Northeast GOLF - December 2019 / January 2020

DECEMBER 2019 / JANUARY 2020 | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 6

Indoor Golf & Fitness Guide Build Your Golf Room with SKYTRAK

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New World Handicap System

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Vegas Golf Vacation

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Make Every Putt

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Voted the #1 Island in the Continental U.S. by Travel + Leisure Magazine - 4 Years Running 2

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Photo Courtesy of The Sea Pines Resort/Rob Tipton - Hole 15 Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III

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HILTON HEAD ISLAND S O U T H

C A R O L I N A

Plan Your 2020 Golf Vacation at The Island’s #1 Trip Planning Site

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Golf is hard....

Planning it shouldn’t be...

World Golf Village

Golf Experiences takes care of all the details, so you can focus on what really matters... creating memories with your closest friends & family.

From deciding where to go, to organizing tee times and lodging for the entire group, planning the perfect golf vacation can be a lot of work. With access to over 40 premier golf course properties from coast to coast, our team of experience coordinators make vacation planning a breeze. Golf Experiences offers group golf vacations unlike any other. From our premier service, quality destinations, access to private clubs and the best tee times – the possibilities are endless.

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2 Nights’ Accommodations at one of 4 hotels on property 2 Days of Unlimited Golf on the Celebrity & Players course Complimentary Arrival Round Breakfast Daily

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6

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INSIDE DECEMBER 2019 • JANUARY 2020 VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 6

COVER STORY

12

Bringing the Outdoors In: Get the data professionals use…

But at a fraction of the cost with SkyTrak.

OFF SEASON

Take it Inside

See why Pure Drive Golf has New England golfers looking forward to winter.

26

BUSINESS ACUMEN

LESSONS

Since GOLFTEC opened in 1995 students have taken more than nine million lessons and this year lessons should easily top one million.

JOIN THE CLUB SAVE ON GOLF

Get Every Issue of Northeast Golf Visit: www.NortheastGolf.club

20 EQUIPMENT

ON THE LEVEL

An interview with Creator/Owner Eric Burch of “New Level Golf.”

34

continued NORTHE T.GOLF| D| ECE D ECE MBE R2019 2019/ /JAN JAN UARY2020 2020 7 7 NORTHE ASAS T.GOLF MBER UARY

SCORE MUST HAVES

THE PURSUIT OF PERFECTION

32

SHAFTS

POWER YOUR DRIVER

38

FASHION FIT

ACTIVEWEAR | WHAT’S TRENDING

TECH CHECK

Combining Coaching, Technology and Data to Elevate Golf Performance.

Don’t give up distance by playing the wrong ball for your swing speed. ProCheck can increase distance by 10-20 yards.

COMPRESSION MATTERS

ON THE TEE WITH DREW ANDERSON

EQUIPMENT ADVANTAGE

24

COACH’S CORNER

18

36

DESTINATIONS

42 TAMPA, FL

44 A COUPLE OF TRAVELERS

Renowned Tampa Resort is Getting a Face Lift.

It’s the place to party, gamble and golf.

SADDLEBROOK

STAYS IN VEGAS

48 TECHNOLOGY

56 COURSES AND CLUBS

Live golf scoring made easy for tournaments and leagues.

Explore hole 3 of the Ocean Course at New Seabury.

GOLF STATUS

GRADE “A” ARCHITECTURE

58 MOLORI UNPLUGGED

BLAZING TRAILS

62 ROSS’S RULES

THE WORLD HANDICAP SYSTEM AIMS FOR UNIFORMITY 8

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60 AROUND THE GAME TGA PREMIER SPORTS

Nationwide junior golf programs dedicated to sustainably growing golf participation.

64 THE CLOSING NINE

FULL SWING GOLF VIRTUAL GREEN

This unique long term development coaching package is dedicated to delivering the best experience and supportive learning environment to those golfers seeking structure and proven results that are guaranteed to lower your handicap and find renewed joy on the golf course.

This 12 month program is tailored to the individual needs of the player and will place an importance on scoring, swing mechanics, and course management. Each player is provided full access to Trackman launch monitor technology and my 15 years of golf coaching experience.

Once enrolled in the program, golfers receive a comprehensive tee to green, 80 shot combine analysis by Trackman. This innovative process will help expedite the learning process having coach and player begin to set realistic goals that will be achieved in a timely and efficient manner.

Creating this foundation and forming a roadmap to success with me for 365 days will help you begin to unleash your true potential and shoot lower scores!

Elevate Your Golf Game Today!

Sign up at DrewAndersonGolf.com Drew Anderson, PGA Teaching Professional

North Kingstown GC & The Aquidneck Club 2019 RIPGA Teacher Of The Year

@drewandersongolf

PACKAGE DETAILS

• Two lessons per month for a full year • Six one-hour indoor range sessions • Access to Trackman Technology • Results Driven Coaching

NORTHE AS T.GOLF | D ECE MBE R 2019 / JAN UARY 2020

9

FROM THE EDITOR FAIR FA I R PLAY P L AY

“I’m a firm believer in the theory that people only do their best at things they truly enjoy. It is difficult to excel at something you don’t enjoy.” —Jack Nicklaus

The Year at The Turn

I

T IS THE TIME OF YEAR for celebrations, holidays and family as we make the turn into the new year. One hundred years ago in 1920 was a time of dramatic social and political change, much like today.

Women finally were able to vote and ironically after President Woodrow Wilson suffered a debilitating stroke, his wife Edith stepped in as America’s first de-facto woman president for 18 months. After Francis Ouimet and other storied amateurs captured major victories from 1910-1920, golf became popular with over half a million playing the game by 1920.

The sport of kings had now come to the masses.

Golf has evolved as an industry, a lifestyle and as a game more than any other in the world. Jack Nicklaus once said, “I’m a firm believer in the theory that people only do their best at things they truly enjoy. It is difficult to excel at something you don’t enjoy.” There are nearly 35 million people today connected through the game as players, industry professionals and employees of golfrelated businesses. More than 10% of our total

population is touched by golf as it generates over 90 billion in economic impact in the U.S. The game of golf is very close to surpassing tennis as the 6th most popular sport in the world.

It has been a historic year for the game with Tiger Woods winning a Major at The Masters in April, his 81st victory, and then capturing the Zozo Championship in Japan with 82 victories tying Sam Snead’s PGA Tour record that has stood for over 50 years.

In comparison, there were only 3 first time winners on the Tour in 1965. In 2019, there were 14 first time winners, the most ever in PGA Tour history. Today there are far more highly competitive and talented players on all the Tours than at any time in history. It makes the accomplishments of Tiger Woods even more incredible, to say the least.

I wish you all health and happiness for the New Year - Make 2020 the Best Ever!

Timothy R. Branco Editor Northeast Golf

Submit Your News & More at:

www.Northeast.Golf/Submit

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Editor / Publisher Timothy R. Branco Sales & Marketing Greg Sampson greg@nepubinc.com Paul Mignosa paul@nepubinc.com Creative Director Chris Lewis Creative Designer Kristen Brault Multimedia Kristen Brault Megan Ward Makaila Corridori Contributing Editor David DeSmith Contributors Timothy Branco Dirk Van Der Broek Leigh MacKay Paul Mignosa John Molori Jack Ross Greg Sampson Alice & Danny Scott Ed Travis Henry Wallmeyer Matt Ward Phil Werz Nick Heidelberger Client Relations Mary Branco For Editorial & Advertising Requests: 800-736-9020 info@newengland.media Subscriptions P.O. Box 357 Swansea, MA 02777 A Division of New England Publishing Group Inc.

© 2019 New England Publishing Group Inc. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The articles appearing within this publication reflect the opinion of their respective authors and not necessarily those of the publisher. Subscriptions are $19.99 annually for 6 issues.

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COVER STORY BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN

GET THE DATA PROFESSIONALS USE… BUT AT A FRACTION OF THE COST SINCE BEING INTRODUCED to the market in 2015, SkyTrak has proven to be a launch monitor fit for players of all skill levels.

By providing real-time, accurate data and a user experience centered around game improvement, SkyTrak has helped golfers around the globe improve their game.

The SkyTrak Launch Monitor was designed for the golfer who wanted the same data that the professional golfers use on Tour. At a fraction of the cost, SkyTrak gives golfers access to the critical data required to truly “KNOW YOUR GAME.” With a variety of game improvement features in the SkyTrak application and access to numerous course simulation partners, SkyTrak is in a class of its own.

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COVER STORY

BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN

“We want our customers to not only improve their game, but have fun while they practice,” said Andy Allen, VP/Managing Director. “With Game Improvement features like Bag Mapping, Wedge Matrix, Practice Randomizer and Shot Optimizer, SkyTrak users will know their distances, dial in their scoring clubs and be ready for situations presented to them on the course.”

Key features include: u Customizable: SkyTrak can adapt to a variety of

setups. Build out your own golf room or use SkyTrak with a mat and net for easy setup and take down. u Affordable: Get the performance you want for a

fraction of the price of expensive, high-end launch monitors. u Entertaining: Take on your friends or beat your

personal best with fun, skill building challenges and games. u Wireless, Portable Design: Equipped with its own

rechargeable battery and serving as its own Wi-Fi hot spot, SkyTrak can operate without wires or cable.

Connect wirelessly to a device and generate launch data in seconds. u Performance Tracking: SkyTrak accurately captures,

displays and contrasts your ball flight data. Key measurement parameters include ball speed, launch angle, back spin, side spin, side angle and much more. u Real World Conditions: Input a series of variables and

environmental factors such as weather and course conditions. u Simulation: Add on a simulation package and enjoy a

realistic golf course experience, on your terms, from the convenience of home. With packages available for iOS and PC, simulation puts you on the green of the world’s most famous courses.

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When compared to other products on the market, nothing matches the accuracy, affordability and user experience. SkyTrak truly is an affordable , all-in-one practice, play and game improvement system.

More than a launch monitor, more than a simulator, SkyTrak is the Best of Both!

To save $300 on SkyTrak and SkyTrak packages, visit: www.skytrakgolf.com for more details.

NORTHEAS AST.GOLF ECEMBE 2 01 9/ /JAN JAN UA RY2020 2 02 0 1515 NORTHE T.GOLF | |D D ECE MBE RR2019 UARY

FROM THE EDITOR FA I R P L AY

SWING 365 GOLF LOUNGE AT WACHUSETT CC Experience the brand-new, state-of-the-art three bay TrackMan Simulator Room! TrackMan is the most accurate and advanced launch monitor in golf.

Whether you’re looking to improve your game, get some swings in over the winter, play Wachusett or Kettle Brook with your friends, join a league or host a company party, Swing 365 is the perfect spot.

Open daily from 9am - 9pm with a full restaurant and bar along with flat screen TV’s at each bay.

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FORE GOLF ENTERTAINMENT Whether you are an avid golf enthusiast or the casual du er, you will completely enjoy the FORE! Golf experience, from scenic driving ranges to the demanding courses of the Pro Tour. Play or Practice then relax! No need to miss your favorite show or important sporting event. Watch them on one of our 7 large-screen TV’s or on our 10 foot projection screen. We offer a full restaurant and bar daily or for your event/party. We are open Monday - Friday from 10am to 11pm and Weekends 8am to 11pm.

Online booking available. $50 per hour per bay (Winter Rates) Enter to Win Our FREE Golf for a Year Sweepstakes

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Located at Sandwich Hollows JANEFROSTGOLF.COM

New Student Assessment with Acclaimed LPGA/PGA Professional Jane Frost 90 Minute game assessment appointment for the introductory price of $195. Book your appointment TODAY and use Code: NEPUB20 to enjoy $20 off your New Student Assessment. Valid until April 30, 2020.

During your visit to the year round Performance Center you can choose either your Full Swing or your Short Game to have evaluated. During your evaluation Jane will utilize state of the art technology to create your blueprint for success. Trackman; Foresight; GASP Lab Video; BodiTrak; SAM Putt Lab and OptiBrain are just some of the options that may be used during your evaluation. The entire team at The Jane Frost Golf Performance Center is dedicated to creating progress in a fun and encouraging environment. We want YOU to be a BETTER Golfer.

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Make sure you check us out on social media @JaneFrostGolf NORTHE AS T.GOLF | D ECE MBE R 2019 / JAN UARY 2020

17

COACH’S CORNER PROJECT365

ON THE TEE with Drew Anderson, PGA ith over

15

years of professional experience,

training and knowledge, Drew Anderson’s golf coaching philosophy is based in data and technology. As a coach, Drew simplifies one’s golf game through effective communication and proper impact conditions; which will produce better fundamentals and a consistent reliable golf swing. His Project 365 coaching program is a year round player/coaching experience tailored to the players individual needs with a focus on scoring, swing mechanics and course management. Drew is the Teaching Professional at both The Aquidneck Club in Portsmouth, RI and North Kingstown Golf Course in N. Kingstown, RI. As a Top 5 ranked golf instructor in Rhode Island, and 2019 RIPGA Teacher of the Year, I had the pleasure of having a conversation with Drew about the future of golf coaching and instruction.

Combining Coaching, Technology and Data to Elevate Golf Performance.

NEG: Tell me a little about your golf history?

NEG: Talk about the golf landscape? Talk about your coaching

18 and now 15 years later I’m fortunate to be a part of the joy

DA: Golf instruction like most occupations has become

and successes to the players I have the pleasure to coach. In my

specialized. As a player you now have to differentiate

professional career working at high end private facilities and being

between a club professional and a full time golf coach

mentored by some of the best club professionals in the country,

to take your game to the next level. I look at myself as

along with being around members that have achieved at the

a coach and I stay connected and engaged with all my

highest successes in the business world, formed my strong work

players. I provide not only education but guidance and

ethic and solidified my passion for coaching the game of golf.

a roadmap to success with real transparency on the

DA: For me I was lucky that I found my life passion at the age of

methods?

player’s current or future development. I often times push NEG: Besides Aquidneck and North Kingstown, what other clubs have you instructed golf at?

the limits of players comfort zones and performance so they can see their true potential. In addition, following

DA: I have been fortunate to provide instruction at many Top

a lesson, I provide detailed Trackman screencasts and

100 Clubs. I’ve worked at Ekwanok CC, Hartford GC, Sankaty

voice memo lesson reviews outlining new swing feels,

Head GC, The Misquamicut Club, Point Judith CC, and Jupiter

content discussed and drills to reinforce and accelerate the

Island Club.

learning process.

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NEG: Explain the Difference between Teaching &

a real quantifiable look “under the hood” if you

DA: A teaching methodology educates a player on

shot to shot with the 26 different parameters

will to see what the players swing tendencies are

Coaching.

it measures. It also gives me the flexibility of

what is wrong and right and tells them how to

indoor/outdoor usage. I tell people now, why

fix it. A qualified coaching methodology not only

guess what you can know with undisputed data.

does that but also inspires hope and confidence in the player based on a coaching roadmap

NEG: What is the Golf Stats Coach/Strokes Gained

that is structured with results driven tasks to consistently measure progress and evaluate

“Long term development player back from their desired golf aspirations. For is the true me, coaching is results driven. How can I get this gateway towards player to hit a predictable ball flight pattern and sustainable shoot lower scores in the structured time frame growth and we have together? It’s having the player buy into obtaining long term development rather than the quick fix goal oriented that is the real key. Long term development is the objectives.” true gateway towards sustainable growth and strengths and weaknesses that may be holding the

obtaining goal-oriented objectives. I’m always

App you use?

DA: The advent of analytics and strokes gained measurement apps like GSC are still very undervalued in my opinion and is something I now heavy encourage all my players to get behind. This form of data provides me and the player areas where he or she may be performing above or below their respective handicap bracket in a nonbiased data-based report. This non-biased reporting creates a quicker analysis of how the player

amazed when I ask a player I meet for the first time what

can begin to understand his or her personal game and turn

would they like to improve on in their game and the first

weaknesses into strengths.

answer is never to shoot lower scores. Why is that? I would love to change that golfing mindset!

NEG: Lets dive into Data & Technology. How do you use it and why is it so important in todays golf world?

NEG: What does the future hold for Drew Anderson?

DA: At this time in my life I have found fulfilment in my career and feel very fortunate and blessed with the opportunity to impart my knowledge of the game to golfers that are seeking

DA: When you talk data & technology in golf, Trackman is the

to shoot lower scores and renewed joy on the course. I am

holy grail. I’ve worked extensively with the device for 6 years

proud of my Project 365 program and the successes of all

now and have personally owned a Trackman for 4 years. I was

the players that have enrolled and I look forward to another

an early adaptor to Trackman due to a number of factors: I feel

rewarding year of coaching in 2020!

it provides the best club and ball data in the industry, it’s no surprise to me that now 85 out of the top 100 players in the world own a Trackman. It gives me, the coach, and the player

To learn more about Drew Anderson and his Project 365 program, visit DrewAndersonGolf.com

NORTHE T.GOLF| D| ECE D ECE MBER 2019/ /JAN JAN UARY2020 2020 19 21 NORTHE ASAS T.GOLF MBE R 2019 UARY

OFF SEASON

INSIDE T E C H N I C A L LY S P E A K I N G

TAKE IT

See why Pure Drive Golf has New England golfers looking forward to winter

By Nick Heidelberger, New England PGA

It’s cold.

Daylight is scarce and there’s snow in the forecast. But business is heating up for Adam Kolloff, PGA, at Pure Drive Golf.

Rather than avoiding the harsh Boston winter like many PGA professionals, Kolloff leans into it. His winter-proof golf facility just outside of Boston features five bays, each with a TrackMan, TV, projector, iPad, two video cameras and computer. The indoor facility also boasts club-fitting, golf leagues, and high-tech instruction that leaves traditional teaching in the dust.

BUILDING THE DREAM An early adaptor to golf technology – Kolloff literally wrote the book on teaching & learning with TrackMan – Adam first had the idea to open an indoor golf facility years ago.

“Ever since I’ve been using TrackMan I thought the feedback was unbelievable,” he said. “I wanted to create a place where people had access to this, because normally the common golfer does not. To take this idea and create a place like this, it was a long process.”

The process began with finding the right location: a space close to Boston and large enough to house all the bells and whistles in Adam’s vision. It took about a year to find the perfect 4,200 square-foot facility at the intersection of I-93 and I-95 in Woburn about 20 minutes, Lord willing, north of Boston. Once the site was selected, Adam spent another year decking it out with the proper flooring, padded walls, netting, screens, and the tech that sets it apart.

ATTRACTING THE GAMERS When Adam opened the doors to Pure Drive Golf in April of 2018, he chose to cater to the serious golfer who was looking to improve rather than the social crew looking for a fun night out.

“Most of the other indoor facilities serve alcohol, it’s more

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about entertainment, ‘Let’s go have a few drinks and have some fun,’ which is great,” he said. “Go do that if that’s what you want to do. But we wanted to get the people who were focused on getting better, focused on playing the best that they can, and I think the facility caters exactly to that type of golfer. I don’t think you see a lot of facilities like this.”

With that philosophy, Pure Drive holds hours normally reserved for your local gym or coffee shop, opening the doors at 6:00 AM a couple times a week to cater to the motivated nine-to-fivers.

“We get a fair amount of guys that come over here and practice, then they go to work,” Adam said. “You have to learn where the highest traffic is, and that’s where you focus the hours you want to be open.”

The indoor facility boasts club-fitting, golf leagues, and high-tech instruction

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT Kolloff ’s book, The Ultimate Guide to TrackMan Swing Analysis, which

from TrackMan. They don’t allow a lot of people access to their data.

he co-authored with Jim McLean, focuses on getting key data points of a

Because I had written the book, they like what I’m doing with

golfer’s swing to fall into prescribed ranges, with tips and drills for

Trackman, I’m promoting Trackman, I own five of them, he was like

metrics that don’t meet the standards. For example, an intermediate

‘Ok, no problem.’”

player’s prescribed club path is anywhere from -6 to 6 degrees. The book offers opposite sets of drills for paths above and below that threshold.

“A lot of golf professionals and club-fitters would use it,” Adam said of the

“Let’s say your FACE ANGLE IS EIGHT DEGREES OPEN, which is very common for a beginner who slices. The color is going to be red, they can go over and CLICK ON IT AND THERE’S THREE DIFFERENT TIPS, then they know what to work on.”

book. “I started to get the idea of ‘how do I create an application that would give some immediate feedback if your

With no experience in the app developing world, Adam hired a

numbers were not within these suggested ranges.’ Because otherwise you

programmer and built the Pure Drive Golf app. Using the app, which

would have to keep referencing the book.”

connects to TrackMan, a golfer takes a swing and instantly sees

That’s when he came up with the idea for the Pure Drive Golf App.

color-coded feedback on club path, face-to-path, smash factor, attack

The idea was to provide visual feedback on five aspects of each swing,

angle, and club speed. With one touch, users can click on any metrics

with easy access to drills and tips to help keep a player’s numbers

in the red zone and see a video demonstration of tips and drills to

within the prescribed ranges.

improve that part of the swing.

“The first thing I had to do was talk to the CEO of TrackMan to see if he would allow me do to this, because you have to get permission

“Let’s say your face angle is eight degrees open, which is very common for a beginner who slices. The color is going to be red, they can go over

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29 21

OFF SEASON

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

“I have a way of taking students AWAY FROM NUMBERS, away from the TECHNICAL SIDE, and into the PERFORMANCE SIDE, which I think is important.”

and click on it and there’s three different tips, then they know what to work on. So each bay is like a mini-lesson.”

The Pure Drive app is not only hooked up to each unit inside is facility, but also used by instructors around the country.

to help track the progress, and that’s huge.”

With 26 launch monitor metrics gathered each time a student strikes a ball, Adam is very calculated about mixing the perfect cocktail of data and shot-making to ensure students don’t get bogged down by trying to make every swing perfect by TrackMan’s standards.

MORE THAN JUST HITTING BAYS

“I make an effort to tell them ‘Hey, you just have to look at one,

Kolloff, who was mentored by Hall of Fame golf instructor Jim

two, maybe three numbers,’” he said. “If they get their numbers to

McLean and worked as the Director of Instruction at Liberty

within a certain range, I tell them ‘Ok you can progress to looking

National Golf Course before opening Pure Drive Golf, takes giving a

at this.’ I have a way of taking students away from numbers, away

golf lesson to the next level. His private lesson bay in Pure Drive not

from the technical side, and into the performance side, which I

only features all the tech of the other hitting bays, but is also mic’d

think is important.”

up. This allows Adam to create a digital version of each lesson, which he sends to his students so they can review their lessons any time.

“You weren’t able to do this 30 years ago,” Adam said of giving

PEAK SEASON While many New England PGA Professionals are headed south,

lessons that revolve around technology. “You would just sit there on

Adam is gearing up for Pure Drive’s peak season. He has bolstered his

a range, watch a golfer hit shots, use divot patterns, the sound of the

staff to include assistant professionals Ryan Train, PGA, Pat Bigelow,

strike, and the ball-flight. All of that is awesome, don’t get me wrong.

PGA, Sam Gerry, and master club-fitter Zack Morton, and expects

There are many amazing teachers that use that who are teaching

business to keep picking up while area golf courses shut down.

outside. But Trackman helps take the teaching to the next level.

“In the winter time we’re cranking all hours. We’re trying to make

Coaches can assess a golfer more easily, they can determine from the

ourselves known as a place where you can improve your game, and I

assessment what they need to work on, and they can use the numbers

think we’re doing a good job of that.”

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NORTHEAST. GOLF | OC TOB E R / N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 9 2 3 NORTHE AS T.GOLF | D ECE MBE R 2019 / JAN UARY 2020 23

FOR THE LOVE OF GOLF MUST HAVES

CAN’T GET

ENOUGH The Pursuit of Perfection

PHI GOLF WGT EDITION

$250.00 | phigolfwgt.com

Swing and play real golf courses all over the world with the swing stick inside or attach the 9-axis sensor to any club and play on the range. This at home sim is a great way to introduce beginners to the game and to keep swinging year round.

My favorite part about golf is that it can never be “perfected” yet the majority of players are in constant pursuit of it. Golfers improve in different ways from using new technology, training aids or practice devices.

And like most golfers, I can’t get enough of them. Check out some of my favorites on the market right now.

By Greg Sampson

24

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PUTT OUT

$165.00 MSRP | puttout.golf Perfect your putting in the comfortable of your own living room, the convienence of the office or the serenity of the practice green. The combination of all three aids in one bundle is a must have. Available in 5 color ways.

IMPACT PRESS

$99 | impactpressgolf.com Designed to engrain a tour impact posistion by going red to green. You just line up the red indicator with the center of your body at address and then point the green indicator at the target at impact.

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BUSINESS ACUMEN GOLFTEC

Since GOLFTEC opened in 1995 students have taken more than nine million lessons and this year lessons should easily top one million.

LESSONS LEARNED

I

By ED TRAVIS

N AN INDUSTRY often described as being in decline GOLFTEC, the largest golf lesson company in the world, is not only a dynamic standout but for the ninth year was recognized on the Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest growing privately held companies in America. Joe Assell, co-founder and CEO points out their success comes from a clearly defined and simple mission, to help golfers play better using the most up to date methods and technology.

Students run the gamut of experience and ability and aren’t

just low handicappers. They do however all share the desire to hit better shots, score lower and enjoy the game more. The over 700 GOLFTEC swing coaches, most of whom are PGA Professionals, make use of the company’s state-of-the-art proprietary TECSWING system to collect data on student’s swing using both video analysis and real time motion capture.

After the student’s swing has been evaluated from grip and setup through takeaway, impact and finish the swing coach makes a diagnosis and then recommends specific drills to correct any faults. During the swing drills TECSWING can even be set to react audibly with instant feedback. If for example a student is taking the club back too much to the inside, TECSWING can be programmed to beep when the club is out of position. This immediate feedback and opportunity for correction is the secret to making instruction lessons informative, effective and long lasting.

Since GOLFTEC opened in 1995 nearly a half million students have taken more than nine million lessons and this year lessons should easily top one million. The company estimates they provide more than 25% of all the private lessons to core golfers.

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Another big part of the business at the more than 210 corporateowned and franchise locations in five countries is custom fitting of clubs

Northeast Golf had the opportunity to ask questions of this prominent golf industry leader and his answers were both interesting and revealing.

where last year over 15,000 fittings were done. Individualized club specifications are first found by using GOLFTEC’s TECFIT system that

Northeast Golf: What was the goal when GOLFTEC was started?

uses a launch monitor to gather swing data. A fitting session usually

Joe Assell: Our mission from day one has been to “Help People Play

takes an hour and a half with the golfer getting the opportunity to hit

Better Golf.” When we launched the company back in 1995, the vision

several shaft and head combinations with varying lengths and lies. At

was to operate somewhere in the neighborhood of 10 performance centers

the end of the fitting session specifications are written for clubs from one

throughout the Midwest. Obviously, we underestimated the demand, as

or more of the five major club brands GOLFTEC sells.

there are now more than 210 GOLFTEC locations around the world.

In 2018 Japan-based Golf Digest Online (no connection with the Discovery, Inc.’s U.S. magazine of similar name) purchased the majority

NG: Today what separates the lessons given by GOLFTEC coaches from

interest in GOLFTEC and the company’s expansion has ratcheted up.

lessons given by others? The same for club fittings at GOLFTEC compared

There are better than 180 locations in this country, 19 in Canada with

with competitors?

more in Japan, Singapore, China and Hong Kong and new locations are

JA: We pride ourselves on combining the best coaches in the industry with

opening almost every month.

cutting-edge, proprietary technology to give our students the absolute

Overseeing this growth is CEO Assell, a PGA Professional, who

best understanding of their games and how to improve. Gone are the days

in 1995 went with a new Denver company called Driving Obsession

of instruction being based on swing theories and naked-eye evaluations.

started by Clayton Cole and Mike Clinton. Assell was not only the first

Everything we do is fact-based, meaning it is supported by data we’ve

instructor hired but took on the responsibility of manager as well. Ten

uncovered on the golf swing over the past 25 years. The results speak for

years later there were 38 locations and $10 million in sales but that was

themselves, as the average GOLFTEC student drops seven strokes from

only a prelude to the sophisticated business of today.

their scorecard. Regarding club fitting, we take a similar approach to

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BUSINESS ACUMEN GOLFTEC

lessons in that we use a mix of established and proprietary technology to

thousands of lessons, with many named among the “Best in State” by

completely analyze every aspect of a student’s equipment. Further, a major

respected media outlets or PGA Sections.

differentiator is that the majority of our students who receive a fitting are working with the same coach who provides their swing instruction.

NG: How does club fitting fit in to the training program?

The benefit of this is that these coaches know their student’s tendencies

JA: Club fitting is an absolute essential aspect of maximizing

and goals and can use this in-depth knowledge to more accurately find

performance. The “TEC” in our name is actually an acronym for

equipment that perfectly fits the player in both the present and future.

Technique, Equipment and Conditioning. These are the three elements

Most other high-end fitters are great at analyzing launch monitor data but

we feel must be addressed if a golfer is going to play his/her best. We

lack any connection with the golfer and their unique games.

also make sure to include a club fitting as part of every golf lesson program we build for our students.

NG: Are GOLFTEC coaches PGA Professionals and does GOLFTEC have a company-specific training program?

JA: The vast majority of our coaches are PGA Professionals; in fact,

NG: GOLFTEC has five brands in the club fitting inventory: Callaway, Mizuno TaylorMade, Titleist and PING. Is this a limiting factor to fitting golfers?

we are among the largest employers of PGA members in the world.

JA: Those five companies are responsible for roughly 90+ percent

All GOLFTEC coaches go through a rigorous, multi-week certification

of all equipment sold worldwide. They are without question the

program at GOLFTEC University. Here they master the analysis of golf

industry leaders and there is a tremendous amount of variation

mechanics, the technology of the GOLFTEC training system, and the

within each line, not to mention all the variables we take into

most productive teaching techniques. Most of our coaches have taught

account with shafts, grips, balls, etc. Our approach is completely

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“Our coaches are constantly REASSESSING STUDENT PERFORMANCE AND MECHANICS through our proprietary technology to help them maximize their potential.”

—Joe Assell

brand agnostic, so we aren’t pushing any line in particular, we just

and mechanics through our proprietary technology to help them

want our students to get the clubs that work best for them.

maximize their potential. The cameras and motion measurement devices pick-up details that the naked eye won’t. If we have a student

NG: Will the number of manufacturers as part of the fitting process be

that is scheduled for a club fitting session, but also working on a

expanded?

major swing change, we’ll likely have them hold-off on the fitting

JA: At some point it’s very possible that we’ll expand our selection of

until the new swing has had time to really take root. Unlike other

manufactures. There is so much innovation happening in the equipment

high-end fitting operations, we don’t just fit equipment that works in

world that we’re constantly paying attention to what is being brought

the moment, we want to provide a long-term solution. You mentioned

to the marketplace and generating buzz. If we feel there is a specific

“taking it to the course” and we definitely have programs where

brand that isn’t currently represented at GOLFTEC and will benefit our

our coaches will take students out to play 9 or 18 holes. There is no

students, we’ll absolutely look at bringing it into the fold.

substitute for seeing how swing or club changes translate to a realworld situation.

NG: The proprietary computer analysis is critical for properly evaluating a golfer’s swing plus showing what improvement is needed and then how drills

NG: The Japanese company Golf Digest Online purchased a majority position in

can fix swing faults. As a lesson program progresses what can a student

GOLFTEC last year. Has this effected the day to day running of the company?

expect as far as further swing evaluation and club fitting necessitated by the new modified swing plus coaching for “taking it to the course?”

JA: Our coaches are constantly reassessing student performance

JA: No, there were no changes to the executive team and we still operate the day-to-day business from our Denver headquarters. The beauty of the GDO partnership is that it is allowing us to supercharge our overseas

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BUSINESS ACUMEN GOLFTEC

growth and bring GOLFTEC to a variety of foreign markets. Over the next few years our presence around the world will begin to more closely mirror what we’ve built in North America.

NG: Is the business plan of developing franchise locations continuing or will growth be in company-owned locations?

JA: The franchise model was great for establishing a booming growth period for GOLFTEC a little more than 10 years ago but moving forward our focus will be opening corporately owned locations.

“...Our plans for now are to FOCUS ON PLAYER IMPROVEMENT initiatives and our core instruction and club fitting businesses.” —Joe Assell NG: What growth plans for services and locations does GOLFTEC have for the next two years nationally and internationally?

JA: In terms of locations, the sky is the limit. Already in 2019, we’ve opened new centers in China, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Charleston,

NG: GOLFTEC locations are modest in size and not suitable as golf entertainment

Washington D.C., Houston, San Francisco, Long Island and many, many

centers such as TopGolf, Drive Shack, or Big Shots but are there plans to use

more. Essentially, if you live in a major metropolitan area in the United

them as social gathering places for couples and or ladies or even juniors?

States or Canada there is likely a GOLFTEC very close. Internationally,

JA: These are certainly ideas that we’ve discussed and although I don’t

we see huge growth potential in Asia and other regions. Regarding

want to close the door on what the future might bring, our plans

services, we added state-of-the-art putting lessons over the summer and

for now are to focus on player improvement initiatives and our core

will continue to bring new innovations to both our instruction and club

instruction and club fitting businesses. Our centers are currently used

fitting in the near future. Additionally, we’ve totally overhauled our

by a number of women and junior organizations, but not specifically

GOLFTEC app and online player portal, ensuring they are optimized to

for the purposes of entertainment.

meet the demands of our rapidly growing student base.

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EQUIPMENT SHAFTS

POWER YOUR DRIVER

W

hen trying to find the right shaft, many golfers think they can simply use their swing speed to determine their proper flex, but that’s not enough of the equation. You must factor how much the player loads the shaft, spin, trajectory, and the player’s angle of descent. When choosing a shaft, it’s imperative for the golfer to get fit on proper equipment with a professional that guides them to the best option for their game. Here are a few of the top shafts heading into 2020!

GRAPHITE DESIGN TOUR AD XC

Low/Mid Launch – Low Spin The XC shaft profile is softer in the butt section, stiff in the center and a stiff tip to promote the low/mid launch and low spin. The XC uses a mix of TORAYCA M40X and TORAYCA T1100G carbon fiber pre-preg for an unrivaled stability and precise ball control and exceptional feel you come to love in a Graphite Design shaft. Visually, the matte black and silver and red color contrast provide a sleek and powerful feel.

VA COMPOSITES | RAIJIN BLACK

Mid Launch – Low Spin Not to be compared to the Raijin, the Black boasts a completely different design pattern and performance capabilities.

The RAIJIN Black proves to have the stiffest bend profile throughout all the VA shaft series, making it better suited for players with faster tempo or players with high load.

Visually, the RAIJIN Black cosmetics were inspired by a mythical dragon which is showcased in the beautiful artwork on the shaft.

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KBS TOUR DRIVEN

Mid Launch – Low Spin It is about time KBS has create a shaft for the Driver/Woods. The KBS TD Driver/Wood Shaft is a lighter and stiffer Driver/Wood shaft that has the characteristics of the original KBS feel, efficiency, and optimization of spin and launch that the KBS product line is known for.

Visually, you’ll see the Red & Black combo we’ve come to love with the KBS brand.

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PROJECT X HZRDUS SMOKE GREEN

Low Launch – Low Spin Smoke Green is the latest engineering marvel in the HZRDUS Universe. Being the stiffest HZRDUS shaft yet, Smoke Green is designed to reduce spin for the strongest swingers and is the first major shaft introduced using Hexcel’s HexTow HM63 fiber. Visually, HZRDUS Smoke Green is available in a traditional Smoke Grey and a Gamma PVD finish and is the second shaft manufactured under Project X’s new Small Batch manufacturing platform.

Top 100 Clubfitter in America

We offer all the top names in club heads, shafts, and grips: from industry leaders to hard-to-find, high-end boutique brands.

Swing by our shop, Give us a call or visit our website to book your next appointment!

Spargo Golf has established a working relationship with Golf Professionals at every level of the game. We have Fitted and performed work for many of the top Amateur players in the world.

As rewarding as the success of our professionals and amateurs is, We gain the greatest satisfaction from professionally and properly fitting YOU the average golfer, You the Beginning Golfer, You the Woman Golfer, You the Senior Golfer, You the Golfer with a Passion for the game of Golf and for the enjoyment of the Game of Golf. Let us Provide You with Best Fit for Your Game.

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EQUIPMENT PERFORMANCE

An interview with Creator/Owner Eric Burch of “New Level Golf.”

By Matt Ward BACKGROUNDER Eric Burch: I am 44 years old, married to my lovely wife Christine

and we have a wonderful daughter Hayley. I’ve been playing golf since the age of eight-years-old and I have worked in the golf industry for approximately 24 years.

THE BURCH STORY EB: I had enjoyed golf so much as a child that when the time came

in my late teens for me to choose what to do with the rest of my life and how I would support my family, I felt strongly that golf needed to be a part of it. Once I made that decision, I’ve never looked back! I’ve had failures, I’ve had success, however, I’ve never given up and I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished in this business.

Northeast Golf: You wake up in the morning -- what’s the driving passion?

EB: To do the absolute best I can each day with the knowledge and tools I have at my disposal.

NG: What was the genesis for New Level?

EB: I wanted to create a product line that was beautiful, performed well, offered elaborate customization and, was relatively affordable. I’ve always been a club guy.

Started building clubs in 1989 for myself which spawned into doing it for friends, which eventually spawned into Parfection Custom Golf which I opened in 1998 and ran it successfully until 2005. Aside from learning all about the fitting side and club building side of golf products, I believe the delivery process is broken to the consumer and retailer alike. I wanted to do things very differently and thus, I set out on this venture. I feel that I’ve always had a keen eye for design and trying to incorporate functional and aesthetically pleasing concepts.

I was a very good amateur all the way up until 2015, having played in 5 USGA National Championships. That being said, I know the difference between something

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“It’s difficult to HIDE BEHIND A BRAND NAME with launch monitors, your product either performs, or it doesn’t.”

—Eric Burch run of the mill... and something that exceeds expectations. I tried to be

NG: The biggest mistake most people make when contemplating golf club purchases is what?

EB: Not being custom fitted and given the opportunity to utilize technology to test various club brands and shaft types.

Many companies routinely tout customer service. Define the term and the approach you follow at New Level.

This is very simple to me, we don’t cut corners and each and

sure my first line would appeal to the better player, but not scare off a 12

every client is serviced professionally and with the same protocol.

handicap. It is my belief that people gravitate toward what better players

It doesn’t matter if they spend $10 or $10,000. If an email comes

use, often times knowingly that their own performance may be at risk. That

in, it is almost instantaneously replied to. Our only competitive

being said, our entire line is a culmination of all things I would want to see

advantage is to make our clients feel welcome and comfortable

in a golf club.

with us. If we were missing that mark, we would have already been out of business.

NG: How do your efforts distinguish themselves from your competitors?

EB: I believe there are a few things that stand out starting first with the high end aesthetic of the clubs. We’ve pushed the envelope to make the clubs

NG: The biggest challenges facing New Level -- both short and long term is what?

look different than other clubs in the same category. I call this rack appeal

EB: This is the same answer to both. People are often close-minded

which in my belief is the “first impression”. A lot of the other forgings on

to a new brand. In today’s age with all the technology at a golfers

the market look somewhat dull. People buy clubs like they date or buy

disposal, I believe they often times do themselves a disservice by

cars... it’s looks that drive the first impression and performance or like

not stepping out of their comfort zone. It has been proven by many

mindedness that closes the deal.

respected equipment analysts that New Level product outperform

Moreover, our process from start to finish is very controlled. I am

many of the bigger names. Yet, people still oftentimes seem

certain that everything that comes in the door or goes out meets my

reluctant to buy. It’s difficult to hide behind a brand name with

standards and they are very stringent. I realize as a small company I

launch monitors, your product either performs, or it doesn’t.

have to exceed each and every expectation of a client. Be it our extensive shaft offerings, direct to door demo program, or affiliation with only

NG: Best advice you ever received -- what was it and who from?

top fitters. Sure I want the company to be successful, but I have always

EB: My grandmother told me “just hit that damn ball” referring to

measured success by more than just profits.

a golf ball. She was spot on as we tend to overthink many aspects of life, golf is no different. I feel as humans our first instinct is probably

NG: Who is your customer?

our best.

want professionally crafted products and aren’t moved by marketing hype.

For more info go to: www.newlevelgolf.com

EB: Anyone that puts a peg in the ground to play golf, but especially those that

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TECH CHECK PROCHECK

MAT T E RS

Don’t give up distance by playing the wrong ball for your swing speed. ProCheck can increase distance by 10-20 yards.

I

T IS WELL UNDERSTOOD that a

golfer will achieve the maximum energy transfer and the most driving distance if the hardness (compression) of the ball is matched to the swing speed of the club. Golfers with slower swing speeds (60-70 mph) should play softer golf balls, and those with fast swing speeds (100-110 mph) should play firmer golf balls. Matching swing speed with ball compression causes the ball to have the optimum degree of flattening at impact to create a trampoline-like energy transfer. Too much flattening or too little reduces the energy transfer. This concept is well understood in the golfing world.

But Did You Know?

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Compression Varies Even with brand new balls out of the box there is variation in compression.

Each manufacturer measures compression with a laboratory device called an ATTI tester. Each manufacturing year’s run is given an ATTI number based on the average compression of a sample of balls. But these numbers are averages and there can be a significant difference from ball

“I have been so mystified with trying to find the best golf ball for my game. I live in south central Arizona where THE SUMMER HIGH TEMPS ARE 110 DEGREES AND WINTER TEMPS AS LOW AS 60. Some days I know I put a good swing on the ball and it goes nowhere. Other days it just flies. Now I CAN TEST THE BALLS AND FIGURE OUT THE BEST BRAND FOR ME, which can change from season to season. AWESOME PRODUCT!” —GS

to ball, even in the same box. Some manufacturers have tighter control over compression variability than others.

Compression Changes Today’s ball covers are so good that even old tired balls look new. Also, one summer in the trunk of a car can change compression a lot. And, that new looking ball you find in the woods may have spent the winter there and its compression has changed. Purchased, used balls are quite affordable but are frequently sourced from water hazards and look new, but have lost compression.

Temperature changes make a difference On a very hot day, the ball loses compression and you should play a harder ball than usual. On a cold day, the ball gets harder and you should play a softer ball to get the maximum distance. So, whether you are teeing it

Now you can test your golf ball’s

up on a Saturday morning with a brand

compression with a sophisticated hand

new ball or just reaching into your bag

held device that will give you

for something white — the compression

confidence that the ball you are playing

may be much different than what you

is right for you. You can be sure the

want and that will affect your distance

compression of that ball matches your

by at least 10-20 yards.

swing speed.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE GO TO: procheckgolf.com

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FASHION ACTIVEWEAR | WHAT’S TRENDING

FITTO A TEE

BY PAUL MIGNOSA

Strength, Flexibility & Balance are key for ultimate power, mobility and control in golf. The apparel you choose for your workouts are just as important. Technical and moisture wicking materials that move with your body are in. Check out our selection of brands that will help you reach the your peak this off-season.

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2UNDR | 2undr.com

With the launch of their innovative “Joey Pouch” performance briefs, 2UNDR has been on a rocket ship as one of the industry leaders in performance wear. Using the most advanced construction techniques and materials, they have launched a Leisure line that is perfect for working out.

Using top fabrics and the attention to detail they are known for, do yourself a favor and pick up everything below!

1 Zippered Pocket Leisure Pant | $100 2 Leisure Short | $80 3 Long Sleeve Crew Pullover | $90 4 Snap Back Hat | $25

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LULULEMON | lululemon.com

I’m not sure how many men out there know about Lululemon men’s line, so here you go. As a design-led company, curiosity is at their core, they are constantly thinking about how to innovate the process, gear, and social impact so we can all elevate the world from mediocrity to greatness. Everything they put out is great!

1 Steady and Fast Short | $98 2 License To Train Pant | $118 3 Drysense Mesh Short Sleeve | $68

ON | on-running.com

On was born in the Swiss alps with one goal: to revolutionize the sensation of running. It’s all based on one radical idea.

Soft landings followed by explosive takeoffs. Or, as they call it, running on clouds.

Whether you are a runner, are into Crossfit, or just want sneakers that feel like clouds, On has a pair for everyone!

Cloudstratus | $169.00

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FASHION

ACTIVEWEAR | WHAT’S TRENDING

HILL CITY | hillcity.com

Their approach is simple: Merge the technical power of performance gear with the style and ease of menswear. The designs are streamlined and intuitive, incorporating highly technical fabrics and construction that seamlessly transition throughout your entire day, right into your workout.

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1 Tech Track Jacket | $98 2 Seamless Merino Hoodie | $108

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RHONE | rhone.com

The name was inspired by the Rhone river in Europe as it was not only aesthetically beautiful but was also once a valued trade route. That’s exactly how they approach their products. They start with the world’s finest fabrics, pair them with cutting edge textile technology, and finish with an unmatched fit and style to create clothing that satisfies both form and function.

1 Versatility Seamless ¼ Zip | $88 2 Spar Tactel Jogger | $128 3 Mako Short | $78

NOBULL | nobullproject.com

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NOBULL is a footwear, apparel and accessory brand for people who train hard and don’t believe in excuses. If you think gimmicks in your shoes make you a better athlete, NOBULL is not for you. NOBULL products perform with you when and where you need them. That’s it.

This gear won’t make you fitter. The only thing that will make you fitter is you.

Working hard. Day after day.

1 High-Top Army Pixel Trainers | $139 2 Lightweight Short | $72 3 Concrete Ripstop Runner | $139

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DESTINATIONS TAMPA BAY, FL

History, Performance, Luxury…

Saddlebrook Renowned Tampa Resort is Getting a Face Lift

Saddlebrook Golf Academy Saddlebrook Golf Academy is one of the leading Florida golf schools and prides itself on offering comprehensive player development and instructional programs to golfers of all abilities. Our professional instructors offer various programs and private golf lessons tailored to accomplish each player’s individual goals and identify areas for improvement while promoting a winning attitude.

Improve Your Game at Our Tampa Golf Training Center Designed by Mike Angus, golf architect for the Phil Mickelson Golf Course Design Company, the 16acre Saddlebrook Golf Training Center and Range encompasses every element of the game as well as state-of-the-art TrackMan, SamBalanceLab, and SamPuttLab technology. Resort guests, visitors, club members, students and touring professionals find

Saddlebrook Sports Performance

challenging and valuable golf play in this multi-faceted training facility.

The Saddlebrook Sports Performance program has garnered nation-wide

Golfers can train with one of our professionals or score themselves while

acclaim for its personalized nutrition and general fitness training programs

rotating through the practice stations.

for professional athletes. Led by Chris May, Director of Sports Performance

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Covering over 70,000 square feet, the Super (East) Tee is across from

and TPI Certified Trainer, customizes a meal plan, which is prepared by

our Digital Golf Learning Studio, featuring an indoor hitting bay and the

Saddlebrook’s award-winning culinary team led by Executive Chef Mark

most advanced video swing analysis software available. From the back

Huynh. The staff creates an individualized strength, speed, conditioning,

of the Super Tee, you can drive the ball to target greens a distance of

agility, and flexibility program to address the target improvements for

over 300 yards (max. 360), while specially designed mounds help players

each athlete. Guests of the resort are encouraged to take advantage of our

practice every type of uphill and downhill shot. You can also step up your

renowned sports training facilities and can make reservations for individual

short game on the Scoring Zone, an over 10,000-square-foot green with a

and group programs.

bunker and multiple chipping areas.

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The Future of Saddlebrook Saddlebrook enjoyed a long-lasting relationship with Arnold Palmer with two of his Signature Design courses on property. He and members of his design team were on-site regularly as the courses took shape. We’ve continually updated the golf facilities, having rebuilt a number of the greens on the Saddlebrook course with extensive irrigation and drainage work, rebuilt cart bridges, and a massive redesign of the Saddlebrook Academy of Golf facilities by the Mickelson Design Group.

Experience the Renowned Tennis Program at Saddlebrook Resort The Hopman Tennis Program at Saddlebrook offers tennis programs for players of all ages and ability levels. Our renowned Tampa tennis facility attracts enthusiasts from across the globe and is home to 45 courts including all four Grand Slam surfaces. Saddlebrook Tennis has the ability to cater to the true tennis fanatics who choose to participate in our demanding five-hour a day program, offered 365 days a year, while also providing corporate meeting attendees with an opportunity to fit in a quick lesson or a few sets of competitive play.

The combination of tranquility, privacy and exclusivity on property coupled with the energy of the world’s top players training to reach their goals of ATP and WTA success has made Saddlebrook a historic and legendary training ground.

We’re well underway with refreshing of the resorts guest rooms, both inside the rooms as well as the building’s exteriors. The look is bright, fresh and receiving great comments from our guests. We invite you to visit our site and scroll through the images, you’ll see some of the changes, as well as be reminded of the variety of facilities we offer.

We welcome your questions and look forward to customizing an individual or group package, to experience first-hand the transformation and to plan you next golf, tennis or game improvement trip to Tampa Bay. Book your experience today at Saddlebrook.com.

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A COUPLE OF TRAVELERS LAS VEGAS

STAY[s] IN

VEGAS The Destination

It’s Vegas baby; for any generation it is the place to party, to gamble, to gawk, a coming of age passage perhaps, or ageless fun for everyone. It’s neon lights, cabarets, music, circus and magic shows and year-round golf.

BY ALICE AND DANNY SCOTT

The Venues

Caesar’s Palace is still the most palatial on the Vegas strip with its Roman architecture and statues inside and out. Caesar’s Entertainment encompasses the famous Forum Shops with fountains and blue atmospheric skyscape, casinos, sports betting, spa, shows and more across the street at the promenade leading to its sister resort Harrah’s. There are 150k hotel rooms in almost 300 properties in the metro Vegas area. Each casino is a trip in itself with music, magic and acrobatic shows. Globetrot a fantasy world through the Eifel Tower, Venetian’s gondolas and Luxor’s pyramid. Stay in one and play in all.

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The Golf Around 40 courses in the Vegas vicinity are priced to match every wallet or winnings. $550 buys a round at the reopened Wynn Golf Club with a new impressive waterfall on the finishing green. That makes Rees Jones’ Cascata (top ranked with Shadow Creek) seem reasonable, saving a buck fifty.

Managed by Vici Golf, Cascata’s waterfall begins high on the mountaintop and gushes right down through the Mediterranean clubhouse to the cart staging area, almost as impressive as the herd of big horn sheep grazing and dodging balls on the range. Vici Golf delivers a birds-eye view of the Vegas strip at their Rio Secco Golf Club. Fairways follow the canyon floor to elevated tees and greens with Smokey Robinson’s house seen from the driving range. Mike Tyson has a serious crib on hole #5 and top players arrive for tune-ups at Butch Harmon’s School of Golf. For two days at $4500, Butch might personally have a fix for you. Other popular options include TPC, Paiute, Royal Links, Bear’s Best and Bali Hai. Find value golf at Angel Park, Aliante, Rhodes Ranch, Desert Pines, the Summerlin trio, Painted Desert and Las Vegas Golf Center. Golf packages abound, topped off by a no risk gamble at Top Golf.

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DESTINATIONS LAS VEGAS

Take flight over the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam or board the High Roller, the world’s largest observation wheel.

And More

Our Takeaway

Endless activities and attractions

We’ve been to Vegas many times

bring diversity to Vegas visits.

during phases of our lives, from

Aquariums, theme rides and “Dig

business conventions to PGA

This,” a heavy equipment

merchandise shows and friend trips.

playground, are fun for all. Take

We enjoy it a few days, and we’re

flight over the Grand Canyon,

done but those few days are always

Hoover Dam or board the High

fun filled, none more so than our

Roller, the world’s largest

Vici Golf trip. To the HELLS

observation wheel. A 30-minute ride

KITCHEN, Caesar’s and Vici Golf

in a dance cabin reaches 500 feet

alliance, we say, “Hail, yes Caesar!”

with a DJ on screen setting your feet in motion while observing the lights

The Journey

of the strip at night. Former lights

Flights are abundant into Vegas.

rest in peace in the Neon Museum,

Slot machines ding through the

a boneyard of old billboards.

airport for gaming on the run. Rent

Beyond the buffets, Vegas dining

public transit is easier - cabs, uber,

multiple restaurants including

lyft or the monorail. Actually,

HELLS KITCHEN, his TV cooking

walking while people watching rules

show brought to life. Watch the

with a long pause by the Bellagio

open kitchen chaos as chef teams

fountains.

compete, creating exquisite dishes, flames dancing behind.

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a car if you must cruise the strip but

is an event. Gordon Ramsay runs

unspoiled. unrivaled. unlike anything you’ve ever played.

A VICI GOLF PROPERT Y | VICIPROPERTIES.COM

In terms of both experience and impression, Cascata occupies the pinnacle of golf in North America. It is attainable by those with high aspirations and even higher expectations. Playing Cascata feels truly special and comes with a subtle sense of accomplishment. Though not a private facility, it sure feels like it. cascatagolf.com

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TECHNOLOGY GOLFSTATUS

EXPERIENCE

GOLFSTATUS SIMPLE, POWERFUL TECHNOLOGY FOR GOLFERS, FACILITIES & NONPROFITS

GOLFSTATUS IS A GOLF TECHNOLOGY company founded in 2011. What started as a simple, user-friendly mobile app has today grown into an incredible tool for golf facilities, golfers, associations, charities, and other nonprofits—and it’s making a huge impact on golf and beyond.

Golfers use the free GolfStatus mobile app on the course to track their rounds, archive

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scorecards, live-score rounds with friends, and take advantage of free GPS to the front, back, and center of every green on every course in the country. Golfers can also use the app to find, register for, and sponsor golf events, and when they’re playing an event powered by GolfStatus’s tournament management platform, they use the app to live-score it.

GolfStatus works directly with golf facilities, offering its full-service

Because these Monday outings are a crucial source of revenue,

league and tournament management software to owners and operators.

it’s important that they go off without a hitch, and traditionally,

In fact, hundreds of partner courses nationwide use it to automate many

facilities have poured substantial time and resources into ensuring

of the more time-consuming aspects of organizing golf events—whether

that they do. “GolfStatus streamlines and automates much of the

they’re hosting corporate outings, planning the annual member-member

time-consuming work associated with outings (and leagues for that

or member-guest, or organizing a high-end Monday outing. “This is

matter), so that golf professional staff can focus on the relationships

an ideal use for our software,” says GolfStatus’s Director of Marketing

and service components that make for a really stand-out event that

Katie Casillas. “It allows private facilities to upgrade the look and feel

accomplishes its intended outcomes,” adds Casillas. Also worth

of Monday outings to a more professional event that attracts high-end

noting is the software’s ease of use and accessibility. Staff can launch

sponsors and the caliber of players they’re often looking to recruit and

an event in 10 minutes, and they don’t need extensive training or

retain as members.”

background to get started.

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TECHNOLOGY GOLFSTATUS

SIMPLE TECHNOLOGY THAT DRIVES IMPACT In addition to working directly with golf facilities, the Nebraska-based golf technology company is also working with nonprofits nationwide actively leveraging golf as a fundraising mechanism. Through GolfStatus.org, the company offers its golf event management technology to qualifying nonprofits at no cost.

Users in the nonprofits space can run the gamut from fundraisers to development and outreach coordinators and directors, and represent large, multi-chapter organizations as well as small, local nonprofits. Tournament organizers can also include committees, volunteer staff, and other stakeholders; they often wear many hats and sometimes don’t have extensive golf knowledge. That’s where the platform’s ease of

it online. Tournament organizers no longer need

location. “Online registration also ensures that

use becomes especially crucial. The software

to track and manage checks and mail-in forms.

the event is presented professionally and is easy

automatically generates a custom event website,

They and their staff have all the registrant and

for players and sponsors to find and register for

and streamlines the registration process by taking

sponsor information in one easy, convenient

and/or support,” adds Casillas. Registrations

“Golf is an incredible avenue for veterans, not only as a restorative pastime that helps them stay connected and active, but also as a fundraising avenue.” —Katie Casillas

Liliedahl Imaging

then populate into a central, web based platform so event coordinators, volunteers, and even the golf facility can seamlessly collaborate on tasks like player management and team pairings, hole assignments, sponsorship management (including a place to manage logos and other brand assets), and other logistics leading up to and the day of the event. The app also makes it possible to live-score the event.

In addition to making planning and preparation easier on the coordinator and the golf facility, GolfStatus also provides broader, more lucrative sponsorship opportunities that help events yield more dollars—whether those dollars benefit associations in the form of non-dues revenue, private facilities looking to increase event revenue, or charities in need of mission-critical funds that further their causes. The software makes it easy to display live leaderboards on-site and online; those leaderboards are also prime real estate for sponsorships, which event organizers are able to sell at a premium. GolfStatus also

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FOR GOLFERS

Take advantage of free GPS, track scores and

personal bests, archive and reference rounds, enter tournaments, post to social platforms, and win

rewards and giveaways from your favorite brands and courses.

FOR COURSES

Resource, maintenance, and

operational costs are on the rise, attracting and retaining golfers

is increasingly challenging, and your time is more limited than

ever. A little technology can go a long way. GolfStatus® is shaking

up the industry with simple, straightforward tournament

tech, marketing solutions, and

customer engagement platforms that make your facility stand out.

FOR TOURNAMENTS allows event organizers the ability to offer

Association, a North Carolina-based

local businesses and national brands hole

nonprofit whose mission is to enrich the lives

sponsorships in the app, online exposure

of veterans and their family members through

through the custom event website, custom-

the game of golf, is one such example. Most

branded pin flags, and a number of other

recently, GolfStatus announced that it would

exposure and branding opportunities.

be teaming up with the Veterans of Foreign

In short, no matter the purpose the golf

Wars (VFW) to provide its platform to their

event serves (outreach, donor stewardship,

post commanders organizing golf fundraisers

fundraising, corporate entertainment,

with a donation-match incentive.

member recruitment, non-dues revenue,

“Golf is an incredible avenue for veterans,

member retention, et cetera), GolfStatus’s

not only as a restorative pastime that helps

technology eliminates much of the heavy

them stay connected and active, but also as a

lifting for golf facilities and corporate as well

fundraising avenue,” says Casillas, noting

as charity event organizers, making it easy

that the company is privileged to work

to plan and execute a golf event that fields

with and support a number of veterans

more players, attracts more sponsors and

organizations and initiatives large and

sponsorship dollars, and produces better

small. “We couldn’t be more honored to

outcomes all around.

have the opportunity to help the people and organizations who have made it their

GIVING BACK TO THOSE WHO SERVED

mission to serve, represent, and support U.S.

In addition to serving nonprofits directly

military veterans and their families.”

through GolfStatus.org, the company has

In all, GolfStatus is making an impact

also made corporate social responsibility

connecting golfers, golf facilities, nonprofits,

a central focus of its business through a

and the individuals and businesses that

number of give-back initiatives. Its enduring

support them in ways that grow the game.

partnership with the Veteran Golfers

Together we can do more good!

Manage registrations, organize sponsorships and

mobile exposure, streamline setup, drag and drop hole assignments, and instantly score outings—all in one place.

TMS makes it easy, and provides

high-value exposure for sponsors and contributors in ways never before possible!

FOR NONPROFITS

Set up a golf fundraiser in minutes, customize

sponsorship packages, and instantly create a

professional registration

website to begin accepting registrations and

sponsorships. GolfStatus.org tracks everything in

once place, so you can seamlessly organize every

detail and collaborate with the golf facility. Promote golf fundraisers across your network of supporters and our network of golfers to raise awareness, recruit players, and engage supporters in your cause today, tomorrow, and beyond.

To Learn more about GolfStatus or to Schedule a Live Demo visit GolfStatus.com NORTHE R 2019 NORTHEAS AST.GOLF T.GOLF || DDECE ECEMBE MBER 2019 // JAN JANUARY UARY 2020 2020

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COURSES AND CLUBS NEW SEABURY

GRADE “A”

ARCHITECTURE The Club at New Seabury

The Club at New Seabury Ocean Course

3rd hole / 433 Yards / Par-4 Architect: William Mitchell (1964) Mashpee, Massachusetts

T

HE ULTIMATE SITUATION

for golfers is when land and water intersect. There are locations where that happens but finding such situations in the Northeast is quite a challenge given the pressure to either develop such property for other commercial interests or to have it simply be kept in its natural state.

By Matt Ward

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The Club at New Seabury provides 36 holes of golf and it is on the aptly named Ocean Course — formerly known as the Blue Course — when such intersections happen.

The Ocean quickly takes you near the water with the opening series of holes and the par-4 3rd is truly a major challenge golf wise and one blessed with stellar views.

Generally, the wind direction during the prime playing months is into the player’s faces.

The right side is more available but going that route only extends the distance to the green. The approach is usually played with a mid-to-long iron to a small green guarded by greenside bunkers on

The hole runs parallel to Nantucket Sound and those pulling their tee shots left face either

both sides. The putting surface is not

rough, or if pulled badly, the sandy beach area.

overly big and is sloped from back-tofront. It pays to keep one’s ball short of the hole in order to maximize one’s opportunity for a low score.

There are plans to update the course through the service of Bruce Hepner who recently completed such work on the companion Dunes Course. Interestingly, at one time the Ocean Course was rated among the top 100 courses in America by Golf Digest.

Clearly, the 3rd on the Ocean marries all the key elements that make a golf hole stand apart from all others.

For more information on membership, real estate and vacations visit: www.newseabury.com

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MOLORI UNPLUGGED

By John Molori

McKinnon Breaks Barriers and Blazes a Trail for High School Golf

G

RACE MCKINNON has a lot going on for sure. The 17 year-

green, but when I was on the green, I would only two putt

old Methuen, MA High School senior is involved in the

or one putt, nothing more.

school band, lacrosse, and several school organizations. She also is a National Honor Society student who works two jobs.

Add another moniker to her resume – trailblazer. In addition to all of this, the daughter of Maria and John McKinnon

“The boys would take fewer strokes to get to the green but would take more strokes putting. When I am at practice, I always play as if I was in a match. I always take my time on each shot and plan out exactly what spot I want to hit.”

While women have thrived

is the only female to compete on the varsity level for the

at the collegiate and pro level,

Methuen High School Rangers’

McKinnon realizes she is break-

golf team.

ing new ground. “When people look at the Methuen High Golf

Not only has she competed for four years against male

team, they see me, a girl as a

competition, McKinnon is a

captain of a boys’ team.

“Being a captain is not about

team captain who brings some unique qualities to the links.

being a man or a woman. It is

“Optimism is so important

a commitment to being there

because golf is such a mental

for my teammates and always

game,” says McKinnon.

“As a player, I know how

Golf team captain Grace McKinnon with some of her teammates.

Adds Symmes, “Grace has a

hard it is to keep your head up and not get down on your-

great relationship with everyone. The other seniors respect

self when you are playing badly. I encourage the players

her, and the underclassmen really look up to her.”

and make sure they have a positive mindset.”

So, how does this positivity translate to being the only

McKinnon’s ability to flourish against male competition started at home. She relates, “My dad was the one who got

girl in a male-dominated high school sport? Methuen golf

me started me in golf, and my brother Ryan and I have

coach Jason Symmes relates, “I think she looks at it as an

always been in competition against each other. He really

advantage. Many of the boys are uncomfortable playing

drives the competitive side in me.”

against a girl, and she loves to beat them. Grace has a great competitive attitude.”

McKinnon adds, “In the beginning, I was intimidated because I knew that the boys were stronger and could hit

This groundbreaking golfer plans to study Professional Golf Management in college and recognizes that breaking barriers in Methuen has laid the groundwork for future triumphs.

Says McKinnon, “If it wasn’t for golf, I wouldn’t be who I

the ball further. It took two years to realize that I could still

am today. It has given me so many opportunities to grow as

compete with them. In most cases, the boys would drive

a person. I may be the only girl on the team, but my team-

the ball 250 yards or more, and I could only drive it 180, but

mates are my best friends. Being the only girl on the golf

the two reasons I was able to compete against men was

team makes me feel like I have a bunch of older brothers

because of my short game and consistency.”

who look out for me and have my back.”

Patience on the course has played a big role in McKinnon’s success. She relates, “I was always consistent keeping my ball in play. It would take me more shots to get to the

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being accessible to them.”

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John Molori is an author and columnist for numerous publications. Like him on Facebook at John Molori, Twitter@ MoloriMedia. Email molorimedia@gmail.com.

THANK YOU! To our tournament organizers, volunteers, participants, and sponsors, Jimmy Fund Golf would like to thank you for raising more than $7.5 million in 2019 for cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

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NORTHE AS T.GOLF | D ECE MBE R 2019 / JAN UARY 2020

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ROSS’S RULINGS

By Jack Ross

The WORLD

HANDICAP SYSTEM AIMS for UNIFORMITY and FAIRER COMPETITION IF YOU’RE PLANNING to travel to Scotland next year for matches with the locals at St. Andrews or Carnoustie, it will be easier to allocate handicap strokes. In 2020, the USGA and all other golf ruling bodies will implement the new World Handicap System (WHS) which will unify what were formerly six different systems around the world. The WHS will enable golfers of different abilities to compete on a fair and equitable basis in any format on any course in the world.

BY Jack Ross

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The goal of the WHS, which has been in the works

Your “net double bogey” is double bogey for the hole (5)

for years, is to eliminate confusion about different handicapping systems and create a singe handicap index that’s easy to obtain and maintain and that applies virtually everywhere in the world. “Finally, we just all decided it was time,” said Steven Edmondson, USGA director of handicap and course rating. “Wouldn’t one system be better for the game?”

Don’t be alarmed. If you have a GHIN card, the system will work basically the same way in 2020. But there are a few important changes in the new system that might affect how your handicap index and course handicap are established and change over time. For you high handicappers, the new maximum index is 54!

The WHS system will be a bit more responsive to changes in your game. While the current system uses your best 10 of your past 20 scores and applies a multiplier, the new system will use a true average

plus your allotted handicap stroke for the hole (1). You

“Finally, we just all decided it was time.

Wouldn’t one system be better for the game?”

—Steven Edmondson, USGA director of handicap and course rating

would record a 6.

The WHS will also limit the adjustment of your index in some situations to ensure the integrity of the handicap system. Your index cannot rise more than 5 points above your lowest index in the past 12-month period (“hard cap”). The “soft cap” will limit adjustments incrementally once your index rises 3 points. The “exceptional score reduction” will require additional adjustments in the case of rounds at least 7 strokes lower than your index. But don’t worry about these technicalities. Just try to shoot an exceptional score.

Finally, it will be important to post your scores every day. Under WHS, adjustments to handicap indexes will be adjusted on a daily basis, rather than on the 1st and 15th days of the month.

Mike Wice, manager of GHIN and IT services for

of the best 8 of your past 20 scores. In addition, your course handicap will now take into account course rating, slope (the measure of difficulty of a course), and par.

This means that if you play white tees and compete against a golfer who plays blue tees, no w will be necessary.

Your handicap index will now be adjusted for abnormal weather conditions.

Sometimes an 83 in difficult conditions is comparable to a 79 on a fair day. No, you will not be required to include a link to the Weather.com daily forecast when you post your score. The WHS will adjust the computation based on a statistical analysis of the scores posted at that course on that day.

The most notable change under WHS involves Equitable Stroke Control, which prevents

the MGA, said that the MGA has been preparing for

“disaster holes” from skewing your index. Under the

the implementation of WHS since 2015 and does not

current system, your score on such a hole for handicap

foresee any major problems. “The biggest challenge

purposes varies based on your index. Under WHS, the

of WHS is educating golfers. We also need to educate

maximum score reported for handicap purposes for

course staff and committees.” Wice said the MGA is

all players is “net double bogey.” Assume you take 7

using social media and videos to educate golfers and

strokes on a par-3 hole and your course handicap is 18.

will hold seminars on WHS next year.

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AROUND THE GAME TGA Premier Sports Golf Franchises Continues Northeast Expansion

O

F ALL THE NATIONWIDE PROGRAMS dedicated to sustainably growing golf participation, one of the most consistent

TGA franchises can be found in more than 77 markets across 28 states, as well as internationally in Canada. This includes ten markets across the Northeast, including the latest TGA franchise to launch in the

and compelling is TGA Premier Sports’

Long Island, New York area. Tiffany Pippins, a veteran

innovative golf franchise model. TGA,

educator, journalist and TGA golf coach recently

founded in 2003 by entrepreneur and

acquired the TGA Premier Golf of South Nassau County

former college golfer Joshua Jacobs, is on pace to enroll its one-millionth student in its dynamic introductory in-

franchise, parlaying her love of the game into a career that is reaching local youth with the “sport of a lifetime.”

“While covering the 2019 PGA Championship at

school and after-school enrichment and camp programs by

Bethpage Black, I had a vision of how I could use my

the end of 2020.

knowledge and admiration for the game to inspire and

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facilitate golf in various districts within Nassau County through TGA’s exceptional golf enrichment program.

We’re already starting to build strategic partnerships within the Nassau County community,” Pippins said. “I spent part of my formative years in Nassau County. It’s the perfect place for me to connect and share my passion for golf with the next generation of avid golfers.”

Pippins’ territory includes Long Beach, Merrick, Bellmore, Rockville Centre, Baldwin, and Valley Steam.

TGA of South Nassau runs after-school golf programs on school campuses, as well as running popular youth golf camps at a few local courses like Lido Beach, Merrick Golf Course and Bethpage State Park.

TGA (Teach, Grow, Achieve) delivers introductory golf programs directly at schools and community centers through before- or after-school enrichment programs, camps, leagues, and physical education programs. The programs incorporate multi-level, station-based learning curriculums that promote progressive skill development in sports along with academic (STEAM) subjects, life lessons, physical fitness, and rules and etiquette. The program can also be utilized anywhere on school campuses regardless of weather, including gymnasiums,

an established infrastructure, start-up fees were reasonable, and I didn’t

hallways, cafeterias, fields and blacktops.

have to reinvent the wheel,” Rooney says. “TGA’s expertise in the education/

More than 70 percent of TGA’s participants and their families have never played golf while 42 percent of its total participants migrate to local golf facilities. This has evolved

curriculum side, bringing golf into schools, was vital to my success. They also had a unique service that wasn’t offered anywhere in the industry.”

In Mercer County, New Jersey, the husband and wife team of Stuart and

into a Player Pathway program that drives young golfers

Winnie Woody acquired their TGA golf franchise in 2013. The Woodys are

to local golf courses and national golf programs like Drive,

a unique entrepreneurial team, bringing a deft combination of business

Chip and Putt, PGA Junior League and Youth on Course,

background and youth sports experience, to become part of TGA’s

thus feeding the next generation of lifelong golfers into the

grassroots movement.

industry’s developmental pipeline.

TGA golf franchises in the Northeast can also be

“We’re super fortunate,” says Winnie Woody. “With TGA, we are able to do every day what most people only have the privilege of doing on the weekends

found in Bergen, Union, Morris, and Essex Counties in

and on vacation. We’re ambassadors for one of the best life-long sports -- and

New Jersey, Fairfield County in Connecticut, as well as

we get to proactively bring the message to the youngest and most energetic

Westchester, and Rockland Counties in New York.

future players in our community.”

Kevin Rooney became the youngest TGA franchise

TGA is still the only youth sports franchise model dedicated to the

owner in 2005 after recognizing the unique career

sport of golf. The innovative business model has empowered entrepreneurs

opportunity TGA offered in the golf industry and acquired

nationwide like Pippin, Rooney and the Woodys to activate and engage

the Bergen County territory.

thousands of new players into the sport at the grassroots level.

“I was looking for a career in the golf industry that could allow me to grow and build my own business. I really liked TGA’s franchise model because there was

For more information about TGA Premier Sports and its golf franchise model, visit www.playtga.com

NORTHEAS AST.GOLF T.GOLF | |DDECE ECEMBE MBER 2019//JAN JANUARY UARY2020 2020 NORTHE R 2019

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5. A synthetic putting surface that has the classification of “pure”.

4. Used by the top golfers and instructors all over the world.

3. Imagine the putting games you can play with friends.

2. Four models designed to fit different spaces. Putts up to 25 feet.

1. Is over $60K worth lower scores and a bigger ego? You Decide!

If you have a product that helps you lower your scores? Send it to us us and why for a chance to win a Free Membership to the Northeast Golf Club. @northeastgolfmagazine

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