By Andrew Agnoli, Topgolf’s Head of Academy
As Head of the Academy at Topgolf, it’s my job to show fans of Topgolf that golf really can be ‘Everyone’s Game’, and that playing ‘proper golf’ on a course isn’t just for the select few. Here are some of the ways we’re doing that in 2019.
We’re widening the appeal of golf
This summer we’ve seen a record number of juniors take part in Junior Camps, our fun way for kids of all ages to get involved with golf in the school holidays. These new golfers will be key to the future of golf and will quite often introduce their parents to the game too.
We’re also working with the PGA to offer novice female golfers an informal taster session through their We Love Golf campaign. On 17th September, we have spots for 100 women and girls to start learning the basics of the game in a relaxed group environment. Golf has famously been seen as very anti-female in the past, and we want to do everything in our power to help change that image.
We’re innovating to get people to the course
Attendees of this taster session will be among the first to be offered the chance to learn more through our new ‘Bays to Fairways’ programme. When it launches, the programme will teach key golf (and Topgolf) skills in a series of fun, game-based sessions, with the ultimate goal to get participants comfortable with playing on a course. Look out for much more on this soon.
Our pros are developing young talent – and it’s working
Chigwell Head Professional Richard Smith coaches a number of talented young golfers, including Topgolf success story Lily May Humphreys. After an incredible 2019 to date, next month will see Lily taking part in the Junior Solheim Cup. Richard has had further international success with 13-year-old Sam Epstein who was recently selected to represent Europe.
To help build this level of accomplishment at Topgolf, these elite golfers have had access to not only the best coaching, but the best equipment too. The Academy at each Topgolf venue features ball flight monitors, pressure mats and video analysis as part of the standard lesson offering.
Our pros are getting recognition
Two Topgolf Head Professionals have recently been recognised by The PGA for their service to the golf industry. Jamie Savory of Topgolf Surrey has been awarded Advanced PGA Professional status, and David Meaney Fellow PGA Professional status. As well as the hard work and dedication of the individuals involved, these accolades have been presented as a result of our innovative approach to growing the game.
This year continues to see improvements for all in the Topgolf Academy — we’ve never had more enquiries for lessons, but our aspirations don’t stop there. Our Professionals continue to show commitment to grow the game and make it fun for every guest. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings.
Interested in joining the Academy team? Find out more. https://topgolf.com/uk/company/pga-pro-recruitment/
Topgolf UK https://www.topgolf.com/uk/
Andrew Agnoli
When PGA Pro and sports nutrition expert Andrew Agnoli isn’t coaching golf students and devising dietary plans for clients, you can find him walking his two dogs in the Suffolk Countryside and keeping tabs on football transfer rumours.