The PGA Professional Magazine - November 2020

THE

PROFESSIONAL

THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE

Volume 16 Issue 10 November 2020

PGA BACKS NEW FEMALE CAMPAIGN Ford hits top gear in winning the PGA Professional Championship

PGA BACKS NEW FEMALE CAMPAIGN

2020 VISION New categories launched

FOOTWEAR IN FOCUS

Guide to SS21 golf shoes Ford hits top gear in winning the PGA Professional Championship ■ Social Media

STAY SOCIAL

PGA 2020

Vision Update

FOOTWEAR IN FOCUS

Guide to SS21 golf shoes

STAY SOCIAL

Social Media Management tools management tools Retail customer engagement ■ Retail customer engagement

The 2021 GPS Rental Trolley

THE ULTIMATE CASH MACHINE

Unmissable opportunity to boost your revenue!

• • • • • •

Double your investment in as little as two months Super-accurate high-performance GPS technology Speed up the pace of play on your course Charge increased hire fees Increases your retail sales High residual value and 2-year transferrable warranty*

Contact your Area Sales Manager for more details .

PGA is a registered trademark of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited

*Terms & Conditions apply More game-changing

All PowaKaddy electric trolleys have been awarded the Quiet Mark by the Noise Abatement Society

technology at

powakaddy.com

Explore the entire range at powakaddy.com

CONTENTS FEATURES

TRAVEL

06

50 51

2020 VISION

ASK THE EXPERTS…

New initiative ready to launch

Albatross Events

WHY YOU SHOULD ADD TRAVEL TO YOUR SKILL SET

52

Steve Carter believes it is a service you should add to your armoury

WHERE TO GO IN NOVEMBER While the weather is unpredictable there are plenty of venues to choose from

COACHING

54 58

MAKING LESSONS FUN

26

#FOREEVERYONE R&A launches new female-focussed campaign

Fostering fun experiences in junior coaching sessions

WHAT IT TAKES… To coach a multiple European Tour winner, Aaron Rai

MARKETING

INSIDE THE PGA

04 14 70

THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE

Editor: jane.carter@golfconsulting.co.uk PGA News and Features: steven.carpenter@pga.org.uk adrian.milledge@pga.org.uk Equipment and Trade Editor: nick.bayly@pgapublishing.co.uk Advertising Sales: ed.beale@pgapublishing.co.uk Recruitment Advertising: recruitment@pga.org.uk Contributors: Antje Derks, Golfbreaks.com, Crossover Technologies, Me and My Golf, David Colclough Photographers: Getty Images, Adobe Stock Production Assistant: Kelly Lewis Design: Andrew Beavis PGA National Headquarters Centenary House The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B76 9PT Tel: 01675 470 333 Fax: 01675 477 888

ROBERT MAXFIELD This month from The PGA’s Chief Executive

PGA NEWS

This magazine contains images taken prior to Covid-19

A round up of what’s happening across The PGA and its regions

MEMBER IN THE SPOTLIGHT Putting on a show - Konrad Brochocki

INTERNATIONAL

24

WOMEN WORKING ABROAD Insight and some top tips for those interested in following in their footsteps.

62

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING TOOLS

PGA RETAIL

28 42 46

TRADE NEWS Latest product launches and industry news

SPRING IN THE STEP Footwear that you should consider stocking for 2021

COMMUNICATE AND INNOVATE Boost your retail sales and target new members

The PGA Professional

|

And why they are vital for your marketing strategy

MEMBERSHIP

64

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

RECRUITMENT

67

#makinggolfhappen

SITUATIONS VACANT

The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited accepts no responsibility for the products or services offered by the advertisers in this publication nor does it necessarily agree with any views expressed, statements or claims made by the advertisers in this publication. ©The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited 2020 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photography and recording, without the written permission of the copyright holder, application for which should be addressed to the copyright holder (PGA). ®PGA is a registered trademark of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited Prostate Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1005541) and in Scotland (SC039332). Registered company 02653887 www.facebook.com/thepga www.linkedin.com/company/ professional-golfers-association www.twitter.com/thepga www.instagram.com/thepga www.youtube.com/thepga

3

The Perfect Match

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

#makinggolfhappen

FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE

W

e have experienced a ‘boom’ over the last few months with an unprecedented number of people coming to golf, which bodes well for the future of our game.

As usual the winter could be a difficult period for the industry with the continuing demand for play by members in shorter daylight hours and the added pressures being placed on golf clubs as they move in and out of lockdown.

Once again our Members will be at the forefront of these challenges and The PGA is here to support. Our dedicated COVID-19 hub on The PGA website is being regularly updated to explain the restrictions and how they affect your business throughout the UK and Ireland. The stricter regulations and enforced closures have made things especially difficult for our Members and their golf facilities but we continue to liaise with Governments and our industry partners to ensure we are speaking as ‘one’.

platform. Networking and education are at the heart of what we do within The PGA. We have long recognised the benefit of Members sharing best practice, not only with each other but with the wider industry. Developing skills to meet the ever-changing needs of business and society is also increasingly sought after. We will be setting high standards for both and ensuring that PGA Members are recognised as a market-leading force for good within the game and where needed, change.

As part of the new structure, we will also be rolling out the Business Management Group and Club Volunteer categories this month. We have reached out to the industry and the support for both has been incredible. Both have been well received at a time when the industry is looking to work closer together. The workforce and the decision-making volunteers need to be in-step during these difficult times.

The industry’s response to the COVID-19 crisis has seen golf clubs unite in how they react to the marketplace and in doing so proven what we always knew - that golf has much to offer.

“

Remember to take care of your own physical and mental wellbeing. Manage your own and the expectations of those around you.

The Government continues to make changes to its employment support, and I would urge all of you to review the latest updates. Your weekly edition of ‘Connect’ will bring you any further changes as they are announced in the coming months. Remember that we have our COVID-19 helplines and Business Relationship Officers who are all here to help. Please use them and their expertise. All our resources will be directed to supporting you during the coming months.

Earlier in the year, one PGA Member described their working week as “every day is like a Saturday” and we know the hours that many of you have been working. This winter period will bring its own different pressures, with capacity on golf courses at its most stretched and members and golf club directors at their most demanding. Remember to take care of your own physical and mental wellbeing. Manage your own and the expectations of those around you.

With great enthusiasm, we are approaching the launch date of our new Membership categories and their corresponding benefits. In this issue you can read more about the Member forums, PGA podcasts and the PGA Learn The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

There is still great latent demand and therefore potential growth for the game - none more so than in the women’s market. The R&A Women In Golf Charter has been supported by The PGA since its inception and this month sees the launch of a resource and support kit for golf clubs.

Whilst the Charter is important, it is the actions that will make the difference. Once again PGA Professionals play a significant role in reaching this market and I would ask each of you to take the time to look at the resources that are available through the PGA website and which have been distributed to golf clubs.

Learning and game improvement remain two crucial factors in introducing and retaining women within the game. It’s an enormous opportunity for every PGA Professional and their facility and a ‘positive’ to build on in 2021.

Robert Maxfield Chief Executive

5

2020 VISION

MEMBER BENEFITS:

LATEST UPDATE PGA Members already have access to a wide suite of benefits. With the launch of 2020 Vision later this month, a number of new benefits will also be available, making use of the latest digital technology to enable Members to engage with the Association and develop their careers whenever and wherever they want.

BLENDED DIGITAL LEARNING WITH PGA LEARN Last month we introduced the new PGA Learn digital CPD platform, which will deliver a wide range of learning and CPD content, including eLearning courses, videos, podcasts, webinars, how-to guides and case studies – all of it will be accessible 24/7, allowing you to choose what content you consume and how you experience it.

Content has also been carefully selected and curated from highquality third-party sources – such as TED Talks, YouTube videos, journals and blogs, so you don’t have to spend time searching for the best and most relevant content out there.

Much of the content is in a bitesized ‘micro-learning’ format, which has been proven to help you better retain information as you won’t suffer the fatigue of sitting through long courses. You can also use PGA

6

Learn’s integrated media players to access and launch video and audio content directly within the portal, rather than being redirected elsewhere.

All content on the platform has also been carefully aligned to the Association’s core Value Blocks, ensuring that it is relevant to you and the role you play in the golf industry. The November launch is very much just a jumping-off point - we will continue to build out a comprehensive offer on PGA Learn that will provide different types of content for every subsection within each Value Block.

Subsequent phases will then provide different levels of content within each sub-section to cater for those Members working at different levels of expertise and those who want to develop higher levels of expertise.

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

2020 VISION

Some Key Elements

Take Control of Your CPD

Ease of Access There is no need to remember yet another username and password as you are already pre-registered to use PGA Learn. Access to the platform is via the Members’ Area of the website so no password is required if you’re logged in.

Personalise Your Content Easily access the content you want to see by using the My Content dashboard tile – this area only displays content you have indicated a particular interest in and can be customised by updating your Areas of Interest via My Profile within the PGA website’s Members’ Area.

Provide Valuable Feedback The platform’s commenting capabilities enable you to start and join conversations around individual items of learning content, such as eLearning and microlearning courses, videos and support documents. You can also give content star ratings to show others what is popular and provide valuable feedback about the content we are delivering.

PGA Learn empowers you to take ownership of your CPD through the My CPD tile. Members now have complete control over recording their CPD activities, including seminars, workshops, educational events and more.

In addition to the structured learning activities, My CPD enables Members to capture and record their independent, self-directed learning and CPD activities. This could include attendance at educational events, online webinars and seminars, viewing videos, and reading blogs and other online resources. Any learning content item completed on PGA Learn will automatically add as a pending CPD item within My CPD, saving you time and ensuring all the CPD you complete gets captured.

My CPD provides a quick and easy way of recording the learning you undertake throughout the year by providing you with a simple form, featuring pre-populated drop-down menus. It also enables you to add reflections on what has been gained from each CPD activity to help you plan your future learning.

Sometimes you may be asked to validate the formal learning activities you have completed, such as the qualifications you

have gained or courses you have attended. You can use My CPD to upload evidence quickly and easily – such as completion and results certificates, or scans or photographs of course evaluation forms – to confirm and verify your attendance or attainment.

My CPD is the only place to annually submit your CPD records to gain and maintain your CPD Accredited Status. You can track your progress towards achieving The PGA’s CPD standards throughout the CPD year and submit your records with a click of the button. To reduce the chance of your CPD Accredited status expiring, reminders and notifications will be sent to you.

My CPD also provides you with the ability to print off or export your CPD activity as a professionally PGA branded PDF document.

This information has been found to valuable when Members have applied for jobs or have submitted an APAL application.

In the future, PGA Learn will award personalised certificates to members who have completed their learning and/or CPD activities for the year and have achieved or maintained Accredited status.

Find out more at www.pga.info

WELCOME TO PGA FORUMS With digital and mobile technology improving all the time, it’s really important that The PGA makes maximum use of the latest innovations to enable Members engage with the Association whenever and wherever they want.

So, in addition to podcasts that can be downloaded and played at your leisure, we are also introducing another digital platform – Member forums. Hosted within the website, the PGA forum has been created to allow Members to connect with each other, as well as PGA staff, and discuss the topics that are relevant to them.

Each category of Membership will have its own group, with a variety of sub-groups and special topic groups that will enable Members to interact with each other, as well as sharing knowledge and best practice. Members can also create their own groups around important

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

specialist subjects and topics. All forum groups will be supported and moderated by PGA staff and industry experts to help stimulate discussion and the sharing of ideas, as well as being on hand to answer questions where another Member hasn’t come forward to answer.

Within these forums groups there will be dozens of different topics for Members to get involved with, with each topic containing multiple threads and posts for discussion.

Unlike some existing groups on social media, PGA Members using the forum can be confident they are collaborating with fellow Members.

Users will be able to pose specific questions, raise debates, feed back on initiatives or successes and help to support their fellow Members.

The forums will be live later in November, keep an eye out for more communications and advice on how use the forums in the coming weeks.

7

2020 VISION

INTRODUCING PGA LIVE – THE PODCAST As you already know, there a number of ways by which we communicate with you, the Members. There are print and digital versions of the PGA Professional magazine, tailored emails, the weekly Connect bulletin and of course, the Members’ area of the website that contains a wide range of useful content. Earlier this year, we also launched the very popular PGA LIVE webinar series, which proved invaluable for communicating with Members during the first lockdown.

Hot on the heels of that comes the new PGA LIVE – The Podcast. This regular podcast (a digital recording – a bit like a radio show - that can be downloaded and played at your convenience) is a great way for Members to keep up-to-date with the Association at a time that’s convenient for them. We will use this platform to provide insight on matters affecting you, discuss timely news topics, analyse trends, inspire

8

Members and cover the issues that are relevant to you.

Throughout the series, The PGA will be spending time with a variety of people, including members of staff, Members of the Association and key figures in the wider golf industry to discuss a wide variety of subjects and talk about what’s going on day-to-day in the golf industry and what Members are up to across the UK, Ireland and beyond.

The first three episodes are already live and can be found via the PGA Live section of the website.

There are lots of way to listen – all episodes are hosted on our SoundCloud platform, or you can subscribe and listen through a range of podcast providers such as Spotify, Deezer, Tune In and Stitcher.

Hosted by Rich Barker, Executive Director – Business Devlopment, these early episodes have focussed on communicating some of the key aspects of the 2020 Vision, with

Chief Executive Robert Maxfield and Chairman Alan White outlining the new Membership categories and the importance of bringing the golf industry together under the umbrella of The PGA in episode one. Episode two features Executive Director – Education, Paul Wiseman, discussing the new PGA Learn CPD platform, while in episode three we hear from Executive Director – Member Services, Tristan Crew, talk about the new value blocks and how they will help to communicate the expertise of Members.

Future episodes will cover everything from coaching, performance and custom-fitting to retail, marketing and member retention... and much more besides.

If there’s a topic you’d like us to cover, a speaker you’d like to hear from or if you’re doing something that you think we should feature, please get in touch by emailing pgalive@pga.org.uk.

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

Scott Graham - PGA Professional Purley Downs Golf Club

Graphic Designer Business Development Consultant Central Invoicing Executive Buying Terms Manager EMP Marketing Editor

Foremost Golf For more information contact our National Business Development Manager, David Murch +44 (0) 7712 842 720 • david.murch@foremostgolf.com

2020 VISION

BROADENING THE SPHERE OF INFLUENCE Positioning PGA Members and the Association itself at the heart of golf clubs and the wider golf business is vital, as is ensuring the initiative has the support of the most influential bodies.

I

n recent months you will have read, watched and listened to a lot of different things about The PGA’s new 2020 Vision initiative, the very significant changes this Membership restructuring represents and why it’s important to you as Members.

As you hopefully know by now, The PGA’s 2020 Vision recognises that golf is changing and reflects the evolving role of both Members and the Association itself, offering increased specialisation for PGA Professionals plus group membership opportunities for all who work in the golf industry – including business professionals and club volunteers.

The PGA Professional

|

Enabling PGA Members to select a specialism that better reflects their role and area of expertise will ensure that they occupy a more valued position at the heart of their clubs, and that their skills, status and reputation are recognised in the wider golf business.

By bringing in all those who work and volunteer in golf under the umbrella of The PGA, we’re positioning ourselves at the heart of golf for years to come.

And it’s this idea of having a greater influence – as PGA Members and as an Association – that has really been the driving force behind the expansion.

#makinggolfhappen

11

2020 VISION

HOW THE INDUSTRY HAS We want to speak to and work directly with the people who directly influence your day-to-day business and your futures, including golf club committees, golf club managers and proprietors.

We want to better engage with the golf industry so that we are able shape the future direction and take a more significant role in increasing participation and the development of the game.

And we want to be regarded as integral to creating an increasingly relevant and skilled workforce, not only in the traditional domain of club Professionals but also in management roles and the wider golf industry.

Establishing these two new group Membership categories will hopefully ensure that everybody involved in the business of golf is speaking the same language.

By placing The PGA at the heart of the game, and as the organisation that makes golf business happen, we are empowering you as a PGA Member, enhancing your status and increasing your ability to develop both personally and professionally.

Before unveiling the new Membership groups we presented 2020 Vision to all partners and industry associations via a series of webinars to ensure that our plans were open, transparent and had the support of the key players.

The response to these presentations on Business Management Group and Club Volunteer was overwhelmingly positive and we’re delighted it was so well received by so many important groups.

This backing for the 2020 Vision initiative further underlines the need to bring the golf business together and it is very significant it has received so much support.

Here’s just a selection…

Brendon Pyle, Chief Executive of the Golf Foundation “PGA Members are at the heart of Golf Foundation initiatives, providing high quality coaching, outreach programmes in schools and a friendly welcome to new juniors and their families at golf clubs. At a wider level, they have contributed significantly to our success as a charity and the development of the game through wider roles within our organisation, and also as managers of golf clubs that operate our junior programmes.

The 2020 Vision membership structure provides a rallying point for the industry and we are particularly excited about the two new industry membership categories.

“The Business Management Group will help to bring the entire industry together and align understanding, while the recognition of Club Volunteers is also welcome as they play a huge role in supporting PGA members and our junior development programmes within golf clubs.

“We look forward to being part of the 2020 Vision.”

Jim Croxton, Chief Executive of BIGGA “Governance in the UK’s golf facilities has a huge impact on BIGGA members.

“We have many examples of clubs where the volunteers responsible for “I very much club governance are excellent; fully welcome The understanding of PGA’s Club their role and providing challenge and support appropriately to their Volunteer professional course management staff. initiative.”

“However, there are sadly many other examples where volunteers, though well-intentioned, cause all manner of problems for club employees and, by extension, the business as a whole. I very much welcome The PGA’s Club Volunteer initiative as an attempt to identify and instil good practice amongst volunteers.”

APPLYING FOR YOUR NEW MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY The launch date is now imminent, with applications for the new individual and group categories being accepted from 16th November onwards. If you feel as though you need

12

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

2020 VISION

REACTED TO 2020 VISION Richard Dixon, Chief Executive of Wales Golf “The role of volunteers at golf clubs cannot be underestimated, and we view them as being vital to the development of the game across the country.

“The PGA’s Club “The PGA’s Club Volunteer group is very much aligned to Volunteer group our way of thinking and is very much we wholeheartedly support an initiative that will provide high levels of additional aligned to our training and support for the volunteer way of thinking.” workforce, helping them to upskill and contribute even more.

“Bringing these volunteers closer to their Professional colleagues can only be a good thing for raising standards across all aspects of golf club governance.”

THE PGA’s VIEW “In additional to evolving the traditional Membership category, one of the key aspects of our 2020 Vision is the role of The PGA in the wider sphere of golf.

“We feel it is really important to bring the entire industry together with a common voice and common goal at this incredibly challenging time - getting everyone in the same tent is a phrase I keep coming back to.

“By creating two new industry Membership groups - Business Management Group and Club Volunteer

by PGA - that will be open to

Doug Poole, CEO of the UK Golf Federation

everyone who is employed or working as a volunteer in the golf industry, we will

“Given the challenging times we are faced with, it’s never been more important for the golf industry to be more joined up.

“A consistent voice, better collaboration “I firmly believe and all the various Associations aligned the Business and working together Management can only be a good thing.

“That’s why I welcome The PGA’s 2020 Group can bring Vision initiative and the introduction of the golf industry the Business Management Group, which I firmly believe can bring the golf industry together.” together. Many of the UK Golf Federation members are PGA Professionals and the diversification of the Association is timely because it better reflects the fact that Professionals are not just coaching or playing anymore, they are running and owning golf facilities.”

help to pull the business of golf together for the good of our game, offering worldclass support, education and networking services for everyone involved in golf.”

– Robert Maxfield, Chief Executive of The PGA

more information, take a look at the 2020 Vision section of the Members’ website… if you still have questions, please speak to Member services in the usual way.

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

13

NEWS

Junior coach nominated top UK Coaching award

A golf coach who has been hailed a ‘true inspiration’ during the coronavirus pandemic has been shortlisted as finalist for the prestigious 2020 UK Coaching Awards.

Gavin Grenville-Wood is in the running to win the Coach Developer of the Year accolade for his inspirational coaching techniques and fundraising efforts over the past year.

The Head of Junior Education at Leadbetter Golf Academy has been labelled a ‘true inspiration during these tough times’ by one of his coaches after taking the time to check in with his mentees and being on hand to troubleshoot throughout the pandemic.

During the UK’s coronavirus lockdown, Gavin used his influence to gather a vast network of golf pros and coaches to take part in delivering the ‘World’s Biggest Golf Lesson’ via Instagram Live. A staggering 50,000-plus students participated worldwide and more than £10,000 was raised for NHS Charities.

Gavin’s style of coach developing is through an open and honest dialogue that ensures his coaches are more receptive to constructive criticism. He also employs the tactic of journaling, encouraging his cohort to detail their thoughts and feelings in a personal diary that they can refer to at anytime for guidance and inspiration to feed their coaching.

Gavin commented: “As a PGA Professional, it’s an honour to represent the golf community and to be nominated for a UK Coaching Award, let alone make it through to the final cut.

“To be recognised by your peers is the highest accolade you can receive in our profession, and it is a sign that we (Golfzon Leadbetter) as a team are on the right track in terms of how we’re engaging with and inspiring the coaches we are working with.

Nicky Fuller (equestrian) and Sarah Green (netball) have also been nominated for the Coach Developer of the Year award.

The winner will be announced during a virtual event on December 3rd, 2020.

14

Howieson awarded PGA’s highest honour

Ian Howieson has attained The PGA’s highest honour, the status of PGA Master Professional, for his overall services to golf.

Howieson left Scotland as a teenager to pursue his career as Assistant Professional at Rossendale Golf Club where he gained his PGA qualifications between 1977-1980.

The 61-year-old also enjoyed spells as an Assistant at The Berkshire Golf Club (1980-1981) and Lytham Green Drive Golf Club (1981-1983) before becoming the Head Professional where he remained for seven years.

He went on to accumulate more than 28 years as a head professional at Fairhaven Golf Club (1990-1993), The Royal Automobile Club (19942008) and The Leatherhead Golf Club (2009-2013).

Howieson began supporting clubs in the South East of England after

Golf Management Group (GMG) was launched in 2010 before returning home to his native Scotland to continue his golf consultancy role in 2015.

Two years later, he founded the Scottish Golf Buying Group where he continues to help golf clubs in Scotland through his vast wealth of knowledge and experience in golf club management.

He commented: “Career achievements come in many different ways, however, to be recognised by the Association that you joined in 1977 as a PGA Master Professional is an accumulation of all my achievements into one. This is the highlight of my professional career."

Other recent APAL Council recommendations to the Board of Directors are: Advanced Fellow: Malcolm Scott (Alresford Golf Club) and Chris White (Ayla Oasis Development).

Fellow Professional: Robert Brown (Rhodium Events & Hospitality Ltd), David Green (Golf & Glory), Neil Lubbock (Pfalz Golf Club, Germany) and Dylan Bawden (Golf Club Spillern, Austria).

Accreditation of Professional Achievement and Learning (APAL) You will be aware of the Vision 2020 correspondence and the planned significant changes to your Association.

The new specialisations and the formation of the new Business Management Group and Club Volunteer group memberships has allowed us the opportunity to assess and modify the current APAL system.

We want to inform all PGA Members that the APAL Council meeting on the 19th November, 2020 will be the last in its current form. Those Members who are currently working on their APAL submissions will need to submit them by 4pm on 4th November 2020 for consideration under the current system.

Over the coming weeks you will receive further correspondence which will address the future assessment process and the Association’s transition to the new structure.

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

NEWS

First online Induction Day is a hit

New podcast series The PGA has launched a new podcast series aimed at Members and the wider golf industry.

The platform will provide insight on matters affecting Members, including timely news topics and analysing trends, while also connecting Members to interesting people within the golf industry.

Throughout the series, The PGA will be spending time with a variety of people, including members of staff, Members of the Association and key figures in the wider golf industry.

PGA LIVE – The Podcast will discuss a wide variety of topics, all relevant to Members, while also covering what’s going on day-to-day in the golf industry.

The podcast has evolved from the hugely successful PGA LIVE webinar series launched earlier this year during the COVID-19 lockdown. It will provide another form of communication between The PGA and its Members, alongside digital and print versions of the magazine, the weekly PGA Connect newsletter and the Members’ website.

You can subscribe by searching PGA LIVE – The Podcast on a number of podcast providers such as Spotify, Soundcloud and Deezer.

The first ever online PGA Director of Golf Induction Day has been hailed a success.

COVID-19 restrictions meant this year’s induction was held online via Zoom and was attended by 12 candidates. The one-day session was delivered by Julian Richards, Mansell Richards and PGA Master Professional, John Mulgrew.

Running the Induction Day online proved to be a popular decision among candidates and organisers feel holding further inductions online will help to open the qualification up to overseas Members more easily.

Mark Skinner, Head of Business and Management Department at The PGA, commented: “With the level of success we’ve seen from candidates during lockdown, this qualification has proved it is flexible and progress can be made whilst COVID-19 restrictions are in place.”

The next Director of Golf Induction Day takes place on December 9, 2020. Visit www.pga.info to find out more.

Bryson factor sees surge for Saary Alex Saary believes the ‘Bryson Factor’ is responsible for the huge surge in interest in his specialist coaching services over recent months.

As the only UK coach trained in the use of the MACH 3 speed training system, Saary has been working with elite amateurs, professionals and their coaches over the past three years to develop speed, flexibility and distance.

But as more top-level players see the way Bryson DeChambeau has transformed his game, Saary has seen a surge in demand for his services that has led to him outgrowing his current facilities.

Saary commented: “The spotlight Bryson has shone on the potential for improvement through speed and distance has been a big boost for me and I hope that once I have found the right venue for my performance centre, I can share these benefits and many more elite golfers.”

Oaks Prague named ‘Europe’s Best Golf Course’

The PGA National Czech Republic at Oaks Prague is proud to announce the winning of two international awards, including ‘Europe’s Best Golf Course 2020’, at the seventh annual World Golf Awards.

The Kyle Phillips-designed course, located to the south-east of Prague, was also named the ‘Czech Republic’s Best Golf Course 2020‘, just months after its official opening in the summer.

Offering a premier golfing experience in the Czech Republic, the facility is part

The PGA Professional

|

of Oaks Prague, a modern community of premium homes and apartments, a future hotel and spa, and a selection of restaurants – all nestled in a beautiful 140-hectare country estate.

The PGA National Czech Republic Oaks Prague is one of just nine PGA National designated resorts around the world, with only one course in any country licensed with The PGA National brand. It signifies Oaks Prague is of the highest standard, capable of hosting international golf

#makinggolfhappen

tournaments and offering an exceptional test to all golfers.

The World Golf Awards celebrate and reward excellence in golf tourism through the annual awards program. The announcement and presentation of both awards was made at Park Hyatt Dubai, UAE on October 29th, 2020.

PGA Member Paul Dennis, Director of Golf at PGA National Czech Republic, commented: “The PGA National Czech Republic is a culmination of the dedication shown by the Oaks Prague team in producing a world class facility, coupled with the dedication of the team to deliver the extraordinary Troon Experience on a daily basis.

“It’s been a privilege to be part of the team to bring the club to life over the last year, setting a new standard in the region, and we are very proud to have the facility recognised on a global scale with these two awards.”

15

NEWS

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

What’s in the Bag (WITB), an innovative golf performance coaching programme, has appointed Belfast PGA Professional Wayne Telford as an ambassador in Ireland.

One other move in Ireland sees Conor Coyne become a club professional at Elm Park.

Titleist has appointed Matthew Allanson as its new Area Sales Manager for the South region. Allanson joins Titleist having spent four years abroad working at Al Badia Golf Club and Jumeriah Golf Estates. He returned to the UK in 2017 to become the head professional at Sand Martins Golf Club.

Also in the South region, after more than seven years at Top Golf, Jamie Savoy begins a new venture as a head teaching professional for The City Golf Coach. Ben O’Dell is now the lead teaching professional at Hunterscombe Golf Club, while John Scheu is an assistant head professional at the Abbey Hill Golf Centre.

After more than three decades as the head professional at Didsbury Golf Club, Peter Barber has started another chapter in his career as the head professional at Dunham Forest Golf Club. Other moves in the South see Andrew Preston leave Congleton Golf Club after 15 years to become Marton Meadows Golf Course’s new head professional. Jonathan Levey leaves Matfen Hall to become a teaching professional at Northumberland Golf Club and Rich Pace is the new head professional at Hornsea Golf Club.

16

Colour Path Golf partner with the LPGA Foundation Colour Path Golf has announced a new partnership with the Ladies Professional Golf Association LPGA Foundation to introduce the game to more individuals, particularly young women and girls around the world.

Created by PGA Professionals John Glenn and Kevin Merry, Colour Path Golf has become an innovative teaching force with more than 100 certified instructors using the system worldwide.

Nancy Henderson, President of the LPGA Foundation, commented: “We are delighted to Partner with Colour Path Golf, as they will provide our LPGA Members and Girls Golf Site Directors with an exciting opportunity to learn a unique colour-coded teaching concept utilising four specific colours as a communication tool, helping to simplify the learning process of golf.”

Colour Path Golf aim to provide a variety of fun and engaging content to incorporate their concept into coaching sessions through the language of colour. The partnership will allow LPGA Members and Girls Golf Site Directors to access exclusive partnership discounts, new

coaching ideas, educational resources and webinars with its founders through their video call support platform.

Glenn, Co-Founder of Colour Path Golf, added: “This association allows us a fantastic opportunity to assist, support and share with LPGA Members and Girls Golf Site Directors our online certification programmes, ongoing library of educational resources including bespoke content that compliments existing coaching programs supported by the LPGA, along with further partnership member benefits.”

For more information about Colour Path Golf, please visit www.colourpathgolf.com.

THE

ON THE MOVE

PROFESSION AL

THE OFFICIAL

PGA MEMBERS’

MAGAZINE

COACHING THE NEW GENERATIO N Spotlight on

Shape the future of your magazine

Volume 16 Issue

9 October 2020

Junior golf

PGA Members are being encouraged to fill out a short survey to gain feedback on the Association’s Member magazine.

SAVVY SHO PPER The PGA Professional magazine is distributed to all Members each month SPRING INTO ACTION and contains the latest PGA and industry news, plus features on marketing, 2020 VISION personal development, retail and travel.

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED In addition, the magazine is also used as a platform to inform Members of the latest job opportunities and exclusive benefits available to them.

In order to gain feedback from Members on the current format and suggestions for improvement, The PGA is urging Members to fill in a quick survey about the magazine.

We want to know what Members like and dislike about the magazine, which content they want to see more of and their reasons for reading the magazine.

CLICK HERE to take part in the magazine survey.

Planning your

’21 Pre-orders

SS21 apparel

Apply for funding through The Golf Foundation PGA Professionals running inclusive golf projects for young people can apply for ‘HSBC Golf Roots PLUS’ funding of up to £1,500 from the Golf Foundation.

HSBC Golf Roots PLUS projects, funded by HSBC and The Gerald Micklem Charitable Trust, are a key initiative within the Golf Foundation’s drive to create life changing opportunities for young people using the power of golf.

• All the projects have been #GolfForGood and this hashtag will be seen on new PLUS projects. A PLUS project should, among other criteria, reflect the core values of the Golf Foundation: • be inclusive and innovative;

• make the introduction of young people to golf fun; • demonstrate how it will enhance Skills for Life learning and inspire its young people.

Ideally, each HSBC Golf Roots PLUS project should link to a local HSBC Golf Roots golf facility (last year the Foundation worked with 437 such facilities), involve a PGA coach, and train young people as volunteers.

During the last year or so, 15 organisations have benefited from HSBC Golf Roots PLUS funding.

The deadline for applying for funding is December 4, 2020. For more information visit golf-foundation.org.

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

ranges

NEWS

GREENCLUB TO PROVIDE POTENTIAL LIFELINE FOR GOLF FACILITIES The PGA has teamed up with GreenClub to help save golf facilities money during these unprecedented times and move golf forward to eventually becoming a carbon neutral sport.

After becoming a PGA Principle Partner, GreenClub, which was co-founded by former golf coach Paul Cuddy and respected environmental engineer Karl Gallagher, aims to invest in partnerships with facilities to generate electrical energy through solar installations.

As well as reducing energy costs and delivering new revenue streams, ambitions are high for a concerted shift towards carbon neutrality for many golf clubs across the world.

Liam Greasley, Chief Executive of GreenClub, is the driving force behind the initiative to deliver free solar energy installation, and he believes it could be the difference between prosperity or closure for some golf facilities.

Greasley commented: “We’ve all had challenges because of COVID-19, but golf is about to go through the equivalent of its third winter of the year, which is unprecedented.

“Club management will be looking at different and innovative ways of minimising their overheads and looking for potential new

A HELPING HAND The PGA continues to speak to thousands of Members and golf clubs through its dedicated ‘COVID-19 Helpline’.

Launched back in March, the helpline supports Members, golf clubs and their management teams through the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

South Region – 01279 652 070 Midlands Region – 01675 624 755 North Region – 01204 496 137 South Region – 01483 224 200 West Region – 07799 111 857 Scotland – 07799 111 862 Ireland – 00353 4293 21193 The PGA’s ‘COVID-19 Resource Hub’ also remains an important, central resource for Members and the wider golf industry.

It continues to provide regular updates, advice and information from Governments, golfing unions and bodies.

Visit www.pga.info to access the hub.

The PGA Professional

|

revenue streams. The GreenClub proposition addresses both of those areas. I do believe that GreenClub’s proposition could be the difference for many clubs between remaining open and having to close their doors.

“Our ambition is to become the premier renewable energy company in golf and beyond."

Initially operating in Great Britain and Ireland, GreenClub already has plans to expand into Australia and USA. To date, feedback from potential partners has been overwhelmingly positive with several facilities already expressing an interest in becoming the GreenClub standard-bearers.

Greasley added: “There is an opportunity for clubs to be seen as leaders in the area of sustainability. But the big draw is that the initial benefit will be at least a 15-per cent discount on your current electricity bills, increasing to more than 30 per cent once the investment is paid down. At the same time, if you have any surplus to your own needs, there will be an opportunity to sell directly to the local businesses and residents, bringing golf clubs even closer into the heart of their communities.”

Visit www.greenclub.energy.

Glenmuir launch online order platform Glenmuir has launched a new online order platform to help PGA Professionals during these difficult times.

The platform, which is the first of its kind in the golf industry, will assist Members to market club crested clothing to their membership database.

With the help of a dedicated ‘Customer Service Agent’ and ‘Area Sales Manager’, pros can set up the online ordering facility which can be used to market crested clothing for centenaries, teamwear, staff uniform and corporate enquires in a quick, efficient and stock risk-free method. The platform can be used for both Glenmuir and Sunderland of Scotland crested clothing.

Watch the step-by-step video tutorial www. glenmuir.com/orderform Get in touch with your dedicated Customer Service Agent or Sales Manager to set up your Online Order Form Mikhel Ruia, Managing Director, Glenmuir and Sunderland of Scotland, said: “One of Glenmuir’s core values is RESPONSIBILITY, and now, more than ever, we have a responsibility to pioneer new methods of helping our beloved customers through these difficult and uncertain times.”

#makinggolfhappen

ON THE MOVE

In the West region, Alasdair Danson-Webster has joined Sherborne Golf Club as its new general manager. Jack Baker has returned to the UK following a two-year spell at Golf DXB Dubai. The 23-yearold is now a club professional at Knighton Heath Golf Club.

There has been a number of moves for PGA Members in the Midlands. Chris Cousins is the new head professional at Beau Desert Golf Club after more than eight years in a similar role at Helsby Golf Club. Adam Woolley leaves Nottinghamshire Golf Club to join Lincoln Golf Club as a club professional, Dean Kane is the new head professional at Wharton Park Golf & Country Club, while Jasen Barker is now a club professional at Newark Golf Club.

In Scotland, Russell Smith has started a new role as at Director of Golf at Insights and David Knapp is a club professional at Braes Golf Centre.

In the East region, Darren Glasby has left American Golf in Biggleswade to become the new store manager at Amber Golf in Hemmingford.

Kieron Morrissey has left Madinat Makadi Golf Resort in Egypt to become director of golf at J W Marriott in Cairo.

Michael Owen is a teaching professional at GOLFTEC Hong Kong, Jordan Cook leaves Golf DXB Dubai to become a club professional at Dubai Hills Golf Club, and Anthony Moore is the head professional and retail manager at Al Mouj, Muscat in Oman.

If you would like to feature in this column send your details to membership@pga.org.uk

17

NEWS Pacesetter Technology changing the future of member experience PGA Members can offer an exceptional all-round experience to their club members thanks to Pacesetter Technology – a Floridabased company that creates custom-built mobile apps which enable golf facilities to deliver a truly personalised service for members.

The technology is already being used by many of America’s highest profile clubs including Medinah, Riviera and The Olympic Club, and Pacesetter is now bringing its exciting product to the UK, European and Middle East markets.

“We build your club’s mobile app powered by our technology,” said Founder George Stavros. “Your experience, your operation and your reputation will never be the same.”

The Pacesetter proposition is the creation of a central hub of communication and knowledge for all members and guests, that aggregates a golf club’s existing systems in one place. Multiple versions of the app are created, with members, prospective members, guests and staff seeing different things depending on permissions.

• Push button requests – Members can request their clubs to be retrieved from stores • Food and beverage ordering – all at the touch of a button

Key features include: • Member name recognition – club staff see the member’s name, photo and preferences 30 seconds before they arrive • Contactless check-in - enables social distancing and faster service

During the current coronavirus pandemic, the app can also be used to provide up-todate and reactive information to members.

Stavros continued: “We’ve got club experience in our veins and software in our DNA. Our club expertise includes 20 years of improving the operations and member experience at some of the finest resorts and private clubs in the world.

“Our tech team has spent a similar amount of time pioneering the development of innovative analytics-based software. We’re combining these decades of entrepreneurial, club operations and technology experience to innovate the private club member experience and change things forever.”

To find out how your club can expand its member experience visit pacesettertechnology.com.

Coutts ready to bow out Retiring PGA Professional Frank Coutts will lend a helping hand to find his successor at Deeside following the announcement of his retirement after more than three decades at the Aberdeen club.

Coutts, who will step down from his role next February, will provide support to the Bieldside club’s committee when they cast their eyes over the prospective candidates.

Frank said: “I’ve enjoyed some wonderful times at Deeside Golf Club, starting with junior golf in the 1970s, to playing Tartan Tour golf in the ’90s, becoming director of golf and becoming Scottish Professional Golf Association captain in the last few years.

“I think 32 years is long enough and as my dad always said ‘you’ll know when it’s time to go’ and he was right.

Coutts, who missed his European Tour card by just a few shots after he turned pro in 1983, has no intention of resting on his laurels.

He added: “I’m delighted that I will still be the service agent for Powakaddy, Motocaddy and Gulfstream for the north-east of Scotland. And I’m lucky enough to have an honorary membership at Deeside, so I’m looking forward to getting a chance to play regularly.”

18

Turner celebrates 25-year landmark A golf day to celebrate Nigel Turner’s 25 years’ service as Fulwell Golf Club’s Head Professional has raised more than £3,500 for charity.

Turner hit the quarter of a century landmark last month having joined the Middlesex venue in 1995, replacing David Haslam.

Turner, 56, is only the sixth head professional at Fulwell in the club’s 115-year history.

To mark the occasion, a two-day golf competition, which attracted 232 players, helped raise money for MIND and The Alzheimer’s Society.

Turner hit the first shot and competed alongside two senior Fulwell members.

Turner was also joined by Haslam, current club secretary Murray Cook

and two past captains, Malcom Massey and Frank Ogier, for a celebratory lunch.

“I was attracted to Fulwell as it’s an established club with a very active membership in a busy area,” said Turner. The club were also about to invest in a new professional shop which we opened in 1997.

“We have great facilities and I’ve recently opened a club fitting studio too, so at 56, I’m not planning to retire just yet!”

Photo caption – Left to right Nick Adams (club captain), David Haslam, Malcolm Massey (past captain), Nigel Turner, Frank Ogier (past captain) and Murray Cook (club secretary).

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

NEWS

Bullen favoured for brave approach at Wentworth PGA Assistants’ Championship winner Mike Bullen was rewarded for his ‘fortune favours the brave’ approach in the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth last month writes Will Trinkwon.

The 27-year-old from Rustington Golf Centre who qualified for the European Tour’s flagship event by winning the 2019 PGA PlayOffs finished tied-37th with Justin Rose and Austria’s Matthias Schwab.

There could have been an entirely different outcome had Bullen adopted a safety-first approach on the iconic 18th hole in the second round, however.

Having bisected the fairway of the par-five hole with his drive, Bullen faced a conundrum: lay-up and play for par or go for it and risk dunking his ball in the stream that guards much of the green.

“At first, I just wanted to go wedge, wedge, two putts, make my par and the cut,” he recalled.

His caddy, Nathan Longley, a friend and England amateur, disagreed.

“He told me I was swinging the club well and to go for it,” Bullen continued.

Accepting the advice, Bullen’s four-iron approach from 212 yards out landed three

feet from the pin and he holed out for an eagle. Which was just as well.

“It turns out that if I had made par I’d have missed the cut by one!” Bullen explained.

Making the cut atoned for missing it in his only other European Tour appearance, the Betfred British Masters at Close House in July.

Moreover, it has boosted his confidence in realising his ambition of playing regularly at the highest level.

“The week at Wentworth confirmed that I’m good enough,” he added.

“Making the cut has given me that extra bit of confidence and belief that that’s where I’m meant to be, that’s where I’m meant to play.

“It’s just a matter of time. I’m going to keep improving, keep chipping away, and I’ll get there when I’m ready.”

Lee ‘delighted’ with European Tour return Craig Lee enjoyed his return to the European Tour after making the cut and finishing a respectable tied 42nd in the Aberdeen Standard Investments Scottish Open.

Lee, 43, called time on his career as a tour pro at the end of the 2017 season but secured one of two PGA spots for this year’s Scottish Open alongside fellow Scot Paul O’Hara who failed to make the cut.

Stirling-based Lee did not look out of place at The Renaissance Club after an opening round of 65, which included seven birdies, placed him alongside the likes of Lee Westwood and Robert Rock.

A second-round score of 71 booked Lee a spot at the North Berwick venue for the weekend. Further rounds 76 and 71 saw the 2019 PGA Cup player finish on one-under-par to earn a handsome cheque for just under 31,000 Euros.

“It was great to take a step back into my previous life and see some old acquaintances,” said Lee. “It’s always a treat to take part in a European Tour event, but when it has the backing of Rolex you know it’s going to be special.

“I’m happy with my game and the way it held up to challenge of renaissance golf course.”

The PGA Professional

|

PGA chooses SkyCaddie technology to establish the ‘hole’ truth Players competing in The PGA’s national tournaments in 2021 will be able to benefit from the latest SkyCaddie technology that will give the exact location of each pin.

Historically players have been able to download the pin positions via an app or establish the locations from a paper chart issued by tournament staff. They will now also have the option to access the exact pin positions on a SkyCaddie.

These can be downloaded quickly via WiFi on to the Skycaddie before the start of each day’s play or even the night before, helping players make a fast and informed choice.

This innovative improvement to the playing experience is the result of support from SkyCaddie, a PGA partner for 14 years and sponsor of the Association’s popular ProCaptain Challenge.

It was piloted successfully at last month’s PGA Professional Championship, as well as

#makinggolfhappen

qualifiers for the 2019/20 SkyCaddie PGA Pro-Captain Challenge and was well received by competitors.

Charles Hine, PGA head of national tournaments, said: “The time has come to modernise all our events. In that respect, and with the help of SkyCaddie technology, we can improve the playing experience of all players who use a SkyCaddie device.

James Holmes, SkyCaddie general manager, EMEA, added: “We have developed and improved the SkyPin software over the past three years, so it is now easy and fast for tournament staff to input the pin locations for each round.

“We now use the same methodology as used by The PGA and European Tour when setting pins, so our data matches.

“Once you have played with a SkyCaddie loaded with pins you soon realise using a laser and a yardage chart is very dated.”

19

TOURNAMENTS

NEWS

20

FORD HITS TOP GEAR IN WINNING THE PGA PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP Given his surname and the margin of his victory, the suggestion that Matt Ford lapped the opposition in winning the PGA Professional Championship at Trentham Golf Club is irresistible.

The 42-year-old’s four round total of 19-under-par left him seven shots clear of the field and effectively turned his fourth and final negotiation of the Staffordshire venue into a victory procession.

That appeared an unlikely scenario at the end of the penultimate round, however.

Having led the tournament after rounds one and two, he lowered the curtain on the third with successive bogeys and was joined in pole position by Paul Hendriksen.

Ireland’s Simon Thornton was also in close contention but any hopes his rivals harboured that Ford would suffer a hangover from his discouraging finish were quickly dashed.

The back-to-back bogeys of the day before were erased immediately by back-to-back birdies and Ford was on his way.

Four more followed in a six-under-par round of 66, the last coming at the par-five 18th and typifying his bogey-free performance.

Having landed his approach just short of the green, Ford chipped to within three feet and holed out to claim the £10,000 first prize and add his name to a distinguished list of winners.

Reflecting on his round, he said: “I had a good start and the guys around me didn’t start as well as they probably hoped.

“I knew they were going to be there or thereabouts so I tried to keep my foot on the gas and keep going.

“I probably didn’t hit the ball as well today as I did over the first three days but I holed some crucial putts after missing a few yesterday.

“It was key I made a few today, especially on the front nine. That kept my round going nicely.”

It also maintained a purple patch of form that Ford has enjoyed for much of a season blighted by the coronavirus pandemic.

He went into this tournament having lost

1

Matthew Ford CK Group

-19

269

£10,000

T2

Matthew Cort Beedles Lake Golf Club

-12

276

£5,460

T2

Jordan Godwin Rochester & Cobham Golf Club

-12

276

£5,460

4

Simon Thornton Tulfarris Golf Resort

-11

277

£3,450

T5

James Ruth China Fleet Golf & Country Club

-9

279

£2,475

T5

Paul Hendriksen Ivybridge Golf Club

-9

279

£2,475

T7

Adam Keogh Spalding Golf Club

-8

280

£2,000

T7

Ross Cameron Saltire Energy

-8

280

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

NEWS

in a play-off to Hurly Long in a Challenge Tour event, the Italian Challenge Open Eneos Motor Oil. There were no such dramas, by contrast, in the Westcoast Pro-Am in mid-August when Ford earned £13,000 for winning what is the most lucrative pro-am in the UK for professionals.

Ford, who represents the CK Group, also won the PGA Surrey Open Championship but the legacy of these successes has been twofold – fatiguing but financially rewarding.

“It’s been a good couple of weeks,” he added. “I’m a bit tired after the last two weeks to be honest - it’s been pretty draining.

“I’ve done quite a lot of travelling and played a lot of golf. There’s also been a lot of pressure and that takes its toll as well.

“It’s been a very strange year. Financially I wasn’t in a very good place in the spring and during lockdown.

“A few months down the line and I’ve turned things around, played some good golf and all of a sudden the bank balance is looking better.

“I’ve earned some good money over the last few months and that makes a big difference to me and my family.”

In financial terms, two members of Great Britain and Ireland’s 2019 PGA Cup team, Matt Cort and Jordan Godwin, who posted rounds of 67 and 68 respectively, received a boost.

They each earned £5,460 as result of sharing the runner’s up berth while Thornton, who finished on 11-under for the tournament to claim fourth place, picked up £3,450.

CHIERICATO WINS WPGA ONE-DAY SERIES ORDER OF MERIT Keely Chiericato made up lost ground at Wrotham Heath Golf Club to win the 2020 WPGA One-Day Series Order of Merit but Catherine Panton-Lewis rolled back the years to deny her a double celebration.

In what was the final event of the series the pair tied-first after posting one-over-par rounds of 73.

As a result, Chiericato earned sufficient points to replace the London Golf Club’s Anna Smith at the top of the Order of Merit and win it for the second time in three years.

Reflecting on her succes, Chiericato said: “It’s been a strange year for everyone so it’s been very nice just to compete.

“I’m grateful we’ve been able to play and thanks are due to all the golf clubs that have allowed us to run the competition. It means a lot for us to be able to play and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed competing.”

Panton-Lewis was the outright winner of the final event. Showing the consistency that earned her 14 victories on the Ladies European Tour, the 65-year-old from The Berkshire Club, Ascot, recorded 17 pars and just one bogey.

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

21

IT’S NOT A TREND.

IT’S A TITLEIST. AND ALREADY THE #1 DRIVER ON THE PGA TOUR. Contact your local Titleist Area Sales Manager to find out more about this exciting new driver.

INTERNATIONAL

WORKING WOMEN ABROAD AMY MILLWARD Teaching Professional Claude Harmon Performance Golf, Dubai - UAE I decided to pursue my career abroad, because because I love travelling and am forever grateful that my job can take me all over the world. However, after interning at the Claude Harmon III Performance Golf Academy (CH3PGA) in Dubai twice, I knew instantly this was the next place I wanted to go and work, and I made it my goal to work as hard as possible to make it a reality. I loved everything about the Academy; the team, the location and the experience clients had at every lesson.

I chose the UAE, because after visiting the country twice on holiday I instantly loved Dubai and felt this was the next place I wanted to take my career. I did some research and landed the opportunity to intern at CH3PGA, which definitely encouraged my decision to choose the UAE.

On top of this, I was lucky to have friends that lived here, which made the move easier, but it meant I wouldn’t be alone in a new country while I found my feet. My friends here are my second family.

I am a teaching professional at the Claude Harmon III Performance Golf Academy, in Dubai alongside five other teaching instructors and fitness instructor.

My job involves leading the group coaching session and growing the ladies programme to get as many ladies involved in the game. I also offer individual instruction and coach alongside the team in the Junior Development Programme.

The best thing about being a female professional is that I get to do my lifetime hobby and dream every single day, while working in the sunshine! I get to give back

to a sport that I have been hooked on since the day I started. I enjoy encouraging girls and women to give it a go and just watch them fall in love with the game. Growing the game overseas has pushed me to get as many ladies involved as possible and its incredible to be a part off that.

I would recommend you visit the country before you commit to moving somewhere new to make sure it’s the right place for you.

If possible, also enquire about potential internships at courses or golf schools you would be interested in working at to see if you like the atmosphere and the working environment there, as this could definitely affect your decision.

SUE SHAPCOTT (PHD) Golf instructor Change Golf Instruction, Madison, WI – United States After playing the Curtis Cup, I turned professional and played on the Ladies European Tour for six years before entering the PGA Training Programme. I wasn’t finding what I was looking for in the UK. A golf journalist friend of mine, John Huggan, introduced me to Hank Haney and he casually mentioned that if I ever wanted to come and join his team of instructors in Dallas, Texas, there would be an opening.

Whether he meant it or not, I took him up on the offer and pursued it.

I have a contract with the City of Madison to provide golf instruction programming across four public courses.

The programmes are designed to bring new adult players into the game and retain

24

them at city facilities. I have a team of four instructors and together we deliver group classes, individual lessons and run leagues.

The goal I share with the City is to increase player participation, but specifically, we are focused on making golf more inclusive and representative of our community.

Like any PGA Professional working overseas, I have been exposed to new ideas and ways of operating. I’ve been pushed outside my comfort zone and I’d like to think this means I’ve continued to grow.

Hopefully, I take the best practices that I’ve seen both at home and abroad and use them to improve how I operate.

To any coach considering a career overseas I would encourage them to build

a large network in the golf industry. People are more likely to take a chance on you when you have someone willing to vouch for you. Most coaches are self-employed so you will also have to be prepared to invest in yourself. Whether that means showing your commitment by flying overseas to meet key stakeholders when opportunities arise, or hiring an immigration lawyer, there will probably be expenses that you’ll have to meet. This can be off-putting, but worth it if you are serious about working abroad.

Lastly, ask people who can explain the process and offer advice based on their own personal experience (email me any time! sue@changegolfinstruction.com)

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

INTERNATIONAL There are currently 45 female Great Britain & Ireland PGA Members working overseas. These women are working in 14 different countries and occupy some of the most sought after coaching and management positions in golf.

PGA Professional speaks to four females from four different continents who chose to pursue a career outside the UK. We get their reasons for moving, insight into what it’s like working abroad, and some top tips for those interested in following in their footsteps.

PHOEBE TORRANCE Golf Operations Assistant Metropolitan Golf Club, Melbourne – Australia When I started my degree my parents emigrated to Australia, so I had always planned in the back of my mind to join them once I graduated at the end of summer 2018.

I underestimated how difficult it is moving to a new country because I was so wrapped up in the idea of this new amazing lifestyle I would be living. It’s the small things which were challenging, but because my parents were already here, I was lucky to already have foundations in Australia, which made the transition much smoother.

My current role involves all of the day-to-day running of the golf shop, such as customer service, merchandising, competitions, events, corporate day organisation etc. Alongside this, I also run and organise all the female beginner

coaching programmes and the women’s golf apparel within the golf shop.

I think generally speaking, being a female PGA Professional at a time when golf is going through such pivotal changes; one of which includes the huge push for increased participation with women and girls in golf, is a huge opportunity for us and golf. Female PGA Professionals are still a niche and we are a huge asset to golf and can assist in driving these changes for the better.

Golf Australia has similar initiatives in place to England Golf and it is great to be part of this shift and be one of few young female PGA Professionals within Australia that can hopefully inspire more girls and women to get involved in a great sport.

My advice to other female coaches considering working overseas is, if you have

the opportunity, take it and fully immerse yourself into the new job and lifestyle. The growth you gain on both a personal level and career developmental level is invaluable and something that if you keep putting off you may never do. Alongside this, there are more and more opportunities becoming available where clubs want female PGA Professionals and with there being fewer of us, these are much more accessible to us now more than ever. Lastly, I think working abroad in a new country is a great way to meet many different people, all with different experiences within golf. It’s a great way to expand your cultural and golf knowledge – not to mention all the amazing experiences playing new golf courses.

ABBEY GITTINGS Golf Instructor Marbella Golf & Country Club, Marbella - Spain I began my PGA degree in 2016 after making the decision to take time away from playing professionally. I began my PGA career at the Michael Campbell Golf Academy where I worked mostly with junior golfers and have since built up my coaching business to teach all ages and abilities.

I went to college in America and it was there that my love for being overseas and travel began. I love the UK and I have previously worked in golf clubs there, however, the idea of establishing myself overseas was a challenge and an opportunity to gain valuable life and coaching experience.

I chose Spain because I wanted to coach

The PGA Professional

|

in a country where I knew I would be able to coach outdoors all year round. I had been to Marbella myself for winter training a few years prior to beginning my PGA training and I loved the area and the fact that golf is a huge part of the culture here.

Coaching on the Costa Del Sol is very rewarding but one of the challenges getting started is coming to terms with the fact that many people you meet do not reside here full-time. This demographic can mean golf clubs have a smaller full-time membership, which makes building a client base more challenging in the beginning.

My time is spent coaching either on the range or out on the course. I also now do some performance coaching online. I love

#makinggolfhappen

working with all ages and abilities, from beginners and junior golfers to elite players.

I think the best thing about being a female PGA Professional working overseas is getting to work with people from all over the world. I love that I am able to share my coaching with people from lots of different countries. My goal as a coach is to pass on my passion for the game to the next generation and to get more people into the game, and I feel that here in Spain I have that opportunity.

If you are thinking about a career overseas it is always best to do as much research as you can of the location, so that you can be fully prepared for the challenges along the way.

25

FEATURE

#FOREEVERYONE

R&A launches new female-focussed campaign The PGA is backing a national campaign that aims to encourage more women and girls into golf as part of the Women in Golf Charter.

T

he Women in Golf Charter seeks to inspire an industry-wide commitment to developing a more inclusive culture within golf, enabling more females to maximise their potential at all levels of the game.

Golf is still very much a male dominated industry with fewer than one in four golfers globally being females. Striking a better gender balance will not only benefit the golfing economy by introducing more players to the game, but it will also bring diversity to the workforce, boost productivity and expand the talent pool.

While many participation schemes and initiatives exist, without cultural change their impact will be diluted. Balance means addressing conditions which are a barrier to equality. At times this may mean going even further when presenting opportunities to women and girls than we would men and boys.

Industry-wide collaboration and sharing of knowledge will bring about change in the quickest way possible. This is the very purpose of this toolkit and the #FOREeveryone campaign.

While the charter provides the impetus for change, #FOREeveryone represents a creative approach to unite the industry behind a single campaign.

Supported and backed by all of the national Home Unions, the campaign will encourage clubs to consider how they can evolve to welcome more women and girls to the game, challenging stereotypes and proving that it is an enjoyable pastime and career for people of all ages and genders.

Martin Slumbers, Chief Executive of The R&A, said: “The Women in Golf Charter has been created to inspire an industry-wide commitment and conversation with the ultimate goal of enabling more women and girls to maximise their potential at all levels of the sport. “#FOREeveryone creates a more accessible narrative behind which the golf industry can unite and through which existing and prospective golfers can engage. This campaign, we truly believe, can help us change the face of golf across the globe, for the betterment of our sport.

I hope everyone will join us in harnessing its power to change the game forever.” #FOREeveryone encourages facilities and organisations to sign-up to the Women in Golf Charter and work towards the achievement of their own ‘Charter Commitments’.

A PGA-branded toolkit has been developed and added to the Members’ section of www.

everyone Charter, visit RandA.org/FORE eryone or the Women in Golf REev #FO ut abo e mor kit out To find r very own #FOREeveryone tool website to gain access to you the of area ’ bers Mem the Visit

26

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

FEATURE

pga.info to provide specific recommendations and resources which PGA Professional and their facilities can use to communicate the need for change to their members and, eventually, can begin using to attract more women and girls.

How #FOREeveryone will support clubs and facilities: • Create a single brand identity to unite golf’s efforts to get more women and girls into the game.

• Provide a suite of materials which clubs can use to organise and promote their own facilities.

• Allow for connected campaign promotions across The R&A, national associations and The PGA’s social media channels, website and database.

• Generate support from the wider golf industry, which can, in turn, communicate #FOREeveryone and the opportunities being created to a much wider audience.

• Generate exposure BECOMING A CHARTER SIGNATORY Signing up to The Women in Golf Charter is an important step in fully integrating a golf club’s activity with the #FOREeveryone movement. It is also a very simple process: • Download and read the #FOREeveryone toolkit by visiting www.randa.org/TheRandA/Initiatives/ Women-In-Golf-Charter-Campaign • Register your interest in becoming a Women in Golf Chartered club.

• Once you have registered you will gain access to a wide range of assets that you can use to start building your own strategy.

• The R&A will communicate your interest your national association who will be in touch to confirm your charter commitments and offer further assistance in planning your #FOREeveryone activity.

• Once received, display your Charter Signatory Certificate with pride to inform your club’s members.

NOMINATE YOUR ‘CHARTER CHAMPION’ It is recommended that each club designates a ‘Charter Champion’, a facilitator or coordinator who, assisted by others, holds responsibility for integrating the Women in Golf Charter at club level.

This individual would be the key point of contact with The R&A and national associations, and would take the lead on your #FOREeveryone activity.

‘Charter Champions’ can be male or female club officials, such as juniors or ladies convenors, club secretaries, willing volunteers, or even your PGA Professional. Your Charter Champion may already be active in driving your club’s women and girl’s strategy. ●

THE NUMBERS 36.9 million –

Latent female golfers around the world

$35 Billion -

Potential value of latent female golfers worldwide to the industry

8.5 million –

People in the UK between the ages of 15-64 interested in taking up golf

Five per cent –

Golf currently only appeals to 5 per cent of women in the UK

Robert Maxfield, Chief Executive of The PGA: “One of the very few positives to take from “The success of the Charter is incredibly important for the future 2020 has been the welcome recognition of golf and is something that The PGA is totally committed to. We of golf’s many health, wellbeing and social would encourage all our Members to engage with this campaign benefits. It really is a game that can be and the Charter itself, make use of the superb assets and advice equally – and safely – enjoyed by everyone. in this toolkit, and support their clubs and venues to take part and “That’s why The PGA is so proud to become signatories to the Charter. support the Women in Golf Charter that “Golf can only thrive if we all commit to making it more seeks to level the playing field and encourage more women and girls welcoming to people of every age, gender and culture. More into golf. The campaign slogan of #FOREeveryone couldn’t be more women and girls participating in the game will be a major factor in appropriate as we all seek to promote the diversity and inclusivity a brighter future - The PGA and its Members are determined to play that we know will bring huge benefits to the game of golf. our part in making it happen.”

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

27

Our “Perfectly Balanced� Loch Lomond 12 Year Old is matured in a combination of 3 types of American oak cask ensuring the fruity distillery character shines through with a hint of peat smoke on the finish. Bottled at 46% ABV and non chill-filtered ensure a luscious mouth feel and lasting finish.

Head over to www.lochlomondwhiskies.com to purchase and use the PGA15 code at checkout to get 15% off this and other expressions.

@lochlomondmalts

@lochlomondwhiskies

#SpiritofTheOpen | #DiscovertheSpiritwithin

RETAIL FOOTWEAR IN FOCUS YOUR GUIDE TO SS21 GOLF SHOES + FITTING ADVICE FROM FOOTJOY TAKING PRIDE Three PGA Pros discuss the role Golf Pride has played in boosting their income from grips The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

STAY SOCIAL

How to keep your retail customers engaged and spending over the winter 29

TR A DE N E W S Cobra launches King Tour irons with MIM technology COBRA HAS expanded its King range of players’ irons with the launch of the King Tour irons.

Featuring a cavity back head, the King Tours are the first full set of irons to be manufactured using a Metal Injection Moulding process that was used in the brand’s King MIM wedges. MIM produces a more precise finish, with each iron created using a mixture of stainless steel metal powder, which is then heated and injected into a mould. The metal is heated to a higher temperature than forged irons, resulting in a tighter grain structure that rivals the precision and feel of carbon steel forgings.

The irons feature a tungsten weight in the toe which moves the centre of gravity behind the hitting zone to provide added stability, while a TPU insert is positioned behind the face dampens vibration at impact. Smart grips sync with the Arccos Caddie app to give users the ability to track their shot data.

They are offered 4-PW in RH only (RRP £999), with a 3-iron and gap wedge available for custom orders. They are fitted as standard with KBS $-Taper 120 steel shafts in stiff or regular flexes and a Lamkin Crossline Connect grip.

30

Callaway forges ahead with new utility irons CALLAWAY HAS continued the development of its range of utility clubs with the launch of the X Forged UT irons.

Offered in 18, 21 and 24-degree lofts, and priced at £229, they replace the previous models launched in 2018. Made from forged mild carbon steel, they feature a hollow-body construction that combines with the brand’s unique urethane microspheres to offer high levels of feel.

Boasting a longer-than-standard blade width and a wider sole, they feature a Flash Face Cup which delivers high ball speeds with robust spin, while external tungsten weighting precisely locates the centre of gravity for optimal trajectory and launch.

Shaft options include a Project X U steel shaft which is specifically designed to work with utility clubs for stability and control, or a Project X HZRDUS Smoke Black 80 graphite shaft, which is designed with low torque for strong ball strikers. They are fitted with Golf Pride’s 50g Z Grip.

PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW GOES VIRTUAL THE 2021 PGA Merchandise Show in Florida has been switched to a virtual format due to the ongoing global pandemic.

Originally scheduled to take place at its traditional Orlando venue from January 26-29, the show will go online for the same dates with an ‘interactive virtual experience’, which will feature new product launch events, exhibitor showrooms, education sessions, industry presentations, one-to-one meetings, group networking, and a programme of special events.

Marc Simon, vice president of event organiser PGA Golf Exhibitions, said: “This year’s virtual PGA Show will offer unparalleled online engagement, connecting our industry to drive business and grow the game. Technology has brought us together in amazing new ways during the pandemic, and we plan to capitalise on these innovative solutions to make the PGA Show even better moving forward.”

PGA Professionals, golf retailers, industry leaders and manufacturers will be able to take part in the show through an online platform which will become available for appointment scheduling in mid-December, with full content provided live during PGA Show Week, January 26-29, and available on-demand for an extended period of time after the show.

To pre-register for the virtual 2021 PGA Merchandise Show, visit www.pgashow.com.

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

TR A DE N E W S Titleist bags first win with next-gen Pro V1

Titleist faces the future with TSi drivers TITLEIST’S NEW TSi2 and TSi3 drivers deliver more distance than any of the brand’s previous drivers thanks to the introduction of new face material that boosts ball speed, while also increasing stability and consistency from shots hit across the entire clubface.

Available at retail from November 12, with an RRP of £519, both drivers boast clubfaces made from a titanium alloy – ATI 425 – that has never previously been used in golf. Currently used in the defence and aerospace industries, ATI 425 can be bent more than the tradition titanium used in other drivers – 30% more than 6-4 Titanium – while still maintaining its structural integrity, thus maximising the spring-like effect on the ball, leading to longer, most consistent distance.

The 460cc TSi2 is the more forgiving of the two models, offering a high ball flight and low spin. A flat adjustable weight in the back of the sole allows fitters to tweak the swing weight more easily based on the club’s length and the golfer’s preferences, while an adjustable hosel enables the loft to be independently altered by +/- two degrees, with lofts of 9,10 and 11 degrees.

The clubhead’s aerodynamics have also been enhanced to produce 15% less drag on the downswing than the previous TS2 driver, which means players can swing faster with the same effort. Both models feature a new face design that highlights the centre of the clubface more clearly.

Although the TSi3 has the same 460cc head volume as the TSi2, it has a deeper face and smaller footprint and is designed for players who prefer a mid-to-low ball flight with shot-shaping control. Rather than a fixed weight in the rear of the sole, the TSi3 features a sliding weight track with five settings, which enables the centre of gravity to be altered to encourage a variety of shots between a draw and a fade. It also features an adjustable SureFit hosel and comes in 8, 9 and 10-degree lofts, with a choice of three Mitsubishi shafts as standard and three Graphite Design shafts as an upgrade.

TITLEIST TOOK the next step in the launch of the next generation of its new Pro V1 ball range with the release of prototype models to its tour players on the PGA and European Tours.

Following a two-year development process, the next generation of Pro V1 and Pro V1x balls were put into competitive action for the first time at the Shriners Open at TPC Summerlin on October 8. This is the course where Titleist’s original Pro V1 prototypes were first introduced to PGA Tour players in 2000, at what was then the Invensys Classic. Eventual winner Billy Andrade was one of 47 players who immediately put the ball in play that week.

The new ball didn’t take long to win its first tour event either, with Jason Kokrak using the new Pro V1 in his victory at the PGA Tour’s CJ Cup at Shadow Creek on October 18.

The Pro V1 range currently boasts a 74% usage rate across all players on the major worldwide tours. The new Pro V and Pro V1x is expected to launch at retail early next year.

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

Partner

The PGA Professional

|

950-PGAP-Ad-275x200mm-GaryYardley.indd 1

#makinggolfhappen

11/04/2019 21:03

31

TR A DE N E W S NEWSBURST Shot Scope and Zoom launch new rangefinders The rangefinder market welcomes two new models this month with the launch of the first rangefinder from Shot Scope and a second unit from Zoom.

Shot Scope, which has built its brand on GPS and automatic shot-tracking technology, has launched the PRO L1 rangefinder, which offers x6 magnification, slope-adjusted yardages, target-lock vibration and a range of up to 857 yards. Priced at £199, it comes with a carry case, lanyard, carry clip, cleaning cloth and a replaceable battery. For trade enquiries, email sales@jsint.com or call 01923 209 440.

ZOOM has expanded its laser rangefinder offering with the launch of the Focus Tour.

Combining the latest distance measuring technology with a design that is reminiscent of a vintage camera, the Focus Tour has an 875-yard range and delivers x6 magnification.

The display captures a 7.5-degree field of view, while flagpole scanning, continuous measurement, and target lock-on vibration helps locate targets with ease and speed. It offers slope-adjusted distances, with a button on side the of unit enabling this feature to be turned off for tournament play. Priced at £299, it comes with a carry case.

Retailers are being offered a free counter-top stand to display Zoom’s full product range. For trade enquiries, email office@golftech.eu or call 01204 383949.

Cracknell joins Honma ‘experience’ team Honma Europe has appointed Dean Cracknell as an Experiential Manager to help drive sales of its growing range of products across the UK. Based in Hampshire, Cracknell, who previously worked for Srixon in sales and marketing, will be working with existing retail partners and looking to set up new customers and club fitting events for Honma over a territory extending from Cornwall to Kent and from his home county up to the Midlands.

“This appointment demonstrates how we’re actively expanding the experiential side of our business in the UK & Ireland,” said Tony Scott, Head of Marketing for HONMA Europe. “Dean fits the role perfectly with his experience and knowledge of golf clubs and custom fitting at the highest level, as well as his sales and marketing expertise.”

Cracknell said: “Joining Honma at this time is a great opportunity for me and I’m looking forward to getting out to retail partners to help drive their business forward in the months ahead. As well as its super-premium clubs, Honma now offers golfers mass-market options that really perform, and I believe I can harness my experience to grow sales around these products.”

To contact Dean, email dean.cracknell@ honmagolfeurope.com or call 07958 110151.

Hatton’s hoodie proves big hit for adidas ADIDAS GOLF has the happy task of trying to keep up with demand for its new COLD.DRY apparel range after it was given a timely sales boost when one of its key pieces was worn to eye-catching effect by Ryder Cup star Tyrrell Hatton during his recent victory at the BMW PGA Championship.

The COLD.RDY Hoodie (£59.95) drew plenty of attention on TV and social media when Hatton, along with several other adidas staff players, wore it at Wentworth. It features a jersey-lined hood with a drawcord along with a slight droptail hem and is offered in white or navy blue.

Designed to keep golfers warm without adding weight or restricting the swing. the COLD.DRY range comprises a collection of technical layering pieces that are fully breathable. They also wick away sweat and boast a water-repellent finish to keep players dry in light rain. The range also includes several jackets and vests for both men and women, as well as a long-sleeve crewneck top and a pair of body-contoured leggings for women.

32

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK partnership

The wisest business decision you will make.

Being a successful PGA Professional is a complex matter, so be part of a forward thinking group. The TGI Golf Partnership’s collaborative approach offers current and relevant business solutions, and thought leadership to driven, engaged professionals.

tgigolf.com

@TGI_Golf

/TGIGolfPartnership

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

TR A DE N E W S

Sun Mountain offers bags of style for 2021 Golfin Simulators holds the key to boosting indoor income INDOOR GOLF studios have become an essential tool in any PGA Professional’s business in recent years, helping to grow customer bases and sales from custom fitting, club sales, coaching and simulator play all year round.

Among the specialist companies helping to make this earning potential come to fruition is Golfin Simulators, a south east of England-based business that offers a nationwide bespoke design and installation service for every golf studio requirement.

With over 40 years of professional experience in the golf market, Golfin Simulators founders Brett Taylor and Gary Harvey have worked on a wide range of studio projects, from full design and installations for commercial and domestic use, to simple at-home DIY kits, all of which can be tailored to meet your performance and budgetary needs.

Golfin Simulators provides all the equipment to set up your studio to maximise your year-round revenue streams. These include premium impact screens, hitting areas, mats, launch monitors, putting Astroturf and DIY enclosures. All the products can be viewed and bought on the company’s website for selfinstallation, or for ordering as part of a bespoke design and installation service.

Harvey says: “Often people didn’t think they had the space or the budget to create an indoor facility, and we love finding ways to get a golf studio working for all of our clients.

“Although we work on large, commercial projects in golf clubs, converting barns and existing outbuildings, we also love coming up with solutions for individual golfers. In lockdown we have been busy planning small spaces at the end of gardens, garage conversions and garden swing pods for people in their homes.”

Jon Markham, PGA Professional at Stowmarket Golf Club, is one of many club-based clients who have benefitted from Golfin Simulators’ expertise. He said: “Since Golfin Simulators helped install our golf studio, sales have increased markedly through club sales, custom fitting and coaching. I wish I had done it earlier.”

For more details, visit www.golfinsimulators.com, call 07885785570, or email info@golfinsimulators.com.

34

SUN MOUNTAIN is introducing three new golf bags for 2021, as well as updating the design of the top of every model in its range. The range includes 25 products in total, all of which feature a more ergonomic bag top design to help golfers access their clubs more efficiently.

Spearheading the waterproof H2NO range is the new Lite Speed Stand Bag (RRP £249). Weighing 1.9kg, it features a 4-way, 8-inch top and six pockets.

It also features a dual strap and aluminium legs and is available in seven colours. The H2N0 Lite Cart Bag (£299) offers a 14-way, 10.5-inch top, including a separate putter well, and has seven forward-facing pockets with water-resistant zippers and sealed seams.

Constructed from durable vinyl, the Metro Sunday Bag (£189) has a four-way, 9-inch top with a built-in handle, and features five pockets and a single carry strap. Updated for 2021, the Metro Stand Bag (£225) carries similar features and incorporates a spacious apparel pocket, full-length dividers, plus a topmounted leg mechanism. They are both available in five colours.

The 2.5+ Stand Bag (£209) has been updated to offer club-carrying golfers even more game-enhancing benefits. Weighing under 1.4kg, the design features improved body styling and a new rangefinder pocket.

It is available in four colours.

The new ECO-LITE range of bags have been made from 25-30 recycled plastic bottles in a bid to reduce harmful waste. The stand and cart bags are available in five colours with RRPs of £189 and £225 respectively.

In the ladies’ range, the Diva bag incorporates a 15-way, 10-inch top with integrated putter well, and seven forward-facing pockets. Available in an array of colours, including a blue floral pattern, it has an RRP of £249.

For orders, visit www.brandfusion.co.uk.

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

TR A DE N E W S

Lamkin innovations push grip performance to new levels LAMKIN HAS been producing high quality grips for the golf industry since 1925, and its latest designs show that the company is continuing to push the boundaries of performance through the use of innovative materials and designs that help all golfers play better.

This year has seen the introduction of a raft of new technologies across the extensive range of grips that are designed to improve in hand traction, positioning, feel and performance with every club in the bag.

Genesis Material is a revolutionary hybrid compound introduced to many of the new grips that provides unparalleled performance, comfort and durability in all conditions. The material has been engineered to perform in all climates, offering a consistent feel whether you’re playing in the middle of winter or the height of summer.

Another breakthrough in grip design for Lamkin is Fingerprint Technology, an intricate micro-texture on the grip’s surface that provides better traction and feel. In The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

the past, golfers looking for a more grip would have to play rougher and firmer grips, whereas with Fingerprint, golfers can get that same feel with a smoother and more comfortable grip. This enables golfers to apply a lighter grip pressure on the club and trust in the built-in traction to allow for greater swing speeds and overall distance.

This year Lamkin has also introduced a new range of reminder system grips through Calibrate Technology. This pioneering design is integrated into the inner design of the grip and expands to create a spine on the underneath of the grip. A single piece construction, it is easy to align when re-gripping and will remain in firmly place even with extended use.

Calibrates reminder is also 40% more pronounced than other leading hand placement systems, gives golfers the confidence of knowing they have optimal hand placement on the club, resulting in more consistent shots.

To request a copy of the Lamkin brochure, call 01923 209 440 or email sales@ jsinternational.com.

BE A PARTNER OF A BUSINESS, NOT A NUMBER IN A GROUP Guaranteed Best UK & Ireland Buying Terms.

All Partners Are Equal Shareholders Dedicated Retail Consultancy Team Offering FREE In Store Advice Profit Distribution & Bonus Share Scheme Valuable Industry Insight TGI Golf Finance – 0% Finance Facility & Business Loans DRIVE OUR VISION 35 SHARE OUR SUCCESS

TR A DE N E W S

NEWSBURST

Explanar Putting Mat proves a hit with top coaches The Explanar Putting Mat, a teaching aid that enables coaches to develop and practice their pupil’s putting technique in an indoor studio, is building up strong following among the game’s elite coaches, with leading tour coach Peter Cowen and putting biomechanics expert Dr Paul Hurrion both using the product as part of their coaching programmes.

Developed by PGA Master Professional Luther Blacklock, the Explanar Putting Mat, which is offered in 3m or 4m lengths, has been specifically designed to create a realistic putting experience, with its speed set at an equivalent of 10.5 on the Stimpmeter. The 2ft-wide mat, which boasts a thick rubberised backing and velour surface, features various visual alignment aids to improve stroke consistency, directional control and pace, with a shallow cut-out ¾-inch hole at one end which only rewards the perfectly struck putt.

Cowen, who teaches at all levels of the game, from kids to multiple Major winners, recommends it to his Tour players for effective practice in their hotel rooms, particularly in these days of Covid restrictions. He said: “The clear, simple markings of Luther’s Explanar Putting Mat make it a fantastic training aid for all levels of players. I even love to chip on it and use it most days when I’m back home at my Academy in Rotherham. Its eye-catching colours laso make it very great fun for the kids.

We use it with all our young Academy juniors.”

Dr Hurrian, who runs the Quintic Consultancy, and added: “The indoor surface of the Explanar putting mat gives excellent, consistent and repeatable ball roll. The clear and distinct graphics help improve visualisation and focus your aim.”

36

Duca del Cosma highlights plight of African cheetah with limited-edition shoe Italian golf shoe brand Duca del Cosma has introduced a limited-edition leather shoe among its latest footwear range for women which is linked to the conservation of one of the world’s rarest animals – the King Cheetah.

With a population in the wild only just reaching double figures, and around 50 living in a protected environment, the King Cheetah is the rarest cat on the African continent.

Earlier this year, Caroline van Wezel, the joint owner of Duca del Cosma, visited Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre in South Africa and saw a King Cheetah for the first time.

“I was captivated and learned about the special breeding programme designed to preserve the King Cheetah,” said Caroline. “So, I decided to help by promoting a limited-edition ladies’ shoe in its striking markings and by adopting a cub – named Duca – who hopefully will play a significant part in preserving the wonderful species herself.”

She added: “We hope that our retail partners will stock this special shoe in support of the HESC project and women golfers will love to be associated with such a worthwhile enterprise while wearing a fashionable shoe that will turn heads for all the right reasons.”

As with other animal print pattern shoes in the Duca del Cosma range – which also include giraffe and leopard designs, the King Cheetah shoe is waterproof and suitable for on and off-course wear. The sole is designed to resemble a cheetah’s foot pads, while the black lacquer leather and beige suede design matches the animal’s appearance. It has an RRP of £179.95.

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

Patent-pending, hybrid compound that delivers: • Unparalleled comfort and performance • Tacky surface • Consistent feel in all climates • Superior durability to standard rubber

Intricate micro-textures on grip surface offers: • Comfortable high traction • Unmatched torsion control • Slip-free performance

Our biggest reminder ever encourages: • Optimal hand placement • Heightened club face awareness • Improved alignment • Maximum control for better shot-making • 40% greater than other reminder systems

● Leading European Golf Distributor ● 24/7 Online trade website ● Established for 26 Years EXPERIENCE THE

MOST COMPLETE SELECTION OF

sales@jsint.com

GOLF BRANDS

www.jsint.com

01923 209 440

CASE STUDY

"ONE OF THE FEW OFFERINGS THAT ONLINE RETAILERS SIMPLY CANNOT COMPETE WITH"

Drew Farrell, Head Professional at Burghley Park Golf Club

Drew Farrell, Head Professional at Burghley Park Golf Club, Alan Fletcher of AF Golf Store and Ian Taylor, PGA Director of Golf at Essendon Country Club tell the PGA how their regripping services have taken business to the next level despite the challenges that Covid-19 has posed in 2020.

Drew, you had only just taken over the pro shop at Burghley Park when the country entered lockdown, how did the Covid-19 closure affect your business in those early stages?

DF: We took the lockdown period as an opportunity to completely refit our shop, and actually didn’t reopen until a month after golf resumed in the UK.

38

We have been very lucky with our distributor for Golf Pride because we have always been able to get stock quickly when we need it. Having that kind of relationship is so important because it gives us peace-of-mind that we can deliver an efficient service to our customers, usually turning full sets of grips around in as little as 48 hours.

Why do you think it is so important for golfers to freshen up their grips on a regular basis?

DF: The classic example I see, particularly following the break, is the golfer who hasn’t played for a long time or has very old clubs. They will pull one out of their bag and the grip will be so shiny that they have to hold onto it for dear life when they swing. The first thing I would suggest there is that they have a full grip freshen up and we can go from there. As a coach, it is a great way to help get a customer feeling more confident with the club in their hands right from the start.

We like to make sure we follow a regimented grip fitting process, so that all of our customers end up with the grip that is right for their game. The texture needs to be right, that is crucial, but we also have to determine whether they suffer with moisture in the hands or need a much bigger profile, that is why we hold samples of each grip in the Golf Pride collection in stock.

IT: Having fresh grips allows golfers to shoot the scores that they know they are capable of.

Players using clubs with worn grips are certainly

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

CASE STUDY at a disadvantage when it comes to controlling their ball and managing the face through impact.

Do you think Golf Pride’s Tour exposure encourages golfers to try new grip styles?

DF: Yes, that definitely helps. I think that having such a dominant presence on Tour allows people to build up this incredible level of trust for the brand.

Obviously some people stick to the Golf Pride grips that they know and love, which is fine, but with new technology and a constantly evolving collection, we are able to fit golfers more precisely into a grip that we think will really benefit their game.

Are you seeing a trend towards new technology in the Golf Pride grips that your members are choosing now?

DF: I think the vast majority of our members have a decent understanding now of the new technology, and our top selling grip by far is the PLUS4 ALIGN. I’m seeing a lot of our members now picking up ALIGN grips over the standard round versions. For me, ALIGN technology is an amazing tool for a huge number of golfers that actually grip the club incorrectly. It works so well in preventing them from gripping it in the palm of their hands.

IT: The ALIGN technology that Golf Pride have introduced has certainly been a big hit with our members. This key feature has allowed even the most novice of golfers within our academies to understand how to align the club face at address and impact.

How important is a Golf Pride grip wall in terms of demonstrating different models and technology?

DF: Golf Pride’s grip offering has expanded a lot in the last few years with the introduction of things like PLUS4 and ALIGN technologies. So, it makes complete sense for me to offer everything to my members, allowing them to feel like they have the most individual experience and product possible when we fit them for a new grip.

Having shafted samples was a great decision, particularly with the ALIGN grips. You don’t get a sense for how the ridge will sit in the fingers until you have held it on an actual club or a shafted sample. We also like to keep a range of different sizes so that our customers can get a feel for the bigger or smaller size, rather than just saying “I think I’ll have the next size up”.

AF: We have actually created an in house visual of a repair bar at the AF Golf Store. It is a great talking point and a simple reference for customers who might need new grips. It also creates a bit of theatre within the shop, allowing customers to see a set of brand-new grips being put on first-hand.

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

From a business perspective, freshening up people’s grips can produce some great margins. Do you see this as a key revenue stream?

AF: Regripping can be seen as a daily annoyance, committing a member of staff to the area for a couple of hours, but the value to the customer and business is fantastic.

Not only can you engage with customers in a different way but also it encourages a personal touch, ensuring that the size and style are correct. We have over 80 SKUS in normal club grips to choose from which gives the customer a huge selection, and in turn, delivers us a great profit.

DF: It’s a great constant cash flow supply for us. We do anywhere between 10 and 15 sets of clubs a week, so we try to get them in and out as efficiently as possible.

While we move them in and out quickly, we try to dedicate as much time as we can to make sure that the end product is perfect for the customer. If they trust the way that we put their grips on they are much more likely to come back to us next time they need them changing.

IT: Yes absolutely. With online retailers, margins have been squeezed for years, but this is one of the few offerings that an online retailer simply cannot compete with due to the fitting element. We are also expecting to see regripping revenue increase drastically over the next six months because of the amount of golf our members have played since the lockdown period.

Each golfer has a very different lifecycle in terms of changing clubs. Do you feel that regripping their equipment on a regular basis is a great way to stay in contact with them?

IT: It’s certainly one of the ways to engage with them. I believe it is important to educate our members around how regripping can affect their game and some of the key benefits in how the correct size and style can help.

DF: The repeat business is a really important factor when I look at grip changing. Generally speaking, we always try to recommend that people get their grips changed at least once a year, so that becomes a bit of a cycle, seeing the same faces back in the shop throughout the year. The way we achieve this is firstly by delivering the best grip technology in the game with Golf Pride, but also by making sure we treat their clubs as our own and make sure the grips are put on to the very highest standard. ● Craig Watson Key Accounts Manager EMEA Golf Pride Grips Mob: +44 (0) 7973 949765 Tel: +44 (0) 1778 341555 Email: craigbwatson@eaton.com

39

SHOE FITTING FEATURE

When it comes to essential golf equipment, shoes are understated in their impact on the golfer’s performance and all too frequently thought of as a ‘tick box’ item to ensure players adhere to the dress standards and the correct attire at the club.

70% OF GOLFERS WEAR THE WRONG SIZE SHOE Wearing the wrong size golf shoe can cause multiple problems for players before they have even lifted a golf club. For many amateurs, these smaller details are overlooked as the impact of a professionally fitted golf shoe can be game changing, both in terms of comfort and performance.

Wearing a professionally fitted golf shoe can increase a golfer’s swing force by as much as 21% compared to those of a poorly fitted shoe, creating more efficiency through the swing and projecting greater power into the ball. Equally, a properly fitted shoe reduces friction and any potential for consequential blistering and discomfort. The right fit also means that shoes last considerably longer compared to pairs that are too big or too small.

FootJoy’s extensive size and width options, combined with the wide range of models, means there is a fit for every golfer and a style for every taste, so with the right fitting golfers can enjoy maximum comfort and performance while out on the course.

SIZE UP YOUR FOOTWEAR SALES WITH

WHY IS SHOE FITTING GOOD FOR RETAILERS? Offering a shoe fitting service creates a fantastic sales opportunity and the chance to upsell by educating the golfer on the benefits of purchasing the right shoes for them. Shoe fitting provides the chance to reinforce your USP as a golf professional, develop the relationship with your customers and deliver greater satisfaction.

Golfers will trust your advice and expertise, and that’s where the value of shoe fittings is created beyond the costs, with customers leaving reassured, confident and inspired by their purchase. Together this creates a route to further profitable sales through strengthening your credibility within the club, emphasising the enabling benefits of professional golf shoe fittings.

DID YOU KNOW? • More than 60% of golfers who realise they are in the wrong size shoe buy new ones immediately.

• The number one reason golfers find themselves in ill-fitted shoes is down to width and compensating width for length.

FootJoy's professional golf shoe fitting programme can help you maximise your footwear sales and boost performance and customer satisfaction 40

THE FITTING PROCESS It all starts with the right questions. You need to ask the right questions to understand the customers’ needs and requirements.

• How often do you play?

• Where do you feel discomfort?

• What type of shoes do you currently wear?

• When was the last time you were professionally fitted?

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

Accumulating this knowledge is critical to help you filter through your options, while also building a relationship, placing the customer at ease and delivering great service. Knowing the performance aspect of each model and topping up your knowledge on the shoes is critical prior to the fitting and allows you to benefit most from these questions.

Being able to demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the products not only allows for better judgement and solution options, but also reassures the customer and builds trust to enhance the experience and build further value into the sale. For example, FJ’s Tour X shoe is the ultimate stability shoe in the company’s range, does your customer need a stable shoe to help them? Or does your customer need something that has mobility to help their game? If so, a model from the FJ Flex range might be a more suitable choice.

Potentially, they are looking for a performance shoe, but with spikeless options? Then the number one shoe on Tour, the Pro|SL, could offer the versatility and Tourproven calibre they’re looking for.

Ensure you have a diverse stock range within the store to ensure you have the correct models available and avoid any poorly fitting shoes for players; it helps to close the sale right there and then.

MADE TO MEASURE Once the model options have been determined, the sizing and measurement process can ensue with confidence using the Brannock device. This presents a further opportunity to demonstrate and confirm your expertise by fluently using the specialised piece of kit.

The Brannock device is a comprehensive starting point and the best way for determining foot length, width and arch length, however it should always be treated as the first step in the fitting process and must not be totally relied upon for a complete fit.

Whilst using the Brannock device, customers should be wearing socks that replicate the ones they use in their round. This is a great way to introduce your customers to FootJoy's range of golf-specific socks, with the likes of a pair FJ ProDrys enhancing the comfort of shoe and presenting an opportunity to upsell.

Offering a wide range of styles and sizes will ensure you maximise your shoe sales

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

SHOE FITTING EXECUTION Once on, the shoe still offers feedback on the fit and is a great way to reaffirm the choice and size with key visual and physical CUEs. • Can you hear a ‘whoosh’ sound when they insert the foot to confirm a snug fit?

• Use your thumb to measure the opening at the top of the shoe for the correct width.

• Excess space - can you feel a half-inch gap between the longest toe and end of the shoe?

FJ Pro|SL, #1 Shoe on Tour

A properly fitting shoe should provide a locked-in feel without feeling tight

You can also ask the customer to replicate their behaviours when they are out on the course and use this to confirm their comfort in the shoe, as well as analysing the FIT. • Flex Point – does the shoe’s flex point align with the flex of their forefoot?

• Is there any movement when they walk?

• Total comfort - is there any discomfort when the customer is mimicking a full swing?

FIT V FEEL Once your customer is professionally fitted, any shoe of the same size across the FootJoy line should remain consistent in fit but can differ in feel. There are multiple possible reasons for a different feel between sizes and ultimately it is the relationship between the model choice, the foot measurements and the relationship between the foot and shoe once it is on which will decide the perfect fit.

It is therefore up to the customer to feedback on the feel to find the most suitable model and best fit.

This reaffirms the need to provide an easy, relaxed environment so that customer feels comfortable in sharing honest feedback which allows you to provide optimal satisfaction and service.

If you require a Brannock device for your store or any shoe fitting point-of-sale material, please contact your FJ Area Sales Manager. For details on the full range of FJ footwear and accessories, visit www.footjoy.co.uk.

41

SHOES S S 2 1

g n i r p S

IN THE STEP

The rise in the number of new and returning golfers has created plenty of opportunities to increase your footwear sales. Here’s an overview of the models that you should consider stocking for 2021

ADIDAS Adidas will continue to push the ‘disruptive’ theme that it unveiled with its CodeChaos shoes launched earlier in the year, and while its Tour 360 shoes remain the brand’s flagship model for 2021, it is also offering a range of new models that will meet the demands of players across a wide spectrum of handicaps and style preferences.

At the upper end of the price point in the spiked category, the new ZG21 shoes feature a six-spike TPU outsole with aggressive traction lugs, along with full Boost cushioning and an Insight sockliner. In the popular mid-price point, there are new spiked and spikeless models in the EQT range (middle left). The former offers a five-spike outsole supported by multi-directional lugs, while the latter offers less aggressive lugs with a two-tone sole.

For a more casual look, the new SG2 Leather shoes offer a trainer-style design in classic black or white, with Bounce midsole cushioning, Ortholite sockliners and a spikeless two-tone rubber outsole.

There are new colour options in the Adicross Retro range (top left), which has been a big hit at retail, with a new white/ pink model for women and a black/grey model for men.

The brand continues to cross-fertilise its golf shoe range from other parts of it sport shoe business, with the recently launched limited edition Superstar (left) and ZX8000 (main image) models both heavily influenced by iconic adidas designs from yesteryear that are now very much back in fashion.

42

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

SHOES S S 2 1

ECCO GOLF

FOOTJOY

Consumers and retailers will notice a big shift in looks and performance for Ecco footwear in 2021, with the new hybrid BIOM H4 shoe (pictured above) boasting a sportier look than previous Biom models that will give it plenty of shelf appeal.

The H4 features leather uppers and the new Biom 2.0 last which offers a modern, updated look and feel combined with Ecco’s Natural Motion technology that enables the foot to move naturally and forms like a second skin around the foot.

A new outsole includes three zones to provide a blend of stability, durability, and rotational support, while Fluidform Direct Comfort technology ensures a balance of cushioning and rebound to deliver dynamic comfort. Wrapping around the foot from the outsole to the midsole, TPU stabilisers on the side enhance stability, while colour pops give it an eyecatching look on and off the golf course.

Inside the shoe, all-new X-Tensa Invisible technology links the sole unit to the lacing system via internal enforcement for 360-degree stability. Available in four colours - black, white, silver/grey and white/concrete – the uppers are 100% waterproof, while breathable GORE-TEX technology keeps feet dry and comfortable in all conditions.

Ecco’s second major launch in 2021 is Golf Tray (pictured below), which replaces the Soft as the more casual, sneakerstyle option for female golfers. The outsole is a TPU tray – hence its name – which offers lateral stability and cushioning. It also features the new E-DTS Twist outsole, a new spin on Ecco’s Dynamic Traction System, which provides multi-directional traction and features slightly larger cleats in high contact areas.

Elsewhere, there are new colours for the S-Three hybrid, including a new ‘Ice Man’ model with blue and white colouring in the midsole which serves as a nod to brand ambassador Henrik Stenson. The S-Three is also available with the additional option of Ombre/White or White/Seaport versions with the BOA lacing system for men. The Biom Cool Pro also gets a refresh with a new silver/grey colourway.

FootJoy is building on its heritage and pushing the boundaries of performance with its 2021 footwear range, which includes several new standout models, including the classically inspired Premiere Series. Taking inspiration from the brand’s past, but featuring ultra-lightweight materials, patent-pending comfort and outsole designs, and best-in-class VersaTrax+ traction technology, the Premiere Series features three premium leather upper designs – Packard, Flint and Tarlon ­– which boast modern lines and contemporary detailing.

The Packard model is inspired by the founder of FootJoy, Fredrick Packard, a shoe pioneer who drove the adoption of many modern manufacturing and design innovations still employed today. Flint takes its names from Perley Flint, a young Harvard graduate and avid golfer who designed FootJoy’s first golf shoe in the 1920s by incorporating lightweight performance materials and golf-specific innovation. The Tarlow shoe (pictured) was inspired by the Tarlow brothers, who bought FootJoy in 1957 and focused the brand primarily on catering for golfers and golf pros.

FJ is bolstering its Flex range in 2021 with the return of the HyperFlex shoe, which is designed to offer the very best in performance-enhancing technology. Cushioning is provided by a StratoFoam midsole, while a waterproof mesh and ribbed midfoot provide support throughout the swing. An all new heel-based BOA-lacing system ensures a dialled in fit, locking in the heel to alleviate pressure points on the top of the foot, and creating a natural motion that allows the shoe to flex with the movement of the foot. It is offered with a ribbed collar in grey/ black/red or black/charcoal/silver.

Another new model in the Flex range is the FJ Flex, offered in steel blue or white/grey, which comes in at a mid-price point.

The Pro | SL remains a core model in the FJ range, with its heavy Tour use and popularity among a wide range of golfers making it the number one selling shoe in the UK & Europe and out-selling the total sales of any other brand thanks to its unrivalled blend of comfort and spikesless tour-calibre performance.

For those looking for more athletic-styled footwear and increasingly popular spikeless models, FJ has expanded its Flex range for 2021 with the return of HyperFlex. Designed to deliver unrivalled comfort, exceptional cushioning is provided by StratoFoam in the midsole, while a waterproof mesh and a ribbed midfoot provide support throughout the swing. An all-new BOA asymmetrical configuration ensures a dialled-in fit and alleviates any pressure points on the top of the foot, while also enabling the shoe to mirror the precise movements of the foot inside the shoe.

The market-leading Pro|SL remains a staple in the range for 2021 and will continue to offer an award-winning blend of comfort and spikeless Tour-calibre performance.

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

43

SHOES S S 2 1

MIZUNO

CALLAWAY

Mizuno is expanding its footwear offering in 2021 with the launch of five new models that focus on comfort, stability and lightweight performance. Weighing 270g, the Nexlite Pro (top image) combines leather uppers with an EVA midsole running shoe. Featuring a centrally-placed BOA closure, grip is provided by six cleats interspersed between PU nubs.

Available in white/silver or black/blue, it has an RRP of £139.

The Nexlite GS Spiked (£120, bottom image) features uppers made from a Kuraray – a man-made textile with excellent waterproof qualities – and a BOA closure. Weighing 280g, it is designed to deliver stability in all conditions and features the same cleat design as the Pro version and the same colour options. The Nexlite GS Spikeless (£110, middle image) weighs 235g but delivers the support of an EVA midsole running shoe. A waterproof Kuraray upper is fitted with BOA, while the rubber outsole is designed to maintain a secure grip in all but the wettest conditions. . Featuring breathable mesh uppers and a durable rubber sole, the Nexlite 008 BOA (£100) is an ideal summer shoe and boasts an easy-clean silicone toe wrap. The more casual G-Style shoe (£85) boasts a soft-touch Kuraray upper and is available in white or navy in sizes 6.5-12.

Callaway is carrying over many of its successful models from 2020 into 2021, including the Tour-proven Apex Cornado S (top), a high-performance cleated shoe featuring soft full-grain leather uppers and a ‘bootie’ waterproof and breathable membrane liner that cocoons the foot right up to the collar and tongue. The all-new Fusion-Lite TPU sole, which features nine cleats, provides optimal stability and traction. It is available in black, camo, grey and white/black.

The cleatless Laguna Series (middle) boasts luxurious leather uppers and a new Opti-Soft foam midsole for high levels of comfort. A translucent sole features bold Callaway branding and benefits from a series of strategically positioned lugs to deliver superior grip. It is offered in four colours – white, black, grey and white/navy, For women golfers, the Solaire shoe (bottom) features a waterproof upper constructed from a lightweight and breathable knitted air mesh which features varying textures and densities of weave for maximum comfort, as well as excellent heat management. A spikeless rubber outsole features directional lug spikes for grip in all conditions. It is offered in grey/black, pink or white/grey.

UNDER ARMOUR After enjoying record sell-in and sell-through in 2020, Under Armour is currently the fastest growing shoe brand in the UK and the second best-selling brand in the spiked category. It will be hoping to build on that success in 2021 with the expansion of its HOVR cushioning platform into more models, as well as introducing its Charged Cushioning platform in every model in the line-up. The men’s range comprises five all-new models – Spieth 5 SL (pictured above right), HOVR Knit SL, HOVR Forge RC SK, Charged Draw RST and Charged Draw Sport SL – and updates on three models that appeared in the 2020 range – HOVR Drive, HOVR Show SL and HOVR Fade SL, all of which feature new colour options. The women’s range sees the introduction of Charged Cushioning in the new W Charged Breathe SL and SL TE shoes (RRP £70), which will be offered in two colour ways.

All models boast enhanced grip through UA’s rotational resistance traction technology and waterproofing through a combination of Never-Wet DWR and Storm waterproof technology.

44

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

Professional simulator rooms designed to fit your studio requirements

Golfin Simulators

Golfin Simulators will help to transform your space into an amazing simulator / training experience.

Providing full design and installation, through to D.I.Y kits, Golfin can work to your specific needs and budgets.

Get in touch today to discuss your ideas and requirements.

FREE ADVICE AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT Custom designed golf studios - DIY Enclosures - Premium tee turf hitting areas - Premium impact screens - Standard impact screens - TigerTurf astro And more………

Contact us, as PGA professionals we would love to help.

www.golfinsimulators.com info@golfinsimulators.com 07885 785570 07887 603826

Turn trade-ins and unsold stock into cash The Golfbidder service allows you to liquidate used and unsold product quickly and safely with just a phone call.

Instant quotes by phone Guaranteed prices Guaranteed payment

We collect the clubs And pay you immediately No hassles. No dramas

Not with us yet? Opening a trade account is completely FREE and takes just a couple of minutes over the phone.

Call us on

Email us at

020 8401 6900

pros@golfbidder.co.uk

Partner

C O R P O R ATE PA R T N E R

We now pay you even faster!

We promise to have your cheque in the post within 3 working days of receiving the clubs.

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

45

RETAIL

COMMUNICATE & INNOVATE XPOS marketing manager Jules Appleby shows how you can boost your winter sales – and reach all those new members – through targeted email campaigns, eye-catching social media posts and engaging digital content

46

G

olf clubs that reopened after the March lockdown in the UK reported the steepest rise in membership numbers ever recorded. Finding themselves spending longer at home, and fewer hours travelling to work, allowed former commuters more time to enjoy the sport.

With many people now set to work from home indefinitely, and golf enjoying a boom as a socially distant activity that is good for body and soul, making the most of these new member-customers could be key to the future success of your pro shop.

Studies in America have shown that golf clubs can lose 15-25% members during a recession, so there really hasn’t been a more important time to make sure your new members stick around for seasons to come.

The Mendip Golf Club in Somerset has welcomed over 220 new members this year, and has had to introduce a waiting list, such is the demand for golf. “Before Covid, we had a casual green fee that meant it was actually cheaper to play with a guest than to become a member,” says Mendip’s Head PGA Pro and Director of Golf, Stuart Disney.

‘After lockdown, we increased the green fee, which helped improve membership value. All those people who were previously

playing 20 times a year as guests have now become members. We’ve also seen the average age of a member drop from 63 to 55, and we’re really hoping these new golfers will stay on after this year.”

To cope with the influx of new blood, The Mendip is planning a new member buddy scheme for the Spring, which it hopes will also entice more women to the club, and has restructured its competitions to allow more mixed play.

Adds Stuart: “We used to have men-only and women-only competitions, but opening it up has meant new members can play with friends, even if they aren’t competing, and husbands can play with wives. The pro shop has seen the benefits of this in incremental sales – it’s buzzing at the weekends with these extra players and our new golfers obviously want lessons and new kit.”

As we head into winter, establishing your customer communication plan is key.

Remind members, new and old, who you are, what you do and what’s on offer. Get the basics right with emails and newsletters, and, if you’ve never tried it before, take a deep breath and dive into those social media waters. Staying in touch with customers throughout the winter is one

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

RETAIL

thing, but keeping them engaged, active and involved is your aim here.

SOCIAL DILEMMA The UK is home to 45 million active social media users and the potential for businesses is immense. However, social media content creation is time-consuming, so don’t waste time on the wrong platforms. Work out where your customers spend their time; choose one, or two, platforms and do them well.

Twitter is a great way to network with the golf professional community, but is it where your shop customers spend their time? Your YouTube video views might be increasing, but do your followers purchase from your pro shop? The shop Instagram posts are looking evermore stylish, but is the audience demographic too young for your retail business?

Over the last couple of years, the demographics on Facebook have changed, with usage rising rapidly among the older generation. It remains the most popular social media platform in the UK, and with usage prevalent among high-earning individuals, there’s a good chance your customers are frequent flyers.

THE DO’S & DON’TS OF MANAGING YOUR FACEBOOK PAGE Do post consistently - Aim for a post every day if you can, but not just for the sake of it.

Posts should always be interesting to your audience.

Staying in touch with your customers throughout the winter is one thing, but keeping them engaged, active and involved should be your priority” Do post a variety of content – Photos, blog posts, comment, videos. Keep your page interesting and be creative.

Do look at timings – Monday to Saturday between 1pm and 3pm are said to be the best times to post – but watch what works for you.

Do promote your Facebook page – Give shop customers a good reason to follow you.

Do make a content plan and schedule posts.

There are plenty of free content calendar templates available online, find one that works for you.

Do pay to boost a post if it’s important to your business (i.e. an upcoming event or brand day announcement) and is already performing well organically. £5-10 can go a long way to help your post reach a lot more people.

Do respond quickly to comments on your page.

Do encourage customers to leave a review.

Don’t worry about how many likes you receive. Focus on building your community.

Don’t share Twitter posts on your Facebook page. If you want to publish the same post on both, rewrite it specifically for the platform. Remember, the audiences are different and Twitter has character limitations which don’t apply to Facebook.

FACEBOOK CONTENT TIPS FOR THE WINTER Local Legend: Content should mainly focus on your shop, but be sure to talk about a range of topics that would interest your customers, including local events or issues that might be important to them. Be seen to support other local businesses and they will return the favour.

Store Stuff: If customers can’t get into the shop (bad weather, lockdowns etc) use your Facebook page to show them what’s in store. Push ideas for Christmas presents and stocking fillers. What are your plans for Black Friday? New stock arrivals; remerchandising; a new brand; staff announcements; and competition news.

Event Engagement: Give customers something to think about during bad weather. With The Masters coming up, what can the pro shop do to involve and engage them? Fun competitions around the bigger events often go down well. Ask customers to take photos or short videos and post them to the page.

Keep Fit: Help members and customers stay fit during colder weeks with golfspecific exercises they can do at home.

Swing Studio: Make the most of your indoor facilities. Keep up momentum and enthusiasm and use Facebook to promote a series of four-ball competitions for members to participate in. It’s also a great way for them to catch up and see each other, providing local lockdown rules allow it.

Paying to promote your Facebook posts can help you reach a much wider audience

Jules Appleby is the marketing manager at XPOS. For more great advice, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and see our news stories on the XPOS Today page. Talk to the XPOS team via the CHAT button on our website www.crossovertec.co.uk

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

47

ADVERTORIAL

SUNNY TUSCAN WINTER IN THE PGA NATIONAL ITALY

The luxurious Argentario Golf Resort & Spa is an ideal destination for those looking for relaxing winter holiday that combines golf, wellness and gastronomy under the Tuscan sun.

Set in an area of outstanding natural beauty on the Monte Argentario promontory, the resort is home to an ecofriendly golf course that meanders through cork-oak woods and olive groves. In 2019, it was awarded the status of PGA National Italy by The PGA. The Argentario Golf Resort & Spa is open all year-round, and the local microclimate allows golf to be played throughout the different seasons. The 18-hole course is ideal for groups of golfers thanks to its large practice facilities and in addition to golf programs headed by their Pro, groups can enjoy other personalized activities such as fitness retreats, wine tastings, cooking lessons and guided tours both in Tuscany off the beaten path.

The five-star hotel is a triumph of design and comfort throughout; a majestic entrance, a dramatic central stairway and huge windows create a stunning contrast with the intense blue Tuscan sky and Mediterranean landscapes, whilst the 73

48

rooms and suites offer sleek, modern interiors that are beautifully appointed, all with private decked terraces.

The Resort also offers a comprehensive spa and wellness centre and a range of sporting activities whilst the Dama Dama Restaurant and Club House serve delicious, healthy local cuisine prepared from locally sourced produce. Nearby you can find the

Argentario Golf Villas, an exclusive collection of bespoke luxury villas that are available both for holiday rentals and for sale.

The Monte Argentario promontory offers a variety of outdoor spaces and services that guarantee social distancing with its 50km coast with Silver Coasts’ wide sandy beaches, nature trails that can be explored on foot or by bike and safe yacht and boat rental services. Argentario is easily accessed from Rome Fiumicino Airport by car in just an hour, and day trips can be organized to nearby art cities like Rome, Florence and Siena.

The Resort is proud to maintain the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness.

It follows the most up-to-date standards and protocols established by international experts and government entities, including the World Health Organization and the Centres for Disease Prevention and Control.

The Argentario Golf Resort & Spa will bid farewell to 2020 with a special package that includes a handmade 500-gram Panettone in your room upon arrival, and the delicious, refined New Year’s Eve dinner in the gourmet Dama Dama Restaurant, followed by fireworks. You can find out more on www. argentarioresort.com

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

TRAVEL

A MESSAGE FROM GOLFBREAKS Our Pro Travel team have been busy in October, with an increase in pros looking to book their trips and have something penned in the diary to look forward to in 2021.

From coaching breaks to Captain’s away trips and a few further afield, it has been great to see a surge of pros starting to plan their breaks for next year.

BEN FOSTER Head of Pro Travel M: 07471 034 852 E: bfoster@golfbreaks.com

October has also seen a number of pros on late Autumn breaks with their members in the UK, grasping the last of the mild Autumn weather before the colder temperatures of November hit us! From Kingsbarns to Prince’s and plenty in between, it has been great to hear about some of the fantastic members trips taking place up and down the UK.

On that note, and as winter fast approaches and golf courses start to quieten down, November offers the perfect opportunity to start planning ahead for next year.

Whether you have had a boost of new members through the summer months and are looking to take them away as the perfect way to integrate them into your membership, or you have members itching for a coaching break in the sun after they missed out this year, there are plenty of world class venues to suit all budgets on offer.

If you are starting to think about your next Pro Travel break, our dedicated team are here to help when you are ready.

We’re here to help you make plans for 2021 and get you back on course!

Ben Foster Head of Pro Travel

WHY BOOK WITH GOLFBREAKS

JOE BOWREY Senior Travel Consultant T: 01753 752880 E: jbowrey@golfrbeaks.com

EARN 5% commission SAVE with our market leading rates & bespoke packages at over 2,500 venues worldwide PEACE OF MIND with our market leading customer service levels EXPERT advice from our dedicated Pro Travel team EASY access to your quotes, bookings and make payment through our online portal EXCLUSIVE Breakpoints loyalty scheme

FRASER CARR Senior Business Development Manager North UK, Scotland & Ireland M: 07801 831 929 E: fcarr@golfbreaks.com

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

JAMES MARTIN Business Development Manager South UK

CALLUM KIRBY Personal Travel Assistant T: 01753 752880 E: ckirby@golfbreaks.com

M: 07849 083 479 E: jrmartin@golfbreaks.com

49

TRAVEL

ASK THE EXPERT….

ALBATROSS EVENTS A new innovative golf events company hosting unrivalled golf events at some of the finest golf courses and resorts around the world, founded by PGA Professionals and Golfbreaks Pro Travel Partners Andrew Scrimshaw & Martyn Jobling.

DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC TOURNAMENT EXPERIENCE PRO-AM in association with the PGA North Region January 30th – February 6th 2021 Watch the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic 4 Tournament Rounds: Play Dubai Hills, Trump International, Majlis Course & Earth Course 7 nights B&B in the 5* Media Rotana Gala Dinner Airport & Golf Transfers Huge prize fund for professionals and great amateur prizes For more information go to www.albatrossevents.co.uk

What inspired you to travel and run events?

We have both played in countless Pro-Ams in the UK and Overseas, that, combined with a wealth of experience in golf operations and organising members coaching trips we felt that we could offer something different and a new outlook on golf events for amateurs and professionals. We love hosting events at incredible venues and visiting different countries. We are huge golf fans so we try to arrange golf events that we would love to play in ourselves! We are both PGA professionals who have experienced competition to a high level, we understand the importance of adding value to all of our events. That combined with generous professional purses and fantastic amateur prizes is a recipe for a memorable golfing experience!

First group trip abroad?

Our first overseas event was a 34 Team 3-day Ryder Cup Anniversary Pro-Am to Le Golf National in Paris in Early October 2019.

What’s your favourite aspect of running Pro-Ams? We love to see the reactions of all the players after the first day. We like to impress the amateurs by choosing top venues. Listening to their feedback about the golf course, welcome dinner and overall experience of our events is definitely the most rewarding and favourite aspect of organising Pro-Ams.

Favourite golf resort for running an event?

The Fairmont St Andrews is our favourite UK resort to host an event. It boasts a luxury hotel and 2 very high-quality golf courses.

The atmosphere around the entire town throughout the day and night is unlike anywhere else a golfer can experience in the UK. Favourite golfing destination?

Martyn - Without a doubt Turkey is my favourite venue to host or play golf.

Whether a Pro Am, a coaching Trip or a mates trip away, it has everything you can ever hope for. All the golf courses and hotels really are 5*.

Andrew - I love Dubai, the golf courses are incredible, the city is bustling with great nightlife and it’s always a welcome break to play golf in a short sleeved top when you live in Newcastle!

Your Travel essentials For an overseas event we would say apart from your clubs you definitely need the following: • • • • •

Toothbrush Sunscreen At least a dozen golf balls A new pair of golf shorts An app to learn the local lingo for the phrase - 4 beers please!

For more information or to book your next break, get in touch with our dedicated Pro Travel Team 01753 752 880 | pga@golfbreaks.com |

50

@Golfbreaks_Pro |

@golfbreaks_pro_travel

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

TRAVEL

CASE STUDY: STEVE CARTER

WHY YOU SHOULD ADD TRAVEL TO YOUR SKILL SET An insightful Q&A with one of Golfbreaks Pro Travel Partners, Steve Carter - Head Professional at Walmley Golf Club, who is a passionate advocate of Golf Pro Travel.

Having been involved for many years, he believes it is definitely a service you should be adding to your armoury as a PGA Professional.

Ben Foster: How long have you been involved in Golf Pro Travel?

Steve Carter: I started back in 2011 with the Golf Pro Travel team at Golfbreaks. I used to attend my sponsors corporate trips every winter and after a few years I was asked to arrange one myself and found it very difficult. There was a lot of hassle involved contacting the resorts and golf clubs individually and trying to pull it all together by myself. That’s when I got in touch with Golfbreaks who were extremely helpful from the start, giving me great advice on suitable venues and doing all the leg work for me.

In 2011 I organised a total of 6 trips and it has steadily grown from there. This year I

am on course to reach the 150th booking milestone!

BF: There are many forms of Golf Pro Travel, what type of travel are you involved in?

SC: I am mainly involved in organising my club members trips away, from weekends in the UK to larger groups across Europe and beyond. I also host 3-4 trips away each year and these are mainly on a corporate basis although I do run an annual Ryder Cup style event to Druids Glen with a fellow PGA Professional Adrian Carey which always goes down well!

BF: What are the benefits of Golf Pro Travel?

SC: The main benefit for me is the commission I earn from organising my members breaks away and running my own trips through Golfbreaks. I also enjoy the interaction with my members, it gets them coming in the shop and often leads to them buying more from me as they always need

new balls, clothing etc before they go away so it’s a win-win every time. I have recently started offering travelling groups a discount voucher to spend in the shop once they have paid their final balance which really helps secure repeat business with my clients.

BF: What would you say to PGA Professionals that are thinking about getting involved in Golf Pro Travel but haven’t yet taken the plunge?

SC: Simply put, it’s a great way to add another revenue stream to your business. It offers you a great source of winter income if you are running coaching breaks and all year-round revenue if you are booking your members travel. Ultimately whatever avenue you go down, it builds bonds with your members and helps cement that relationship and loyalty towards you as their pro. If you’re not already involved in some form of Golf Pro Travel then it is definitely a service you should be adding to your armoury. ●

For more information or to book your next break, get in touch with our dedicated Pro Travel Team 01753 752 880 | pga@golfbreaks.com |

The PGA Professional

|

@Golfbreaks_Pro |

#makinggolfhappen

@golfbreaks_pro_travel

51

TRAVEL

WHERE TO GO IN JOE BOWREY Senior Travel Consultant T: 01753 752880 E: jbowrey@golfrbeaks.com

NOVEMBER

Are you looking for inspiration for your next break away in 2021? November is still a great time to take a group away, and whilst the weather in Europe starts to become more unpredictable, there are still plenty of venues to choose from when you are looking for guaranteed sun!

This month we take a look at some of most popular venues for Pro Travel in November, suitable for coaching breaks or just to escape the dreary weather in the UK with a group of your members.

All packages to include pro free with 7 amateurs

THE WESTIN ABU DHABI GOLF RESORT & SPA - ABU DHABI, UAE

★★★★★ Opened in 2011, this luxurious 5* hotel has already established itself as one of the premier places to stay in Abu Dhabi. Follow in the footsteps of the European Tour by playing the Abu Dhabi Golf Club, with the highly regarded Yas Links and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club included in most of our packages.

Pro travel tip: Yas Links, recently rated one of the world’s top 25 golf courses by Golf Digest is an experience you don’t want to miss. The Kyle Phillips designed course represents the first true links course in the Middle East and is worth every bit of the green fee!

AT A GLANCE

5 nights b&b and 3 rounds of golf from £xxx

18-hole championship course & 9 hole floodlit course Hotel accommodation Extensive practice facilities Play the highly acclaimed Yas Links

Season: Autumn

Temperature: 30ºC high; 21ºC low Travel time from the UK: 7 hours Transfer time from airport: 15 minutes Pro FREE with 7 amateurs

£1059 From

per pers on

VIDA EMIRATES HILLS - DUBAI, UAE

★★★★ The new upmarket Vida Emirates Hills is perfectly situated, overlooking the manicured fairways of the Emirates Golf Club and only a 10-minute walk from both Emirates and Address Montgomeire Golf Clubs. The hotel is also only a short driveaway to a variety of attractions such as The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina and Burj Khalifa ensuring there is plenty on offer to keep your group entertained.

Pro travel tip: Voted “Best Golf Course in the Middle East” by Golf Digest in 2020, The Majilis course, Emirates Golf Club’s flagship course and host to the Dubai Desert Classic is a must play when staying in Dubai.

52

AT A GLANCE

5 nights b&b and 3 rounds from £xxx

Emirates Golf Club only a 10 minute walk Wealth of top courses nearby Hotel accommodation 3 bars & restaurants on-site

Season: Autumn

Temperature: 31ºC high; 20ºC low Travel time from the UK: 7 hours Transfer time from airport: 20 minutes

£849

Pro FREE with 7 amateurs

November 2020

From

per pers on

|

www.pga.info

TRAVEL

IBEROSTAR CLUB PALMERAIE MARRAKECH - MARRAKECH, MOROCCO

★★★★ Morocco offers fantastic year-round weather, amazing courses with breathtaking backdrops of the Atlas mountains and is only a short flight from the UK. The highly rated Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech is perfect for groups and offers excellent value on their al inclusive package and has a host of courses only a short transfer away.

Pro travel tip: Make sure you play a round at Assoufid GC. The awardwinning golf course is one of the most stunning desert style layouts the country has to offer with stunning backdrops of the Atlas mountains and sure to be an experience your group won’t forget.

AT A GL ANCE

5 nights all-inclusive and 3 rounds from £579

Host of courses within 20-minute transfer Hotel accommodation 15 minutes from Marrakech 2 restaurants & bar and on-site nightclub

Season: Autumn

Temperature: 23ºC high; 11ºC low Travel time from the UK: 3 hours 40 minutes Transfer time from airport: 30 minutes Pro FREE with 7 amateurs

£579 From

per pers on

SUENO HOTELS GOLF BELEK - BELEK, TURKEY

★★★★★ The Sueno Hotels Golf Resort is one of the most popular venues for overseas holidays for our PGA Pros, and with two courses on site, great practice facilities and all-inclusive packages as standard, its not hard to see why! Just 40 minutes from the airport and with transfers included, this is the only hotel in Belek close enough for you to walk straight out onto the first tee from your room.

What do our Pros think: If you are looking to play a round away from the Sueno Resort then there are a wealth of top quality courses on your doorstep, our top pick being the Montgomerie at the Maxx Royal Golf Club, host to last years Turkish Airlines Open.

AT A GL ANCE

7 nights all inclusive & 7 days unlimited golf from £689

36 holes Excellent practice facilities Hotel accommodation 8 bars & 3 restaurants

Season: Autumn

Temperature: 21ºC high; 14ºC low Travel time from the UK: 4 hours Transfer time from airport: 45 minutes

£689 From

per pers on

Pro FREE with 7 amateurs

For more information or to book your next break, get in touch with our dedicated Pro Travel Team 01753 752 880 | pga@golfbreaks.com |

The PGA Professional

|

@Golfbreaks_Pro |

#makinggolfhappen

@golfbreaks_pro_travel

53

CLUBFIT TING, CLUBM AKING AND REPAIRS TRAINING FOR PROFESSIONALS

NOW BOOKING FOR 2019/2020

BY

Diamond Golf, Europe’s leader in clubfitting and component supply, is now taking bookings for this winter’s DGI Academy courses in the arts of clubfitting, clubmaking and club repairs.

The DGI Academy courses cater for a wide range of abilities, from novice to advanced, and take place in a specially created purpose-built facility.

Each course runs in small groups to allow for personal one-to-one tuition.

Contact us today for a free brochure & prospectus: UK Freephone: 0800 083 7388

International: +44 (0) 1903 726999

dgiacademy@diamondgolf.co.uk

PGAPRO HP - DGI Academy 2019.indd 1

23/01/2020 16:36

For all your golf academy and simulator room requirements Free golf academy design service with independent advice on golf simulators and launch monitors for PGA Professionals and club fitters.

Our professional services include advice on the installation of all golf studio systems.

Consultation on ranges, new coaching rooms and cabin builds.

We can supply all your academy requirements including nets, screens, turf and mats.

golfswingsystems.co.uk +44 (0)1483 266679

sales@golfswingsystems.co.uk 54

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

COACHING

“LET’S MAKE THIS SESSION n BY DAVID COLCLOUGH, PGA HEAD OF COACHING & SPORTS SCIENCE One of the most frequently stated goals by coaches when they are undertaking junior golf coaching sessions is to “make the session FUN!” BUT WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? It can conjure up the idea of lots of running around, being silly, telling jokes, and perhaps involving a little bit of golf along the way.

Dr Amanda Visek has been studying this question for a number of years and has developed an understanding of what FUN means to children, and it can quite possibly help you deliver sessions that are FUN (or even more FUN!) in the future.

In my last article I introduced the 4C’s framework which has been adopted in a number of other sports.

Trying to focus attention on increasing COMPETENCE, CONFIDENCE, CONNECTION and CHARACTER are all seen as fundamental to ongoing participation and better performances.

It is arguable that ensuring participants view their time playing sports as ‘fun’ is vital in the pursuit of those four C’s. Without a sense of fun, it is hard to imagine that participants will engage in a sport for long enough that any coach has a chance to make an impact on their competence, confidence, connection and character.

The idea that fun sits at the heart of athlete or participant development is an argument that Dr Visek puts across very persuasively.

It is important to understand that fun is not viewed by children as something they seek specifically when they are just starting out to learn a sport, or whilst playing socially, and then less important when they get better and become more competitive. No! Her findings

” ! n u F

suggest that regardless of age, gender and motivations to play (social or competitive) xxxxxx the findings hold true for all the children they surveyed.

So, whether you are coaching a boy or a girl, a child aged 9 -13yrs or a youth 14 -18yrs, or a child playing for more recreational reasons rather than competitively motivated, there are certain things that all these children stated would make their involvement in the sport fun.

So, what are these findings? What is it that children see as ‘fun’?

Participants were asked to complete the following sentence - “One thing that makes playing sports fun for players is…” From that exercise alone they generated 81 different ideas from the children’s responses. From that initial stage, the children were asked to sort them out into areas of commonality, and then rate each statement based on a 1-5 scale (seen in brackets): a) How often they experienced this happening (always to never) b) The link between the statement and having fun (important to not important) c) How easy would it be to do this (not possible to extremely possible)

The researchers now had a more manageable 11 ‘fun factors’, and a ranking of importance with regards to what children felt was going to make a fun experience.

The graphic (right) highlights the main areas that children said were most important to them.

One of the things we might take from these findings is that according to the children, fun is certainly not about messing about, it appears to have far more of a structure to it. And that structure is very intricately linked to the types of coaching behaviours that foster positive participant development.

Young golfers engrossed in a coaching session at Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Milton Keynes. Photo by Andy Hiseman

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

55

COACHING FOSTER FUN EXPERIENCES IN YOUTH SPORT • Try Hard • Positive Team Dynamics •Positive Coaching

Most Important

• Learning and Improving • Games • Practices • Team Friendships • Mental Bonuses • Game Time Support • Team Rituals • Swag

Least Important

(Across all ages, gender, levels - Visek, 2018)

Indeed, in discussions with my colleague Allan Martin, PGA Coach Education Manager in Scotland, he explained that in his experience the top 3 findings of this research are totally in line with his own experiences of coaching golf.

Allan noted: Trying hard – “Children do like a challenge (in fact, if you ask a group of children to design a game the tasks are usually near impossible (but isn’t that at the essence of fun?)”

Positive Team Dynamics – “Activities that involve team working really involve and integrate different ages/abilities (relay golf is a good example of this working)” Positive Coaching – “The feel-good factor “the cup is half full” coach who identifies the positives of any task/situation will retain and nurture the 4 C’s”.

As a coach you might want to reflect on whether your sessions offer children the opportunity to experience those higher order fun factors.

POSITIVE COACHING BEHAVIOURS Looking more closely at one of those factors – ‘positive coaching’ we also get a further insight into what children want from their coach – and remember this is boys and girls of all ages and all motivations for play.

The top 5 things they stated that help make playing sports fun are…: • • • • •

When a coach treats the players with respect A coach who knows a lot about the sport Having a coach that is a positive role model When coach encourages the team (or individual) Getting clear, consistent communication from coaches

Down at number 12 was ‘When a coach jokes around’.

One of the findings from this study that should encourage you to review your work was that when coaches sat down and tried to sort the 81 statements into what they thought would be the priorities for children to have fun, they found that they had given greater or lesser

56

importance to a number of these findings, and especially those of the older children.

Are you assuming that the sessions you are putting on are going to be fun for the children, or have you asked them for feedback?

One of the examples that Dr Visek shared from a USA Hockey presentation was that they had created a resource to support coaches which highlighted what good practice session design might look like. The four key things they encouraged coaches to focus on, with the target of making the sessions fun were: 1. Lots of touches (lots of shots in the case of golf) 2. Constant Decision Making 3. Looks like the game 4. Levels of challenge So, as you set up for your next session with a group of children, consider your approach, consider what you know about the group, and what you don’t know, and perhaps ask your group of juniors to complete the following statements: “One thing that makes playing golf fun for me is…” or “One thing that makes taking part in golf coaching sessions fun for me is…”

LIMITATIONS OF THIS STUDY (FROM A GOLF PERSPECTIVE) It is important to acknowledge that this research has been carried out predominantly in football (soccer) and in America, with a limited number of children. Nevertheless, the findings should get each one of us thinking about how it may apply to golf, as the research is trying to address what children find fun about playing sport.

Perhaps this is something you could try to find out more about at your club, or in your local area? Remember this research was undertaken first and foremost by sitting down with children and listening to what they said about their experiences of playing sport. The findings of this research could be used as the starting point for your own research project. ● WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you would like to learn more about Dr Visek’s work then I highly recommend this 35-minute presentation she did for USA Hockey that is accessible on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rF4XGWO8Jro or type in ‘Dr Amanda Visek FUN’ The research papers that influenced the development of this article were: • Visek, A.J., Achrati, S.M., Mannix, H.M., McDonnell, K., Harris, B.S. and DiPietro, L., 2015. The fun integration theory: toward sustaining children and adolescents sport participation. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 12(3), pp.424-433.

• Visek, A.J., Mannix, H., Chandran, A., Cleary, S.D., McDonnell, K. and DiPietro, L., 2018. Perceived importance of the fun integration theory’s factors and determinants: A comparison among players, parents, and coaches. International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching, 13(6), pp.849-862.

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

Get your putting back on a roll!

The quickest way to help your pupils score lower is to improve their putting. The innovative new Explanar putting mat helps teach the art of rolling the ball – the key to enhancing distance control,

consistency and accuracy. Revitalise your coaching – and your margins – with the putting mat used by leading tour coach Pete Cowen and putting biomechanics expert Dr. Paul Hurrion.

• Practise putts of different lengths – from two feet to 10 feet • Groove the perfect ball position • Cure pushed and pulled putts • Realistic green speed – rolls 10.5 on the Stimpmeter • Start the ball on the correct line – every time!

• Made from premium materials for durability and to lay flat on any surface

“I designed the Explanar Putting Mat to teach the skill and art of rolling the ball. If you can roll the ball, a great putting stroke comes for free! – Luther Blacklock, Master PGA Professional

“The indoor surface of the Explanar putting mat gives excellent, consistent and repeatable ball roll. The clear and distinct graphics help improve visualisation and focus your aim.” – Dr Paul Hurrion, Quintic Consultancy

“The clear, simple markings make it a fantastic training aid for all players. Its eye-catching colours make it very appealing and great fun for the kids. We use it with all our young Academy juniors.” – Pete Cowen, Tour Coach

For more information, go to: www.explanar.com/#putting To find out more about our special PGA pro retail offer, contact Luther Blacklock at: info@explanar.com

COACHING

WHAT IT TAKES TO COACH

A EUROPEAN TOUR MULTIPLE WINNER

PGA Professionals Andy Proudman and Piers Ward (Me and My Golf) are here to share with you some of the great insights and techniques they have gleaned from spending time with some of the world’s top players.

As some of you may know we have the good fortune to have worked with Aaron Rai for the last 15 years, and in our last article we spoke about what it takes to make it to tour-level. In this article, in light of him having a really good run of form, we wanted to highlight a couple of other areas that could maybe benefit in your coaching.

So we’ve broken this article down into five areas that we believe have helped him develop, whilst also giving you a brief glimpse of what a three-week cycle looks like for Aaron.

1. Impervious to outside agencies - As you can imagine the better you get as a tour-level player the more outside agencies want to get involved, whether that be off-course sponsorship, equipment sponsorship and even advice from other players or coaches. The key thing we’ve always discussed with Aaron is the understanding of what has got him to this point and the way to improve is to add layers to the team without compromising what we have done to get to this point.

2. Be GREAT or VERY VERY good at one thing - Aaron’s greatest strength is his accuracy – he has been in the top five straightest hitters for the last three years, and always in the top 10 for greens in regulation. If we think of other players with comparable strengths, Lee Westwood has always been

58

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

COACHING

“

So, you do not have to be great at all areas of the game to be a tour player, but it does help if you’re awesome at one area, as this can give you a career on Tour.

phenomenally accurate, Luke Donald has had an incredible short game, and Brad Faxon was a wonderful putter. You can also look at the way a player executes a certain shot and see similar successes. For instance, Colin Montgomerie was extremely accurate, and was considered “one dimensional” in that he always played with a fade. However, a lot of tour coaches like their players to have that one repeatable shot nowadays. Yes, Monty may have struggled to hit a back-left flag, but he was amazing at hitting greens and getting it close on other flag locations.

So, you do not have to be great at all areas of the game to be a tour player, but it does help if you’re awesome at one area, as this can give you a career on Tour. Having a player ‘double down’ on their strengths will only help long term.

3. Use stats to help paint the picture - We have used stats a lot to understand Aaron’s game. As well as being an accurate hitter, we also want to make sure when he is hitting fairways and greens that it positively impacts on his scores.

We look at his strokes gained numbers off the tee, and look to see whether he is hitting the right shots onto the fairway to take advantage of certain holes which are easier and then making sure he’s being more conservative on more difficult holes.

We will also look at his proximity to the hole to make sure again he is capitalising on the easier holes. With proximity, we can start to see patterns in his iron play to the point we can pinpoint issues in his game before they become a bigger issue. We will also be noting the specific shots, for example if he’s hitting a certain shot shape, the influence of flag location or whether it’s from the fairway or the rough. This just allows us to be able to prioritise the training we choose to do together.

4. Constantly making Aaron aware of improvements needed - You do have to be careful how you discuss these areas with tour players. We once had a conversation with Jason Day’s former caddie/coach Col Swatton who would often pick their practice round partners based on something that Col would want to change, or point out to Jason. For example, if Jason was struggling with his irons he’d book in a practice round with Tiger or Henrik Stenson, so Jason would then say “Oh, I think I need to work on my irons.” That would be ‘job done’, as they could then work on that area, and Jason would be motivated as it would have come about as his idea.

If ever we can get the player to create the initial inception of the idea then it will always be stronger! Kind of like the Leonardo DiCaprio film!! Clever stuff that!

5. What has influenced Aaron’s recent success - Aaron has gained 5 mph clubhead speed in the last three years as a result of physical work with Andy Caldwell. He was also

If you want to know more about the work Andy & Piers do, connect with them in the following ways:

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

motivated by not wanting to play in first all the time, so he doesn’t get penalised for slow play! This extra distance is starting to take effect as this gives him a more effective and diverse strategy with his approach play with more flags now accessible.

We also put a big priority on proximity - we were seeing that although Aaron was hitting lots of greens he would sometimes be too conservative which was making it hard to get the birdie count up. I would make reference to Aaron that he was sometimes like a striker only shooting from outside the box!

The proximity issue we had was also down to two other factors, Aaron’s ability to play from the rough and how comfortable he was with short-sided chip shots. Because Aaron is so accurate he has never been that good from the rough, but he now has a much greater awareness of playing from the rough and new scrambling abilities. The very satisfying thing for us in his recent win, was the fact that he played the 72nd hole, and the playoff hole against Tommy Fleetwood in Scotland, and didn’t hit the fairway or the green, and was still able to make two pars and pull off the victory.

What does a three-week cycle look like for Aaron - This is the structure that we use and we log everything so that we can access this data at any point.

PRE-TOURNAMENT • Proximity training and controlling chaos - We create a mix of simulating extremely small fairways and extreme proximity training with short game scrambling. This has been received really well by Aaron as he knows it is important but it’s also fun to him • Technique Neutralisation - Aaron is great at shaping the ball, but if unchecked can create a fade or draw-biased. We like to keep Aaron’s swing direction pretty neutral, so he doesn’t find it hard to play a particular shape.

DURING TOURNAMENT • Monday technique calibration - Every Monday Aaron will send us videos of his swing, as well as Trackman data, irrespective of his form. We can give simple thoughts on what he needs to work on.

• Course prep based on course report from stats team Aaron will have an understanding of what is required for the week, based on holes that he can be more aggressive on, versus those he needs to be more conservative on, as well as approach yardages and specific short game shots.

POST TOURNAMENT • Post tournament debrief - Really important to log his thoughts and self-evaluation plus his emotional response.

• What needs to be worked on at the next event ●

Email: info@meandmygolf.com Website: Meandmygolf.com

59

Insight Wellbeing at Work is provided

by Insight Healthcare on behalf of ARAG Information about the service: We can all be faced with challenges in our personal or work lives that can make us feel low, or as through we are unable to cope.

Insight provide a service on behalf of ARAG, offering free confidential support for a range of personal and work-related issues.

24hr Counselling Helpline The helpline offers access to free, confidential support and advice 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The service is extended to immediate family members living in the same household.

What to Expect when you Call

Call us today on:

0333 000 2082

You will speak with a qualified and experienced counsellor who will be able to provide you with practical advice and support on how best to cope with your difficulties.

Please ensure that you have at least 20 minutes free to talk to the counsellor and are in a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted.

If you learn to spot symptoms early and identify situations that may be emotionally challenging, you can prevent problems from escalating.

Confidentiality Insight Healthcare complies with the data protection Act and GDPR guidelines.

This means that information relating to you and the support provided to you will remain confidential to us unless we have your consent to share it, or where there is a risk to you or someone else.

ADVERTORIAL

INTRODUCING THE WORLD’S SMALLEST GPS

TOUCHSCREEN ELECTRIC TROLLEY PowaKaddy, the world’s leading electric trolley brand, has announced details of its upgraded product offering for 2021. Looking to build on its current market share of 67% (Golf Datatech, August 2020), the company has developed an all-new touch screen CT6 GPS model, designed to take the ultra-compact offering to new heights.

The Compact range continues to raise the bar, with the addition of all-new high-tech touchscreen technology to the CT6 GPS. The world’s smallest touchscreen electric trolley comes complete with a fully integrated GPS system, allowing golfers to navigate their way around over 40,000 golf courses worldwide from the 2.8-inch full colour touchscreen display.

The CT6 GPS has the power to automatically locate golf courses while also offering an auto hole advance feature and an automatic distance function (ADF), which allows golfers to select the desired stopping distance of their trolley.

In addition to technological advancements, the Compact range boasts a Simple-2-fold™ system and a low-profile PowaFrame® chassis design that allow the CT6 GPS and CT6 trolleys to fold down 35% smaller than the nearest competitor.

The new FX7 GPS headlines the iconic Freeway series, featuring a stunning upgraded 3.5-inch screen with ultra-sharp graphics and higher visibility than ever before.

2021 Freeway models boast PowaKaddy’s all-new hi-tensile alloy, 1-Click folding system, which folds to be 20% smaller than the previous versions, as well as a host of technological additions. New models showcase a high efficiency speed controller, LCD backlight, stealth wheels, and PowaKaddy’s Plug ‘n’ Play™ 30v Max™ lithium battery system.

The PowaKaddy GPS Bluetooth Connected App for iOS and Android allows golfers to carry out course updates on-the-go using just their mobile device. No annual fees or subscriptions are required.

New for 2021, the FX7 features a clever distance measurement function and built-in calorie counter, accessible via the 3.5-inch widescreen display, while the new FX5 delivers performance at a mid-price point with new stealth wheels and an automatic distance function. The entry-level FX3 is available in two colour options and boasts an optional automatic Electronic Braking System (EBS) for greater downhill control.

The upgraded FX5 GPS rental trolley helps golfers manage their game more efficiently. Featuring a super-accurate high-performance GPS and a full colour widescreen display, PowaKaddy’s 2021 rental offering is the smartest in the game. The company invites professionals to pre-order their fleet now to make a withdrawal from the ‘ultimate cash machine’.

n Benefits • Double your investment in as little as two months • Super-accurate high-performance GPS technology • Speed up the pace of play on your course • Charge increased hire fees • Increases your retail sales • High residual value and two-year transferrable warranty*

The remodelled PowaKaddy cart bag collection features 19 different styles and colourways. Spearheading the range is the Dri-Tech. Now available in an all-new, Black/Silver colourway, it is 100% waterproof and delivers four times the performance of most waterproof bags on the market. Also, in the collection are the Premium Tech, Premium Edition, DLX-Lite and X-Lite cart bags. ●

For more information on the entire range of high-performance trolleys, bags, batteries and accessories, go to www.powakaddy.com.

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

61

MARKETING

SOCIAL MEDIA

MANAGEMENT TOOLS

AND WHY THEY’RE VITAL FOR YOUR MARKETING STRATEGY

PART TWO n BY ANTJE DERKS

I

n part one of this article, we explored why every business should have a social media management tool to help keep content posted in a timely and consistent way, ensuring you have the ability to keep an eye on your statistics and see what sort of content is working, who is engaging with your posts and at what time of day or night reaps the most rewards.

In this article, we will look at my top five social media scheduling tools that are available - some free and some paid for - so that you can make an informed decision about which one to choose.

Hootsuite provides an all in one platform that helps you manage your social media across multiple sites. Added to this, there is the option to to search - and filter - through existing social media to glean insights and demographic information - both of which are invaluable. Hootsuite offers a free plan that allows you to schedule across three social media profiles, meaning you can schedule 30 posts at a time to go out on say Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. This might be enough for you.

However, if you pay, you get more features. With any of Hootsuite’s plans you get an analytics feature so you can track and measure performance against KPIs. Reports are customisable, so you can ensure you display and read the data you need to a. A number of integrations are also available like Mailchimp and Trello, meaning you can work productively and

62

efficiently when it comes to building your social media marketing and communications campaigns.

Sprout Social is well known for being the one stop shop for all your managing and scheduling needs AND it’s very simple to use. You can schedule all your social media accounts through this platform and it doubles as a brilliant analytics tool too. It allows you to filter via demographic and geographic, meaning you can see exactly which content is working for particular followers. Added to this, if you do have multiple accounts, Sprout can handle them as well as monitoring keywords across the entire social media range, letting you know if your business is the topic of conversation and can help you respond to direct messages.

Sprout Social has a free 30-day trial. If you like it, prices then start from $99 per user per month for up to five different social profiles, with additional plans offering more profiles, scope, and features.

Rather like Sprout Social above, Buffer is another all-rounder that lets you post to your platform and then analyse the results. One of its major plus points is just how simple and straightforward it is to use, while also giving you flexibility. The fact it provides analytics in real-time

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

MARKETING

makes instantly judging the impact of your content a doddle.

Use the “Top Post” icon to compare different forms of content to see which works best for each network.

The Buffer app also allows for seamless Google Analytics integration for tracking the success of your marketing campaigns. Payment plans depend on whether you’re looking to publish or analyse social media accounts, with different pricing for each based on the volume of accounts or published content you want to manage. There is a basic free plan, which has similar features to those of Hootsuite and is fine if budget is an issue.

Hubspot Social Media Software is a suite of social media management tools available under the Marketing Hub. The aim is to save time by prioritising social connections you place most value on across a range of social media platforms, like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn. There are various management features available for publishing and sharing content, monitoring mentions, and reporting to let you know not just levels of engagement but also how these translate into reallife business metrics.

These tools are available as part of the Hubspot Marketing Hub, meaning you can use them alongside a range of other focused marketing tools. So, not only are you monitoring and managing your social media, you can also ensure that the work you put in translates into some form of measuring business return.

SEMrush is best known for being an inclusive SEO software platform, but it also has a couple of great tools for social media management across Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn and Google My Business.

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

The social media poster allows you to schedule and post to various social media platforms. It includes an image editor, UTM-builder and link shortener; all very handy for customising your posts, which you can publish there and then or you can schedule them.

There’s also the ability to manage ads specifically across Facebook, Instagram, Facebook Messenger, and the Audience Network.

The social media tracker also allows you to track cross-platform engagement with users, meaning you can collect analytics for reports in a single dashboard.

This includes both reactions to posts as well as mentions elsewhere. Further, this tool allows you to monitor competitors to determine how often they are posting.

The biggest strength, however, is the fact that SEMrush allows you to integrate your social media management with your overall SEO and marketing strategy, and provides a useful platform that brings everything together in one place.

SocialPilot offers a social media management platform for small businesses. As with similar platforms, it offers a single place from which to publish and schedule your social media posts. There’s also a social inbox for monitoring replies, comments, and mentions, as well as the all important analytics.

You can post directly via the web or mobile, or browser extensions, and content suggestions are provided to help you develop more. SocialPilot includes the ability to schedule up to 500 posts, along with images, using a post planner that allows you to easily review content and map them to the right social media platform.

All in all, SocialPilot offers another strong social media platform, which is accessible to small businesses. ●

63

MEMBERSHIP

YOUR PGA MEMBER BENEFITS

Giving you access to a range of benefits and discounts designed to support members both personally and professionally.

THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: 15% off with T.M.Lewin* From classic office tailoring to contemporary smart casual inspiration, there’s endless looks to choose from with T.M.Lewin. As a PGA member, you can take advantage of an exclusive discount.

Simply use your exclusive discount at the online checkout at tmlewin.co.uk Save money on gym memberships and more!

Save money on gym memberships with MyGymDiscounts! It’s a voucher based or discount code scheme which offers members the opportunity to benefit from discounted gym memberships at thousands of health clubs, leisure centres, and class studios across the UK and Ireland* as well as online workout programmes.

PGA MEMBER SUPPORT Business Relationship Officers (BRO’s) are in place to support you, The PGA Member. They are here to help forge stronger links within the industry and provide PGA Professionals with a free service, designed to support and improve the personal and professional lives of our Members.

A wide variety of support is provided such as Business Reviews, Contracts & HR, Negotiating Retainers, Marketing & Retail Advice, Coaching Support, Developing Customer Relationships, Identification of targeted Training Courses/ Educational Opportunities, Building Relationships within your Golf Club/Facility and more.

For more information contact tina.banner@pga.org.uk or call 01675 470 333

Health and Wellbeing Support The PGA is committed to providing support for its Members and offers access to a 24/7 service provided by Insight Healthcare. A totally confidential helpline which is manned by trained counsellors who can provide help and advice on any matter that is causing anxiety, concern or depression. The service is also available to Members’ close family and employees. If you feel you or someone close to you needs help, the number to call is 0333 000 2082.

Great savings on a wide range of Apple products Looking to upgrade your tech? Get preferential rates on Apple products including MacBook Pro, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods and iPod as well as Apple accessories (inc Beats)*.

Legal Advice

10% off with Foyles Choose from a wide range of books from a variety of genres, plus PGA members can save 10% off at foyles.co.uk. Free delivery on all UK orders above £20, plus sign up to their Foyalty card to earn points on every purchase*.

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.

Save, enjoy, spend today with SVM retail discounts Save £100s on the big brand retailers through SVM. Whether you are looking to save on your supermarket shop, updating your wardrobe, dining out or on Home and DIY – you will find savings available through the SVM platform. Visit Member Benefits UK now to create an account with SVM and start saving today.

BDO LLP offer a free helpline to members. Contact michael. hepburn@bdo.co.uk or call on 0131 347 0355

PAYE/National Insurance advice

VAT Advice For VAT advice, contact Tom Newman at PGA Headquarters on 01675 470 333 or email thomas.newman@pga.org.uk

To take advantage of these and other fantastic deals visit the members area of pga.info and select Member Benefits - UK. *Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers subject to change without notice and correct at time of print. T.M. Lewin - Valid from 1 October until 30 November 2020.

Discount cannot be redeemed against previous purchases, used in conjunction with any other offer, voucher, discount code or gift card purchases. Apple - Annual purchase limits apply. Discounts are subject to availability. For the latest offers visit the Apple EPP store. Foyles - Discount is not applicable against certain items, including but not limited to already-discounted products, events, gift cards, book tokens, theatre tickets, and A Year of Books. The discount is not applicable to postage costs. Foyles reserves the right to alter products included or excluded from the scheme, and to add to or amend these terms and conditions. PGA Benefit web pages are managed and run by Parliament Hill Limited.

Within those benefits are some benefits negotiated directly by The PGA, and these are identified on the benefit web page.

64

Public liability Insurance Cover is included in your subscription fee. Contact emma.hadlow@ pga.org.uk or call 01675 470 333 for your individual certificate.

For any claims contact Howden on 0121 698 8050. Visit the dedicated PGA insurance site at: pgainsurance.co.uk

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

MEMBERSHIP

Speak to our Specialist Nurses

0800 074 8383* prostatecanceruk.org The helpline is open

Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Wed 7pm-9pm

Essential Business Services Business expertise helping golf facilities to save on essential utility costs. For more info on how we can help, contact 01444 220 060, email info@smarterbusiness.co.uk or visit www.smarterbusiness.co.uk

*Calls are recorded for training purposes only.

Confidentiality is maintained between callers and Prostate Cancer UK.

CBD products

Coca Cola European Partners* CCEP are delighted to offer PGA Members free coolers for their retail facilities. To arrange delivery/installation, please contact John Balchin on jbalchin@ccep.com. Wholesale & delivery of products can be arranged via Chapple & Jenkins.

Cannaray CBD are offering PGA Members a no-commitment, sale-or-return kit free of charge. To order, email scoop@cannaray. co.uk and for further information about this offer visit the Member Benefits site.

Affiliate Bonus Become a SkyTrak Show Case Dealer and earn a bonus 40% affiliate fee on your first sale and 20% fee on any future sales. Call 01844 296358 or email sales@skycaddiegps.co.uk for more info.

Wholesale and Delivery Service* We are delighted to offer PGA Members in England & Wales a reliable wholesale & delivery service for soft drinks, crisps, confectionery and much more. Members can expect a wide range of brands that are competitively priced with free delivery and no minimum order. A complimentary gift is available to all new PGA account holders. Contact Tim Swingler on 07519 111582 or tim@ chappleandjenkins.co.uk, visit www.chappleandjenkins.co.uk for more info.

Rangefinder Savings PGA Members save over £150 on the new SkyCaddie SX500. Call 01844 296358 or email sales@skycaddiegps.co.uk for more info.

Incentive Programme Turf Maintenance Equipment Take advantage of a special offer on the Prostripe Rear Roller Mower for your clubhouse surroundings. For more product information, visit ‘toro.com/prostripeuk’. To place an order on this offer or learn more, please share your contact details at pgamembers@toro.com

Incentive programme of up to £500 in commission when recommending customers to purchase an all-weather home putting green. Call 01730 829 608 or visit huxleygolf.com

Special Product Offers Special offers on selected LG products for PGA members. For the most up-to-date offers, log into member benefits, select the ‘Shopping’ section. Or contact the team at lgvip@lge.com for any orders.

IT Services* Offering members a free IT health check of their business; up to three months free managed IT services when taking out a contract with an option to leave within the first three months if you change your mind. For more information contact 0207 078 3795 quoting PGA.

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

Card Payment Services* Preferential rates to PGA Members for accepting credit and debit cards. Call 0330 123 1241 quoting PGA.

65

MEMBERSHIP Golf Carts To discuss your golf cart requirements, contact Kevin Hart, Sales Director – EMEA at: kevin_hart@eu.irco.com or call +44 1785 280 344. Members in Ireland can contact Liam Ross at The Buggyman at: liam@buggyman.net

Personalised Luggage PGA Members receive 20% off our luggage range. To view the full range visit www.asbrigolf.co.uk/pga-members-luggage Contact sales@asbri.co.uk or 02922 678 842 quoting membership number.

Vehicle Leasing Offers Visit https://pga.pinkcarleasing.co.uk to view deals then contact the team on 0116 402 6500 to place an order, quoting your PGA Membership Number. Earn £75 for every client/club member referral who leases a car, just share the website details, your PGA Membership Number and have them give Pink Vehicle Leasing a call.

Vehicle Leasing Offers* Exclusive contract hire rates on a selection of BMW and MINI models through BMW Group. Visit www.bmwpgasales.co.uk, call 0207 514 3599 or email pgasales@bmw-issd.co.uk

XPOS Sales and Stock Management XPOS is the sales and stock management solution for golf retail, used by professionals to reduce stock and improve profit. PGA Members quote PGAX01 to receive three months free XMAIL, the integrated customer email service. Contact on 01454 418 395 or via the CHAT button at crossovertec.co.uk

Golfing Packages Commission Access to bespoke golfing packages for you and your club members through the dedicated Golf Pro Travel Team. Receive 5% commission on your booking. Contact 01753 752 900 or email pga@golfbreaks.com to book your next trip.

Discounted Airfares Offering all PGA Members discounted airfares across the whole network, with checked golf bag clearance (subject to availability).

Contact the Traveleads sports team on 0113 242 2202 or email pga@traveleads.net quoting your PGA membership number.

66

Travel Insurance* 20% off † travel insurance for members and their families as well as £10 every time someone takes out a policy on your recommendation. For every 10 policies sold in 1 calendar month, we will give you an additional ±£100. For more info log into member benefits, select the ‘Finance & Insurance’ and ‘Over 50s Travel Insurance’ section.

Aphrodite Hills Golf & Spa Resort 25% off for members on holiday residences public rates and 20% off hotel package rates (terms apply)††. For availability and prices email: Hotel Packages – reservations@aphroditehills.com Residences – reservations_mgr_AH@atlanticahotels.com For pro coaching groups, check with PGA Travel Partners.

Antalya Golf Club Attractive, all-inclusive rates for members and family.

For The Sirene Hotel contact: volkan.cavusoglu@sirene.com.tr For Kempinski The Dome Hotel contact: michael.jones@agc.com.tr

Argentario Golf Resort & Spa 20% off the flexible rate at www.argentariogolfresortspa.it. For availability and prices on bespoke packages for members/clients, email booking@argentarioresort.it or call +39 0564 810292 quoting PGA Member

Slieve Russell Golf & Country Club 20% off B&B rates on www.slieverussell.ie For availability and prices email slieve.reservations@slieverussell.ie on or call +353 49 952 6444 quoting membership number.

Formby Hall Golf & Spa Resort Rates from £95pp including use of the pool and health club. Spa days from £49 pp. PGA deals available Sun – Thur. Members receive 10% commission on new golf bookings for groups of 12 or more. Contact Mark Williams on 01704 875 699 or reservations@ formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk quoting your membership number.

For more detailed information and to take advantage of these and other fantastic deals, log into www.pga.info, select Member Benefits then click ‘Find out more’. *Only available to PGA Members in the UK. Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers subject to change without notice. †Discount only applies to the base premium of your travel insurance quote and does not apply to any medical screening premiums where relevant. Offer ends 31 December 2020.’. Terms and Conditions apply. ±£10 for every travel insurance policy sold, plus an additional £100 for every 10 policies sold in 1 calendar month. Please allow up to 45 days to receive your cashback. Cashback will be paid to you directly via The PGA. If the policy is cancelled within the 14 day cooling off period no payment will be made. ††Pay directly in the hotel; flexible cancellation policy; valid only in low and mid-season; the discount can only be applied on the flexible rate and not on other rates or special offers.

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

EMPLOYMENT O P P O R T U N I T I E S

Brickendon Grange golf club is a private member’s golf club and was founded in 1967 Set on 160 acres of rolling parkland and considered one of the finest golf clubs in Hertfordshire.

We are looking to appoint a first-class PGA Head Professional.

This is an exciting opportunity for a forward-thinking individual to become a valuable part of our team, who will be the first point of greeting for members and visitors alike.

BGGC have recently invested £1.2M on facilities.

Applications are invited from experienced, qualified PGA Professionals with a proven track record.

Duties and responsibilities include: • Operate a successful retail business • Embrace modern technology and provide the highest standards of golf tuition • Junior, Ladies, Beginner and Advance player coaching and development programmes • First class custom fit and repairs • Play a key role in marketing and promotion to help attract and retain members • Support the administration of golf for members and visitors • Take an active role in relevant meetings • Understand and comply with all legislative requirements associated with the role.

• The role reports directly to the General Manager Interested applicants should apply by submitting a cover letter and CV by email to GeneralManager@bggc.org.uk Applications close 23rd November 2020

East Brighton Golf Club, Sussex East Brighton Golf Club, founded in 1893, is a member’s Club that extends a very warm welcome to members, societies and green fee visitors alike. Only 2 miles from the city centre of Brighton with all its culture and entertainment, and yet a true down-land golf course with spectacular coastal views.

This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive, self-motivated and forward thinking PGA Professional to join our team.

The Club is currently undergoing development works to improve services, including a new indoor golf swing studio. The successful applicant must be personable with an engaging manner and committed to ensuring their team delivers outstanding service.

Possessing good organisational and communication skills are key desirable attributes, whilst providing and maintaining a well-stocked retail outlet for all membership categories.

You will work closely with the management team to grow and retain our 600-stong membership base, as well as contributing towards improving our members competition experience.

You must have a track record of developing tuition programmes and delivering high quality individual and group coaching to members, juniors, guests and other interested parties.

Sound business and financial knowledge is essential but above all, you must have a true passion for the game, service and people.

If you are qualified and can fulfil this self-employed role, please send your CV and covering letter to:

Steven Stiller, General Manager, by email: gm@ebgc.co.uk.

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

67

EMPLOYMENT O P P O R T U N I T I E S

Cradoc Golf Club

An exciting opportunity is available for a self employed PGA Professional to work at this established and well respected Golf Club of around 400 members.

The successful candidate will join our team in early 2021 and run a rewarding business that includes administration of competitions, stocking and running the golf shop and opportunities to further develop coaching for members, juniors and visitors.

He or she will be expected to have excellent leadership, interpersonal and business management skills.

Working as part of our team you will adopt a proactive approach to marketing and customer service whilst understanding the health and safety aspects of the club as a whole.

The successful applicant will contribute to the management of the Club through close liaison with the Board of Directors, be actively involved in the full range of golf activities and be a positive ambassador for Cradoc Golf Club, to members and visitors and through recruiting new members.

The post would suit either an experienced Professional seeking to relocate to a more rural location, or someone starting out and keen to grow a sound basis for personal and career development.

For a detailed breakdown of responsibilities and remuneration package or to arrange an informal visit to Cradoc to meet with the Manager and Club Captain please contact Emily Dench Club Manager on 01874 623658 (option 2) Application by email or post by 20th November 2020 including a CV and covering letter to manager@cradoc.co.uk or Emily Dench, Club Manager, Cradoc Golf Club, Penoyre Park, Brecon, LD3 9LP

James Andrews Golf School, Essex

We have a fantastic opportunity for a motivated and passionate PGA Professional, who is keen make their mark managing all aspects of our golf operations.

Possessing first rate customer service skills and an engaging manner, you will have good organisational attributes and a flair for marketing and sales. Working closely with the resort management team to deliver a great golf experience to all our members, societies, corporate visitor’s and hotel guests.

You should possess a high level of commercial acumen as well as being sales driven you will be responsible for preparing and delivering all the financial targets for the golf department.

Ensuring members/corporate & residential events run effectively on course.

A newly refurbished 40-bedroom, 4-star hotel, bar and restaurant with stunning views is complemented with a pro shop, floodlit practice ground and short game area as well as an 18 hole and 9 hole course.

Apply with your CV to Gary Silcock gm@murrayshall.co.uk

68

James Andrews Golf School (Stoke by Nayland Golf Club) and James Andrews Golf Holidays are looking for passionate, genuine golf professionals with excellent communication skills to join our award-winning team.

If you would like to be part of the industry leader in intensive golf coaching with great earning potential and work/life balance, we want to hear from you. Full training and support will be given to successful candidates. This is a 100% coaching roll with the ability to control your own diary.

Apply to james@jamesandrewsgolfschool. co.uk with your CV and covering letter or phone 07956 011033

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

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

EMPLOYMENT O P P O R T U N I T I E S

CHEVIN GOLF CLUB HEAD PROFESSIONAL Chevin Golf Club, established 1894, is a premier members club in Derbyshire.

An opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic, well qualified Individual, to run a retail golf shop and provide tuition, club fitting and club repair services for members and visitors.

Key Responsibilities:

v Work as part of the team with the Board of Directors and General Manager to take the club forward v Ensure a high standard of customer service at all times v Operate and maintain a well-stocked shop v Be responsible for coaching, club fitting and tuition p ro g ra m me s v Assist with the management of competitions v Assist with management of Society and Corporate Days For more detailed information about the services we require please contact Mr A Mellor, General Manager. manager@chevingolf.co.uk and send a covering letter, CV and CPD statement.

Please indicate past experience and your aims for the success of the business.

Closing Date for Applications 30th November 2020 Chevin Golf Club Golf Lane, Duffield

www.chevingolf.co.uk

DE56 4EE

Office 01332 841864 Professional 01332 841112

Have you come to a career crossroads? Not sure which step to take next to move forwards?

We are here to help!

The key to having a satisfying career is knowing yourself, knowing your strengths, understanding your values and identifying what you need to do your best work.

Identifying and landing a role that fits around you - rather than you trying to fit it - is what leads to greater personal fulfilment and job satisfaction.

The PGA’s very own Business Relationship Officer network are here to provide members with FREE career planning and advice. Get in touch with your local officer today and take steps towards making 2020 the year you move your career forwards.

Email recruitment@pga.org.uk

The PGA Professional

|

#makinggolfhappen

Huntswood Golf Club BB&O Huntswood Golf Club is looking for a fully PGA qualified experienced coach to take over a comprehensive existing client list including junior/ ladies academy, private school and individual golfers, following a management restructure at The Club. The position could suit a multisite coach but can be flexible on the structure. Contact: mgrieve@huntswoodgolf.com The Knaresborough Golf Club Fantastic opportunity for a motivated PGA assistant to join the professional team at this Busy member club. Excellent interpersonal skills are essential as customer service is a priority. Min 30 hours golf operations plus opportunities to Play and develop coaching Especially with juniors. Good earning potential. Application and CV to knaresboroughproshop@hotmail.co.uk David Lloyd Hampton Golf Club Short Game Golf Academy, Twickenham have a full-time coaching position for a passionate & energetic fully qualified PGA professional.

Our facility boasts a 5* health club, coaching facility and full length 9-hole golf course plus an accessible database of 6500 health club members & 3500 golfers. Email mark@shortgamegolfacademy.com Sharpshooters Junior Golf Academy Opportunity for a PGA Trainee/qualified Professional. This can be a part or full-time role teaching adult members and non-members of Ash Valley Golf club in our new floodlit range. You also have the opportunity to work at one of the largest junior golf academies in the country.

Email info@sharpshootersgolf.co.uk Discount Golf Store, Essex Opportunity for a manager to run a busy golf store, Top Tracer range and fitting studio. Duties will include all day to day running and future development of this busy site. Shop hours are 4 days per week, coaching is also available. Good renumeration package for the successful applicant. Email: stephen.cole@centregolf.co.uk Bush Hill Park Golf Club, Middlesex Trainee/Assistant required to join the professional team at Bush Hill Park GC. Candidates must be enthusiastic, hardworking, ambitious, and able to work as part of a team. Junior coaching program and flexible shop hours will allow time for additional coaching and competitions.

Please send CV’s to Danny@bhpgc.com Delapre golf centre, Northampton Delapre golf centre in Northampton are looking to recruit 2 trainee/ assistants to join our growing coaching staff, at one of the regions busiest public golf venues. If interested contact David Sanders davidjsanders@hotmail.co.uk 07413161285.

INTERNATIONAL Great Golf Coach, Beijing, China PGA qualified Head Coach required to develop elite players at a full-time academy in Beijing. Base salary 30,000–50,000RMB/Month (subject to experience) + accommodation. 5,000 RMB/year allowance for home visit & health insurance included. For further details and to apply, contact PGA Member, Bruce Whitehead whiteheadbruce@hotmail.com Impact Golf Academy, Germany A great job for an ambitious, German speaking coach! This position will allow the coach 45+ hours of teaching per week (April to October) including 5-7 hours of junior coaching. Club fitting and winter coaching/ golf schools also feasible.

More information regarding our facility?: www.impactgolfacademy.com Email CV and covering letter: mail@nms-golf.com

69

M E M BE R I N T H E SP OT L IGH T

PUTTING ON

A SHOW

CAREER PATHWAY After being a PGA Professional for several years, I was looking for a career change but I really wanted to stay in the world of golf. One day I was chatting to a good friend of mine, and now business partner Nick Clemens (former PGA Professional) about how much golf had given both of us, and wouldn’t it be great if we could open that up to a wider audience. That was the day Provision Events was born. We started using high quality inflatable golf nets and contacting golf tournaments and brands, this platform allowed us to offer a free coaching activity for the spectators and a chance to get products into consumer’s hands in an event environment - both added new dimensions to the tournaments, when you think about it now it was a bold move! Thankfully for us it paid off, we developed more activations over the years and significantly increased our offering which leads us to where I am now.

MY CURRENT ROLE I am a founding partner and COO of Provision Events. This means I oversee the strategic direction of all things production and delivery within the business. COVID

70

Konrad Brochocki is a Founding Partner and COO of Provision Events, a company that conceives, creates and delivers interactive golf and other sporting activities to allow brands to engage with sports fans worldwide.

has (like with most businesses) meant that we have had to diversify away from our core offering, which means at the moment, I am working with the team to develop long term partnerships with some of the best technology and structure companies in the business so we can continue to increase our offering to clients. I am proud of this development, as now we will be able to be the go-to agency for companies, agencies, sports development governing bodies, individuals, and clubs in the golfing world.

BEST ADVICE I WAS GIVEN If you are going to do a job, do it properly, make it as good as possible, give it 100 per cent and treat every job equally whatever its scale. This is a core value at Provision Events and in the DNA of every member of staff.

BEST ADVICE I WOULD GIVE Business is forever changing, don’t be afraid to diversify to improve your product and service. This is more relevant than

If you are going to do a job, do it properly, make it as good as possible, give it 100% and treat every job equally whatever its scale We can offer it all – design, production, delivery, and evaluation – and everything in between.

CAREER INFLUENCE I had a great insight into just what it takes to run a successful business during my PGA training, the long hours, hard work and customer service skills required. It was a fantastic early working experience and has influenced me hugely. Elements of this are within the foundations of Provision – especially the dedication and great customer service.

ever before and is key to Provision’s development. We work with a number of clients in the golf world, and now have the ability to use the same assets to assist clubs and individuals to help them with their design and branding needs. As golfers ourselves it puts us in a unique position of understanding, enabling us to support them to diversify and get noticed.

WHAT I WISH I HAD KNOWN Early on to be more appreciative of the moment – it is easy to get lost in what you are doing and whatever the challenge, situation, or result – you can always learn something - even if it doesn’t appear so straight away. ●

November 2020

|

www.pga.info

Monster Hydro Sport Buy 3 Get 1 FREE for PGA Members until 30/11/20

Buy 3 Get 1 FREE

Existing customers please call 0117 972 1100 to place your order New customers please call Tim on 07519 111 582 or email tim@chappleandjenkins.co.uk for further information

The Perfect Match

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

#makinggolfhappen