We spoke to James Single, PGA Professional since 2011 and Head Professional at Port Macquarie Golf Club in New South Wales, to get his reflections on a career in the sport he loves.
What have you learned about the game recently that interests you?
“How underrated is the social side of the game. The connections players make on the course are vital to growing memberships, and facilities should do what they can to encourage social events related to the game.
Having been involved in the game for a long time, what is your most memorable golfing experience?
“Mixing with PGA Touring pros Gavin Coles and Peter O’Malley as a youngster at Bathurst was a very exciting experience and I really enjoyed watching them do what they do on the course and that’s something I’ll remember for a long time.
In addition, I really appreciate spending time with family and friends on the golf course away from business. It’s a great chance to just enjoy our surroundings together; that’s the best thing about golf. It’s not just the game we play, but who you play with and who you share that time with makes it the best game ever.”
You have an extensive job as a PGA professional, what is your favorite part of your job?
“I love coming out of the Pro Shop and teaching people to play the game of golf. The thrill I get from teaching when I see a student hit a shot they thought they couldn’t hit is fantastic.”
What barriers do you think we still need to break down to get more Australians playing more golf, more often?
“I believe that access to the course is certainly a barrier; clubs are leaning heavily towards membership and competitive play as opposed to social play. I think it’s important to open up the social game as much as possible.
I also believe we should do everything we can to get more women playing the game. We’ve known for a long time that encouraging female participation is one of the best ways to grow the game of golf, so we need to do everything we can to get more women out as soon as possible. many women and girls on the streets.”
What is one piece of advice you would offer a new PGA professional?
“I would advise a young PGA professional to continue to learn and develop his knowledge of the game of golf. There is so much information available to us and we are just scratching the surface of what we know, even long after we become a PGA professional.”
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