What are some of the most memorable moments you have had while working at LGC, and how have those experiences shaped you personally and professionally?
Yes, it’s fair to say that I’ve been very fortunate to have had many great experiences. Hosting Jack Nicklaus on a corporate event was pretty cool to say the least. Watching him hit shots up close whilst he performed a clinic was inspiring. To also see some of the people I have mentored through the years thriving and doing well as they have progressed in their careers really means a lot. If I have helped someone, even in a small way, I enjoy that.
How has the game changed since you first started and how have you adapted to those changes?
Without a doubt, advancements in technology is where I have seen the most changes – with modern equipment I’m hitting it further than I was 30 years ago. As a PGA Professional and a coach it’s really important to embrace change – I’m a big believer in being open to new ideas and to keep researching the progress there is in coaching and club technology.
It’s important to challenge yourself and to try to take some form of self-development, whether that is following a different teaching style or maybe understanding an element of the game better. An example of that is different swing trends: when I first started, Nick Faldo's golf swing was seen as a good model to emulate. Now, using data, we can accurately measure why players are successful and understand biomechanics a lot more. This shows how the use of technology has really enhanced all elements of coaching.
Keeping on top of advances in technology is vital for any golf coach. Launch monitor technology such as Trackman and coaching apps have changed the structure of golf lessons. I am no longer reliant on watching the ball flight, the use of technology now validates my coaching instinct.
I then started to transition into the pro shop as an assistant PGA Pro, in doing so I qualified in just under four years while working at the club. This eventually led to the role of head PGA pro and then Director of Golf, which involved hosting the European Open, Volvo World Matchplay and Open Qualifying which was an amazing experience and a big test for me in my role. It was a real honour to be the director of golf when the European Open was played here in 2009. There were great crowds and a good field, including a young Rory McIlroy. Fast forward to 2018, the opportunity arose to create and head up the ‘LGC Academy’. I am passionate about developing the coaching platform for both members and visitors with some exciting plans in the pipeline.
Looking back on your career at London Golf Club, what are some of the achievements you are most proud of, and how did you accomplish them?
I would say the first thing that springs to mind has to be more of a personal achievement in my career. In 2019 I was honoured to be named the PGA South Region Coach of the Year. To be recognised after putting so much hard work into my lessons and coaching was a great accomplishment.
Throughout my career, I have been really lucky to have received great support and developed many strong working relationships within the industry. I have always felt that I have had a good rapport with the membership which is important to me as we have tried to grow the club since opening. The support I have received from these different quarters helped us navigate some of the more challenging times at the club.
In 2008 I started working with a young player who went on to win the 2008 English Girls Championship. I have got a bit of a reputation as to having a strong short game and this was the area we focused on which helped her achieve a success – that was very rewarding. I really enjoy helping people to achieve their goals, be it a professional, top amateur or a club golfer.
Finally, how do you reflect on your 30 years at the club?
I have been very fortunate to build a career in golf doing something that I love and enjoy. As the saying goes, "find a job you enjoy doing and you will never have to work a day in your life", and that is how I have felt at London Golf Club over the last 30 years.
The experiences I have had, the people I have worked with and the people I have met have all shaped where I am right now. I am looking forward to the next chapter in my career, especially if we are chosen to host the Ryder Cup in the future.
In our industry of hospitality, entertainment and leisure, you’ve got to be prepared to work hard. You have to quickly realise that you’re going to work some unsociable hours but it’s important not to lose sight of the fact that you have gone into the industry because you love playing golf, and you should take advantage of the chance to enjoy a game whenever you can.
