Steve Dresser Golf Academy Unveils Enhanced 2026 Golf School Packages at True Blue

The Steve Dresser Golf Academy at True Blue Golf Club in Pawleys Island, S.C., is launching its 2026 lineup of one- to five-day golf school packages, complete with upgraded technology, personalized instruction, and access to a Mike Strantz-designed practice facility that is among the most compelling training environments in the Southeast.

Golf school sessions run Monday through Saturday, from 9 to 11:30 a.m., with short game instruction on Tuesdays and Fridays and full swing instruction on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Classes feature a maximum student-teacher ratio of 3:1, and multi-day students receive lunch included with their package. 

“Our goal is to make the entire experience fun, comfortable, and really productive,” said Bart Romano, director of golf operations at True Blue and Caledonia Golf & Fish Club. “You get hands-on coaching in the morning, unlimited time on the range afterward, and then you can take what you’ve learned straight onto two incredible golf courses. It’s the kind of environment where people relax, enjoy themselves, and see real improvement.”

As part of the golf school experience, students have the opportunity to play True Blue and its sister course, Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, two of America’s top 100 resort courses, in the afternoons to apply what they’ve learned on the golf course.

The Steve Dresser Golf Academy staff includes Class A PGA professionals and instructors with national teaching backgrounds. Students also benefit from before-and-after swing videos, optional voiceover analysis, and the ability to add club fittings or full bag assessments.

In anticipation of spring 2026, the Academy is installing a major technology upgrade, including:
● High-resolution swing displays on wall-mounted TVs
● 3D body-motion capture
● Launch monitor integration with on-screen data
● Instant digital video delivery to students’ mobile devices

Even with the upgrades, the Academy will continue to offer instruction at an excellent value, with the daily golf school rate set at $149 per person. Students also have the option of adding on-site accommodations at True Blue villas. 

Perfect for golfers preparing for the upcoming season, especially those traveling from cooler climates, the SDGA offers ideal weather and premium course conditions at True Blue and Caledonia.

For more information or to book a 2026 golf school package, visit SteveDresserGolfAcademy.com.

The Sea Pines Resort Places Three Instructors in Golf Digest's Best in State Teachers Listing

Three golf instructors at The Sea Pines Resort have been named among the best in South Carolina in Golf Digest’s Best Teachers in Every State ranking for 2026-27. Tim Cooke, Rick Barry, and Julie Cole all earned places on the biennial list, which highlights the top instructors as identified by their peers.

Cooke, The Sea Pines Resort’s director of instruction, is a PGA Master Professional. He has been honored multiple times on Golf Magazine’s Top 100 Teachers list and was the Carolinas PGA Teacher of the Year in 2014.

Barry has been with The Sea Pines Resort for more than 30 years and is a longtime PGA member. He has been recognized as a GOLF Magazine Top 100 Teacher, named Carolinas PGA Palmer Maples Teacher of the Year, and ranked by Golf Digest among South Carolina’s top instructors for 20 years.

Cole, a former LPGA Tour professional with 12 tournament victories worldwide, previously served as director of instruction at the Dana Rader Golf School in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has been recognized as an LPGA Top 50 Teacher, a Golf Digest Best in State honoree, and a Women’s Golf Journal Top 50 Teacher in America.

Golf Digest compiles its list every two years by surveying thousands of instructors nationwide. The full 2026-27 ranking is available at Golf Digest’s Best Teachers by State.

At the Golf Learning Center, instruction is customized for every level of golfer. A team of award-winning instructors address every element of the game. Club fitting and mental coaching are offered, as is individual and group instruction. The latest technology is employed to build individual plans, to improve full swing, short game, and golf performance on and off the course.

For more information about instruction at The Sea Pines Resort, visit seapines.com.

The Nemacolin Golf Academy Announces Two-Day Golf School, July 13 - 14

Top instructors Andrew Rice, Mike LaBella headline total-game improvement sessions

(Farmington, PA) – The Nemacolin Golf Academy, the game improvement epicenter at Pennsylvania’s premier luxury golf resort destination, announced a special Two-Day Golf School on July 13 - 14. The total-game-improvement-focused school will be led by Nemacolin’s director of instruction Mike LaBella, a Golf Digest Best Young Teacher along with the renowned Andrew Rice, one of Golf Digest’s 50 Best Teachers in America.

“The Nemacolin Golf Academy is offering the ultimate game improvement experience this July," says LaBella. “The opportunity to work with Andrew Rice, one of the leading minds in golf instruction, and our Nemacolin instruction staff in our state-of-the-art learning environment is the ideal way to turn the weaknesses in your game into strengths that help you play better and lower your handicap.”

Golfers looking to improve any aspect of their full swing as well as the short game won’t want to miss this rare opportunity to work with this duo of top teachers in an academy setting optimized for fostering better play. The Nemacolin Golf Academy utilizes cutting-edge hardware like TrackMan launch monitors and simulators, Foresight Sports’ GCQuad launch monitor, and Swing Catalyst’s Balance and Dual Force Plates.

The Golf Academy’s four spacious hitting bays, complete with a dedicated, 1,000-square-foot putting room, also opens up to the outdoor 25-station driving range that sits adjacent to two short-game practice areas, a large putting green.

The July golf school with Rice and LaBella also includes custom video analysis and on-course lessons on one of Nemacolin’s acclaimed championship golf courses.

Rice, one of the most sought-after instructors in the game, is the director of instruction at The Club at Savannah Harbor in Savannah, Ga., and has been teaching golf for 25 years. He is a Golf Pass Staff Instructor, a TrackMan Master and one of nine TrackMan University Partners in the world. Rice is also a Swing Catalyst and Arccos Ambassador. LaBella, who helms operations at The Nemacolin Golf Academy, cites his three most important characteristics for every golfer as course management, a strong short game, and placing an emphasis on specific shot skills rather than picture-perfect technique.

For golfers looking for practical, repeatable skills that breed confidence and consistency, this Two-Day Golf School at the Nemacolin Golf Academy July 13 – 14 is the perfect chance to lower their handicaps in 2023.

“I'm excited to come to Nemacolin and conduct this incredible learning experience in one of the finest teaching academies in the country. If you enroll in this Two-Day School, you're going to leave with confidence and a working plan for practicing smarter and executing your best shots on the golf course.” Rice says.

To register for this amazing Two-Day Golf School, e-mail GolfAcademy@Nemacolin.com.

Hank Haney Reveals Tour Distance Secrets in New Golf Training Course

Amateur golfers can now access professional video-based coaching to help gain distance with Haney’s Speed Slot Sequence

(RELEASE) — Performance Golf, the industry leader in online golf instructional programs, today announces they have launched a new video course, Get Real Distance by Hank Haney. This new course is based on a never-before-released sequence that Haney spent over 40 years developing.

Haney reveals, “This secret is something I learned while coaching Tiger Woods for six straight years. I watched as he inspired an entire generation of golfers to hit the ball farther and farther. Amateurs come to me and tell me they’ve tried everything to gain distance and nothing works, so I created this course to help them hit the longest, straightest drives of their life. I’ve never met a single amateur golfer who couldn’t immediately add three to seven miles per hour of swing speed and ten to 30 yards of accurate distance to their drives. And that's exactly why I spent over four decades perfecting a practice swing sequence that makes it easy for golfers to drop the club in the slot.”

The Get Real Distance course includes a “Speed Slot Sequence” to help golfers discover the root cause of their short drives, and exactly what it takes to fix it. The simple sequence helps lower handicaps by developing longer, straighter drives off the tee. The reason amateur golfers try to swing harder and yet don’t gain distance is that their club is not dropping in the slot, which is necessary for squaring the clubface at impact and releasing maximum swing speed at the back of the ball.

Haney continues, “In the past, the only way to learn my Speed Slot Sequence was to be like Tiger, Mark O’Meara, and other pros who pay me not-so-small fortunes for in-person coaching, but that doesn’t allow me to fulfill my mission to help as many amateur golfers as possible play better golf. That’s why I decided to partner with Performance Golf, the industry leader in online golf instructional programs. They're well-known in the industry for producing high-end video training that not only looks good, but delivers results.”

Performance Golf CEO Brixton Albert shares, “Hank Haney is no stranger to a little controversy; he’s always willing to speak his mind about what is right for golfers and the game of golf. Through this Get Real Distance course, you can eliminate your over-the-top swing, start dropping in the slot, and add ten to 30 yards off the tee. Whether you’re picking up a driver for the first time or you’ve been struggling to gain distance for decades, this simple sequence will get you dropping the club in the slot and increasing your swing speeds.”

Learn more at: https://www.performancegolf.com/

"Breaking 100," "90," "80" and "Par" Now Streaming on GolfPass

Martin Hall, Devan Bonebrake, Nathalie Filler Sheehan and Martin Chuck Making it Their Mission to Help Golfers Shoot Their Best Scores Ever

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Of all the “breaks” that can happen to golfers, GolfPass members have the advantage when it comes to creating the good ones. Among the many benefits, they have on-demand access, 24/7, to the best instruction team in golf that offers the help they need to break bad habits and improve on the good stuff – like breaking their best score.

Already one of the most popular instructional franchises on GolfPass, the "Breaking" instruction video series is back and streaming now, and should be required viewing for every type of golfer striving to break a score of 100, 90, 80 or par.

Each series provides tips and drills on how golfers can break through and break each of the milestone scores in golf. Carefully crafted to help golfers break 100, 90, 80 and par, the instructor for each of the four, 10-episode series – 40 episodes in all – guides viewers through the golf bag to showcase how proper execution with each club can contribute to overall improvement.

Marquee names from the expert GolfPass instruction staff take viewers through the tips and routines with driving, iron play, short game and putting that can help establish good habits to finally break a milestone score. The four, companion series include: Breaking 100 (Nathalie Filler Sheehan), Breaking 90 (Martin Hall), Breaking 80 (Martin Chuck) and Breaking Par  (Devan Bonebrake). Each instructor has made it his/her mission to help golfers of any level clear the obstacles in their way and along their paths to success. 

Martin Hall:  A golf professional for more than 40 years, Hall has received numerous awards for his incredible instruction and dedication to the game of golf, which includes the 2008 PGA Teacher of the Year. He has taught players of all levels, including tour players and major champions, and is co-host of the popular GOLF Channel series, School of Golf  – also streamed on GolfPass. Hall is a frequent speaker at golf conventions and other industry gatherings around the country and in various parts of the world.

Martin Chuck: Inspired by Canadian legends Moe Norman and George Knudson, from whom he received his first lesson, Chuck is founder of the acclaimed Tour Striker Golf Academy and has invented some of golf’s most popular training aids used by amateurs and top professionals around the world. With more than 34 years of coaching experience, Chuck has become known as “The People’s Coach,” preferring to work with amateurs more than pros. 

Devan Bonebrake: Rising star and host of The Golf Fix, Bonebrake was named to Golf Digest’s list of the “Best Young Teachers in America.” He is a Jim McLean disciple who has coached all over the country and, currently, is founder and lead coach at Southern California Golf Academy in Carlsbad. 

Nathalie Filler Sheehan: Filler Sheehan began her teaching career working for PGA Master Professional and current PGA of America President Suzy Whaley after tremendous success as both a junior golfer and Division I player at the University of Delaware. Currently teaching at The Vinoy Golf Club in St. Petersburg, Fla., Filler Sheehan loves working with players of all ages and skill levels.

GolfTrainingAids.com Announces Free Two-Day Shipping on Select Game Improvement Products

Just in time for Father’s Day, new expedited shipping makes training aid shopping easy

(West Palm Beach, FL) – GolfTrainingAids.com, home of the world's largest selection of golf teaching and training aids, announces that several of the most popular items on its online marketplace will now be eligible for free two-day shipping. By creating the new GTA 2-Day Express Collection, GolfTrainingAids.com gives golfers quick access to the game improvement tools they need most.

Eligible products under the new GTA 2-Day Express Collection will include the best-selling training aids, like the Divot Board, Impact Bag, The ONE Club Swing Trainer, the Perfect Practice Putting Mat, the Lag Shot club and the Power SwingFan. Also, to celebrate Father’s Day, golftrainingaids.com is also offering exclusive, limited-time discounts on popular feedback devices for the Full Swing, Short Game, Putting and At-Home Practice.

“Consumers want convenience,” says John Diulus, president of GolfTrainingAids.com. “We want our top products in the hands of golfers as quickly as possible. When they come to our site, we understand they’re serious and ready to work on their games. Our current hot sellers include the Divot Board, which is a swing path tool; the Impact Bag, a timeless tool that’s been around for 30 years and is still incredibly helpful; and our re-launched Power SwingFan that we think will be a huge hit because every golfer wants to hit it further and shoot lower scores. Putting mats have also become very popular because you can use them at home. And everyone’s looking to improve their swing, so there’s also a huge demand for swing analysis products. The bottom line is that golfers want products that they can see and feel, and that provide immediate feedback.”

Since the pandemic began, demand for golf training aids has increased significantly. Golfers have found they can practice at home with these tools, and then are eager to get out and play – applying what they learned from the training aids. 

GolfTrainingAids.com offers competitive pricing on the broadest array of training aids in the industry. “More than anything else, we want to be a one-stop shop,” says Diulus. “So, if you don’t know exactly what you want or what’s available, go to our website. There so much to choose from, and our experts can help you out.”

To find products eligible for free-two shipping as well as 2022 Father’s Day Offers, visit golftrainingaids.com.

TGA Premier Sports Named a Top Low-Cost Franchise by Entrepreneur

Acclaimed youth sports franchise company recognized for its affordable startup/career opportunities in golf

(NEW YORK, NY) – TGA Premier Sports (TGA), the go-to brand for introducing children to sports and the nation’s most prolific provider of in-school- and community-based youth golf enrichment and camp programs, has been recognized as a Top Low-Cost Franchises by Entrepreneur. Ranked at No. 100, TGA is among those top franchises on Entrepreneur’s 2021 list that can be started for less than $50,000.

This esteemed compilation acknowledges franchise opportunities available for limited budgets, and the companies are positioned based on the scores they received in Entrepreneur’s 2022 Franchise 500 ranking -- a comprehensive analysis that looked at 150+ data points in the areas of costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. 

“Having TGA Premier Sports recognized by Entrepreneur is a testament to our franchise owners who work very hard every day to create a value proposition and infrastructure so kids and families can be introduced to lifetime sports like golf in a fun non-competitive environment,” said Adam Geisler, CEO of Youth Athletes United. “Our owners are passionate about what they do and work very hard to become part of the fabric in their communities building a career delivering introductory golf programming.”

TGA Premier Sports was recently acquired by Youth Athletes United, a 291-unit multi-brand youth sports franchisor behind Little Rookies Baseball,  Soccer Stars, Amazing Athletes, TGA Premier Sports, and JumpBunch. TGA Junior Golf, one of the sports platforms under TGA Premier Sports, has become one of the nation’s largest youth golf programs for kids (ages 6-14) reaching over 800,000 to date. It is also the only youth sports franchise company that specializes in golf.

One of the most unique aspects to TGA's model is how franchise owners become vested into the community. While an owner’s passion might be working in golf with kids, their success is predicated on engaging schools, families, and golf courses getting kids to sign up for the innovative introductory programs. 

TGA provides introductory golf enrichment programs at schools, as well as parks and rec centers. Once students go through the introductory programs, they move on through TGA’s Player Pathway to experience the game through local golf course partnerships (225+ nationwide) to bridge participants to more traditional recreational golf programs such as camps, parent/child events, clinics, and national programs like Drive, Chip, and Putt, Youth on Course, LPGA*USGA Girls Golf and PGA Junior League. Visit www.franchisetga.com.

‘The Golf Fix’ Back with 20 New Instructional Episodes

Host Devan Bonebrake Brings High Energy to Help Viewers Identify Swing Faults and Guides Them Through Fixes to Shave Extra Strokes 

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Elite instructor Devan Bonebrake kicked off his second year as host of golf’s most-watched instructional series, with the newest season of The Golf Fix streaming exclusively on NBC Sports Next’s GolfPass. 

The new season’s first three episodes are available on-demand to help viewers shake the off-season rust and prime their games for success. They are part of a 20-episode slate, with each weekly episode designed to help viewers overcome golf’s most common swing faults. As one of golf instruction’s rising stars, Bonebrake’s mission is to help increase golfer IQs, while delivering instruction in a thoughtful, high-energy and entertaining fashion.

“We had a blast in year one and found that the more creative we could get with the drills, swing analysis and graphics, the better we can deliver information to our viewers and the more engaged they become,” Bonebrake said. “The Golf Fix is all about ‘infotainment’ and we want to make sure we’re continually evolving and improving upon great ideas.” 

After nine years on GOLF Channel as television’s most-popular golf instruction show ever, The Golf Fix lost no ground when the series resumed after a four-year absence in 2021, featuring a new host and a new home. With Bonebrake at the helm, the series also became the most-watched instructional series on GolfPass. 

As one of golf’s burgeoning group of young instructors, Bonebrake has appeared on GOLF Channel more than 30 times and his instruction has regularly appeared in golf’s top publications. He has worked extensively with many of golf’s most-renowned coaches, including Mike Bender, Jim Flick, Jim Hardy and Hank Haney, but credits mentor Jim McLean for having the biggest influence on his teaching style and business acumen. While working with McLean, Bonebrake taught notable pros, such as Keegan Bradley, Lexi Thompson, Len Mattiace and Erik Compton. Currently, Bonebrake spends the majority of his time in Southern California, as Director of Instruction at Rolling Hills Country Club in the Los Angeles-area and owner of the Southern California Golf Academy in Carlsbad, where he has helped dozens of junior golfers earn scholarships at colleges and universities nationwide.

The Golf Fix was produced on location at Orange Lake Resort in Orlando, Fla., which features 54 holes of golf, including a championship Arnold Palmer-design, just minutes from world-famous Walt Disney World Resort. Orange Lake Golf also features The McCord-Brown Golf Academy, offering lessons and clinics. The outdoor location provides the opportunity for a variety of production enhancements, including the use of Toptracer on virtually every shot, as well as a variety of cutting-edge graphic illustrations.

A GolfPass membership is available at GolfPass.com.

New Home Announced for the Leadbetter Golf Academy World Headquarters

(ORLANDO, Fla.) — Golfzon Leadbetter and Reunion Resort and Golf Club are proud to announce a partnership that will establish Reunion Resort as the new home of the Leadbetter Golf Academy World Headquarters.

Situated on more than 2,300 pristine acres, Reunion Resort has been consistently recognized for providing a premier golf experience in Central Florida since 2005. It is the only resort in the world to feature three championship, signature golf courses designed by golfing legends Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson. And now, Reunion Resort is adding another golf name to its long heritage of legends, David Leadbetter.

David Leadbetter and the Leadbetter Golf Academy has been synonymous with world-class instruction for nearly 40 years, developing 26 Major winners and 7 World number 1 players, many of whom trained and perfected their skills at its Academy Headquarters in Central Florida. Since 2018, under the Golfzon Group, Golfzon Leadbetter has further expanded its operation to 36 academy locations in 15 countries and as well as developing new technology to make golf easier to learn.

“I have taught golf all over the world and there are few places as well suited for golfers to learn and play as the Reunion Resort and Golf Club. We share Kingwood International Resorts’ vision for offering the very best golf experience at Reunion. Reunion already has 3 great golf courses, now they’ll have a golf academy to match. I can’t wait to give the first lesson from the new facility.” says David Leadbetter.

Golfzon Leadbetter’s World Headquarters at Reunion will feature the latest golf technology for instruction and practice including lesson studios with launch monitors, 3D swing analysis, radar ball tracking on the range, club fitting, golf fitness and biomechanics. The facility will also feature a state-of- the-art Golfzon TwoVision simulator studio to host virtual golf tournaments. Leadbetter’s award winning team of instructors will offer instruction to all levels of player including US and international Tour players, elite juniors as well as a range of programs to help amateurs and beginners.

“Reunion Resort and Golf Club gives us the perfect location to expand the Golfzon Leadbetter business as well as offering golfers a unique facility to work on every aspect of their game, whatever their level of play.” Says Benedict Riches, CEO, Golfzon Leadbetter.

“Reunion Resort and Golf Club has always been globally respected for its excellence in championship golf. Nowhere else in the world can you play three signature golf courses designed by legends Palmer, Watson and Nicklaus. This new partnership is a natural fit, bringing yet another legend to our resort with the

Golfzon Leadbetter World Headquarters.” Says Anthony Carll, General Manager, Reunion Resort. “We are absolutely thrilled to be able to offer this experience this fall with such a respected legend in the golf community.”

For more information on Reunion Resort, visit www.reunionresort.com or call 833.258.0472. For more information on the Golfzon Leadbetter World Headquarters, visit www.leadbetter.com or call 407.787.3330.

More Than Six Dozen Top Instructors are Part of Newly Launched BirdieSpot Teaching Platform

(FARMINGDALE, NY) – More than six dozen of golf’s leading instructors have come together to create the most complete, diverse and affordable golf instruction website and app the industry has ever seen.

 BirdieSpot offers everything golfers need to transform their games.  BirdieSpot brings golf into people’s lives in a more convenient, accessible, and affordable way, while still maintaining a connection to live coaches.

Regardless of your skill level, from beginners to advanced players,  BirdieSpot has all of the tools you need to better your golf game. View video lessons from one of our 70+ award-winning coaches, ask a question during "Coach Office Hours," take a live virtual lesson with a coach, shop our golf store and travel to one of our golf experiences.

BirdieSpot is the brainchild of Kelley Brooke, Director of Golf at Bethpage Golf Course in Farmingdale, NY, and the 2018 LPGA Golf Professional of the Year. A protégé of Butch Harmon, Brooke felt the need for quality virtual instruction once COVID-19 took hold of the country a year ago. 

“During Covid we needed to pivot our ‘in-person’ golf program,” said Brooke. “The pros at Bethpage and I produced about 150 lectures, assignments, troubleshooting and homework videos and put them online. Then I recruited over 70 teaching professionals to join in. Many of them are award-winning instructors: Golf Digest Top 50, PGA Professionals of the Year, former Tour players, Solheim Cup captains. It’s an impressive list. Now we have nearly 500 free instructions videos on site.”

The BirdieSpot roster of coaches reflects the diversity which golf is constantly seeking. Whatever style works best for you as a learner, you’ll find it among the BirdieSpot coaches.

All aspects of golf are covered on the BirdieSpot site, including fitness. You have general workout videos, as well as workouts geared toward specific areas of your game. You can learn what to eat and how to stay properly hydrated. You can become a better putter, a deadly wedge player, a superb shot-maker, and add distance to your tee ball. There are videos to elevate your mental game and ones to assist in course management. The options are nearly endless.

While many elements of BirdieSpot are free of charge, a premium membership of $9.95 per month gives users 24/7 access to the site and everything it offers.

“This is truly one-stop shopping in regards to golf instruction,” said Brooke. “Beginners can find everything they need to eventually feel comfortable stepping onto a golf course. Mid- to high-handicappers have enough resources here to take strokes off their score. And advanced players can sharpen specific aspects of their games.”

Membership includes:

• Live classes with award-winning golf professionals

• Discounted private lessons

• On Demand classes

• Fitness Video Lessons

• Mental Game Videos

• Printable handouts

• Discounts on all Pro Shop purchases

BirdieSpot has the added benefit of developing new golfers, a constant goal of everyone involved in the industry.

“I would like for BirdieSpot to become the Peloton of golf, where we are bringing golf into people’s homes in a more affordable and efficient say,” said Brooke. “You don’t have to spend $150 an hour to learn golf. You can learn it on your own time and in the comfort of your own home, within your budget.”

Visit www.thegolfinstitute.com for more information.

GolfTrainingAids.com Announces Divot Board Training Aid Product of the Year

Top training aid seller relaunches this week at the PGA Merchandise Show – Booth 2081

(West Palm Beach, FL) – GolfTrainingAids.com, home of the world's largest selection of golf teaching and training aids, announces the Divot Board (DivotBoard.com) as its Product of the Year. The Divot Board will be showcased along with other top golf training tools at this week’s annual PGA Merchandise Show at Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.

New president John Diulus and the entire Golf Training Aids staff will be on hand at Booth 2081 to answer questions and introduce the category’s latest products to teaching professionals, suppliers, existing customers, and potential new customers.

“Despite the challenges of Covid, it’s still nice to get to see and greet people in person,” says Diulus. “We are looking forward to meeting with customers and suppliers, as well as identifying new products that we can help bring to market. Visitors will be able to meet our team and see and try several of our top-selling popular products – and learn first-hand about some of the great things we are working on for 2022.” 

The Divot Board, GolfTrainingAids.com Product of the Year, was selected for its innovative design, immediate visual feedback of a golfer’s impact position (if each swing was a ball-first strike or fat or thin, and if the club face was square, open or closed) and positive reviews from golfers. The product is also extremely durable and portable enough to easily hook onto a golf bag to take out to the range or golf course.

“The key to every great product is quality and marketability,” says Diulus. “The Divot Board is excellent on both fronts. We welcome attendees to stop by and try it. To earn our Product of the Year requires meeting a lot of variables, such as quality, functionality and design. But the most important factor is customer feedback and demand. Golfers love this product because of its high quality, effectiveness, and ease of use.”

Divot Board creator and CEO Bo Longo says he’s honored to have had the training aid named Product of the Year and is excited to partner with the Golf Training Aids team to continue to present the product to more avid golfers. “We are so appreciative to receive the first-ever golftrainingaids.com Product of the Year. Golftrainingaids.com is a great partner and instrumental to the Divot Board’s success.  We worked very closely with GTA on developing effective sales and marketing plans that helped make our product attractive to the golf community,” says Divot Board CEO Bo Longo.

Longo will be on hand at the Golf Training Aids booth, along with general manager Dane Wiren, marketing director and head of social media Emily Faulkner, and business development specialist Christian Cintron. GolfTrainingAids.com is also re-launching a product in 2022 that will be endorsed by former long drive champion Maurice Allen, who will be appearing at the booth.

For more information, visit GolfTrainingAids.com.

Dustin Johnson Golf School’s Allen Terrell Earns Another National Media Accolade

(MURRELLS INLET, S.C.) — Golf Digest has ranked Allen Terrell, the director of instruction at the Dustin Johnson Golf School, among “The Best Teachers In Your State, 2022-2023” extending his run of accolades.

Golf Digest ranked Terrell among golf-rich South Carolina’s best instructors, and he was the Myrtle Beach area’s highest rated teacher.

“There are as many great teachers in South Carolina as there is any state in America, so to be ranked among the Palmetto State’s best is a tremendous honor,” Terrell said. “Here at the Dustin Johnson Golf School, our goal is to create a plan to help each individual golfer - whether they are on the PGA Tour or a newcomer to the game - play to the best of their ability, and it’s rewarding to see that effort recognized by Golf Digest.”

Earlier this year, Terrell was named one of “GOLF’s Top 100 Teachers in America,” and he won the 2020 Palmer Maples Teacher of the Year Award, the Carolinas PGA section’s highest instructional honor.

Terrell, who helped Johnson develop from an under-recruited college player into the world’s best golfer, helps players at all levels of the game hone their skills. From the thriving kids program he launched at the Dustin Johnson Golf School to competitive juniors and professional golfers, Terrell’s approach to instruction has helped countless players improve their game.

Under his guidance, the Dustin Johnson Golf School has quickly emerged as one of the nation’s premier teaching facilities, highlighted by one of the fastest growing junior programs in the southeast.

Terrell has also been instrumental in the development of the Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship. In just six years, the 54-hole, college style event has grown into one of the world’s best junior tournaments, attracting one of the strongest fields in youth golf.  

For more information on Terrell, visit DustinJohnsonGolfSchool.com.

Course Management: Driver or 3-Wood?

(VIDEO) — Omni La Costa Resort and Spa’s Director of Instruction A.J. Avoli, a Golf Digest "Best Young Teacher," shares a course management tip from the tee box as Golf Life TV host Colton Little poses the question whether his 3-wood or driver be the better play on a long, dogleg-right par.

The video is an informative and fun short watch. Hope you enjoy viewing it and maybe picking up something you can use on the course in the future. Other videos A.J. has done with the Golf Life team include this excellent green side sand instruction tip.

Watch the video HERE.

Dustin Johnson Golf School Providing Free Lessons to First Responders on September 11

(MURRELLS INLET, S.C.) — The Dustin Johnson Golf School will be hosting “First Responders Day” on Saturday, September 11, providing free one-hour lessons to firefighters, law enforcement, EMS, paramedics and healthcare workers.

Allen Terrell, one of America’s Top 100 Teachers and the Director of Coaching at the Dustin Johnson Golf School, will provide the lessons. There are limited spots available and interested players should call 843-685-1519 to reserve a session.

“First responders are vital to the health and safety of our community and this is our way of saying, ‘Thank you,’” Terrell said. “I look forward to helping these heroes play better golf or in some cases introducing them to the game.”

Regarded as one of the game's top instructors, Terrell also was recently named the 2020 Carolinas PGA Teacher of the Year and has been regularly recognized by Golf Digest as Best in State.

Since opening the Dustin Johnson Golf School, Terrell has overseen the growth of the facility into one of the nation's premier teaching facilities that features one of the fastest-growing junior programs in the southeast.

Terrell has been instrumental in the development of the Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship - a top junior golf tournament in the world that boasts one of the strongest fields in the nation year-after-year.

In addition, Terrell has worked with numerous professionals, aspiring professionals, amateurs and juniors helping develop their games. Most recently, one of Terrell's students, U.S. Air Force Veteran Kyle Westmorland qualified and made the cut at the U.S. Open.

GOLF’s biennial list is selected by the Top 100 Teachers Credentials Committee and is the only national golf instructor search that combines outside academic and PGA peer review.

Candidates are screened against a set of criteria evaluating their teaching experience and accomplishments, student portfolio and peer ratings, along with their overall commitment to the growth of the game, both through volunteerism and their ability to use digital platforms.

For more information on Terrell, visit DustinJohnsonGolfSchool.com.

30 V1 Sports-Affiliated Instructors Honored on GOLF Magazine’s Top 100 Teachers List

(Novi, MI) — V1 Sports, developers of the leading video analysis, ground pressure, and stat tracking technologies for coaches and athletes congratulates nearly three dozen instructors who were recently named to GOLF Magazine’s list of Top 100 Teachers in America list for 2021 – 2022. In all, 30 distinguished instructors who use V1 Pro Studio software and V1 Pro mobile app were singled out on the prestigious list as the most innovative, committed, and accomplished teachers in the country. 

“We’re proud of the affiliations we have with the hard working teachers recognized on this prestigious list.” says V1 Sports CEO Bryan Finnerty. “It’s an honor that golf’s most influential instructors trust V1 Sports to power their lessons and help their students excel.”

The new list includes these V1 Sports users:

Cheryl Anderson, Mike Bender Golf Academy, Lake Mary, Fla.

Todd Anderson, Performance Center at TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra, Fla.

Mike Bender, Mike Bender Golf Academy, Lake Mary, Fla.

Mark Blackburn, Greystone Golf & Country Club, Hoover, Ala.

Michael Breed, CBS Sports, Golf Digest

Chris Como, Dallas National Golf Club, Dallas, Texas

Tim Cusick, PGA of America Faculty, PGa. Frisco, Frisco, Texas

Dana Dahlquist, El Dorado Park Golf Club, Long Beach, Calif.

Debbie Doniger, Glenarbor GC, Bedford Hills, New York

Krista Dunton, Berkeley Hall Club, Bluffton, SC

Scott Hamilton, Cartersville Country Club, Cartersville, Ga.

Claude Harmon III, Butch Harmon Floridian, Palm City, Fla.

Sean Hogan, Leadbetter Golf Academy World Headquarters, Omni ChampionsGate Resort, Orlando, Fla.

Michael Jacobs, Jacobs 3D Golf at Rock Hill Country Club, Manorville, New York

Jerry King, Gozzer Ranch Golf & Lake Club, Harrison, ID; Chileno Bay Club, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Kevin Kirk, The Woodlands Country Club, The Woodlands, The Woodlands, Texas

Cameron McCormick, Trinity Forest Golf Club, Dallas, Texas

Brian Mogg, Waldorf Astoria Golf Club, Orlando, Fla.

Scott Munroe, Nantucket Golf Club, Nantucket, Mass.; Boca Raton Resort & Club, Boca Raton, Fla.

Andrew Park, Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge, Winter Park, Fla.

Gale Peterson, Sea Island GC, St. Simons Island, Ga.

Dave Phillips, Titleist Performance Institute, Oceanside, Calif.

Carol Presinger, Kiawah Island Club, Johns Island, S.C.

Brady Riggs, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Michael Shannon, TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

James Sieckmann, Shadow Ridge Country Club, Omaha, Neb.

Todd Sones, White Deer Run Golf Club, Vernon Hills, Ill.

Drew Steckel, Southern Highlands Golf Club, Las Vegas, Nev.

Tina Tombs, The Arizona Biltmore Golf Club, Phoenix, Ariz.

Suzy Whaley, Country Club at Mirasol, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.

Todd Anderson, renowned PGA Professional at Performance Center at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, Fla. has made the list every year since 2003. “To be included on this prestigious list with so many talented teachers is a tremendous honor,” he says. “It’s been and always is a goal of mine to continue to improve and be included. Trying to find new and better ways to help my students improve drives me. The student is always the focal point for me and helping them achieve their goals is always the main objective. That’s why I’ve been using V1 Sports on a daily basis for more than 20 years, and it continues to help me communicate with my students and help them improve. Using graphics to compare a student’s new swing to an old swing, or being able to use a Tour Player as a model is such an amazing teaching tool. The V1 Pro software gives me the ability to store a student’s swing and it’s fun to look back to see how their swing has progressed over the years.”

Carol Preisinger, Director of Instruction at Kiawah Island Club in Johns Island, S.C., considers it an honor to be recognized on the list -- some 16 years after she first made it. She acknowledges that working at one of the world’s most beautiful places gives her the resources to succeed, but today’s technology like V1 Pro Studio software and V1 Pressure Mat accelerates the learning process. “A lot of the old folklore about the golf swing has been proven inefficient,” she says. “Video is always going to be used, it's always going to be relevant. People love to see what they're doing. The best thing about V1 Pro Studio software is being able to show a student a true learning model, to compare their before and after swings.”

With more than two decades of experience developing the best golf instruction technologies, V1 Sports has become the preferred video analysis, ground pressure, and stat tracking solution by the best instructors and golf academies in the world.

Golf instructors can sign up for a 30-day trial of V1 Pro Complete by going to https://v1sports.com/coaches/v1-pro/ or contacting sales@v1sports.com.

GOLF Names Allen Terrell One of America’s Top 100 Teachers

(MURRELLS INLET, S.C.) — Allen Terrell, Director of Instruction at the Dustin Johnson Golf School, has been named one of “GOLF’s Top 100 Teachers in America.”

Since its inception in 1991, GOLF’s Top 100 Teachers in America franchise has established itself as the industry standard for recognizing excellence in coaching, and Terrell, who has worked with Dustin Johnson for 16 years, is a natural addition to the list.

Terrell, who helped Johnson develop from an under-recruited college player into the world’s best golfer, helps students at all levels of the game hone their skills. From the thriving kids program he launched at the Dustin Johnson Golf School to competitive juniors and professional golfers, Terrell’s approach to instruction has helped countless players improve their game.

At the heart of his coaching philosophy is teaching players to own their swing. While he absolutely embraces the role of technology in instruction, Terrell’s approach isn’t a cookie-cutter one.

His goal is to educate players and help them become self-sufficient on the course, and Terrell’s students are graduating to bigger and better things.

“It’s an incredible honor to be ranked among America’s Top 100 Teachers by GOLF,” Terrell said. “Our goal at the Dustin Johnson Golf School is to create a plan to help each individual golfer maximize his or her potential and it’s humbling to see that work recognized by one of the game’s most respected voices.”

Terrell was one of just 12 teachers this year added to the illustrious club that recognizes golf's very best teachers.

Regarded as one of the game's top instructors, Terrell also was recently named the 2020 Carolinas PGA Teacher of the Year and has been regularly recognized by Golf Digest as Best in State.

Along with being the coach of Johnson - the winningest player on the PGA TOUR since 2008 - Terrell is the Director of Coaching at the Dustin Johnson Golf School in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Since opening the Dustin Johnson Golf School, Terrell has overseen the growth of the facility into one of the nation's premier teaching facilities that features one of the fastest-growing junior programs in the southeast.

Terrell has been instrumental in the development of the Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship - a top junior golf tournament in the world that boasts one of the strongest fields in the nation year-after-year.

In addition, Terrell has worked with numerous professionals, aspiring professionals, amateurs and juniors helping develop their games. Most recently, one of Terrell's students, U.S. Air Force Veteran Kyle Westmorland qualified and made the cut at the U.S. Open.

GOLF’s biennial list is selected by the Top 100 Teachers Credentials Committee and is the only national golf instructor search that combines outside academic and PGA peer review.

Candidates are screened against a set of criteria evaluating their teaching experience and accomplishments, student portfolio and peer ratings, along with their overall commitment to the growth of the game, both through volunteerism and their ability to use digital platforms.

For more information on Terrell, visit DustinJohnsonGolfSchool.com.

Top Instructor Sean Foley Joins MindTRAK Golf as Partner and Member of Company’s Board of Directors

(KELOWNA, BC, CANADA) – MindTRAK Golf Inc. (MindTRAK), the comprehensive Mindset Training System for golfers designed by former PGA Tour player Richard (Dick) Zokol, is pleased to announce Sean Foley, professional instructor to top players on the PGA and LPGA Tours, is now a partner in the company and has also become a member of MindTRAK’s Board of Directors.

Sean Foley

“Richard Zokol is incredibly accomplished in the game of golf, and his work with MindTRAK is about sharing proven methods with golfers. MindTRAK’s methodologies – to encourage athletes to perform ‘in the moment’ – align with studies that show the most successful executives, entrepreneurs and athletes aren’t outcome-driven; they are committed to their process. I’ve trusted the tenets of MindTRAK long before Richard and his team developed the platform, and I know this app and the process it instills will help all kinds of golfers play and score better,” Foley says.

Foley is coach to a host of professional golfers, including LPGA superstar Lydia Ko, two-time winner on the PGA TOUR, Cameron Champ, and is known for his work with 15-time major winner Tiger Woods and former world #1 Justin Rose. Twice featured on the cover of Golf Digest, Foley is widely regarded as having one of the brightest and most progressive minds in golf, and is recognized for his unique approach to instruction with a critical focus on philosophy and mental fitness.

“We are delighted to benefit from Sean’s passion and knowledge as he becomes a partner in MindTRAK Golf. Given Sean’s authenticity, conscientious nature, and his distinct perspective in coaching, we gratefully welcome Sean to the team,” says Zokol, CEO & Founder of MindTRAK. “We believe Sean brings a great deal to MindTRAK and will continue to do so as we accelerate our product development. The future in golf performance hinges on a mindset-driven perspective and we appreciate that Sean leads as a life coach as much as he is a golf coach to his players.” 

The MindTRAK Golf mobile app, is designed to be a unique coaching tool that helps coaches analyze their player’s performance in addition to allowing users to access and remain “in this moment” on every shot. Developed and tested in competition by Zokol, and a team of business, IT and golf experts, MindTRAK Golf ingrains techniques that strengthen attentional-focus to optimize performance on the golf course. Using the MindTRAK Golf mobile app during each round will help the golfer tune out negativity and play the game “freed up” to perform instinctively.

MindTRAK Golf is designed to replace golfers’ problematic “result-oriented” mindsets with a process that keeps them “in the now” as they play. “This mindset-driven process simplifies the game by measuring and reporting on two Key Performance Markers (‘KPMs’). One is the ability to assess the shot and the other is how well that shot is executed,” says Zokol. “There’s an inherent relationship with assessing and executing each golf shot in any given situation. You have to choose to make the result of your shot and score on each hole less relevant.”

Similarly, Foley embraces the simplicity and effectiveness of the MindTRAK app’s process. “Successful golfers do their work and have a process. MindTRAK supports the player’s ability to develop and trust that process. Regardless of the outcome, the most important part is being vulnerable and honest enough to embrace our mistakes and learn from them,” Foley says. “I’m excited to be a part of MindTRAK and to introduce it to all players looking to improve their game.”

Zokol and Foley share a history that almost goes back two decades. “Sean and I became friends back in 2003, when Sean was the National Coach of the Canadian Junior Golf Association and I was the CJGA’s National Spokesperson. We traveled abroad with dozens of junior players to places like St Andrews, Scotland, Hilton Head Island and South Africa representing Team Canada, coaching them to compete in international arenas, Sean had a huge impact on these kids, ” said Zokol, “I am excited we are connected again with MindTRAK Golf.”

While MindTRAK teaches players to focus on this golf shot at hand and not the resulting score, it also provides feedback on a player’s performance deficiencies and tendencies. MindTRAK is a distinct tool for golf coaches to actually see how well their students perform on the golf course with the three reports that are sent to the user and the user’s team after every round played.

Download the MindTRAK Golf mobile app for free from the iOS App Store and discover your personal golf freedom. For more information, visit www.MindTRAKGolf.com.

May is "Player Development Month" at Troon and Troon Brand-Affiliated Facilities

Coach Tim Mahoney giving a lesson

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) – Troon, the leader in club management, development, and marketing, is promoting May as “Player Development Month” at Troon and Troon brand-affiliated daily-fee golf courses, private clubs and Troon Golf Academies. Troon facilities and Troon Golf Academies throughout the world will be increasing golf instruction and lesson opportunities for all levels of players, hosting golf clinics, creating virtual/social instructional content, and encouraging golfers to participate in a unique Player Development Month Putting Challenge. 2021 marks the ninth year that Troon has celebrated May as Player Development Month.

The goal of Player Development Month is to help current golfers play better golf while also introducing the sport to new golfers. Golf clinics vary by facility and range from free to $50 for adults, and free for juniors 17 years of age and younger. Troon’s Global Player Development Director Tim Mahoney will be conducting live golf clinics on Troon social channels on May 3, 10, 17 and 24 at 5 p.m. EST, with instructors from other Troon facilities broadcasting Player Development Month virtual clinics throughout the month.  Instructional videos as well as a complete list of May Player Development golf clinics and activities are available at www.troon.com/player-development.

In addition to lessons, clinics and instructional videos, Troon is also introducing Troon Coach, powered by ThrivSports. Troon Coach is a full-service online platform where golfers can find local golf coaches, trainers and instructional events; book and pay for lessons; and track and analyze practice sessions. Golfers can learn more at https://platform.thrivsports.com/troon-coach.

As part of Troon Player Development Month and in an effort to encourage more putting practice, the Troon Putting Challenge will give participants the opportunity to match their putting skills against Team Troon Member and PGA TOUR professional, Alex Noren and Troon’s Tim Mahoney. The Troon Putting Challenge includes 10 total putts (three 3-foot putts, two 6-foot putts, two 10-foot putts, two 15-foot putts and one 30-foot putt) and is scored 10 points for a hole out, 5 points within 3-foot circle and 1 point within 6-foot circle. Those who beat Alex Noren and/or Tim Mahoney’s total Putting Challenge score and tag @Troon on social, will be entered to win one of three Troon National Foursome Cards (valued at $999 each). Winners will be selected at random. In addition, the participant who completes the Challenge (while tagging @Troon) with the highest amount of putting points throughout the month of May will receive a $250 gift card from Callaway.

“Since 2011, we‘ve had the pleasure of introducing thousands of new golfers to this wonderful game while also improving the swings of existing golfers through fun, affordable and educational clinics at Troon facilities,” said Troon President and CEO Tim Schantz. “Player Development Month is an example of what happens throughout the year and is a testament to our wonderful associates and instructors for going the extra mile to grow the sport.”

For more information on Troon Player Development Month and a full list of clinics, visit www.troon.com/player-development.

For additional news and information, visit www.Troon.com.

FlightScope Launches Online Learning Platform Offering MSR Credits to PGA Members

Helps Instructors, Fitters and Amateur FlightScope Owners Optimize Data

(ORLANDO, FL) – FlightScope – the pioneer and global leader in tracking and analyzing sports performance data – launched FlightScope Learning, an online education platform designed to help amateur and experienced users increase their understanding of how FlightScope technology can accelerate progress while at home, or during lessons and club-fitting sessions with clients.

The easy to navigate forum helps FlightScope users understand the specs and science behind peak performance. Tailored educational curriculum covers a number of topics, including the fundamentals of FlightScope products and how the radars operate, software navigation, and how to teach, fit and generate revenue using FlightScope. Those interested in learning more about certification, visit www.flightscopelearning.com.

“FlightScope Learning gives us a space to continuously educate our customers about product technologies, features and teaching techniques,” says Henri Johnson, FlightScope founder and CEO. “Through this avenue of constant education, FlightScope users now have easily accessible tools to create an efficient and streamlined environment for every instruction or fitting session.”

In addition to an official FlightScope Professional certification, PGA of America members who complete the program will earn three Member Service Requirement (MSR) credits as part of the PGA's Member Education Program. Completing the course will also earn professionals three Career Path Education credits. The platform features nine modules, 35 chapters, instruction videos, podcasts, and a 50-question exam.

FlightScope Professional certification is an industry recognized certificate that creates confidence with customers that the teacher understands the data and knows how to use it. Upon completion of the FlightScope Certification Course, users also receive access to logos, templates, and files that you can use to advertise that you are a Certified FlightScope Professional.

FlightScope is the industry leader and pioneer in tracking and analyzing sports performance data. Its products and tournament services represent the pinnacle of tracking technology, enabling players and coaches to measure and analyze every aspect of performance with unmatched accuracy.

With accurate, performance-driven technology, FlightScope transforms the way golf is analyzed and how players improve. The company’s renowned products are trusted by a large and growing number of TOUR players and top teachers, including teachers like George Gankas and Mike Schy, and professionals like Bryson DeChambeau, Bubba Watson, Pat Perez, Charl Schwartzel, and more.

For more information, visit www.flightscope.com.

More Than Six Dozen Top Instructors are Part of Newly Launched Golf Institute

(FARMINGDALE, N.Y.) – More than six dozen of golf’s leading teachers have united to create the most complete, diverse and affordable golf instruction website and app the industry has ever seen.

The Golf Institute offers everything from quick tips, to a schedule of live classes, to on demand one-on-one lessons from golf instructors across the country. Some of the tips are free of charge. Other elements of The Golf Institute are pay as you go. Golfers can also subscribe for $19.95 monthly and take advantage of the hundreds of learning opportunities provided.

The Golf Institute is the brainchild of Kelley Brooke, Director of Golf at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, NY, and the 2018 LPGA Golf Professional of the Year. A protégé of Butch Harmon, Brooke felt the need for quality virtual instruction once COVID-19 took hold of the country a year ago.

“During Covid we needed to pivot our ‘in-person’ golf program,” said Brooke. “The pros at Bethpage and I produced about 150 lectures, assignments, troubleshooting and homework videos and put them online. Then I recruited over 70 teaching professionals to join in. Many of them are award-winning instructors: Golf Digest Top 50, PGA Professionals of the Year, former Tour players, Solheim Cup captains. It’s an impressive list. Now we have over 240 free instruction videos on site.”

All aspects of golf are covered on the Golf Institute site, including fitness. There are general workout videos, as well as workouts geared toward specific areas of your game. You can learn what to eat and how to stay properly hydrated. You can become a better putter, a deadly wedge player, a superb shot-maker and add distance to your tee ball. There are videos to elevate your mental game and ones to assist in course management. The options are nearly endless.

“This is truly one-stop shopping in regards to golf instruction,” said Brooke. “Beginners can find everything they need to eventually feel comfortable stepping onto a golf course. Mid- to high-handicappers have enough resources here to take strokes off their score. And advanced players can sharpen specific aspects of their games.”

The Premium Membership package, which runs $19.95 monthly, includes:

- Live classes with award-winning golf professionals

- Discounted private lessons

- On Demand classes

- Enrollment into the One Line Golf Academy

- Fitness Video Lessons

- Mental Game Videos

- Printable handouts

- Discounts on all Pro Shop purchases

The Golf Institute has the added benefit of developing new golfers, a constant goal of everyone involved in the industry.

“I would like for TGI to become the Peloton of golf, where we are bringing golf into people’s homes in a more affordable and efficient way,” said Brooke. “You don’t have to spend $150 an hour to learn golf. You can learn it on your own time and in the comfort of your own home, within your budget.”

Visit www.thegolfinstitute.com for more information.