Gary D. Parsons, a U.S. Kids Golf Certified Instructor, Certified PGA Teaching & Coaching, and PGA Head Professional at Cap Rock – Horseshoe Bay Resort in Horseshoe Bay, Texas.
Gary D. Parsons on the importance of continuing your education:
Henry Ford’s wise words “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young” applies to all parts of our life, including golf instruction. As a PGA member, we have access to incredible resources and opportunities to expand our knowledge in teaching and coaching. Personally, I used the PGA Teaching Manual to jump start my learning. Eventually, I started attending teaching workshops hosted by section and national teachers of the year. When attending the PGA shows in January and August, do your best to attend all the educational opportunities you can. Seek out certification opportunities to add credibility to your personal brand! Take time to read about, experience and discuss what the top teachers are doing. Approach each opportunity with an open mind and a willingness to incorporate different ideas and techniques with the goal of finding the best results for your students. Oftentimes we allow our egos to get in the way of helping our students. It’s all about continuous learning, personal growth and becoming the most knowledgeable professional you can be. Both for your future and the future of golf.
Gary D. Parsons on the business impact of continuing your education:
It should be apparent that the longer you teach and the more experience you have, the more you and your facility will benefit financially. My individual lesson fees have increased 90% over the last ten years as a result of continuing education and additional certifications. Once you receive certification from other programs, make sure you utilize all the resources available to you through the programs. Look for programs offering marketing support, a strong business model – and continuing education. Never stop learning.
