MY TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
According to the CPGA, handicaps of recreational golfers have remained unchanged in the last 25 years. One of my goals as a CPGA instructor is not only helping change that statistic but, most importantly, make the overall process fun.
Equipment is so high-tech now; golf clubs practically swing themselves. Witness the new Cobra, Titleist, Callaway, Taylor Made drivers with adjustable weights. Quality golf instruction is booming, with computer analysis and a golf school around every corner. Plus, we have the Golf Channel, a superabundance of gadgets and gizmos, and an endless stream of books and videos by Touring and Teaching Pros.
What an amazing testimonial to the mystery and appeal of golf. In spite of evidence to the contrary, we continue to immerse ourselves in the hope of beating this marvelous and crazy game. So it stands to reason there must be something more to getting the ball around the golf course than fancy equipment and perfect swings. Having taught and played competitively, I can say without a doubt that there are a variety of common sense things we can do to boost our efforts to play a more satisfying game. Since I want everyone to have a great time while they are on the golf course, I've made it a personal quest to show people how to raise their level of play and have fun in spite of their lack of time, or physical (and fiscal) limitations.
Here's the crucial part. Whatever your goals are; to be more consistent, break 80, or just have fun, you still have to do something in order to reach those goals. You can't just snap your fingers and be there. That could mean a change of some kind, a notion that automatically gives us sweaty palms and cold feet. So I have devised a formula to help combat the natural tendencies we experience when faced with change. It goes like this: vision + passion + action = your goal.
Let me explain. In order to get what you want you must first have a clear vision for what it is that you want. Second, you must fuel that desire with excitement, passion, energy, and enthusiasm. Third, you must take action and preoccupy yourself by physically and mentally remaining focused on what it is that you want. The vision, passion, and action are the lifeblood - and life force - and life preserver that carry you along to your goal.
I coach with passion and integrity, and love the challenge of the frustrated golfer who comes to me on the brink of quitting the game. On the other hand, the beginner golfer is one of my favorite lessons to give. Helping a new golfer learn the proper grip the first time makes me understand the simplicity of the game yet, so diverse. I thrive on giving each and everyone of my students an experience that will help them achieve their own individual goals and learn to love the game as much as I do.
Justin Tomasulo
PGA of Canada
Head Teaching Professional |
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