Matt Kilgariff is the PGA of America Director of Player Development at The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe in Rancho Santa Fe, California.
Matt Kilgariff on the importance of being open to a “garage door-like” setup for your simulator:
Five years ago, we opened our Performance Center, which features a full teaching room equipped with Swing Catalyst force plates and 2D cameras. The adjacent room also houses a FullSwing simulator that can roll up like a garage door, allowing us to transition seamlessly from indoors to outdoors. This innovative design not only enhances the clubfitting experience for members but also facilitates effective teaching. Initially, members use the simulator screen to gather data and track numbers. Once the necessary adjustments are made, the door is opened, allowing members to observe their true ball flight outdoors with the customized club fit for them. The real-time feedback on clubface and path in the simulator is invaluable for students.
Matt Kilgariff on the business impact of being open to a “garage-door-like” setup for your simulator:
This quick understanding leads to faster swing changes, and with the door rolled up, they can immediately see the impact on their ball flight. The setup has proven to be a fantastic addition to the facility, greatly benefiting members. Our Practice Facility and the distinctiveness of our Performance Center are major recruiting tools, not only for attracting a world-class teaching staff but also for increasing membership sales. The vision behind the Performance Center was to blend player development during the day with entertainment at night. For those seeking a fun experience, the facility features a full bar allowing for social gatherings, corporate events, and member parties. At night, we can host closest-to-the-pin and long-drive competitions complete with live leaderboards, providing another avenue for member entertainment. The center is equipped with five TVs for watching games and more. Since its inception, the yearly revenue generated from player development has skyrocketed from $70,000 to $300,000 over just five years. As the saying goes, if you build it, they will come.
If you would like to email the author of this Best Practice directly, please email mkilgariff@thebridgesrsf.com.
