About
Our goal is to help a lot of the local families, especially kids learn how to play this wonderful game. I truly enjoy watching kids take hold of the their first swing and develop that into tournament play. By providing all aspects of learning including after-school programs, driving range instructions, on course lessons, and tournament play, Island Pacific Golf Academy can provide students of all levels an avenue to learn. We teach kids of all ages from 3-100+.
Oliver Oliquiano, PGA Apprentice, founder of the Academy and Hawaii resident since 1999 has been an avid golfer his whole life and contributed a lot of his success both personally and professionally to the game. Recognized as 2011-2014 U.S. Kids Golf Top 50 Kids Teacher Honorable Mention Oliver claims, "There are many valuable lessons to be taught through this game. Some of those lessons include: integrity, respect, and hard work. Our plans for the academy are to help the children of our community grow not just with the game, but within themselves."
Oliver is also the head coach for Kamehameha School Intermediate Golf Team and the Local Tour Director for the U.S. Kids Golf Tour here in Hawaii. He is a Certified Interscholastic Coach by NFHS and Captains two teams for both Kapolei Golf Club and Hoakalei Country Club.
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Owns golf clubs
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Steven M.
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Gary H.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I usually get to know my student first. I find out what their experience level is first and if they have any physical limitations. If he or she has never swung a club before I start with the basic fundamentals (aim, posture, ball position, grip etc.). If they have some experience I check all the aforementioned and make any necessary adjustments. After the first lesson we agree on a plan that would get them to reach his or her goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a US Kids Golf Certified instructor and one of the Top 50 US Kids Golf Instructors (Honorable Mention). I'm also a PGA Apprentice and currently in the PGA PGM program.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I do have a standard pricing system for my students with discounts on multiple lessons and especially for juniors. I do my best to make lessons affordable for juniors as they are the future of golf and I want to give them the best chance of success both on and off the course.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching through my after school enrichment programs that I developed for my company which led to me bringing more kids out to the courses. Since then I've helped develop the US Kids Golf Tour here in Hawaii which allows kids to compete amongst their peers in a family oriented experience. I became the head coach for Kamehameha Schools intermediate team several years ago and since then enjoyed coaching.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with students of all ages (from 3 to 73). I do have a few children with ADHD and autism that I pay special and close attention to. I'm usually willing to teach anyone so long as they are able to take and absorb the lesson material.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Recently I've been captain for two PGA Junior League teams (Hoakalei and Kapolei). These events give kids the opportunity to play in a team environment. In 2016 both my teams made it to second place in their respective divisions (Hoakalei is a private CC league while Kapolei is public). I look forward every summer to helping both these teams excel. The events are fun and family oriented which is one of the reasons why I'm tremendously fond of.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for an instructor that best suits your personality. If you feel that you need a teacher that is a little more stern and discipline then ask to make sure he or she know this. Lessons are taught differently by different people. Students also learn best in their own way; some learn by visual, some are auditory, some are kinesthetic. It's important that the instructor identifies which method best suits your learning habits.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Am I willing to put in the time to practice what I learn from my lessons? Golf is one of the most difficult sports to learn and requires a lot of practice to see improvements. It's important that aside from coming to the lesson that you take the time to practice. This will help in developing your swing.