Coaching notes
Your first golf lesson.
You don’t need a good swing to book a lesson. Bring the game you have, and an idea of what you’d like to do better.
Start with a shot
“I want to be more consistent” is a fair starting point. A specific example makes that easier to talk about: an iron that sometimes comes off the heel, a drive that curves away, or a chip that runs too far.
Before your lesson, think about three things:
- Which shot costs you the most trouble?
- What does a good version of that shot look like for you?
- Does the problem happen on the range, on the course, or both?
If you’ve never played, say so. Your first goal might simply be making contact and getting the ball in the air. John coaches beginners as well as experienced players. Beginner lessons
Describe what happens
You don’t need to diagnose your swing. Tell John what you see and feel. Does the ball start left or right of your target? Does it curve after that? Is the contact solid, thin or heavy?
These observations are more useful than arriving with a list of positions you think you should copy. John’s focus is on the strike, the clubface at impact and the shots you want to hit, working with your natural swing.
If you’re not sure how to describe the flight, this guide to watching the ball is a useful place to start.
Get the basics sorted
Call or text John to arrange a time. Tell him if you’re new, left-handed or don’t have clubs yet. Bring your clubs if you have them, water and a hat.
Wear neat, clean clothes and running shoes or golf shoes with soft spikes. The club’s dress rules apply on the range. What to wear and where to meet
Lessons are on the undercover range at Thurgoona Country Club Resort, 1 Evesham Place, Thurgoona, in Albury. You don’t need to be a member. John uses V1 Pro video analysis with your consent, so you can see your swing played back during the lesson.
Ask what to take away
Useful questions before you leave:
- What is the main thing I should work on?
- What should a better strike or ball flight look like?
- How should I practise this between lessons?
Make a brief note in your own words. At your next practice, compare the result with the shot you wanted. That gives you something concrete to discuss with John next time.
Book with John
Private golf lessons at Thurgoona are $100 an hour, or $80 an hour for juniors under 16. Lessons start at an hour; longer lessons are charged by the hour.
Call or text John on 0417 682 008 and tell him what you’d like help with.