching and really enjoying it. Finding a niche in the market I guess has helped too, coaching kids starting at the age of 3-4 where some golf courses don’t allow kids to start playing until they’re 7 or 8.”

Allen was introduced to the US Kids Golf Coaching programme by her friend and LPGA Professional Michelle Holmes.

“Since becoming a US Kids certified Coach I haven’t looked back. Teaching through games, allowing the kids to learn and pick up something without actually realising they are doing it is fantastic. It’s really helped me develop and improve as a junior golf coach.

Junior golf coach Zoe Allen

“I got the opportunity to work as a tournament director at US Kids Golf events in Scotland and Pinehurst, North Carolina. They were keen to bring a tour to the UK or Ireland so last spring we launched the US Kids North of Ireland Local Tour.

“We had on average 50 players per event with kids travelling from all over Ireland and the UK to play! US Kids tournaments are a great way to introduce tournament golf to young children. Scaled courses with age appropriate tee markers and individual age groups make it fun to play and meet new friends.

“These events are great as children can earn order of merit points and potentially gain invites for some of the bigger US Kids championships worldwide. “It’s fantastic to see children develop in all aspects of the game, playing in tournaments, improving and bettering their scores, while making new golf friends.”

20

June 2019

| www.pga.info

F EAT U R E work and it played a big part in increasing the number of juniors coming to my weekend coaching.

In 2018, Girls Golf Rocks attracted 1,600 girls into the game with many going on to continue their coaching with their local PGA Professional.

“We were lucky enough to be selected to run Girls Golf Rocks again for 2019 and we have just had our taster session. We were very fortunate to have Ladies European Tour player Lucy Goddard at the club who came to have a chat with the girls and hit some shots. It was very inspiring!

“By growing the club’s junior coaching section and being involved in the various out-reach projects such as Girls Golf Rocks, I have benefited from the increased exposure in the local area, especially across social media.”

MyPathway2Golf There are plenty of other resources available for PGA Professionals to access to help build their junior coaching profile.

Ayrshire-based GolPhinForKids Foundation has developed an education programme called MyPathway2Golf which provides pros with a comprehensive toolkit all geared towards helping golf clubs recruit and retain children as members of their facility.

“Our schools programme is giving primary school kids the opportunity to experience golf at an early age with their friends in a fun and supportive environment,” said Calum McPherson, founder and MD of GolPhin.

“This way we create the environment for kids to choose to play the game rather than parents trying to impose the sport upon their kids. We then link the schools and the kids to local golf clubs who make sure the positive journey continues.”

The main benefit of MyPathway2Golf for PGA Professionals is it allows them to track children’s progress and improve communications with their students using a helpful online portal.

“Attracting young kids into golf is absolutely essential as we as PGA golf professionals try and compete with other sports and activities,” said Kieron Stevenson, who along with is team at Royal Troon School of Golf has invested more than 300 hours into the project.

“The idea was to make golf fun, easy to understand and easy to learn. We partnered with Golphin4Kids and utilise their coaching system MyPathway2Golf. It’s a holistic approach to golf and includes health, wellbeing, education and life skills at its core, the kids and school teachers love it.”

There many projects for PGA Professionals to get involved with.

The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

CASE STUDY: AARON LANSBERRY Aaron Lansberry was crowned England Golf Coach of the Year back in March. He set up the AL Golf Junior Academy following the success of his popular Saturday morning sessions at Hatchford Brook Golf Club.

With the help of PGA Business Relationship Officer (BRO) Sam Carr, Lansberry has built and expanded his academy over the past eight years, adding new features along the way including a website and introducing a reward system.

“My business is now based around junior coaching. It was only a small income stream, but now it’s the main part with only a bit of pocket money coming in from adult coaching. As a junior coach my year-on-year income is increasing.

“I identified three main things that I wanted to make sure my junior coaching covered. From there I went about setting up the programme that I deliver today. It took a few attempts to get it right and it’s still not perfect, but it’s getting there.

“From a business perspective I found retaining kids is far easier than retaining adults. Six to eight of the children in my very first group back in 2011 are still playing golf with me now, so it makes a lot of sense to keep growing that.

Our retention rate for our coaching is around 96 per cent on term.

“In terms of getting people involved in our program we, make sure we cover as much as possible.

Schools, within the clubs, fetes, festivals and social media to name a few.

Aaron Lansberry loves coaching junior golfers

“As golf pros I think we’re in a very fortunate position as unlike many other sports, coaching is considered a must do and people look towards us.

Without PGA Professionals coaching junior golfers then I struggle to see how golf will continue. I don’t know for a fact, but I’m pretty certain that kids who play golf are likely to play golf as an adult, become members and keep the sport alive.”

21

F E ATURE But it’s important to highlight to a golf facility how having a PGA Professional running the junior section is key to its success.

The benefits to a golf facility are: • On site daily to create rapport with juniors, parents and potential new members because they’re the first point of contact.

• Manages the day-to-day running of the junior section – coaching, competition results etc.

• Takes away the administration pressure from volunteers.

• Can strategically plan ahead, review and implement new ideas.

Possible funding PGA Professionals can be put off from developing a junior golf project because of the expense, but there are funding options out there. Are there possible funding options locally? Get in touch with your local governing body, local authorities and local businesses. If you don’t ask for support you won’t get it. Funding can be used to purchase coaching equipment or to put on events for juniors.

Companies are always trying to look for ways to sponsor the future of the game. Approach local business owners or even members of your golf facility, they may be able to help you out.

Have you considered approaching your local primary school?

The UK Government provides £150 million of funding each year to primary schools to support the improvement of provision of PE and sport. Money is allocated to the school’s headteacher who can only spend the funds on PE and sport.

Sourcing high quality sports coaches has been identified as one of the possible uses for the Primary PE and Sport Premium. PGA Professionals might be able to access some of this funding if they can demonstrate their programme can improve: • the engagement of all pupils in regular physical activity – kickstarting healthy active lifestyles • the profile of PE and sport being raised across the school as a tool for whole school improvement • increased confidence, knowledge and skills of all staff in teaching PE and sport

School funding may be available in your area

22

TOP TIPS TO GET YOUR JUNIOR COACHING BUSINESS STARTED Aaron Lansberry (Hatchford Brook Golf Club)

“Think about what a child and what a parent really wants from a golf lesson and try to deliver that. Go crazy with different ideas, games and targets to make the session as engaging as possible.”

Norman Marshall (Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa) “Be comfortable and relaxed around children. Treat them with respect, hear them out. Look them in the eye when they’re talking to you.”

Zoe Allen (Lurgan Golf Club)

“These days there are so many sporting opportunities for kids and I think it’s important as a PGA Professional to make golf fun and enjoyable especially for kids to get them hooked at a young age and really starting to love a game they hopefully will play forever.

• broader experience of a range of sports and activities offered to all pupils • increased participation in competitive sport.

Get in touch with your local primary school to see if you can gain access to a PR and sport premium grant. The Golf Foundation is creating a support package for PGA Professionals so they can approach schools in their area and access ‘School Sport Premium funding’ that each school is afforded by the Government.

Make sure you are SafeGolf accredited Last year on the eve of the 147th Open Championship at Carnoustie The PGA, along with a host of leading golfing bodies, joined a partnership to promote a safe and positive environment for everyone involved in the game of golf.

SafeGolf aims to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people and adults who play, volunteer or work in golf. Its missions is to safeguard the welfare of children and young people.

The PGA prioritise the safeguarding of all involved within golf and maintain a register of all trained golf coaches who are qualified through the Association. SafeGolf’s minimum standards required for coaching children are that coaches must have a Criminal Records Check in place and have attended Safeguarding training, both within the last three years.

PGA Professionals and Assistants attaining these standards are now designated as SafeGolf Accredited coaches and those based in the EU are covered by personal liability insurance for any golf related activity.

Andy Wright, The PGA’s head of Governance, explains the new SafeGolf accredited coach register and safeguarding requirements.

He said: “We are intent on embedding a culture of safeguarding within our sport and we have a duty to protect all people, especially the young and vulnerable. One way we demonstrate good practice is to insist PGA Members and qualified volunteer coaches who are working with children complete the relevant criminal record checks and safeguarding awareness training.”

If you have any safeguarding concern contact Andy Wright on 01675 470333 or email andy.wright@pga.org.uk.

June 2019

| www.pga.info

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T RA DE N E W S

Foremost unveils Industry Awards winners PING, CALLAWAY, Titleist and FootJoy were

COBRA GOLF’S King F9 Speedback driver

among the big winners at the 2018 Foremost

was the top-selling driver in the UK for the

Golf Industry Awards, as voted for by a record

first three months of the year, according to

number of Foremost member professionals.

figures released by Golf Datatech.

Ping was awarded the highest honour of

Used by Cobra staff players Rickie Fowler,

‘Supplier of the Year’ for the 11th time in

Bryson DeChambeau and Lexi Thompson,

succession, illustrating the close relationship

the King F9 Speedback has chalked up four

between the brand and Foremost’s PGA Profes-

wins on tour in 2019, but has also proved a

sional members.

big hit at retail, outselling every other brand

John Clark, Ping’s European managing

between January and March.

director, commented: “Our relationship with

Featuring a highly aerodynamic clubhead

Foremost is very important to us, and to be

shape with low centre of gravity, the King

once again recognised as Supplier of the Year by

F9 driver boasts a precision milled face that

the members is a testament to our commitment

has resulted in ball speed increases of up to

to providing outstanding service and support

1.5 mph when tested against a traditional,

for green grass professionals year after year. It

hand-polished face. These technologies fuse

also says so much about the ongoing perfor-

to deliver the ultimate formula for speed and

mance of our clubs and the commitment of our

extreme distance.

caring employees to serve our customers.”

Mark Freeman, general manager of Cobra

He added: “2018 was a fantastic year for

Puma Golf UK and Ireland, said: “This is

us, so I would like to thank all the Foremost

fantastic news, and testament to the great

professionals for their continued loyal support,

work done by all the teams involved in mak-

and we look forward to achieving more success

ing the King F9 Speedback driver a great

together in 2019.”

success. We are extremely

Ping also took home the ‘Iron Model of the

SM7 was voted as ‘Wedge Model of the Year’,

thankful for the sup-

Year’ award for the fourth year running, with

marking the fifth successive victory for the

port of our retail

the popular G400 model proving a big hit with

Vokey brand.

partners and their

Foremost members.

FootJoy’s Contour-FIT won ‘Shoe Model

belief in it. We got

The 2018 awards were also a great success for

of the Year’, while Under Armour was awarded

off to a great start

Callaway, as it claimed three awards. The Rogue

Apparel Range of the Year for the third time in

when

driver range won ‘Wood Model of the Year’ and

a row.

launched

the

product in

January,

‘Most Innovative Product of the Year’, a year

Also victorious for the third successive sea-

after the brand’s Epic range won the same title.

son, Proquip’s Pro-Flex exclusive line product

early momentum has continued

Odyssey claimed the ‘Putter Model of the

picked up Waterproof Model of the Year, with

throughout Q1.”

Year’ for the seventh successive year with its

the innovative Pro-Flex Evo outerwear range

O-Works series beating Ping’s Sigma 2, Tay-

earning the support of members.

lorMade’s Spider Tour and Scotty Cameron’s Select range to the award.

24

Cobra leads driver sales with King F9 Speedback

but most pleasing is that the

Chris Glenday, Foremost’s Approved Supplier Manager, said: “Congratulations to all the

Receiving over 80% of member’s votes

worthy winners; on behalf of the whole group I

for ‘Trolley of the Year’, Motocaddy’s trolley

would like thank them for all the support they

products proved successful with the group’s

have given to our members this year. We’ve

professionals as the brand’s S1 model collected

had another fantastic year, and it’s a testament

the award.

to the strong relationships Foremost creates

Acushnet brands were also in the winner’s

between brands and our members that so

circle, with Titleist’s Pro V1 scooping the award

many of our suppliers have repeated as winners

for ‘Golf Ball Model of the Year’ and the Vokey

year-on-year.”

June 2019

| www.pga.info

N E W S T RA DE

TaylorMade maxes out mini driver performance TAYLORMADE HAS dipped its toes back into the

offered with a 13.5-degree head, is designed to offer

mini driver market with the launch of the new

the accuracy and control of a fairway wood, but

Original One, which pays homage to the brand’s

with more distance and forgiveness. For better

40-year history in metalwoods, while featuring

players it offers the option of a very strong fairway

many of the technologies in its current driver

wood, while it could also benefit high handicappers

range.

who struggle with the shaft length of the modern

TaylorMade first entered the ‘mini driver’

driver.

category with the introduction of SLDR Mini in

Tomo Bystedt, TaylorMade’s Senior Director of

2014, and followed that up in 2015 with the faster, higher-launching AeroBurner Mini – both of which were mainly made from steel. The Original One Mini Driver boasts a tri-material construction, with a titanium body, a carbon composite

Product Creation, said: “In 1979, golf was changed forever with the introduction of the Pittsburgh Persimmon – the original metalwood. For the past 40 years, TaylorMade has continued that legacy of innovation with game-changing

crown, and a steel sole plate. The combination of these three materials

technologies, engineered to help golfers perform at their best.

creates an ultra-low centre of gravity for distance and playability.

The Original One Mini Driver incorporates that heritage of

Additional features include a loft sleeve with +/- 2° loft adjustability;

innovation with key performance technologies, packed into a

Twist Face technology to provide the ultimate path to straight distance;

confidence-inspiring shape that delivers on distance, forgiveness

and Inverted Cone technology to promote higher ball speeds on off-centre hits.

and accuracy.”

It has an RRP of £369 and comes with a 43.75-inch Mitsubishi Dia-

Like its predecessors, the 275cc Original One Mini Driver, which is

mana F Limited shaft in 55g (R), or 65g (S) flexes.

FootJoy celebrates 30 years of DryJoys FOOTJOY IS celebrating 30 years of its DryJoys brand by releasing a limited edition DryJoys Tour shoe as a tribute to the world’s most enduring performance golf shoe.

DryJoys, which were first launched in 1989, reinvented the standards for waterproof golf shoe technology, and, 30 years later, the classically-designed model still sets the industry standard, and while the technology inside has evolved significantly over that period, DryJoys remain one of the most popular golf shoes on the market.

The original DryJoys used a Sympatex membrane to ensure waterproof performance, but through significant R&D efforts with Pittards of England, the 1990s saw the introduction of

The limited edition 30th anniversary shoe

traction with advancements in technology. This

Extreme Comfort Leather, which enabled Foot-

boasts a plain toe saddle style in a white/grey

is proven by the significant number of Tour pro-

Joy to remove the membrane, making the shoe

crocodile pattern with a white midsole. With an

fessionals that have put their faith in the DryJoys

lighter, more breathable and more comfortable,

RRP of £150, each pair feature commemorative

name over the past three decades.”

but retaining waterproof characteristics through

FitBeds and come with a shoe bag with a 30th

a proprietary tanning process.

anniversary logo.

He added: “Looking forward, we’re constantly evolving the look and feel of the DryJoys brand.

As well as the developments in the leather, the

Richard Fryer, FootJoy’s Director Of Product

I can’t divulge too much, but rest assured the

outsole has seen several improvements over the

Management for footwear, said: “While the style

renowned qualities of a DryJoys – comfortable,

years, from DryJoys, to DryJoys GX, DryJoys

and design of the DryJoys has remained constant

stylish, waterproof performance footwear – will

Pro, DryJoys PODS and now DryJoys Tour,

over the past thirty years, each new introduction

be subtly enhanced, and safely housed in a fresh,

which is widely worn by the game’s top pros.

has delivered additional comfort, stability and

relevant and iconic silhouette.”

The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

25

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N E W S T RA DE

Galvin Green shakes up outerwear market GALVIN GREEN has reported an increase in its value share of the UK outerwear market for the first three months of 2019 to top the sector with 35.4% – up from 30.1% in the same period last year.

The latest Golf Datatech audit showed that the average selling price for Galvin Green outerwear was also up in Q1 at £185 (compared with £179 in 2018). In contrast, the highest other average price is just over £100.

“Galvin Green has been the leading outerwear brand since Golf Datatech records began on apparel back in 2008,” said Greg Pearse, Galvin Green’s UK&I managing director. “To maintain that number one position for more than a decade and to be out-performing the next three brands combined is a great achievement and testament to the brand’s reputation and our partnership with our valued customers. Our stockists will testify that we deliver more cash margin per sale and double that of most brands in the sector. This shows that core golfers are continuing to seek out and buy our brand.”

Leading the growth in market share this year has been the flagship Archie Gore-Tex waterproof jacket with stretch inserts and the ‘slide & glide’ C-KNIT’ lining.

“Jackets like the Archie have performed incredibly well, and we’ve just launched the exciting new Ashton ShakeDry jacket, which at 174g is the lightest Gore-Tex jacket we’ve ever made.

It’s already won awards from the major golf magazines and we’re excited to see the impact it makes in Q2 and the rest of the year,” said Pearse.

Titleist expands Irish sales team

Foresights Sports launches online hub FORESIGHT SPORTS Europe has launched a dedicated online media hub, hosting the latest news, videos, tips and behind the scenes coverage from the brand.

Designed to keep users up-to-date with the latest content from Foresight Sports, the Foresight Life portal features client case studies, expert insights from Foresight ambassadors and staff, product news, tour player updates, interviews and events.

The channel will be used to inform and educate customers, and will also engage with the wider industry to increase brand awareness and understanding of the Foresight approach to driving the launch monitor and golf simulation markets.

Ben Hawksworth, marketing manager of Foresight Sports Europe, said: “We’ve been working on this project for some time, with the aim of providing our customers – and those who are thinking about investing in technology – with a central hub for all things Foresight. Education is hugely important to us as a company and this platform will be instrumental in helping us share product knowledge and data understanding, as well as keeping those interacting with Foresight Life connected to our brand.”

Foresight plans to continually grow the platform, creating a library of content that will be available online and inter-connected with its social media channels.

To find out more, visit www.foresightsports.eu/foresight-life

Ping unveils low spin G410 driver PING HAS expanded it G410 driver range with the release of the G410 LST, a high-MOI

TITLEIST HAS strengthened its club and ball

driver designed to produce low, stable spin with

fitting team in Ireland with the appointment of

the shot-shaping control.

PGA Professional Darren Walsh.

Walsh joins Titleist from Wexford Golf Club,

The LST has a 450cc head and features a more rounded, pear-shaped design than the

where he spent ten years working on all aspects

G410 Plus and SFT drivers launched earlier this year.

of the game, including coaching, product sales

The face sits open at address and the score-line pattern

and club fitting.

frames the impact area to aid alignment. The crown fea-

The appointment sees him join two other experienced Titleist club

tures Ping’s aerodynamic Turbulators, while Dragonfly

specialists and fitters in Ireland, Mark O’Mahony and Peter McClel-

technology on the inside creates an ultra-thin crown

land, who have a collective 14 years’ experience conducting events and

structure, with the saved weight moved to the edges of

servicing retailers and consumers in the region.

the clubhead to increase MOI by 3% compared to the

While McClelland will continue to cover Northern Ireland and the North of Ireland, with O’Mahony overseeing Titleist’s National Fitting

G400 LST for added ball speed and forgiveness.

Sharing the movable-weight technology found in

Centre at Carton House and the Dublin area, Walsh’s remit covers Mid,

the G410 Plus, the LST features a more forward centre of gravity in the

South East and the South West of Ireland. The three-strong team will

draw, neutral, fade posistions, leading to a spin reduction of 200-400 rpm,

also assist each other at local events throughout the course of the year,

depending on shaft and launch conditions. An adjustable hosel offers eight

ensuring consumers receive the best possible service through dedicated

loft and lie settings to optimise ball flight. The stock shaft is Ping’s Alta CB

club and ball fittings.

Red, while other shaft options are available at no upcharge. RRP: £450.

The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

27

T RA DE I N T E RV I E W

Q&A

Range Masters

Since bringing its first launch monitor, the GC2, to market eight years ago, Foresight Sports has established itself as the leading launch and club delivery measurement technology, with almost 20,000 systems installed worldwide. Nick Bayly catches up with Edward Doling, Foresight Sports Europe’s managing director, to find out how its systems can benefit PGA Professionals and their members, and find out about its latest development ‘Total Range’, which adds an interactive entertainment element to the driving range experience How does Foresight’s technology

where the player is impacting the ball on the

technology can be used off a mat, off the turf,

differ from other systems that

face. Only our technology directly measures

out on the course for playing lessons, on the

deliver data on ball flight and

and reports impact location to millimetre

short game area, and on the putting green.

clubhead position?

levels of accuracy. That, combined with the

The most critical difference between us and

fact that we directly measure every element of

What benefits does Foresight’s

other launch monitor technologies is that our

club delivery and launch, makes our systems

‘Total Range’ package offer?

systems directly measure all the club delivery

unique and cutting-edge.

Our Total Range solution allows any driving

and ball launch data we report. Our ultra-

The third key benefit is that because we

range to become an ‘entertainment range’,

high-speed cameras are positioned to the side

directly measure club delivery and ball launch

whereby the experience becomes not just

and slightly ahead of the ball, which means

data, our systems can be used anywhere,

about solo practice, but grows to provide

they can directly measure a host of data points

outside or indoors, and with the same levels

gaming and social play, usually with food and

that other systems cannot. In effect, we ‘see’

of accuracy. That could be as simple as using

drink served on site or enjoyed in the bay.

the delivery of the club into the back of the

it in a pop-up net with an iPad, or it could go

ball, and we ‘see’ the exact launch and spin of

as far as building a studio or golf simulator.

analysis and practice areas, or they can play 18

the ball.

Whatever the Pro decides to aim for, ensuring

holes on famous courses right there in the bay.

they can continue providing their services

For those wanting a fun session, there are skills

ones, backward calculate some or all their club

12 months of the year is the number one

challenges, nearest-the-pin contests, and target

or ball data. That’s not good when you want

requirement we hear from our customers. Our

golf. And for families there are our fairground

Other systems, particularly radar-based

For serious golfers there is our detailed

to provide the very best possible coaching,

games, including shooting

analysis, or club fitting services to your

gallery, balloon pop, darts,

customers.

and putt-skee. Our infra-red systems ensure there is no need

What advantage does using

for down-range lighting to be

Foresight Sports launch monitors

upgraded, and our library of

give the PGA Professional when

games, experiences and courses

coaching or club fitting?

is constantly expanding.

There are a host benefits our technology

Our back-office

provides the PGA Professional, but I’ll

management system also

mention just the top three business-critical

allows staff to see which bays

benefits, starting with our industry-leading

are busy, which are free, and

accuracy of data.

When you want to provide the very best service, the more accurate, reliable, and trust-

Below: The GCHawk’s aerial mounting makes it ideal for use in a driving range bay

worthy your data, the better you can teach, analyse or fit clubs. When selecting a launch monitor or golf simulator, everyone should be considering accuracy of data and ball-flight as their highest priority.

Staying with data, the next critical benefit we provide is the range of data points we measure and report. As an example, all Pros know how important it is to understand

28

Left: The GC Quad’s portability makes it ideal for indoor and outdoor use

June 2019

| www.pga.info

I N T E RV I E W T RA DE CASE STUDIES to generate live reporting on usage numbers,

Carl Bianco, Head Professional, Woking Golf Club

revenues and activity. Total Range is rolling out globally, with venues such as Drive Shack in Orlando installing 90-plus bays and Marina Bay in Singapore installing over 100.

Our first European venues will be opening later this summer.

PGA Member Carl Bianco has enjoyed a significant upturn in revenue since installing a GC Quad system at his studio at Woking Golf Club

What kind of effect have pros who have installed Foresight technology enjoyed in terms of increased footfall and spend?

Typically, we see a positive spiral start to develop once a Professional invests in our technology. Their members, customers and visitors are quickly introduced to the technology and what it can do, leading to an increase in lessons booked and club fitting.

Retail typically increases also, as customers come for a detailed custom fitting session and leave delighted with the results. In turn, that can lead to Professionals spending less on stock each year, as they know they will be retailing almost every club after a custom-fit.

“Since installing Foresight Sports’ GCQuad over a year ago at our new studio hardware sales are up 200% and coaching revenue is up 50%, so it’s been a total game changer not only in terms of revenue, but also in terms of how we conduct lessons and custom fit sessions. Members love to practice and play courses on FSX 2018, when the weather prevents them from playing the outdoors. The studio has been constantly busy since we introduced Foresight Sports technology.”

Luke Bone, PGA Professional, Farnham Golf Club Luke Bone’s studio at Farnham has seen a huge insrease in lesson bookings since installing the GC2 system

Their members will hire the technology from them for ongoing analysis and practice, ensuring even when a fitting or lesson is not booked, the launch monitor, studio or simulator is still generating revenue. And all of that is before they factor in competitive and social play through the winter, and even gapping sessions.

What are the main differences between Foresight’s GCQuad system and the new GCHawk version?

There is really only one key difference between the two, and that is that the Quad is positioned on the ground to the side

“Prior to the installation of Foresight’s GC2 + HMT launch monitor I made £150 from my coaching sessions in quieter months. A year on in the same month with the launch monitor set up, I made more than £1,500, and that trend has continued. Last winter, I was teaching around 30 to 40 lessons a week, which changed my coaching revenues dramatically.

With the help of the system 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 coaching never left, but it has certainly increased now we have the GC2+HMT launch monitor.”

and slightly ahead of the golf ball, whereas the Hawk is a ceiling mounted system.

That makes it ideal for indoor studios and

What kind of trade-in or trade-up

agree a trade-in for those units against their

simulators, for commercial indoor golf venues

options do you offer to existing

investment into the Quad.

with high traffic, or for customers who do not

customers looking to get the latest

need the portability of the Quad. For anyone

Foresight system?

works out at between 35% and 50% of

wanting to experience it in action, we have a

Should any of our clients decide that

their original investment into GC2 and/or

Hawk installed into one of the simulators in

they wish to upgrade from their GC2 or

HMT, depending on the condition of the

our demonstration facilities in Guildford.

GC2+HMT systems to a Quad, we will

units.

The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

For most of our customers it usually

29

T RA DE B A L L S A N D F I T T I N G

Looking after No.1 PGA Professional talks to Jan Diprose, Titleist Golf Ball Manager, and Anthony Williams, Titleist Golf Ball Specialist, to talk about the launch and performance of the new generation of Pro V1 balls and the importance of ball fitting for all levels of golfer

Jan, you’re still relatively new to Titleist. How are you finding your new role?

JD: In short, I’m really enjoying it. As an outsider to the industry, the learning curve has been high since I joined the company in March, but the multi-faceted nature of my role has been incredibly stimulating.

Thanks to the support of my colleagues and my commitment to understanding the brand, I’ve quickly discovered how the team’s passion, knowledge, and expertise enables Titleist to consistently perform to such a high standard.

It has been three months since the launch of the 2019 Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls. How has the range been received by retailers, the media and your consumers?

JD: The launch of the new Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls has been a huge success. The standard of executions by our retail partners has been outstanding, and consumer demand has been higher than ever.

In addition to this, we’ve had great exposure through varied media channels, which is always pleasing to see.

Consumers are becoming more and more aware of putting the correct ball for their game in play – after all it is the only piece of equipment you use for every shot.

The way we have portrayed our story of flight, feel, and spin across our premium performance portfolio has enabled our retail partners to understand and appreciate the differences between Pro V1, Pro V1x, and AVX, and with this understanding, they are then able to recommend the golf ball that is right for their consumers’ style of play.

30

Titleist Golf Ball Manager Jan Diprose

Titleist Golf Ball Specialist Anthony Williams

What are the benefits for a PGA Professional in stocking Pro V1 balls?

JD: As the latest DataTech figures show in the UK, over £1 in every £3 spent on golf balls is spent on either a Pro V1, Pro V1x or our AVX ball. If you add into this the trust placed in these products by the best players in the world across every professional Tour, we are confident that the 2019 models are our most innovative product yet.

By stocking the Pro V1 and Pro V1x, pros will not only be giving their golfers the best opportunity to shoot their lowest scores, but retailers will see a heightened interest in the ball category as a whole. These factors will in turn drive greater category sell through, which can only be beneficial for the PGA Professional and their business.

Titleist hosts golf ball fittings at venues all over the UK & Ireland to help consumers find the right ball for their game

June 2019

| www.pga.info

B A L L S A N D F I T T I N G T RA DE

What plans does the brand have for golf balls for the next half of the year?

JD: We have developed a comprehensive calendar of initiatives that will build on the early momentum we have seen for the #1 ball in golf. This mix of event driven, product specific and seasonal executions will drive further interest, awareness, excitement and category growth amongst our partners and consumers alike. Our team of ASM’s will be on hand to provide our trusted partners with all the assets and information they require to get on board with these exciting promotions.

Anthony, what is the standout selling point of the New Pro V1/ Pro V1x and what improvements have been made versus the last iteration?

AW: The design goal covered four main areas. Firstly, to increase distance for both balls; secondly to maintain the flight, feel and spin profiles of the Pro V1 when compared to the X. Pro V1 will fly lower, feel softer and spin less. Thirdly, to maintain the drop-and-stop greenside control for

The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

Golfers can now choose between a white or yellow Pro V1 or Pro V1x

‘‘

we encourage players to commit to using the new ball exclusively and this will help to eliminate any performance variation and build consistency and confidence

‘‘

Titleist’s ‘Loyalty Rewarded’ promotion has recently come to an end. What was the uptake from the retailer and consumer like this year?

JD: The Loyalty Rewarded promotion was a huge success, and we saw an increase in participation from our retail partners, who saw the great potential of an initiative with Titleist. That, combined with the launch of the new Pro V1 balls, has led to an unprecedented demand from golfers.

In particular, we have seen a staggering amount of interest in the new high optic yellow version of the Pro V1.

both balls; and finally to introduce a yellow option for both balls that performs the same as its white counterpart.

To achieve this, a new formulated core was created to add ball speed and lower the spin rate in the long game to increase distance. A new thicker, casing layer has added faster ball speed and lowered the spin on long shots to increase distance. As the casing layer has been thickene,d we’ve thinned out the cover, this removes some of the slow material to aid ball speed with minimal change to feel or short game spin.

How can PGA Pros maximise performance with consumers through ball fittings?

AW: There are three steps to a ball fitting: Firstly, an initial assessment where the pro finds out what the golfer is looking for – greater control, softer feel, more distance etc. Next up is practical fitting.

Using a launch monitor to determine best performing ball for short game, iron play and the long game. We hit 50-yard pitch shots, 6/7 irons and the driver. The focus primarily is on launch angle, peak height, spin rate and land angle. We focus on total performance green to tee.

And lastly we move to on-course validation, where we test the ball on the golf course to make sure the new ball is performing the way the player wants it to.

Most importantly, we encourage players to commit to using the new ball exclusively and this will help to eliminate any performance variation and build consistency and confidence.

Our ‘Green To Tee’ approach successfully fits golfers of all abilities. Prioritising shots going into and around the green can help all golfers lower the scores by hitting more greens, hitting the ball closer, and also getting up and down more often.

What makes Pro V1 golf balls stand out from its competitors?

AW: Our mission is to make the most consistent, high performance golf balls in the world. Every new Titleist ball we make goes back to the origins of our company. We are constantly thinking about quality and consistency of performance. Every test, and every quality check is done with all golfers in mind, as it is important to us that everyone has a golf ball they can trust. It’s about quality and knowing that each golf ball to the next will be consistent. This gives every player the best chance to shoot a lower score.

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T RA DE B A L L S A N D F I T T I N G

Covering the bases Whether your customers are looking for distance or spin, or a combination of the two, the major golf ball brands have got it covered in all colours

Callaway

Titleist

CHROME SOFT/CHROME SOFT X The four-piece Chrome Soft combines performance with soft feel and miss-hit forgiveness. A graphene-infused outer core surrounds a large inner core to maximize compression energy, minimize driver spin, promote high launch, and generate distance.

The inner core offers less spin and high launch on long shots. The firm outer core boosts energy and helps pinch the soft cover for short-shot spin. Fast swinging players will prefer the X version.

PRO V1/PRO V1X The latest versions of Titleist’s best-selling balls have been designed to leave the clubface with more speed and lower long-game spin for more distance, while providing the best short game control. The improvements have been achieved through a thinner outer urethane cover; a faster, thicker inner ionomer casing layer; and a new core structure. The outermost portion of the solid core of the Pro V1 and dual core Pro V1x have increased in stiffness, while maintaining their soft centres, creating higher ball speed and lower long-game spin. The Pro V1 flies lower and has a softer feel than the Pro V1x, with the latter generating more spin on iron shots.

Both are offered in white and a new optic yellow.

CHROME SOFT TRIPLE TRACK Featuring the same construction as the Chrome Soft, the Triple Track features three parallel lines that provide a strong visual alignment cue. Based on the scientific concept of Vernier Hyper Acuity, which is used for the markings on aircraft carrier runways, the colour and width of the lines fine-tunes sight to better perceive straightness.

ERC SOFT The dual core uses the same graphene-infused layer found in the Chrome Soft. That strengthens the outer core, allowing the large inner core to create distance through less driver spin. A hybrid cover offers more short-shot spin than typical distance balls, while Triple Track technology aids alignment.

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AVX The low-compression alternative in Titleist’s multi-layer range combines a new urethane cover with a flexible mantle layer. Those two elements work with the core to provide greenside spin for short shots and ball speed off the driver and long and middle irons.

TOUR SOFT The Tour Soft combines Titleist’s largest core with a thin ionomer/polymer cover for responsive feel, fast speed, distance and short-game performance.

A new spherically-tiled dimple design helps make ball flight penetrating and consistent.

SUPERSOFT Callaway’s low-compression, two-piece ball focuses on improving distance through a new hexagonal dimple pattern for better performance at low-spin rates.

Offered in six colours, a softer cover enhances feel and boosts greenside spin.

VELOCITY The focus on soft starts with the larger core in this two-piece model, the softest in the Titleist range. The core size provides energy for more ball speed, and the low compression improves feel and reduces driver spin. The flexible cover offers shorter shots an element spin. It is offered in white, orange and pink.

SUPERSOFT MAGNA The Magna is 3% larger than a standard ball, which moves its centre of gravity higher in relation to the clubhead to promote higher launch. A special dimple pattern features on the ball’s larger surface area.

DT TRUSOFT Re-engineered with a larger, lower compression core and a softer cover, the TruSoft promises longer distance, soft feel, and increased short game spin, and decreased driver spin. Available in white and high optic yellow, it also boasts an aerodynamic cover for piercing, consistent flight.

June 2019

| www.pga.info

B A L L S A N D F I T T I N G T RA DE

Srixon

TaylorMade

Z STAR/Z STAR XV The firmer, dual-core XV and the standard Z-Star have graduated cores and a more resilient mantle for better long-game distance. The thin cover still provides optimal spin thanks to a supermolecule in the urethane coating that better grabs your wedge grooves.

TP5/TP5X These five-layer balls feature a new mantle material that is designed to increase ball speed. The material is stiffer and more durable, so that when the ball is compressed on driver and long-iron shots, the ball returns to shape and comes off the face with more velocity.

AD333 TOUR The third generation of the AD333 Tour is a low compression ball that is designed to help slower swinging golfers with distance, while maintaining spin and feel. Its key features include a newly-formulated core, which is easier to compress with lower driver spin for distance and accuracy on full shots. A urethane coating promotes soft feel with enhanced greenside spin control.

AD333 The UK’s best-selling two-piece ball for the past 11 years now features a lowercompression core, a new Spin Skin coating and a more aerodynamic 338 dimple pattern. These three technologies combine to deliver balanced performance, including longer and more accurate driving distance, better iron control and improved greenside spin.

SOFT FEEL This lower-compression ball’s approach to distance stays true to its name, but engineers were careful not to go too soft.

The mid-level compression offers soft feel and low spin, yet retains the energy transfer for optimal distance through its tour-ball dimple pattern. It is offered in white and optic yellow.

ULTISOFT Srixon’s lowest compression ball is the ideal for player with mid-to-low swing speeds seeking extra feel around the greens, a higher launch, and maximum distance off the tee. Among the improvements featured in the new model include a softer variable compression core; a softer, thinner cover, and a new drag-reducing pattern.

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PROJECT (A) The three-layered Project (a) boasts a large, soft core which combines with a firm mantle layer to increase velocity and mitigate spin on longer shots. The urethane cover gives a tourball type of spin on shorter shots.

PROJECT (S) The Project (s) feels soft and generates low driver spin for distance. It has a 60 compression rating, dual-core and soft ionomer cover.

Wilson DUO PROFESSIONAL The focus on soft feel remains, but among the improvements is a new urethane cover that is 40% thinner than its predecessor, creating added short game spin when interacting with the firmer mantle section.

DX3 SOFT SPIN Claimed to be the softest multi-layer golf ball on the market, the DX3 incorporates a new inner core that generates low spin rate off the driver, while a new and responsive HPF blend mantle and softer surlyn cover offer increased spin on approach shots. A 6% shallower dimple pattern creates higher ball flight for longer distances. There is also a version with a urethane cover for more control on short-game shorts.

DX2 SOFT/DX2 OPTIX The 29-compression, two-piece surlyn construction DX2 boasts a 3% larger core for increased velocity and a softer, thinner sodium/zinc ionomer cover to provide distance and durability, while a shallower dimple pattern delivers higher flight. The DX2 Optix boasts the same construction, but features a scruff-resistant matte outer layer and comes in yellow, orange, pink, green and red.

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DRIVE OUR VISION SHARE OUR SUCCESS

partnership

THIS IS WHO WE ARE. Are you driven by success...

More than 480 of the country’s leading PGA Professionals are part of TGI Golf Partnership, Be part of atoforward thinking group. which exists assist them in running successful and profitable businesses.

TGI Golf Partnership offers current

and relevant business solutions

Contact us today to find out how and thought leadership to driven, we can help you.

engaged professionals.

tgigolf.com @TGI_Golf

/TGIGolfPartnership

THE TGI GOLF PARTNERSHIP IS A GOLF RETAIL SERVICES GROUP, OWNED BY PGA PROFESSIONALS.

Seven things that happen

partnership

DRIVE OUR VISION when you become SHARE OUR SUCCESS

a TGI Golf Partner

01

You make a one off payment You are a partner of TGI Golf and TGI Golf Travel

02

You are guaranteed the best UK and Irish terms from Partner suppliers Including all the biggest brands in golf

03

You have a dedicated Retail Consultant Free, in-store expert advice from the guys in the know

04

You are invited to fantastic events Some educational, some competitive - always valuable

05

You will receive annual profit distribution

06

You get access to TGI’s amazing marketing tools

As a Full Partner of the business, you share in our success

These allow you to take charge and tailor communications and POS to your business

More than 480 of the country’s leading PGA Professionals are part of TGI Golf Partnership, which exists to assist them in running successful and profitable businesses.

0% finance

07

> Best Buying Terms > Free Retail and

Marketing Advice

You get access to our exclusive 0% finance Contact us today to find out how we can help you. >apply) First Class Events arrangement, (terms and conditions

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DRIVE @TGI_Golf

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THE TGI GOLF PARTNERSHIP IS A GOLF RETAIL SERVICES GROUP, OWNED BY PGA PROFESSIONALS.

T RA DE A P PA R E L

Get a grip Gloves are becoming an important part of a golfer’s apparel, no matter what the weather. Using gloves in play can make a massive difference in terms of grip and comfort, making them a valuable retail line.

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are made from. Gloves with pre-curved fingers are often more comfortable, reflecting the natural shape of the hand, than gloves with straight fingers. Trying on several different types highlights differences between ranges or manufacturers, enabling a customer to discover exactly which they prefer.

‘‘

Customers should be encouraged to inspect their gloves regularly and be prepared to buy new ones as soon as wear becomes apparent

‘‘

M

ost golfers are buying several gloves at a time, often changing them part of the way through a game especially in hot weather when perspiration can be an issue. In cold weather, many are also opting to wear golf mittens on top of their gloves while walking from hole to hole. This ensures that hands do not get too cold and lose their flexibility, and strength of grip.

Helping golfers to choose the best glove for their needs provides PGA Professionals with opportunities for additional sales and developing long lasting relationships with customers. If gloves do not fit properly, hands may move within the glove, which can become a distraction or affect grip when about to take a swing. FootJoy estimates that ‘over 60% of golfers are wearing a golf glove that is too big which can lead to premature wear among other things.

While wearing a perfectly fitted glove, the golfer can best experience feel, comfort and performance.’

Encouraging customers to try on gloves is important. Glove sizes can vary, and may depend on the type of material the gloves

A well-fitting glove should resemble a second skin, tight across the fingers and palm, with no loose material. The tab should fit securely, but only come about 75% of the way across the back of the hand. This allows space for the Velcro fastening to be adjusted during play since hands can swell slightly especially in hot weather.

Customers should be encouraged to inspect their gloves regularly and be prepared to buy new ones as soon as wear becomes apparent. Signs to look out for include material becoming thinner at the fingertips, too much wear on the thumb, or wear on the palm and heel of the glove causing friction. Wear patterns on the gloves can indicate potential problems developing with a golfer’s technique regarding the way a golfer is holding a club, or gripping it too tightly. Perspiration can shorten the lifespan of golf gloves, so it is important to allow them to dry out if they do not have moisture wicking properties. Having access to an alternative pair of gloves while out on the golf course, can prove extremely helpful especially in hot weather.

FIT FOR PURPOSE Manufacturers are paying ever greater attention to the issue of fit and comfort, providing separate ranges of men’s, women’s and junior golfers gloves. The shape of a male hand is very different to that of a woman. Men generally have a much broader palm and longer fingers, whereas a woman’s June 2019

| www.pga.info

A P PA R E L T RA DE hand is narrower, with shorter fingers. A further problem to be borne in mind when advising on the correct glove is the issue of hand ailments, especially among older players. One hand may be weaker than the other.

Wearing a glove can also strengthen a weaker hand, proving better grip.

COLOUR CO-ORDINATION Classic black and white remain the most common colours, as they are easy to coordinate with any outfit. There is also a trend towards adding a dash of colour, often on the tab, to co-ordinate with apparel.

G/Fore has added much greater portofolio of colour to its unisex range explaining, “We have found there are certain colours that are more popular based on gender. Men tend to purchase darker and bolder colours, whereas more females purchase our very light pastel coloured gloves.”

Wilson The Wilson Staff Conform glove is designed for golfers seeking comfort and breathability.

Made from premium Abyssinian Cabretta leather with 3M Scotchguard protection, the anti-microbial performance mesh on the knuckles and palm dissipates heat and moisture. The new Wilson Staff II Tour golf glove is perfect for elite golfers seeking the best possible leather gloves with a consistent fit and optimum feel. www.wilson.com Wilson Staff Conform Glove in white/black cabretta leather

Wilson Staff Tour glove in white cabretta leather

The PGA Professional

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TECH SPECS Technological fabrics are very much in evidence, especially when combined with natural materials such as leather. Typical fabric combinations include Glenmuir’s use of Aquatec in its MacWet® gloves, the use of performance meshes, PING’s use of SensorCool microwicking and Micro-Pur™technology and FootJoy’s new Taction 3™ Advanced Performance Leather. Taction 3™ is a form of chemistry used in the tanning process to achieve ultimate performance levels. FootJoy is one of the leaders in the use of technological fabrics incorporating not just Taction 3 but Nanolock®, thermal management materials, MicroVent™ and FibreSof™ technology on the palm and back of the hand.

Bonded construction is another popular ingredient within the production process as it adds comfort by removing all stitches and seams. Greater use of 3M Scotch guard

protection is being made on leather materials, especially with regard to cuffs and fingers as this provides not just water resistance, but maintains leather’s natural softness. Attention is also being paid to the importance of insulation. Sealskinz are utilising Downtek water repellent insulation in its mittens range as this allows air to be trapped between the fibres, thus helping to reduce the amount of heat being lost from the hands.

Overall, the use of technological materials is set to increase within the glove sector as the benefits are becoming ever more apparent. It is an ideal way of providing better moisture management, and advanced breathability thus making gloves much more comfortable for use in all weathers.

Hands need to be kept cool and dry so as to maximize grip and position. Gloves are the ideal answer for many golfers, whether amateur or professional.

Glenmuir’s MacWet® Black Micromesh gloves

Glenmuir Glenmuir’s Original Micromesh Rain Gloves are made from a unique Aquatec® textile creating a good grip while maintaining feel and sensitivity. The smart fibre thermoregulates to adapt to climatic changes by releasing excess heat while the soft, mesh covered back aids airflow circulation.

Equally popular are the lightweight Climatec Winter MacWet® gloves which are windproof, water resistant and have a fleece lining on the back of the hand for extra warmth. Glenmuir’s Showerproof mittens incorporate a Heatweaver™ thermal brushed fleece lining, storm inner cuffs and hanging clips. www.glenmuir.co.uk

G/FORE G/Fore’s flagship Collection gloves are made from 100% AA Cabretta leather in a wide range of colours including fashion shades like Pacific, Blush and Tangerine. The Delta Force charcoal camouflage design offers a distinctive touch.

Precision crafted, all the gloves have an embroidered patch detail on the tab. www.gfore.com

The ever-popular MacWet® Climatec glove

Showerproof Mittens with inbuilt Heatweaver™ thermal lining

G/Fore’s range of coloured gloves

Delta Force charcoal camouflage glove

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T RA DE A P PA R E L

FootJoy FootJoy’s StaSof Cabretta Leather golf glove has been popular with top golfers. It offers long-lasting softness, optimum lightweight feel, unmatched grip and FootJoy’s ProFLX Hero glove in exceptional moisture white with black/blue highlights management suitable for all climates and playing conditions.

The ProFLX glove focuses on performance, breathability, flexibility, lightweight feel, softness and a tour-tested grip. The technically-advanced construction ensures breathability, flexibility and comfort for cool-dry performance in all playing conditions.

The RainGrip black/white gloves are essential equipment for rain ready play and hot/humid conditions. www.FootJoy.co.uk Black/white RainGrip glove from FootJoy

StaSof grey men’s glove

Extreme cold weather down mittens

Waterproof outdoor mittens Sealskinz

Sealskinz Sealskinz unisex outdoor mittens are lightweight, 100% waterproof, breathable and windproof. The durable PU grid embossed palm provides comfort and added control.

The Extreme Cold Weather down mittens feature Downtek water repellent insulation trapping air between the fibres and incorporate pre-curved fingers and a soft AX Suede diamond embossed palm.

Many golfers buy a larger size mitten so as to use them as an over glove between shots. www.sealskinz.com

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Women’s Stable Grip with natural fitting palm

Women’s Stable Grip glove with natural fit

Bionic Men’s White Stable Grip glove with patented pad system

Bionic White is Bionic’s most popular summer colour, changing to black in the winter. Many customers buy the StableGrip glove for summer use, before transferring to the AquaGrip, a suede microfibre glove, in winter.

Bionic gloves are popular with people who suffer from a hand or grip problem such as arthritis or carpal tunnel. Designed by an Orthopedic Hand Surgeon, the leather StableGrip glove has been designed to help golfers achieve longer distance and greater accuracy when playing a shot. The patented pad system increases durability, while the patented pre-rotated finger design complements the natural anatomy of the hand. Motion zones over the knuckles and web zones between the fingers, promote natural movement while the Lycra gussets minimize any bunching of the leather to provide a better fit and feel. Anatomical relief pads are used to eliminate friction thus removing the possibility of blisters, calluses and hand fatigue developing. www.bionic-glove.co.uk

PING PING’s Tour and Sport glove ranges incorporate pre-curved fingers engineered for a natural fit and feel, together with finger vents and perforations to optimize breathability, as well as SensorCool moisture wicking technology at the wristbands. The PING Tour glove is made entirely of Premium Cabretta Leather with Micro-Pur® technology and is available only in men’s sizes. The PING Sport glove is available in both men’s and women’s sizes. It combines an Allsoft® Premium Cabretta leather palm with a back of breathable synthetic leather. A large Lycra area over the knuckles gives extra comfort and breathability. www.ping.com

PING premium Cabretta leather Tour glove

Men’s SPORT glove

Ladies SPORT glove

June 2019

| www.pga.info

P r e m i e r A l l - We a t h e r S u r f a c e s f o r G o l f

For Year Round Practice Huxley Golf specialises in the design, supply and installation of all-weather surfaces for golf. From practice tees to putting and golf greens, golf course tees, paths and even golf courses.

Exclusive introductory commission programme for PGA Professionals

Partner

UK and Overseas Enquiries: Tel +44 (0)1730 829608 Email: sales@huxleygolf.co.uk www.huxleygolf.com

T RA DE R E TA I L WATC H

When The Open comes to Town Time has flown by since it was announced five years ago that the Open Championship would be returning to Northern Ireland for the first time since 1951. With just a month to go until the event at Royal Portrush, how are PGA Professionals in the country preparing for the influx of visitors? We spoke to Paul Vaughan, Director of Golf at Ardglass Golf Club.

I

FIVE-YEAR PLAN Over the last few years Ardglass has made a number of changes both on and off the course, with a five year development plan for the course, which includes new bunkering, tees and three new holes.

It also boasts the world’s oldest clubhouse with the building itself, an old storm haven, dating back to 1405. The beautiful structure has been used as a clubhouse since 1896 and certainly has a ‘wow’ factor, particularly for visitors from across the Atlantic.

But it is the off course changes that are 40

Paul Vaughan, Ardlass Golf Club’s Director of Golf looking to make the most of The Open in the Pro shop

making the biggest difference, with the club now working closely with Tourism Northern Ireland and tour operators to open the club up to visitors across the globe.

As Director of Golf, Paul has been

‘‘

With The Open a complete sell out and an estimated benefit to the country to the tune of £80 million there is huge potential for an increase in revenue.

‘‘

t has been a whirlwind five years since the R&A revealed The Open would be heading back to Northern Ireland, but it’s been five years packed full of plans ready to make the most of one of sport’s biggest events coming to town.

Paul Vaughan and the team at Ardglass Golf Club, a picture perfect links course hugging the north-east coast just two hours from Royal Portrush, have been preparing to make the most of the increase in golf tourism.

With the event a complete sell out and an estimated benefit to the country to the tune of £80 million there is huge potential for an increase in revenue.

The demand and excitement around the event is unprecedented, with Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, executive director of the R&A, saying: “We knew there would be great demand but it has been even higher than we expected.”

a driving force behind this, becoming involved directly with the tourist board and attending trade shows and events to promote golf in Northern Ireland.

This change in strategy has seen visitor bookings more than double, now reaching around 10,000 visitors a year.

With such an increase in traffic, which is set to grow even further this year with members giving up the course for visitors throughout July, how has Paul adapted his Pro Shop to make the most of The Open?

“Pre-books were a little different last year when looking ahead to 2019,” he said.

“The first thought was that there are going to be a lot more visitors, which is going to increase the income for the golf club, but not necessarily the Pro Shop.

June 2019

| www.pga.info

R E TA I L WATC H T RA DE

‘‘

Overseas visitors don’t want to buy new clubs, but they do want a memento to remember their visit, so we have plenty of logoed products

‘‘

If your club has a record of note, let everyone know!

“There will certainly be more people coming through the door, but you are not guaranteed to make any extra sales. There’s a good chance, but you have to be properly prepared. There’s no point in overstocking hardware with so many visitors, so you have to concentrate a little harder on making apparel work. Overseas visitors don’t

want to buy new clubs, but they do want a memento to remember their visit, so we have plenty of logoed products.

“We tweaked the pre-order a little, not dramatically. We have been working hard over the last five years to find the right brands for the shop and we have now narrowed that down to just three or four.

“This year more than ever we have kept a keen eye on stock levels, the last thing we want is for someone to want something in a certain size and we don’t have it. We cannot allow them to leave disappointed.”

There are certain lines within the Pro Shop at Ardglass clearly geared towards the overseas visitor, such as Wright &

Ditson t-shirts emblazoned with the slogan ‘Ardglass: Drinking Village With A Golfing Problem’. Not the usual products you would see in a green grass Pro Shop, but something Paul took a punt on and has been repaid.

He explained: “The t-shirts are most certainly aimed at the visitors. I was having a beer with a friend of mine and he just came out with this line and I thought it was brilliant. It stuck with me and I thought why not get that on a t-shirt.

“It might be seen as a bit of a risk, but the minimum order was 144 so I never felt it would be a disaster and it’s been far from it, we’ve even copyrighted the slogan.”

So far 2019 has been a great year for Paul, who was named Partner of the Year by the TGI Golf Partnership just three years after being named the group’s Newcomer of the Year. An achievement that is testament to his ability to continually adapt his business to make the most of new trends and ideas.

EXPERTISE He said: “I’m a great believer in always learning and improving. Nobody is perfect, you will always make mistakes, but it is important to learn from them and take advice from the right people such as TGI Golf and the PGA. “I work closely with my TGI Golf retail consultant Peter Smyth who I can call on at any time for advice. I find it hugely beneficial to be able to call on him to come into the shop and take a look around and give me honest feedback. It is important to be able to call upon that expertise.

“I don’t believe anyone has new ideas anymore, so you have to keep your eye on the industry and what is happening on the high street. You have to keep your mind open to new ideas and don’t be afraid to implement them, keep evolving your business and the services you have to offer. If it doesn’t work or if you make a mistake, it’s not the end of the world, just change it.”

For more information on the TGI Golf Partnership visit tgigolf.com.

Special stock: visitors coming to Ardlass for The Open can leave with a bespoke memento

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| #makinggolfhappen

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The perfect match

Helping the golf industry do business

Centenary House, The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B76 9PT www.pga.info PGA is a registered trademark of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited.

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D E S T I N AT I O N G U I D E T RAV E L

Jewel of the Opal Coast Situated on the breath-taking Opal Coast of Northern France is Le Touquet Golf Resort, an award winning 45-hole golf complex and home to France’s #1 ranked Links. From the sand dunes of the La Mer course to the parkland of La Forêt, Le Touquet Golf offers two very different experiences for all players to enjoy.

GOLF Opened in 1931 the Harry Colt designed La Mer course is ranked #35 in the Top 100 Courses in Continental Europe. The 6275yard championship layout has hosted many notable events over the years including the French Open in 1977 and is ranked the #1 Links course in France. This stunning course is laid out amongst undulating dunes and boasts spectacular sea views. Be warned, the tricky winds are an integral part of the course and make for a challenging and exciting round! A definite must play for your group if visiting Northern France!

By contrast, La Forêt offers a very different experience to its sister course. Opened in 1904, the 5659-yard, par 71 woodland layout is set amongst the picturesque surroundings of a 100 year-old pine forest, sheltered from the coastal winds and provides a slightly different but equally enjoyable test to the La Mer course.

On-site is also

Le Manoir Hotel

The Clubhouse

the 9-hole par-35 Le Manoir course. With it being a shorter and more forgiving course than La Mer and La Forêt, it makes the perfect place to coach or run a fun competition with your group!

La Forêt course

Hole 16 at La Mer

STAY The 3-star newly refurbished boutique style Le Manoir hotel is on-site making it the perfect base for your group’s stay in Northern France. This fantastic hotel is situated only 5 minutes from Le Touquet town centre with bars, clubs and casinos and 45 minutes from Calais. The hotel has a fantastic a la carte restaurant, “Le Table du Manoir” as well as trendy place to drink “Le M Bar”! Your group can also dine in a more relaxed environment and enjoy a well-earned drink post golf at the new Clubhouse.

PRO PACKAGE • 2 nights bed and breakfast • 2 rounds of golf (La Mer and La Forêt) • Free golf on Le Manoir course • From £265 per amateur (based on June – September travel) • Pro goes FREE with 7 amateurs

For more information on how the Golf Pro Travel team can help please contact 01753 752 880 or email pga@golfbreaks.com @Golfbreaks_Pro @golfbreaks_pro_travel

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T RAV EL O F F E R S

Investigate Iberia

Spain and Portugal remain the popular destinations for Golf Pro Travel, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some hidden gems out there! Take a look at our top offers below for 5* Hotels travelling for 4 Nights and 3 Rounds all for under £400!! If you are looking for a touch of luxury for your clients this year, these would be the perfect choice.

Remember, as a PGA Professional you receive a FREE place with 7 amateurs, a 5% commission, as well as benefiting from our Breakpoints loyalty scheme!

Marriott Praia D’El Rey Golf and Beach Resort 5★, Lisbon, Portugal ★ Golfbreaks.com Key facts

• Fantastic 5* Hotel onsite with breathtakingly Sea Views • 2 x Championship Course onsite (Praia D’el Rey and West Cliffs) • Free transfers to 3 other courses in local area • Superb practice facilities for coaching

Pro Package

• 4 Nights Bed & Breakfast and 3 Rounds of Golf – from £365pp

Hotel Quinta da Marinha 5★, Cascais, Portugal Key facts

• The 5* Quinta da Marinha Hotel is set in a beautiful location in Cascais.

• Quinta da Marinha Golf Course, designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Snr • Great for a group looking for evening nightlife • Upgrade to Semi All Inclusive for unlimited drinks between 08.00 and 23.00

★ Golfbreaks.com Pro Package

• 4 Nights Bed & Breakfast and 3 Rounds of Golf – from £399pp

The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort and Spa 5★, Marbella, Spain Key facts

• 5* Seafront Hotel, 10 minutes from Puerto Banus • 27 Holes onsite, and over 15 further within 30 minutes • Highest ranked Golf Resort in the Costa Del Sol on Trip Advisor • Free shared buggies in selected months

★ Golfbreaks.com Pro Package

• 4 Nights Bed & Breakfast and 3 Rounds of Golf – from £399pp

Hotel La Finca Golf Resort and Spa 5★, Alicante, Spain Key facts

• Stunning 5* modern hotel in a beautiful part of Costa Blanca • 18 Fantastic Holes onsite, including the island green 12th • Exceptional practice facilities • Upgrade to Unlimited Golf from £30pp

★ Golfbreaks.com Pro Package

• 4 Nights Bed & Breakfast and 3 Rounds of Golf – from £355pp

For more information on how the Golf Pro Travel team can help please contact 01753 752 880 or email pga@golfbreaks.com @Golfbreaks_Pro @golfbreaks_pro_travel

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June 2019

| www.pga.info

D E S T I N AT I O N G U I D E T RAV E L

Walk in the footsteps of golfing legends Kiawah Island Resort is the jewel in the crown of South Carolina, perfectly positioned along ten miles of uninterrupted Atlantic Ocean coastline and boasts 5 amazing championship golf courses!

PLAY Kiawah Island Golf Resort houses one of the most famous golf courses in the world! The Ocean Course made its name as the host of the dramatic ‘War on the Shore’ Ryder Cup match in 1991. Named “America’s Toughest Course”, the links layout stretches to 7,873 yards from the tips and casts spectacular views across 2 ½ miles of Atlantic coastline.

In addition, Kiawah also has 4 other courses on-site with Turtle Point and Osprey Point being ranked amongst Americas Top 75 courses as well as Cougar Point and Oak Point finishing the line-up of stunning championship layouts. An absolutely unforgettable experience for any golfer and one your group will be talking about for many years to come!

STAY The resort offers an array of stunning 1-4 bed villas with breath-taking scenic or ocean views, perfect for pros taking a large group of members away.

After a more luxurious stay? The 5-star The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island is also on resort and is consistently voted one of the best hotels in America.

Villas at Kiawah

Clockwise from left: Ocean Course; Ocean Course clubhouse; Osprey Point

PRACTICE FACILITIES There are extensive practice facilities at Kiawah Island Resort with each course having its own driving range and practice green, perfect if you are adding a coaching element to your trip.

OFF THE COURSE With no less than 11 restaurants located across the resort, there is something to please every guest in your group. If you’re looking for a delicious steak then you should try the hotel’s AAA 4 diamond rated Ocean Room Restaurant. Alternatively, The Sushi Lounge is located at The Sanctuary, with a bar on-site for an after-dinner tipple with your group. Kiawah also offers a fantastic selection of clubhouse restaurants. The Atlantic Room and Ryder Cup Bar are all perfect for a wellearned meal following your round at Kiawah.

LOCAL AREA If your group fancy a day away from the golf course then there are plenty of activities that you can engage in.

Two tennis clubs, four swimming pools and bike rentals are all located on-site. Why not try a night out at Mingo Point Oyster Roast and BBQ where you can dance the night away and enjoy live music until the early hours!

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL April, May, September and October are the most popular months for pro groups when temperatures tend to hover around the low to mid 20’s.

GETTING THERE Direct flights with British Airways are available from London Heathrow to Charleston International Airport, approximately an hour’s drive away from the resort.

PRO PACKAGE • 7 nights self-catering at the Villas at Kiawah Island • 3 rounds of golf including a round on the Ocean Course • From £999 per amateur (based on October 2019 travel) • Pro FREE with 7 amateurs

For more information on how the Golf Pro Travel team can help please contact 01753 752 880 or email pga@golfbreaks.com @Golfbreaks_Pro @golfbreaks_pro_travel

The PGA Professional

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45

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Case study: Running your first coaching break Clark Baker is the owner and Head Professional at High Beech Golf Course in Loughton Essex. Here, Clark tells us about his experience of organising and running his first coaching trip and the benefits involved.

Left: There are very good practice facilities on offer at Islantilla

Have you run trips abroad with your members before?

Yes, I ran a playing trip to Portugal back in January 2018 and January 2019 and a coaching trip in February 2019.

14 of my club members went on the first playing trip and it was so successful that I took another 14 members the next year.

Below: Islantilla is one of the most popular Golf Pro travel venues

Below: Clark’s group enjoying the sunshine on his first coaching break

What prompted you to run a coaching break?

The success of the playing trip in 2018 and the immediate interest in a follow up trip in 2019. I saw the value in offering a trip not just for my members who are better players but also my members who are still learning the game. A coaching trip was also a chance for me to organize a trip for a mixed group of members.

How did you decide on the right venue for your members?

Talking to the Pro Travel team at Golfbreaks and discussing exactly what it was I wanted to arrange. They suggested the right venue and accommodation with half board for the right price.

What type of coaching did you offer?

Lots of structured group sessions on both long game and short game. Utilizing the fantastic range facilities, practice chipping area, practice bunkers and the putting green at my chosen venue Islantilla in Spain

What facilities did you look for in a venue for a coaching break?

Good golf courses that offered the members a truly memorable experience and encouragement that they can play these types of courses. Practice facilities that suited my teaching needs and could accommodate the size of the group. Good accommodation that was close to the course and facilities.

How did you market your trip to your clients/members?

Mainly inviting lessons and members. Word of mouth between members. Posters around the clubhouse. Also, several of my members from the playing trips went on the coaching trip with their wives.

What were the benefits of running a coaching break?

The trip was very profitable. It was fantastic for client relations as it allowed me to offer services that are bigger than my own facilities could provide. I was also able to build greater rapport with my members as I was able to spend time with them on and off the course. I also saw a definite increase in sales as a lot of my members realized that they needed to upgrade their equipment. Also, there were sales before the trip with members buying flight bags/luggage, golf balls and other equipment for the trip.

What did your members think to the trip?

My clients enjoyed the trip so much that the same group has booked with me for another coaching trip in 2020 with increased numbers and interest in me running more trips.

For more information on how the Golf Pro Travel team can help please contact 01753 752 880 or email pga@golfbreaks.com @Golfbreaks_Pro @golfbreaks_pro_travel

The PGA Professional

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47

COACHING R E H A B I L I TAT I O N

Getting back into the swing of it The social and physical benefits of golf coaching for stroke survivors

Dr Tom Davies

Dr John Fry

This month’s coaching article sees the return of Dr Tom Davies, a PGA Advanced Professional and Dr John Fry, a Research Lead at the Centre for Research in Sports Performance, at Myerscough. They conducted a review of a six week ‘Get into Golf’ programme that revealed the positive benefits of golf coaching and explored how coaches can adapt their coaching practise to facilitate the participation of people with physical disabilities. Read their findings, and consider how you can make a positive difference in your coaching activities.

O

ur research published in the International Journal of Golf Science reveals the positive benefits of a golf coaching programme to stroke survivors and how coaches (and clubs) can adapt their coaching offers to encourage participation amongst people with physical disabilities. Drawing on interviews with four stroke survivors who participated in a six week ‘Get into Golf’ programme and coaches with experience of delivering disability golf sessions results suggest golf can play an important role in the social and physical rehabilitation of those who have had a stroke. However, coaches and clubs need to consider how changes in format, equipment, cost, and access will impact on the success of disability coaching programmes.

While the full study can be accessed via The International Journal of Golf Science website the aim of this article is to give PGA Professionals who may be considering 48

running disability coaching sessions, guidance to make those sessions as enjoyable and beneficial to participants as possible.

Firstly, we will share the participants experiences of the ‘Get into Golf’ programme before outlining how clubs and coaches can support stroke survivors (or others with physical disabilities) to play golf.

A POSITIVE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL EXPERIENCE Outside of simply enhancing golf skills the ‘Get into Golf’ group activities provided key social and physical benefits to participants. Firstly, meeting new people who were in a similar situation to themselves and being able to talk with such individuals in a relaxed environment proved to be a key social benefit. Supporting this social element golfers felt that good quality on site (but off course) social areas such as the clubhouse or cafe at a driving range were important. Indeed, one of the coaches felt

that “the social aspect is often really overlooked. Somebody with a disability who wants to make friends, or just get out of the house and interact with people, then golf is a great way of doing that”. Based on the reflections of the participants in this study promoting the social element of golf is a key aspect of developing participation amongst those with disabilities.

The weekly training programmes also provided physical benefits to participants and helped to develop flexibility (through

The benefits are social as well as physical

June 2019

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R E H A B I L I TAT I O N COAC H I NG stretching) and strength (via hitting golf shots) which helped to increase confidence given the effect on their overall physical abilities. One participant reflected that “I found it really good for the exercise … to improve flexibility and confidence… the exercise does help to strengthen your weak side”. By its very nature, being self-paced and generally not overly load bearing, golf appears to represent a useful activity to develop physical skills after a stroke.

Summarising these positive benefits one golfer reflected that she had enjoyed “learning a skill, building confidence, and improving skills, all while meeting others not in a clinical environment”.

For any PGA Members looking to develop programmes for disabled golfers it is important that key personnel in the club are made aware of issues surrounding disabilities. Training is often available through local sport authorities supported by UK Coaching and Sports Councils in the home countries.

Additional support is available from England Golf’s Inclusion and Wellbeing Manager Jamie Blair who can be contacted on j.blair@englandgolf.org The full original article is available here: https://www.golfsciencejournal.org/article/5005 Dr Tom Davies, PGA Advanced Professional Bratislava, Slovakia performancegolfsk@gmail.com Twitter: @tomdavies_golf Instagram: performancegolfsk Dr John Fry, Research Lead for Sport Centre for Research in Sports Performance, University Centre Myerscough jfry@myerscough.ac.uk Twitter: @johnfry12 If you would like to contribute to this section of The PGA Professional, please contact the Head of Coaching and Sports Science, David Colclough with your ideas at: david.colclough@pga.org.uk

The PGA Professional

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HOW TO SUPPORT STROKE SURVIVORS PLAYING GOLF

Before designing any coaching session or series of sessions for people with physical disabilities it is important to take the time to understand how the disability may limit an individual’s ability to take part and the specific adaptations which may have to be made. Simply having a oneon-one conversation with participants before starting the training sessions is a great starting point with additional support being available from disability charities (such as the Stroke Association in this case).

While each participant will have different coaching needs, what follows is some general guidance for coaches and clubs based on the reflections of participants and coaches. Although this was based on stroke survivors the guidance is applicable to coaching players with any physical disability.

Promote independence Stroke survivors often struggle to undertake everyday activities without some level of support, and so regaining their Understanding independence is a key part of their overall individual rehabilitation. Organising and adapting the needs is key environment to promote independence was important to participants. This could be, for example, the strategic location of, and distance between, bathroom/rest facilities on the course and around the clubhouse, automatic tees on driving ranges, and consideration around the use of adaptive golf carts.

Format Physical disabilities impact on the duration and amount of golf that can be played. Hitting golf balls on the range for an hour will not be appropriate for many golfers. Starting with easier tasks which will improve self-confidence may be more important to participants than learning specific techniques. Working in pairs promotes the social aspect of golf while at the same time allowing players to take a break when tired. Taking time to understand participants will allow more individualised instruction which offers alternative activities for people with various levels of readiness. For example, visual cues and coloured bands can be used to prompt foot placement or guide hand placement (such as the rubber feet found in tri-golf equipment).

Equipment Participants discussed the benefit of having a range of different equipment to use. Given that a stroke can physically affect individuals to differing degrees it is important to have a variety of club options for golfers to use. In particular lighter clubs and those with different lie angles and lengths that allow golfers who cannot adopt a “standard” posture to still be able to make an adapted swing. For those coaches who wish to invest more in to their equipment items such as Velcro golf gloves (for those who struggle to grip the club) or adapted chairs will make their coaching sessions more accessible. Even extremely “novel” equipment such as the ‘zero swing’ club can allow those with disabilities to still enjoy the social and associated physical benefits of golf even if they cannot swing a club.

Cost, access, and awareness Given that many people recovering from a stroke may not be in fulltime employment finding ways to keep costs down for groups is an important consideration. Funding may be available from a national golf organisation, the NHS, or disability charities to support disability coaching programmes to subsidise coaching or buy equipment.

Transport was an issue for many in this study with most people willing to travel a maximum of 30 minutes. Coaching initiatives should therefore be promoted around the golf club locality.

49

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B U S I N E S S COAC H I NG

Stand out from the crowd PGA Business Relationship Officer Danielle Thomas sat down with Ryan Ingram, teaching professional at George Washington Golf Club to find out how he has been able to create his own brand while continuing his own personal development.

What has been your biggest

right equipment for them to play golf

challenge in coaching and

to start with. Here even if you don’t’

how did you overcome it?

have equipment we’ll lend it to you.

I think it’s getting your name out there and the marketing aspect. I’ve had to

Trying to get established

put a lot of work in that side of things

golfers to have lessons is

to be able to be where I am now. I

a problem. How have you

created a website and got that out

addressed this?

there. There are some easy platforms

It’s a work in progress. I’ve established

that help you do that but it takes a lot

packages for each category of golfer

of knowledge to be able to understand

so they have a goal and I can then

what needs to be on that website.

help them achieve that goal. I’ve got

Being able to put something out on

the ‘break 100’ package which is a

social media that attracts customers to

six-week programme giving them the

inbox you. The average photo on social because everyone is doing it, so you have to make yours attractive. In terms of my brand, I’ve changed that to Ryan Ingram Golf to make it more of a personal brand so people are buying into me rather than a corporate identity.

What has been your greatest coaching success story?

The one that pops to mind is an 84-year-old man who came to me not being able to carry the golf ball over the second ditch of his golf course, around 120 yards. He had the desire to hit the ball further and being able to help

tools they need to achieve that. We For Ryan Ingram, right, developing his personal brand is vital to his coaching business

‘‘

I’ve established packages for each category of golfer so they have a goal and I can then help them achieve that goal

‘‘

media doesn’t do anything anymore

also do par plan, birdie plan and eagle plan, these are direct debit packages so we get some commitment from the golfer so he or she can see the end goal. With the direct debit module, you get the commitment from the pupil, knowing they’re going to come back the week after and still have their goal and commitment in mind. Some golfers come in, have a lesson and then think they might need another lesson in six weeks’ time. They need to know it’s going to be a consistent change and development.

What key tips would you give new coaches trying to establish their

him achieve his goal of getting over the ditch

to come into the facility, making it a friendly

business?

and adding another 15 yards to his drive, that

environment where anyone can come down

Make a brand for themselves. Get yourself

has to be up there with the best.

and try the game of golf

on social media and market yourself well.

How do you engage with new

Why is breaking down those

channel. It provides an insight into a pupil

clients who might never have

barriers easier for you at George

looking into your business and that helps

played golf before?

Washington Golf Club?

build a relationship with that pupil because

Using social media is a great way to engage

This is a hotel-based golf club so there’s a bit

they understand what your coaching methods

with new clients. I’d get some fun videos out

more of a relaxed environment. You don’t

are, how friendly you are and you can build

there to show I’m interacting with children

have to come in and take your hats off or you

that rapport before even meeting you.

and women and introducing them to the

can come in wearing jeans or any clothing

game. I want to make sure they see that golf is

you feel comfortable in, whereas in your

Visit ryaningramgolf.co.uk or follow Ryan at

fun and break down barriers of them wanting

traditional golf club people have to have the

facebook.com/RyanIngramGolf

Consider creating your own YouTube

The PGA Professional

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51

A D V E R T O R I A L

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52

June 2019

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I N T E RV I E W PER S O N A L DEV ELO PM ENT

Q&A Paul Gibbons

Tell us about your joint venture

PGA Master Professional Paul Gibbons joined The PGA in 1982 and served under the stewardship of former PGA Captain Nicky Lumb. Gibbons’ passion for retail took him overseas and it’s in Asia where he has made his mark.

with Sports Direct and how you’re opening new stores in Malaysia?

We started as a licensee with Sports Direct almost 10 years ago, subsequently evolving into a joint venture as part of Sports Direct PLC, with the company allowing us the autonomy to adapt the business to the Asian environment.

We will continue to grow domestically at about

How did you get into golf?

20 per cent over the next three years, adding

I was 11 years old and on holiday in North

the store count to close to 40.

Wales, when introduced to a pitch-and-putt course and have been hooked ever since.

PGA Master Professional Paul Gibbons: making his mark in Asia

What steps should PGA Professionals take to help grow the

What made you go down the

place. The accreditation of being a member

game overseas?

wholesale and retail route as a PGA

of a professional body and its history is

We must promote all aspects of the golf game

Professional?

important, especially in Asia.

as a business, not just a sport, considering

I was fortunate to learn from Nicky Lumb

it employs and supports so many associated

for five years. His dynamic and often radical

Where did the idea of MST Golf

industries around the world. Sustainability

approach to retailing and managing a thriving

Management come from and how

is only achieved with a balanced commercial

business had a lasting impression. I was

successful has it been?

approach and I’m enthused to hear more

nowhere near good enough to play for a living

MST stands literally for Malaysia, Singapore,

professionals speak out about low-cost

and struggled with many hours of teaching

and Thailand. A golf retail business developed

access and grass roots engagement, as well as

beginners. I have a passion for engaging people

by two Malaysian childhood friends over a

career diversification beyond the traditional

and acquired the ability to sell, hence my entire

period of more than 30 years. I joined the

obligations of a PGA Member.

career evolved around these disciplines.

company 11 years ago to build the academy

Where did your interest for

and events business and set the structure for us

What do you most enjoy about

to venture into mainstream sports.

your job?

working abroad come from?

‘‘

A burning desire to keep moving, bettering opportunities. I got bored easily and always needed a challenge. I was blessed that my wife Jane, followed my passion to be on the move. I truly believed at a young age that money should not be the primary motivation, instead trying to shape a career with various experiences outside of one’s comfort zone and

I have a passion for engaging with people and acquired the ability to sell, hence my entire career evolved around these disciplines.

‘‘

myself and exploring both work and life

this is what I did.

What’s the best thing about

Our MST Academy has created the

I have tremendous diversification, for example, mentoring my team and focusing their abundant energy on effective retailing. We will soon have over 800 staff in the sports division with almost 100 based in our HQ, most of whom are at least 20 years my junior, therefore quite a challenge! In more recent years, I have also assisted the Malaysian government, to evaluate and drive golf as a vehicle for Tourism, selling the country around the natural topography and its unique ambience.

What would you have done if you

working overseas?

largest Junior Golf Development Program in

hadn’t been a PGA Professional?

I would have to say the recognition and

Malaysia with over 200 students weekly and

I honestly have no idea, though I would

respect. I have found less competition and

is considered one of the most structured and

have eventually identified my strengths and

more opportunity to thrive abroad although

detailed junior golf development programs in

followed my passion for sport, travel and

that is changing as the world becomes a smaller

South East Asia.

leading others.

The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

53

M A R KETING

Measure for measure How do you know if your marketing campaign has been successful?

Antje Derks looks at different ways to help you judge effectiveness

£

54

Much like a teacher in the classroom. You have your learning objective and it’s about getting the kids from knowing nothing to meeting the objective by the end of the lesson. Simple right? Not unless you define your goals at the very start of your campaign.

‘‘

what success looks like is very different depending on what you choose to measure

‘‘

H

opefully, you’ve followed our tips and have implemented your marketing campaign – now it is time to review the results. You’ve got some data that perhaps says it worked well and other information that suggests things went a bit off kilter. So how do you know if your campaign was a success or not?

Measuring success is the critical part of any campaign – marketing, PR or advertising – the genres might be slightly different, but in the end, it boils down to whether your visibility has increased and whether sales have gone up. What is tricky is that success looks like is very different depending on what you choose to measure.

Essentially, there are two things to bear in mind. The first is to measure sales and leads. Now, these could be measured by revenue, by pipeline contribution, created sales opportunities or other metrics that you decide on. The other key point is that you must always begin with the end in mind.

One thing to bear in mind is that every business is different – the golf industry included. While a pro might measure a successful campaign in terms of more clients or more social followers, the pro shop might be more concerned with sales conversions and pipeline contribution. Every business

– even in the same sector – will likely have different goals. What could be seen as a failed campaign for one, might be deemed a roaring success for another.

So while there’s still no definitive answer on how to measure a marketing campaign’s effectiveness – and there never will be – the most effective and switched on small businesses prioritise what’s important and what’s not. What is key is how you measure response, and how you learn from the results. And that’s always good information.

Here are six things you should consider when measuring your next marketing campaign: June 2019

| www.pga.info

M A R K ET I N G

2

LOOK AT OBJECTIVES RATHER THAN FANCY MEASURING TOOLS To measure the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns, you must first have an objective. What is the point of running a marketing campaign in the first place?

What results do you expect to receive from that campaign? What are your Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)? Once you establish objectives, measuring effectiveness becomes much easier. It’s not difficult – just don’t get stuck on the tools you are using. You only need two things to track success. Firstly, Campaign tracking URLs in Google Analytics and the Goals also found in Google analytics.

3

MEASURING ENGAGEMENT As a golf pro or pro shop manager, you will be looking for a pipeline of new clients and/or sales. New people in your pipeline is what you should all be aiming for. So, perhaps one of the best ways for you to measure your ‘peoplepowered’ business is through momentum and engagement with your marketing efforts. Ask yourself the following questions: How many people are viewing and/ or engaging with your posts on social media? How many people are actively opening and reading your newsletter? How many The PGA Professional

| #makinggolfhappen

people are taking advantage of any offers or discounts etc. Are visitors staying on your website and consuming your content or are they clicking off in a matter of a millisecond?

And lastly, are you getting word-of-mouth recommendations?

‘‘

Once you establish objectives, measuring effectiveness becomes much easier

‘‘

1

DEFINING YOUR USER While specific metrics depend on the type of marketing used, the key to effective tracking is to start before you develop your campaign. Specifically, define its objective, target audience, and user context, since together, these variables determine your metrics. Based on these inputs, create specific calls-to-action and associated landing pages that yield trackable results. Personally, I prefer metrics that can be shown to be contributing to sales. However, digital marketing can make it tricky to assess some of the specifics that have added to these results.

4

SALES REVENUE Alternatively, you might choose to measure the effectiveness of your campaign by measuring the amount of direct sales, bookings and new clients you have gained as a result. It doesn’t really matter about secondary calculations larger companies use to define success – whether that’s total return on investment – also known as ROI – which basically means money spent on the campaign compared with money made. Or customer acquisition costs – all the money you’ve spent on marketing to get new customers, divided by the number of customers you’ve gained.

However, it could be that you don’t have any solid benchmarks to attribute to direct revenue and while that’s not a disaster, it does mean that it’s tricky to proceed with a further course of action.

5

RETURN ON INVESTMENT I look after marketing for some large and global companies that means my focus is largely in the Business to Business market. As a result, these companies have much longer and more complicated sales cycles. In order to track campaigns, I tend to rely on Google Analytics and the sales teams use Salesforce software to keep a track on leads. I also have to report on a raft of other metrics including traffic to the

website, social media and how we rank on Google keywords. So why am I tell you this?

Well, ultimately, the big-bucks companies have the same concerns as small businesses.

In the end it comes down to this: Have we got any new leads? If yes, where did they come from? How much money (marketing budget) has it cost per lead?

How many leads have converted into sales – or in the case of the golf pro – new clients who are booking for lessons. And lastly, whether we have got a good return on our investment (marketing budget spend). You might look at a more local level. How many new clients have you secured and have actually booked a lesson; how many new customers have visited the pro shop and made a purchase; how many new subscribers have you signed up for your newsletter. These are the questions you need to be asking yourself.

6

WHAT DO YOU DO NOW? I always measure campaigns and its effectiveness in stages. I ask myself a series of questions – how much did I spend on the campaign? As the campaign progresses, I look at how many leads have converted and then, when it’s all over bar the shouting, I evaluate my results and think about how good my message was, whether I got my targeting right, whether the structure of the campaign was solid and if I have included an enticing offer. I make a note of all the things that worked well, which I incorporate into the next campaign and bin off anything that failed. It really is as simple as that.

Get it done this month ✓ Design your campaign ✓ Decide on which metrics to use ✓ Evaluate your results ✓ Note things that worked well ✓ Incorporate successess into the next campaign

✓ Discard anything that failed 55

A D V E R T O R I A L

Golf club success stories Membership growth through service excellence At a very basic level, as golf professionals, whichever direction our career has taken, we all aim to offer the best products and services to our customers. We all aspire to deliver the level of professionalism that our PGA training instilled within us. The pro who thinks smarter, who sets their own agenda to push the boundaries to achieve success, is the pro who stands to win the most!

A clear message originating from recent success stories is that distinguishing yourself from traditional methods is a formula for growth. Many professionals have found success once they were able to find their own distinct voice, however, success comes from evolving the customer journey and staff development, creating a fun and friendly service culture that people want to be part of.

Service sells. It can generate a significant increase in memberships for your club

Customers will only stay loyal to your brand if they have very good reason to, otherwise there is plenty of competition available waiting to win their business. Whether you’re the Head Professional, Director of Golf, or General Manager, you have to work hard to retain customers and build trust. By providing the best in customer service you will increase trust and build community, that could mean the difference between customer loyalty and customers who jump ship.

VENUE SPOTLIGHT Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club – Edinburgh, Scotland Set in 1,000 acres of picturesque parkland, Dalmahoy boasts two 18-hole golf courses, as well as a 4-star manor hotel. The East course has staged several top-quality professional events such as The Solheim Cup, the Scottish PGA and the Scottish Seniors Open, and a prosperous following of loyal members.

59club, an official PGA Partner, is owned by four PGA qualified professionals, and employs a further four PGA professionals with the main objective of elevating sales and service standards across the golf, leisure, spa & hospitality industries. The ‘Customer Satisfaction Surveys’, ‘Mystery Shopper Audits’ and ‘Training Services’, empower managers to analyse their entire visitor and member experience, enabling them to set targets, monitor performance and ultimately increase revenue and profits.

Sam Oliver, Director of Golf & Leisure said: “The 59club mystery shopper audits help create the base for my team training and provides a key focus for the business, increasing efficiency and profitability.

The prominent success over the last 12 months is our golf membership, which has a net gain of 201 members since the beginning of 2018 and a huge improvement in the audit score to match.

On top of this, retail revenue increased by 15% YOY for 2018, and is continuing to grow further in 2019, mainly due to better brand selection based on customer feedback. I’d recommend 59club’s services to any golf club – whether they are struggling or thriving, Sam Oliver collecting 59club’s my59 Service there’s always room for improvement” Excellence Award, at St Andrews

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Your regional 59club representative is waiting to discuss your needs and build a clear strategy for you to advance.

Visit www.59club.com for more information.

June 2019

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YO U R B R A N D PER S O N A L DEV ELO PM ENT

3 Personal Brand mistakes are holding you back

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Where’s it all going wrong? asks Antje Derks

s a small business – especially one that thrives because of you and the skills and expertise you offer – the likelihood is that you have already taken steps to enhance your individual brand – at least I hope so, I’ve written about it enough. As with everything, there is no shortage of advice on the web about how to brand yourself, but in the end it boils down to this: You need to get yourself out there – online and in person.

If you’ve followed any of my advice, you’ll have printed up business cards. And joined Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn – indeed, you may have even got a YouTube channel and an Instagram account, which you visit regularly and update at least once a week. Yet opportunities still aren’t coming your way.

So why is that? Well, the internet is a crowded place – if you want to compete, you have to have the right online presence – if you don’t, you will disappear into obscurity.

So what is the right online presence? How can you leave competitors craving a slice of your pie? Here are some things to avoid. If you do these well, you will soon set yourself apart from the rest.

1

YOU HAVEN’T CLARIFIED YOUR PURPOSE First and foremost, you need to ask yourself what you want to be known—or hired—for.

As a golf pro in a highly competitive market, what kind of things aside from the obvious can you bring to the table. Can you offer video coaching? Maybe you have use of VR, or maybe you have some branded clothes in your shop that no one else gets. Maybe you cater for tricky sizes, or you specialise in lessons for children. In this era of competition, it’s smart to boast about your broad range of

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skills. But – one word of caution. Don’t try to be all things to all people. Pick something specific and focus on that. Not sure what that is? Look at your golfing career to date and see if you can identify a common thread. If you can – focus on that.

The web is a noisy place – to make yourself heard, decide who you want to be and then start promoting yourself. As soon as you’re able to explain your specialty, both online and in person, and can demonstrate your experience and aptitude for it, the right opportunities will start finding you.

2

YOU’RE NOT SHARING THE RIGHT THINGS You’ve pitched a tent on Facebook and have done your due diligence on Twitter and Insta, but you don’t exactly feel like you’re building a following. It might be because you’re committing some social sins.

Don’t over promote – Make sure you employ the rule of thirds – one third it’s all about you and your business, a second third is all about sharing interesting information that works for your audience and lastly, engage with your followers.

That said, under promoting is almost as bad. It’s ok to blow your own trumpet occasionally!

Don’t be unprofessional – remember the slightest indiscretion could damage your

brand. You’ve got to hit the sweet spot – the heavenly mix of career accomplishments and personal interests, plus a dash of your personality – without over-sharing.

When in doubt, share value. Post links to interesting articles you’ve found online, pass along fabulous opportunities, or point people to helpful resources. Friends and followers will quickly identify you as someone who always has something to offer.

3

YOU DON’T HAVE YOUR OWN WEBSITE You probably think your profiles on social—Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter—are enough. They’re not. You need your own website. It will capture who you are, what you offer and what you’ve achieved.

Your website is where you can best control your message, because it will dominate the results that populate a Google search of your name. Think of your site as your giving visitors a snapshot of what you do best. It doesn’t need to be all singing.

Get it done this month If you’ve fallen off the digital wagon somewhat, all is not lost. Here are a few things you can do right now:

✓ Write a lively blog all about the great things that happened in the time since your last post

✓ Get your scheduling tool fired up and schedule posts for once to twice a week across all platforms.

✓ Make sure you’re observing the rule of thirds on social – promote yourself, decent third-party news, content and info and engage with your followers. Comment on posts, like and share.

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CLU B MA NAG E M E NT D ATA C O L L E C T I O N

Golfer data collection and working together

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he trials and tribulations of the golf industry have been well documented in recent years. Falling golf club membership, declining price integrity, supply and demand and even the good old British weather have all had their part to play.

PGA Professionals are at the centre of this storm. More and more are being tasked in increasing membership, building a profitable and sustainable green fee business and all against a background of increasing competition and seemingly less leisure time to compete for.

At the centre of it all are the 1.5 million independent golfers. Those who play the game on a semi regular basis (once a month) but who have resisted all temptations to commit to the game- aka join a golf club (which for some is the same thing.) It is to ‘win’ this market that working together as an industry may just be the answer.

Coopetition, or put simply, “collaboration between business competitors, in the hope of mutually beneficial results” is the new buzzword in any industry under pressure to grow its market.

But in golf how do we get started?

The answer… Working together as an industry to gather the data of the 1.5 million customers who we all ‘know’ (remember they play at a golf course at least once a month) and then using that data collaboratively and independently for your own marketing. Rather than constantly competing for a shrinking market, working together to grow it.

If we knew who our customers were, how much easier life would be. If during the recent challenges, we had a database to reach out to of customers who had enjoyed a game of golf or a lesson in the past and now just needed to be prompted or their interest reignited, we could do that!

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A national golfer registration scheme, designed to take the headache away from PGA Professionals dealing with face-to-face data collection, has been developed by PGA One Golf Network and backed by The PGA. Here, the scheme, and how you and your golf club can get involved, is outlined for the first time.

The person at the forefront is you, the PGA Professional The biggest interaction between a customer and a golf club is through the golf professional.

They walk into your shop; they ring you for green fees, lessons and retail advice. You are the first line of contact and each of you at some point will encounter the 1.5 million golfers the industry is seeking to reach.

So, it’s with the PGA Professional in mind that PGA One Golf Network has now developed a national data registration scheme. One that is designed to simplify the process of golfer data collection, on-site registration and between us build a national database for the benefit of all the participating parties and put you the PGA Professional at the heart of it.

How does it work?

THE SCHEME works on the principle that if every golf club were to check people in the same way then over time it would become the norm. In the same way that you walk into a hotel and register, enter your gym and swipe your card, get on a bus and show your bus pass, show your loyalty card at the supermarket. People are used to checking in.

Couple that with a move to digital and the world being on your mobile phone and ‘The Golfer Card’ app has been developed to meet both requirements. Golfers can download the app completely free of charge and when they are on site swipe the QR code with you the Professional and they are ready to play.

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D ATA C O L L E C T I O N C LU B M A N AG EM ENT Dealing with the objections

THE ISSUE with data collection in golf clubs is people just not checking in and when they do, to not give any details. So why would they now? Three key reasons: 1) The industry needs to commit to asking every person to check in not just as nice thing to do but as a must to run a safe and responsible business. If we ask it will become the norm; 2) All golfers should be insured, and the Golfer Card has a low-cost national insurance scheme built into it; 3) They will be rewarded. The rewards will be down to you but once they are on your VIP visitor list contacting and incentivising them will be easy to manage. Your own golf club loyalty scheme!

What do we need to do?

The first task is to work together to get every golfer registered and that includes your golf club members. Remember they are visitors to other golf clubs and so they need to be included.

Once every golfer has registered once then the role of the national scheme is done. Now it’s down to golf clubs to implement data collection in your golf club and start to build your own marketing database by encouraging visitors to swipe the app.

Simply register with us and you will receive your pack completely free of charge. It will include:

1

Your QR code registered to your golf club so that golfers can scan it on arrival. Beacon technology will shortly be available, and beacons installed at cost.

2 3

Access to your area of the database where all your visitor data will be stored

4

A simple form so that you can register people on site if they haven’t already done so or give them details of your unique link so they can register later.

5

By tracking all registrations back to you, golfers who upgrade the app to include the annual insurance will earn you 20% commission on the £6 fee.

6 7

Marketing and social media support to help you promote the scheme

What about GDPR?

THE APPLICATION is fully data compliant. A golfer scans the app on site and immediately receives a unique push message from the golf club welcoming them and asking them to agree to hearing from you with simple press of a button. Far easier than filling out yet another form. The software keeps a record of all those people who have committed to receiving marketing from your golf club so you can begin to use it in your own marketing activity.

A series of emails for you to send to members and your existing visitor database explaining the new national scheme and asking them to register online. We will be able to track all registrations to your golf club’s unique code.

A national marketing campaign to make golfers aware of the scheme that is being adopted by golf clubs so they will know to start registering in person or online

Where do I register?

Just go to http://business.thegolfercard.co.uk and complete the registration form. We will then set you up on the system and send you your launch pack and online promotional material. The scheme will be launched on an area by area basis as more and more golf clubs sign up. It will be promoted on a county and regional basis once enough golf clubs are ready to start using it.

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P G A M EMBERS H IP YO U R B E N E F I T S

Save now with your PGA Membership PGA Membership entitles you to take advantage of a host of discounts and incentives*, from exclusive contract car hire rates to dental plans and holiday deals, so make sure you start saving now! To access all these benefits and more, log in via http://benefits.pga.info Public liability insurance Cover is included in your subscription fee (if you are resident and working in the EU). 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.

VAT advice The possibility of being off work through illness or injury is a problem none of us can predict.

But taking out our Income Protection Plus plan could provide you with a regular monthly income that could cover all your outgoings for as long as you needed it. So why not talk to us today? We can’t stop the bills coming, but we can stop you worrying about them.

Highlights of our policy include: • Cover up to 70% of your gross earnings or £1,200 per week (whichever is lower) • Cover until you recover or reach age 65 (whichever comes first) • No waiting period - cover starts as soon as your first contribution is paid • No penalties for claiming or limits to the number of claims you can make • You benefit from a profit share scheme that’s topped up annually from any profits we make.

PLUS • Enhanced Loyalty Bonus^ – aims to top-up your lump sum to a minimum of £10,000 and provide your family with six months of your benefit in the event of your death • Free current access to a 24/7 app-based GP service putting healthcare in the palm of your hand with instant access to a GP – anytime, anywhere.

• PGA members receive a 20% discount^^ off their first two years’ premiums. View more information or call 0800 146 307 and quote ‘PGA’.

PG Mutual Income Protection Plus. Protect your tomorrows.

Not available on comparison sites. ^Applies to existing members as well. ^^For full T&Cs, visit www.pgmutual.co.uk/terms-andconditions This is a promotion from PG Mutual. PG Mutual is the trading name of Pharmaceutical and General Provident Society Ltd. Registered office: 11 Parkway, Porters Wood, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL3 6PA. Incorporated in the United Kingdom under the Friendly Societies Act 1992, Registered Number 462F. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority, Firm Reference Number 110023.

For support with golf-related VAT issues, contact Stephen Phillips on 01675 470 333 or: stephen.phillips@pga.org.uk.

PAYE/National Insurance advice BDO LLP offer a free helpline to members. Contact Michael Hepburn on 0131 347 0355 or: michael.hepburn@bdo.co.uk

ARAG 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.

The helpline is open Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm, Wed 7pm - 9pm *Calls are recorded for training purposes only.

Confidentiality is maintained between callers and Prostate Cancer UK.

To take advantage of these and other fantastic deals visit the PGA Benefits Special Offers page today!

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YO U R B E N E F I T S PG A M EM B ER S H IP Insight Healthcare To support Members that may be experiencing mental health difficulties, The PGA offers access to a 24/7 helpline service provided by Insight Healthcare. The helpline is manned by trained counsellors who are able to provide help and advice on any matter that is causing anxiety, concern or depression. The service is also available to close family and employees. If you feel you or someone close to you needs help, the number to call is +44 (0) 333 000 2082.

BMW Exclusive contract hire rates on a selection of BMW and MINI models through BMW Group.

Visit https://www.bmwpgasales.co.uk, call 0207 514 3599 or email: pgasales@bmw-issd.co.uk

SkyCaddie PGA members save over £150 on the new SkyCaddie SX500, Golfs ultimate rangefinder with its 5-inch Full HD touchscreen and the ability to give distances to the pin.

Email sales@skycaddiegps.co.uk or call 01844 296358 for more info.

SkyTrak Order an own use SkyTrak Launch Monitor and receive a free Metal Case and the 1st Year game improvement software saving nearly £250.

Then become a SkyTrak Show Case Dealer and earn a bonus 40% affiliate fee (about £600+ Vat) on your first sale and 20% fee on any future sales. Email sales@skycaddiegps.co.uk or call 01844 296358 for more info.

PowaKaddy Account holders personal use trolley at a discounted rate of 15 per cent off trade price (non-account holders are eligible for trade price).

Call 01795 473 555 or email sales@powakaddy.co.uk quoting membership number.

WE’LL HELP YOU EARN MORE FROM YOUR GREEN FEE REVENUE In partnership with The PGA, GoPlayGolf is designed to help you and your golf club benefit from the ever increasing numbers of golfers booking golf on-line.

6 BENEFITS TO YOU, THE GOLF PRO BENEFIT #1

Increase your green fee revenue BENEFIT #2

You pay less commission BENEFIT #3

You control the price BENEFIT #4

Bringing new golfers to you by providing an additional distribution channel BENEFIT #5

Silverbug Silverbug are IT experts who do things a little differently.

We offer Members: Free IT health check of your business; Up to three months free managed IT services when taking out a contract; Option to leave within the first three months if you change your mind. For more information contact us on 0207 078 3795, quoting PGA. For more information log on to PGA Benefits via https://www.pga.info/members-landing.aspx *Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers subject to change without notice. PGA Benefit web pages are managed and run by Parliament Hill Limited of 3rd Floor, 127 Cheapside, London, EC2V 6BT who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for non-investment insurance mediation under registration number 308448. Details can be checked on the Financial Services register by visiting the FCA’s web site at https://fca.org.uk/register. Within those benefits are some benefits negotiated directly by PGA, and these are identified on the benefit web page. ^Applies to existing members as well. ^^For full T&Cs, visit www.pgmutual.co.uk/terms-and-conditions This is a promotion from PG Mutual. PG Mutual is the trading name of Pharmaceutical and General Provident Society Ltd. Registered office: 11 Parkway, Porters Wood, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL3 6PA. Incorporated in the United Kingdom under the Friendly Societies Act 1992, Registered Number 462F. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority, Firm Reference Number 110023.

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Works seamlessly with existing tee time booking systems BENEFIT #6

You don’t need an online booking system to benefit email: info@goplaygolf.co.uk for information

More Members’ benefits overleaf ! >> 61

P G A M EMBERS H IP YO U R B E N E F I T S Birdietime

Staysure

Offering all Members a free 1-hour marketing consultancy session to identify practical step to increase your tuition revenues.

To book your session, email us at info@birdietime.com Visit birdietimepro.com to learn more about our online booking and payment system.

To celebrate our sponsorship of the Staysure Tour, we’d like to offer your members and their families 20% off† travel insurance with Staysure. As a thank you for referring your members to us, we’ll send you £10± every time someone takes out a policy on your recommendation – plus for every 10 policies sold in 1 calendar month, we will give you an additional £100.

For more details and to download your poster visit: benefits.pga.info

Huxley Golf Incentive programme of up to £500 in commission when recommending customers to purchase an all-weather home putting green.

Call +44 (0)1730 829 608 or visit huxleygolf.com

Aphrodite Hills – Holiday Residences

Preferential rates to PGA members for accepting credit and debit cards. Call 0330 123 1241 quoting PGA.

25% discount on public rates with minimum stay of five nights (seven nights’ minimum stay during July and August). Valid for all apartments, junior villas and superior villa holiday bookings.

Contact: reservations@aphroditehills.com quoting: PGA Professional

Coca-Cola

Aphrodite Hills – Hotel

First Data

Special packages on products and coolers.

For more information visit coca-colapga.com

Mars Provide retail expertise to help maximise your return. Benefit from point of sale promotions and receive guidance on how to choose an appropriate product range.

For further info, contact richard.hobday@effem.com

Smarter Golf Energy Solutions for golfers, by golfers – helping you use energy more efficiently and sustainably.

We can help courses cut down on utility overheads and help individuals chip away at their home energy bills – all for the betterment of the sport.

Visit https://smartergolfenergy.co.uk/

Virgin Atlantic Offer all PGA Members discounted airfares across the whole network, with checked golf bag clearance (subject to availability).

Discounted flights are available in all three cabins.

Contact the Traveleads sports team at: sport@travelleads.net or 0113 242 2202 quoting your PGA membership number.

Golfbreaks.com Access to bespoke golfing packages for you and your clients through the dedicated Golf Pro Travel Team. Benefit from the best rates in the market. Receive a five per cent commission on your booking.

For an exploratory meeting at your club contact Ben Foster on 07471 034 852 or email pga@golfbreaks.com

20% discount from package rates. aphroditehills.com Contact: reservations_mgr_AH@atlanticahotels.com quoting: PGA Professional

Antalya Golf Club Attractive, all-inclusive rates for you and your family at staying in Belek.

For the Sirene Hotel, contact volkan.cavusoglu@sirene.com.tr For the Kempinski Hotel The Dome, contact erdinc.isbir@kempinski.com

Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa Luxurious four-star accommodation from just £78 per room B&B (max. two occupants) and includes use of the upgraded pool and health club. Member deals available Sunday to Thursday for business or leisure. Contact Mark Williams on 01704 875 699 or reservations@formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk

Argentario Golf Resort & Spa 20% off the flexible rate† published on www.argentariogolfresortspa.it including early check-in and late check-out; buffet breakfast; use of the wellness centre, driving range. Bespoke packages for PGA Members and clients.

For availability and prices call +39 0564 810292 or email booking@ argentarioresort.it quoting PGA Member.

To take advantage of these and other fantastic deals visit the PGA Benefits site today via http://www.pga.info/members-landing.aspx

For more information log on to PGA Benefits via https://www.pga.info/members-landing.aspx †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. *Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers subject to change without notice. PGA Benefit web pages are managed and run by Parliament Hill Limited of 3rd Floor, 127 Cheapside, London, EC2V 6BT who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for non-investment insurance mediation under registration number 308448. Details can be checked on the Financial Services register by visiting the FCA’s web site at https:// fca.org.uk/register. Within those benefits are some benefits negotiated directly by PGA, and these are identified on the benefit web page.

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re c r uitm en t @ p g a . o r g . u k S I T UAT I O N S VACA N T Knole Park Golf Club

Assistant PGA Professional A great opportunity to be part of the hard working and motivated team at Knole Park.

The successful candidate will be required to develop coaching programmes for members, academy members, schools and guests.

Shop hours will be between 20-25 hours per week.

The facilities include a 14 bay practice area with a large grass tee, short game area and putting greens.

If you are a highly motivated team player that can offer an excellent service to the membership please apply.

The position is open to year2/3 trainees and qualified PGA members.

Covering letter and CV to Andrew Butterfield at proshop@knoleparkgolfclub.co.uk

Ridgeway Golf Club Require a Lead Coach Ridgeway is a forward-thinking club with a ‘YES’ mentality that boasts a 22 bay flood lit covered driving range.

This a fantastic opportunity for a highly motivated candidate who is enthusiastic about growing the game. Applicants must be passionate about developing young golfers. Strong coaching and communication skills are essential to join a vibrant team providing first class customer service. The role includes the running, organising and delivery of a coaching academy with great potential.

Contact Bill Fitzgerald for further information or apply with CV and covering letter to bill@ridgewaygolf.org by 7th June.

An exciting opportunity to join the existing team of Professionals has become available at Tandridge Golf Club.

Tandridge is a GB & Ireland’s top 100 private members club situated on the Kent, Surrey border.

The successful candidate will join Chris Evans and his current team of two assistants and will be trained in all aspects of the game.

Chris Evans the PGA Advanced Professional has over thirty years’ experience in the industry and can help you become a successful Professional in which ever area of the game you would like to specialise in.

Tandridge is a very busy club and the team provide coaching on a daily basis to both members and visitors alike. Applicants should be motivated, enthusiastic, customer focused and keen to learn, a fantastic opportunity to earn & work within a growing business.

Subsidised accommodation is also available with this position.

If you would like to become part of our team then please send us your CV by email to; evo63@aol.com.

For questions about the position available just call us on 01883-713701. www.tandridgegolfclub.com.

The Thonock Park Golf Club boasts two golf courses, undercover driving range, teaching studio, large two-story clubhouse with extensive function/catering capability and on-site accommodation.

We are seeking to recruit an Assistant Golf Professional reporting to the Golf Operations Manager to deliver a range of golf instruction programs aimed at providing high quality golf instruction to golfers of all abilities.

The Professional is expected to support the Golf Operations Manager and General Manager in promoting the game of golf, golf club and promotions or events as required and will be responsible for delivering a high-quality level of customer service at all times.

The candidate must possess the following skills and personal qualities: • Comprehensive knowledge of the golf swing, instruction methods, and instruction programs.

• A good knowledge of club fitting software (training will be supplied).

• Strong service standard skills.

• Ability to relate to staff and golfers from a variety of backgrounds.

• To be a competent golfer.

• Understanding of the Rules of Golf, golf handicapping systems and golf tournament formats.

• Ability to multi task and mange time effectively.

• Excellent organizational skills and be able to meet deadlines.

• Ability to work with sensitive and confidential information.

• Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, accounting applications and database management software.

The candidate must be fully qualified or at least 2 years into the PGA Program and will be required to represent the club at golf events, tournaments, exhibitions and meetings as required.

If you would like more information about the role, please contact Nick Taylor, Golf Operations Manager on nickt@thonockpark.co.uk or if you would like a more detailed job description or would like to apply, please send your CV to Caroline Roberts, HR Manager on caroliner@pingeurope.co.uk Closing date of Friday 14th June 2019.

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E MPLOYMENT O P P O RTU NIT I ES rec r u i t m en t @ p g a . o r g . u k UK AND IRELAND Chadwell Springs Family Golf Centre

Naas Golf Club, County Kildare

We are looking for a Qualified/Trainee PGA Professional to work at this brand-new fantastic establishment, near Herford just off the A10. The roll will consist of a few shop hours and a full-time position. Fantastic earning potential.

Covering letter/CV to Mark Smith mark@totally-golf.com.

Position available for registered assistant or trainee applicant.

Flexible work hours / opportunities to coach and play. Please forward CV and relevant details to gavinlunny@gmail.com.

Chobham Golf Club, Surrey

Chobham Golf Club are looking for an enthusiastic wellmannered Trainee Professional. The individual should be competent in operating computer systems, be able to hold conversations and build relationships with customers/ members. A high level of training will be given to the right candidate. Please reply to michael@chobhamgolfclub.co.uk.

Hennerton Golf Club

Qualified Assistant/ Registered Assistant/ Trainee to start in June Fantastic opportunity for a motivated candidate to join a friendly pro-shop team. The position is full time and the role includes playing opportunities, individual coaching as well as the development of junior coaching, retail and all other areas of a golf operation.

Please apply with CV and covering letter to glenn@hennertongolfclub.co.uk.

Sherfield Oaks Golf Club, Basingstoke

Qualified Assistant/ Registered Assistant/ Trainee to start ASAP. Key areas; retail, coaching, custom fitting, playing. Facilities include 27-hole complex, 7 bay covered driving range and 6 hole par 3 course. Plenty of opportunity to develop coaching and playing.

CV and cover letter to Paul Arthur, Alyth GC at paul.arthur@foremostgolf.com.

Qualified Assistant/PGA Trainee required to join a busy commercial club. Must be smart in appearance, self-motivated with good IT and communication skills. Flexible working hours including weekends, plenty of teaching and playing opportunities.

Applicants must be reliable, enthusiastic, good people skills.

CV and cover letter to Paul Tedder, email sherfieldoaks-golfshop@crown-golf.co.uk.

Royal Winchester Golf Club

Wheatley Golf Club, South Yorkshire

We’re recruiting a self-motivated, customer service driven trainee professional that’ll be part of a brand-new team under new management. Offering a refurbished shop and new state of the art indoor swing studio to learn new personal skills, gain expertise and further one’s career. Please send CV to elliot@rwgolfshop.co.uk.

Assistant Professional required to join team, ideally registered or applying to register and complete training programme. Retail shop hours, custom fitting, teaching along with competitive golf in PGA events. Busy members’ club with newly fitted shop and swing studio.

Apply to Aaron Hodkin at: Proshop@wheatleygolfclub.co.uk.

Before 15th June 2019.

Alyth Golf Club

Renishaw Park Golf Club

PGA Trainee required to join a friendly pro-shop team in an exclusive, private members club. We are looking for somebody who is reliable, hard-working, enthusiastic and able to offer a high level of customer service. The successful candidate should also be flexible with working hours (Including weekends).

CV and cover letter to:michaelramsden-pga@outlook.com.

Weybrook Park

Are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated Trainee Professional.

The individual should be competent in operating computer systems, be able to build relationships with customers. The right candidate will receive excellent training and have the opportunity to develop their skills as a PGA Professional.

Please reply with CV to Steve.cox@foremostgolf.com.

Bush Hill Park Golf Club

Registered PGA Trainee/Assistant required to join the professional team. Candidates must be enthusiastic, hardworking, ambitious, and be able to work as part of a small team.

Weekend shop hours are necessary, although shop shifts are flexible to allow time for coaching and competitions. Please send applications, including CV’s to Danny@bhpgc.com.

american golf

We are seeking enthusiastic, ambitious and driven individuals who are passionate about retail and love golf! We are recruiting Sales Advisors for our Surrey, Central London, Cardiff stores and a Store Manager for our Aberdeen Store. If you’re interested in this position and joining Europe’s largest golf retailer visit http://www.americangolfcareers.co.uk.

West Kent Golf Club

West Kent Golf Academy has an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated PGA Professional to deliver unlimited coaching to junior golfers, local schools and uniform groups. We offer excellent indoor/ outdoor teaching facilities including Trackman and SAM Puttlab. For more information email your CV and cover letter to jay@wkgc.co.uk.

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Grooves Golf at Rudding Park

Fantastic opportunity for a motivated candidate to join a proactive team of teaching professionals. To include coaching, playing and some academy hours. The role will also include a key focus on junior golf and developing adult/beginner groups.

Apply with CV and covering letter to info@groovesgolf.com.

June 2019

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re c r uitm e n t@ pg a. or g . u k  EM PLOY M EN T O PPO R T U N I T I E S OVERSEAS Cobra and Puma Golf, West Yorkshire

GolfDXB, Dubai

Supporting the UK Sales team and customers, you will be part of a team providing top level customer service for all COBRA and PUMA Golf products.

A passion for golf, including custom fitting, is essential, as is an excellent telephone manner and good communication and IT skills.

To apply: https://about.puma.com/en/jobs/r5345_ cpg_customer_service_representative?title=CPG%20 Customer%20Service%20Representative Closing date: 09/06/2019.

3rd Year Assistant or recently Qualified PGA Professional required for a busy teaching role in Dubai with GolfDXB. Applicants must have a passion for junior coaching. Package consists of basic salary, lesson commission, accommodation, car, phone and work visa.

For further information or to apply email Jordan Cook: Jordan@GolfDXB.com.

Windmill Leisure, Bristol

Registered Assistant / Qualified PGA Professional required at our very busy Golf Academy and Leisure complex. Applicants must have a genuine passion for coaching together with an engaging personality and enjoy working within a dynamic team. Great earning potential with flexibility on the role. Applications together with CV to adriansmithpgagolfprofessional@gmail.com.

Jason Floyd Golf Academy, Spain

Teaching Professional required; this is an opportunity to work with elite level students with the best technology available. Full training will be provided. Applicants must have a passion for junior coaching, be serious and highly dedicated. Please apply by sending CV and cover letter to Academy Director Matthew Parry. matthewparry@jasonfloydgolfacademy.com.

To place your vacancy/availability here contact Jessica Harrison in Member Services at: recruitment@pga.org.uk or on 01675 470 333.

Supporting the relationship between PGA Professionals and the golf industry The PGA offers a free, bespoke service designed to assist you through the recruitment process to ensure you get the right PGA Professional for your facility.

The PGA has helped more than 150 golf clubs with their recruitment needs in the past two years by: Identifying roles and responsibilities Assisting with writing the initial advertisement Advice on interviewing Guidance around remuneration Developing service level agreements / contracts Mediation and ongoing support For more information contact Jessica Harrison on 01675 470 333 or at: recruitment@pga.org.uk

The PGA Professional

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COLUM N F I N A L T H O U G H T

Forging closer links Nick Pink, Chief Executive England Golf, discusses how changes within the golfing world are set to create closer links with amateur bodies and PGA Professionals

H

ere at England Golf we have great ambitions and This has its roots in county golf, where we support an drive to grow the game. It shapes everything we U14 training programme. The most promising players do. But we also know we can’t do it alone. progress into our regional training squads and the very That’s why we value the support of other industry best into national squads, which are supported by over 20 organisations, including The PGA and its professionals. professionals. The process gives our players the opportunity We’re working together at all levels of the game and it is to work with some of the country’s finest coaches such as rewarding to see it make a difference to the sport we all love.

Graham Walker, Steve Robinson and Mike Kanski, whose Our ambitions include attracting more players to services are also much in demand by the top Tour players. golf and encouraging more golfers to join clubs. We aim to narrow the gender gap between male and female WORKING TOGETHER golfers. We’d like to see even more talented golfers Meanwhile, changes within the world of golf look set to create emerging to proudly represent us on the world stage. closer links between ourselves and the PGA professionals.

We’ve put initiatives in place which are turning ambitions into Wherever they work – whether coaching the elite player or the reality. At grass roots, for example, we have our inspirational Girls absolute beginner – the pro is often the first point of contact for Golf Rocks campaign, which we run with the Golf Foundation. golfers when they arrive at a club and a source of much advice.

It’s our way of tackling the marked imbalance between the We are looking forward to working with them further as we number of girl and boy golfers. fine-tune our already advanced By successfully showing that plans for the implementation of the golf is a fun and friendly sport World Handicap System, which will By successfully showing that benefit club members and all golfers. we are, hopefully sparking a love of the game which will Also at club level, we’re proud golf is a fun and friendly last a lifetime. Last year around to be extending our service to our sport we are, hopefully 1600 girls attended Girls Golf members in a way which will benefit Rocks taster sessions with PGA and reassure club professionals. sparking a love of the game professionals, with most enjoying The majority of our income comes which will last a lifetime. the experience so much that they from the individual members of went on to take coaching courses. golf clubs and, from 1 July 2019, This year, we’ve extended we will be giving them much the project to 26 counties; that’s five more than last more for their money by providing them with personal liability year and over 110 professionals are involved. insurance. The safety of our sport is a concern at every level It’s a similar story with another of our high-profile of the game and this move will also support professionals by campaigns, Get into Golf. Its bright, modern look helps to giving them the peace of mind that their members are covered. attract beginners and returners to the sport. We’re currently We look forward to continuing to work offering Get into Golf at over 260 clubs in England, working together to grow the game. with professionals to offer opportunities to turn new players into avid golfers, who can’t get enough of the game.

Nick Pink Chief Executive, England Golf CREDIT WHERE IT’S DUE Each year, we recognise the professionals’ contribution to growing the game with annual coaching awards, which go to those working at grassroots and those involved within our Performance system, which nurtures the country’s brightest talents. https://www.englandgolf.org

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June 2019

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