View source for Coombs, Kevin - Implementing Physical Fitness in PGA JLG Practice

'''Property:''' Orchard Hills CC

'''Location:''' Washougal, WA

'''Program Contact:''' Kevin Coombs

'''Contact Phone/Email:''' (360) 835-5444

'''Name of PD Program:''' Implementing Physical Fitness in PGA JLG Practice

'''Type of PD Program:''' Junior Golf Program

===Details of Program=== 
I have always embraced PGA branded programs to help promote the game and bring players and revenues to my facilities. And the PGA understands the importance of promoting golf as part of a healthy lifestyle in order to overcome many of the objections to the game. 

As Head Golf Professional at Orchard Hills Golf and Country Club, my role includes significant instructional time. And I know that my instructional niche is helping people have fun playing golf. Part of having fun is making the game physically easier on the body. Part of making the game easier on the body is to use and improve the golf muscles in activities and movement that are golf-like, but not the golf swing. 

To prepare for junior golf and the Fall PGA Junior League, I completed the PGA.Coach program focused on youth development, which inspired me to implement fitness activities with junior golfers. I began implementing physical fitness into practices for my 2019 Fall PGA Junior League Team. 

With an OPGA Youth Player Development Grant I purchased hula hoops, playground balls, an agility ladder, pool noodles, and Airgolf Fliers. For the first 20 minutes of each team practice we did an exercise that focused on a particular muscle group that helps the golf swing: core muscles, legs, etc.

*Rubber Playground Balls for core strength
**Bouncing the ball high and far to a teammate 
**Passing the ball to a teammate standing back to back 
*Hula hoops and an agility ladder for jumping to create leg strength that leads to improved distance 
*AirGolf Flyers for core strength and directional dynamic balance 

I also included many of the games from the U.S. Kids Golf Play-and-Learn guide. These games put to good use cones, rope, pool noodles, and colored balls. Games keep the kids engaged, puts some pressure to perform in their practice, and develops comradery amongst the group. 

My goal was to provide value for parents with the amount of time each practice lasted and teach the juniors that being a good golfer requires being a good athlete.


===Results of Program===
In part because of this practice format, I expect that I will double the number of Jr. League participants in 2020.

===Recommendations===	
I highly recommend that my fellow professionals complete PGA.Coach and incorporate physical fitness training into all their group lesson programs.


[[Category:2019]]
[[Category:Junior Golf Program]]
[[Category:Orchard Hills CC]]