Judy Alvarez, the 2011 South Florida PGA Section Player Development Award winner, a Golf Digest Top 50 Instructor and GRAA Top 50 Growth of the Game Teaching Professional, is a PGA/LPGA Master golf instructor at Palm Cove Golf and Yacht Club in Palm City, Florida.
Judy Alvarez on the importance of running programs based on having fun:
Just this year I created a program titled: “FUNstruction” which focuses on smaller groups getting better together and having a great time. Twice per-week I offer the program from 9:00-12noon and then 1:00-4:00 pm as we focus on everything needed to create better golfers all while enjoying each other’s company and sharing some laughs. Throughout the program (which has been running since January 2016) we hone in on how the management of “playing smarter and better” vs. technical aspects of the swing along with the correct club selection – especially around the green, along with aiming better and understanding roll time vs. air time, a “healthier” posture, and “secure” grip. Both short-game and full swing are covered. This program is range focused and one hole on course. Offered were discounts for the students to play golf at their convenience. A significant amount of golfers across the board are intimidated by private sessions and this avenue allows them to register with family, friends or come individually and meet new golfers all while receiving an environment much like a private session.
Judy Alvarez on the business impact of running programs based on having fun:
Each program we cap at four students and have been sold out since inception. I run the program twice per-week for a total of eight times per-month. I charge each student $79 per-class which provides them with three-hours of FUNstruction and generates an additional $2,528.00 per month. Once a student registers for the program we provide them with a 10 percent off coupon to spend on food & beverage and a round of golf. Sixty-five percent have used the 10 percent coupons. Additionally, a 30 percent coupon for any private session registered with me post FUNstruction. This program has been a huge success and money-maker as word of mouth has really helped drive the program throughout our local community. Currently, we’re capturing about a 50-50 breakdown between men and women as 80 percent of business has been repeat customers all improving through a fun learning environment.
If you would like to email the author of this Best Practice directly, please email judyalvarezgolf@gmail.com
