About
Not all instruction is the same! You need to find an instructor who knows how to teach. This may sound trite, but it is what separates wasting money and becoming a better golfer.
My almost 30 year background in teaching stems from my education in Neuroscience/Physiology and Human Anatomy. I have taught at some of the most prestigious properties in golf. Whether it was my almost 20 years at Torrey Pines or my stint at PGA West, I have had great opportunities to learn and hone my craft.
When I teach the game of golf, I DO NOT teach on opinion! I teach on scientific facts. I not only tell my student's what to do, I tell them how and why. If you want to challenge your current instructor, just ask him the most brutal question of all: Why? If your instructor cannot answer the "why" with a concise and easily understood response - I would find one who can immediately.
I also specialize in how the body is designed to move. This knowledge is key to understanding how to prevent injuries from improper movements. Are you aware that over 80% of PGA Tour players will miss playing time because of preventable injuries? Just ask Tiger Woods.
I would love to meet you and expound about my teaching prowess with each and every one of you.
I absolutely love meeting new people from diverse backgrounds and abilities. I truly believe I learn from my students with every single lesson I teach. It not only helps me become a better instructor, but it feeds my voracious appetite for continual learning.
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Vicki K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I will always begin my teaching process by interviewing the student first. Often times they do not know they are being interviewed because I try to make it very conversational casual. I will find their athletic and injury backgrounds before having them hit any balls. If the person is an absolute beginner, we will have quite a bit of conversation before swinging the club.
I will typically use video during the warm up phase for accomplished players so I have a "before" swing, versus an "after" swing. Using video really helps the student see what they are actually doing, but my most successful teaching method includes teaching the students how to video themselves. I teach them how and where to set the camera, and most importantly, what to look for and what to ignore.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I studied Neuroscience/Physiology at UCSD in La Jolla, CA. While a senior at UCSD, I began working at Torrey Pines to help pay for my education. After being revealed to the lifestyle of a working golf professional, I decided to forego medical school and now it has been almost 30 years in the business.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
At this time, my standard pricing is $100/hr for private lessons and I am working on Academy pricing, as well as yearly programs.
How did you get started teaching?
After beginning my career at Torrey Pines, I noticed there was not a lot of scientific background to the current teaching techniques. It seemed most all instructors were teaching on pure opinion on what the current "perfect tour swing" was at the time. The teaching I was observing fell well short of being effective at obtaining measureable results.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all ages and abilities up to PGA Tour level.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
The most proud moments I receive are hearing the feedback from my students and how they are ENJOYING the game more than ever. I have students come in and tell me they had their first hole in one, shot their lowest round ever, and even had their first "pain free" round in years. I have had numerous experiences with these exact examples in the last year.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The first advice I would offer students is to do your research!!! Find out what your potential instructor knows, where they have gained their knowledge, and how are they continuing to educate themself. Something as simple as speaking to the golf shop staff on the phone and asking their opinions of the instructor. If the shop staff does not seem animated in their response, it probably means they don't believe in the instructor too much. If they give an animated and excited response, you are on the right path.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students need to have a basic knowledge of their personal goals. For example, if you are a Junior student are your main goals to become a competetive collegiate player, or are you looking to beat your buddies? If you are a beginner, it is usually harder to establish realistic goals, so you may need to include an instructor to help set goals.