I took an assistants position with Ted Perez at East Mountain Country Club in Westfield, Ma in 1992. I built a large clientele of students in the 9 years I was there. I than took a position at Wilbraham Country Club under PGA Professional Daril Pacinella and refined my teaching skills with his help. I've attended several teaching and coaching summits and have had many hours on the range with some great instructors. Charlie Epps, Fred Shoemaker, John Bradley, Grant Turner are just a few of the people who have guided me in my teachings.
What was your motivation to become a PGA Professional?
The first PGA professionals I met when I began playing lit the fire for me to become a PGA member. Bruce Martens,Jim Casagrande and the late Alex Hackney who was my great uncle. I watched how they interacted with the members as professionals within the club and as instructors on the range.
What is your specialty in the golf business?
Teaching and Club fitting is what I have gravitated to in the last few years. I really enjoy working with players of all abilities and showing them how properly fitted equipment can positively effect there games.
Please list any accomplishments.
I am certified in Golf club fitting and repair from the Mitchell Golf Equipment Company. Runner-up in Section Championship, Match Play, and former CPC. Qualified and Played in the National Championship 2009 in New Mexico. Final round 65 in Connecticut Open in 2009
What was your greatest moment in golf?
I do not think that moment has come yet, but qualifying for the National Championship is on the list as well as watching several of my students and former high school players excel in collegiate golf is very satisfying.
What or who has had the greatest impact on your career?
My mother and late father are the two who sacrificed and encouraged me along the way. My wife was a crucial part of my decision to turn professional and put up with rigors of being a Golf Professional.
Besides golf, what else do you enjoy?
I enjoy watching my daughter play soccer and golf. I am an avid cook and love to entertain family and friends. I also cherish time spent with my mother and family gatherings with my sister Tammy and her family.
If you could play any golf course in the world, which one would it be and who would complete your foursome?
St.Andrews, my late father Frank, Mark Consolini, a dear friend, and PGA tour Player Michael Bradley.
If you could give lessons to anyone in the world who would it be and what advice would you give?
This is a tough one because the first person that comes to mind is Myself. If I could follow my own instruction that I give to others I might become a better player. I would love to give my mother another lesson. She has been unable to play for a few years now due to health issues. A great putter in her day she always had trouble with her irons so I would start with teaching her to hit down and through the ball
What is your favorite golf instruction tip?
There are two that I really base my teachings on "the backswing doesn't hit the ball" and "Finish Like the Pro's" I think most players need to concentrate on their balance and finish position. I have rarely ever seen a great payer out of balance in the finish position.
