Becoming a Pro

Question
Eddie,

I am 20 years old and a 5 handicap.  I was wondering what the process is of working with one of the top PGA Teaching Instructors in the United States.  Are you able to work with them constantly to try and become a pro golfer?  I have always worked hard in whatever I do.  Also what steps are needed to bring down your handicap before trying to contact one of these top teaching professionals?  I am attending a golf academy in Florida in May to try and bring down my handicap through that as well as well as working with my PGA Pro at home.

If there is any information that you could provide I would appreciate it.

Thanks,
Matt

Answer
Hi Matt:

The only process is $$$.  If you have the money, they'll work with you.  If you're talking about one of the top 10 instructors in the world today, you probably cannot afford it and most likely would not be given the time that you are requesting.  They have Tour players and corporate events and sponsors to stick by, not amateurs who want to give it a shot to get better. If you can get a lesson or series of lessons with them, it will be extremely expensive and quite frankly, won't be worth the investment.  However, there are lots of great teachers out there who would love to have a serious, goal oriented player who has a dream.  I know I would. The first step is to go to your academy in Florida like you plan to.  They would be able to help you with this question as well.  Plus, you'll get a good read yourself on the instructors there.  I would make sure the instructor is a PGA Professional, not just a guy or gal who is employed by a golf school and works their $9 per hour job.  If you're serious, you better be serious about who you employ to train and teach you.  Ask around, do some research on the internet, go into chat rooms and forums, look them up and see what you see, poke around and see what others say.  I bet you'll uncover some amazing bits of info.  Working with your PGA Pro at home is always a great way to go, but does he or she have experience helping Tour players or have they groomed top junior players into Champions?  Do they have the experience to take you to that level?  If not, then seek out someone who has done that.  It's not disrespectful, only seeking the help you will require to get you where you want to go.  Most golf pros have no business teaching in the first place....they only work at a club and give the odd lesson so they can beer money.  Sorry to sound so negative, but it's true.  So good luck in your search, let me know if I can answer questions for you as you move along the trail to success.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member