About
Jim has been teaching/coaching golf for the past 28 years. His background in golf has been quite unique. He grew up with and learned how to play the game from Jack Nicklaus. This environment lead to many opportunities to also get to know and learn from many of Jack's circle of friends and collegues, like: Jack Grout, Phil Rogers, Gary Player, Gardner Dickenson, just to name a few.
Jim played collegiate golf at UNC-Chapel Hill and then played professionally for a couple of years. When his path changed from player to coach/instructor, he was equally as fortunate to learn from and be mentored by several of the game’s most recognized instructors, including: Jim Flick, Bob Toski, Rick Smith, Mike Malaska, and Martin Hall.
Jim moved to Naples in 1998 to spearhead the Rick Smith Golf Academy @ Tiburon, where he was the Director of Instruction for 10 years. 'Golf Magazine' voted the Academy as one of the ‘Top 25 Golf Schools in America’ for 10 consecutive years.
Jim has been ranked as one of the top golf instructors in Florida multiple times.
Jim is currently the Director of Instruction at Pelican’s Nest GC, (Bonita Springs, Fl).
To learn more about Jim and his background, feel free to visit his website: www.sowerwinegolf.com.
I enjoy everything about teaching/coaching. I also feel it's important to pass along the experience, information and knowledge that I have been so fortunate to have learned.
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Bob H.
Bob H.
Richard K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I first like to learn a bit about the student’s background, golfing history, physical limitations or injuries they deal with, what they are looking for, goals, aspirations, etc.… And then, collectively, develop a plan accordingly.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been teaching/coaching for 29 years. I've been a lead instructor at two of the top rated golf schools in the country (Rick Smith Golf Academy and the Nicklaus-Flick Golf Schools) as well as several years of teaching/coaching at private country clubs and resorts. Please feel free to visit my website (www.sowerwinegolf.com) to learn about my background.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all levels of players: recreational players (all levels), players with disabilities and tour players. Several years ago (15+ years ago) when I was willing to travel a bit more, I worked with (coached) several Tour Players from every tour (PGA Tour, Champions Tour, LPGA Tour, and the Nationwide Tour, as it was named back then).
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I get as much enjoyment helping someone break 90 for the first time as I do helping a scratch player break 70 for the first time. I've also coached countless players (men and women) win their Club Championships throughout the years.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The main advice I would suggest is to look for someone who has at least 10+ years of experience.