How to Select a Golf School

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How to Select a Golf School
By Mel Sole

Top-notch instruction should be within the reach of every golfer. Here are
eight considerations when evaluating and choosing a golf school.

1. Reputation

First, start with reputation and a recognized name. Golf schools come and go,
but ones that have operated continually for many years obviously provide
quality instruction. Even better are the schools that are consistently ranked
as top schools by national publications.

2. Instructors

Next, you should look at the teachers doing the instructing at each facility. Have
they logged many years of teaching experience with all levels of golfers? Are they
PGA or LPGA? Have they completed a special training or accreditation program
with a reputable golf school?

3. Teaching Philosophy

Teaching philosophy is also important. You should ask if a specific method
of instruction is stressed that requires the golfer to reconstruct his/her
swing to learn that particular method. Or, does the school assess each
individual's unique capabilities and then work to build on the strengths
of the existing swing through sound fundamentals?

4. School Facility

Another issue to consider is the physical facility supporting the golf academy.
Is there a private learning area on the practice range for golf school students
only? Is there a school putting green, bunker and chipping area? Do they have a
classroom with video system?

5. Class Size

Class size matters greatly. It indicates the level of personal attention. Each
class should contain no more than a handful of students, and it is very helpful
if that class works with one instructor throughout the full program. This promotes
continuity and rapport that can be lost when one moves on to a different aspect of
the game where he/she meets a different teacher and often new students from other classes.

6. Program Variety

Make sure that the academy offers a variety of programs, such as half-day and
multiple-day options. Is there family-friendly instruction available in summer,
such as a parent/child program? Are all ages and levels of golfers, from beginner
to advanced, welcome?

7. Technology

Next, what technology does the academy employ? Computerized video analysis with
split-screen imaging for swing comparisons, as well as other features, is important
for the student to see and understand the improvement process.

A personal take-home CD containing the instructor's voice-over and prescribed
drills for long and short game is a great tool provided by some schools for
continued practice and improvement later.

8. On-Site Golf

Is there access for students to an on-site golf course? Experienced golfers will
want to go and play after school some days, and a special guest fee should be
afforded to them when they wish to play. Beginner golfers will have their hands
full with the instruction and won't be ready to play a round yet, so it's fair
to feature a school tuition rate without rounds of golf for them.

Mel Sole is the director of instruction and owner of the Phil Ritson-Mel Sole
Golf Schools. He is a veteran of the South African PGA Tour and has 40 years
of international teaching experience.
Visit Phil Ritson-Mel Sole Golf Schools

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