How Jamie Howarth keeps his teaching diary full year-round

24/03/2025

In 2024, Jamie Howarth claimed his first North Order of Merit title and secured the English PGA Championship in dramatic fashion. The former Challenge Tour player also co-runs a performance studio at Davenport Golf Club with his brother Scott, just outside Manchester. Here, he shares how they keep their teaching diary full year-round—proving that coaching isn’t just for when golfers shake off the winter rust.

Technology

We upgraded everything around Covid time, installing the latest technology, including launch and putting monitors. These tools provide visual feedback, helping clients understand what they’re doing versus what they think they’re doing. The studio ensures we can coach in any weather, never needing to cancel due to rain.

We also have an outdoor facility at the club for when the weather improves. The launch monitor software allows us to mix things up, including simulated playing lessons where we can load up a hole and discuss strategy—where to aim and where the ball should finish.

Playing Pedigree

Having played at a high level helps, but we’re known for being knowledgeable coaches. Many good players aren’t necessarily great coaches, but I’ve always had a strong interest in high-level performance and swing science. Learning from top coaches over the years, I constantly refine my approach—what you thought you knew five years ago always evolves.

Teaching Style

I have a solid understanding of all aspects of the game. Whether it’s putting, short game, or full swing, I feel confident advising in all areas.

Having worked with different coaches myself, I’ve learned what works and when to give the right amount of information to each player. Good people skills are key—you have to genuinely care about clients' progress. It also helps that there are two of us in the studio, allowing us to cover for each other and ensure there’s always a coach available.

Post-Lesson Coaching

I offer plans where clients receive support between lessons. If they come in once a month, they can send practice videos for feedback to ensure they’re working on the right things. The time between lessons is crucial—if they don’t practise effectively, improvements take longer.

I also provide a short video summary after each session, outlining what they need to work on. Simple tools like iMessage and WhatsApp make it easy to stay in touch with existing clients.

Social Media

I post regularly on my socials, sharing results and lesson snippets. Social media generates lesson enquiries, and a recent mention by Pete Finch in a Manchester Open video even led to a new booking. While some pros feel they should post more, I believe you don’t need to give away too much. The key is making it easy for potential clients to find you and see what you offer.

Coaching Packages

If you have a quality product, there’s no need to undervalue it. I offer rolling three-month packages that keep players engaged and accountable, motivating them to practise even in the colder months.

There’s always a slight dip in December, but things pick up again in January, and by spring, even more players get in touch after a few months off. For those serious about improvement, winter is the perfect time to bed in changes—without the pressure of having to go out and score.