November 7, 2022 • 49 mins
Should I get my child into golf? Or should I let them discover golf on their own? How early is too early? Or what should I do as a parent to support my child in golf?
These are just some of the topics that renown golf teacher Michelle Holmes shares with us in this episode. As golf grows in popularity throughout the world in places like the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, and Colombia among many others, one of the biggest areas of growth involves children and young people. As more and more children are brought into the sport it means that parents need to play an active role in supporting their children as their children embark on the journey of golf.
Some will join golf simply to play for fun, or to play with their friends who are learning the game too. Others will play because their parents want them too -- and others still play the game, dreaming of being like Brooke Henderson, Lydia Ko, or Lexi Thompson. Perhaps its Rory McIlroy, Collin Morikawa, or Jordan Speith that they admire. Regardless, many parents are asking themselves how to best encourage and support their child as they take up this difficult, challenging, and extremely rewarding sport.
You will want to listen in as Michelle Holmes shares her experiences in teaching and coaching children and parents in managing this journey.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Douglas Maida (00:26):
Hello and good afternoon. Welcome to our
day, as well as bringing youguests from around the world of
episode, we will meet anincredibly delightful woman. She
(00:55):
one golf in the United States.
She is also a member of the PGASchool of golf. She has become
well known in golf circles forgolf. If that wasn't enough,
(01:21):
Michelle also coordinates anelite junior golf program,
coaching those that aspired tomove beyond the elite Junior
listeners for sticking with usas we return from our autumn
(01:50):
interesting and thoughtprovoking. Now we'll take a
for players who don't want tosacrifice beauty Homas Boris
the coast of Japan. Bras I sueevokes a sense of pure awe and
(02:18):
breasts ice in your bag, youwill experience the pure
Hello, we're back. Thank you forstaying with us. One of the most
(02:41):
is exciting and heartening. Andthat means more and more
playing with their friends.
Others be because parents wantthey aspire to be like Brooke
Henderson, Lydia Ko, or perhapsEven more so with so many
(03:13):
younger children gettingto find their role and how they
can support their children asparents, kids, golf, and
(03:33):
everything you could want tokeep in mind when you have a
child in golf and how to helpshow. Thanks for joining us,
Michelle.
Michelle Holmes (03:55):
Thank you for having me, Doug.
Douglas Maida (03:57):
It's our pleasure. Our pleasure. Thank
Michelle Holmes (04:02):
No problem. The kids have shorty. Kids have been
little bit more time toourselves these days.
Douglas Maida (04:14):
Great, terrific.
So Michelle, Let's chat a little
Michelle Holmes (04:24):
Yeah, so a little bit about me. I grew up
very welcoming of junior golfand a strong golf club. I had an
(04:45):
had a big impact on my futurecareer choice. And I had a
states and I played for youyears of college golf at
(05:09):
really loved what I saw myjunior golf coach doing. And I
I probably would have been anelementary school teacher. So as
LPGA training, as an assistantPro, I really got to see kind of
(05:41):
that really kind of kind ofsettled it for me that I knew
couple of years of beating theSystem Pro I decided to hand in
(06:04):
really didn't have much of abusiness plan or anything back
from there.
Douglas Maida (06:13):
And as they like to say the rest is history.
Michelle Holmes (06:16):
History, it's it's worked out pretty well so
So I had to do a lot ofgroundwork back then I remember
(06:44):
handed out brochures and in allthe neighborhoods. And
into it. And we've grown it tothree locations. And we see five
(07:06):
lot of different golf journeys.
Douglas Maida (07:08):
sounds very interesting. I gather that
assumption? Am I
Michelle Holmes (07:18):
Yes, it's not that we don't. It's, it's, you
know, 95% kids, but that's whatit's grown to. And, and I guess
yes, we're pretty much 95% kidsat this point.
Douglas Maida (07:40):
Right. Before we get into the kids programs a
also have.
Michelle Holmes (07:49):
Yeah, so and we do dabble a little bit in all
what, as I always say to my ladystudents, it's nice to have
biggest thing with our programwith our adult program is my
(08:21):
different aspects, whether it'scoming for a lesson on the
game. So that's been you know,the, the little bit of grown the
goal is to make sure they're notjust learning the different
(08:44):
golf course and learn how to howto get out and be comfortable on
Douglas Maida (08:51):
My experience too, in having friends who are
going to play for the first fewtimes am I doing things right?
Michelle Holmes (09:05):
it was so intimidating. I mean, just even
golf course and, and get out tothat first day. And so yeah,
the driving range to the golfcourse a little bit easier for
Douglas Maida (09:23):
them. I take it, that's probably one of the
of the biggest challenges islearning to take it from the
Michelle Holmes (09:38):
Yeah, and that's why with our kids
I would say, I teach 90% of myprivate golf lessons on the
(09:58):
if we're doing a putting lesssince your first lesson with me,
putting, we're trying to getthat ball in the hole. And, you
before, you know, we're at 100yards, or 150, yards, and so on.
(10:21):
much more fun for the kids thatway. And every other sport like
get stuck on the practicefacility so much.
Douglas Maida (10:32):
Right, right. And partially, I guess, too, because
Michelle Holmes (10:38):
Exactly. And then as well, especially for
get out there. And, you know,there's that stigma, their kids
them comfortable on the golfcourse. And you know, teach them
(11:03):
on the golf course as we can, wecould sneak in, you know, the
Douglas Maida (11:07):
Right? Well, that makes great sense. So tell me,
you must have many of them, justjudging from following you on
Michelle Holmes (11:27):
Yes. And, you know, why do I love teaching
feel like when I'm teachingkids, we're really are taking
know, whatever that that familychoose that journey to be. And
(11:52):
their, you know, maybe packageor for lessons, and then they
life journey. It's not justabout golf. But yeah, I mean,
amazing things. And, you know,one of our juniors is just
(12:20):
of our kids finish second in theworld championships. And, you
it's, it's just the, you know,the kid that maybe comes in and
what they fall in love with thegame, they put a bit of hard
(12:43):
team or something? So it's notjust the big things, it's those,
Douglas Maida (12:50):
But tell us you mentioned the Augustus drive
share with us? I mean, becauseyou're working with that age
Michelle Holmes (13:06):
Oh, it's huge.
I mean, it's, it's huge, becausetry it. And so it's it's
encouraging all the newerAnd so it just it just caters to
(13:26):
a wider range array of golfers,is it hit three drives hit three
chips, three putts. So andwho are at playing at the higher
level to have that reward ofit's pretty cool to see. We were
(13:54):
very fortunate that I think, andfinals. And we're obviously
going to go this year again with
Douglas Maida (14:10):
Have you ever had any children come to you or
to try out for that or practiceand play and learn how to get
Michelle Holmes (14:21):
Oh, for sure. I mean, there's no doubt about it
Harry's and people say my kidssaw it on TV and they want to
Douglas Maida (14:36):
See it would it be fair to say that perhaps
Michelle Holmes (14:41):
100% No doubt about it. As I always say it's,
control.
Douglas Maida (14:58):
Yeah, Well, we'll get into that a little bit later
it's very much a family affair.
So why don't you share how thatand sibling and whatnot?
Michelle Holmes (15:24):
Yeah, so I'm very fortunate I get to work
tend to enjoy it. And, you know,this is our both Junior Golf is
(15:46):
fortunate that we get to wake upevery day and go to work and
yeah, it's a lot of fun. And Ithink just the fact that the
(16:10):
for our kids even more. So we'revery blessed. We were very
600 kids through the door ayear. So they keep us very busy.
(16:33):
it's the fourth scores, to kidswho are trading, you know, three
know, even further. And, yes,it's a lot of fun. And one thing
(16:58):
Girls, in fact, I actually thinkit's actually crept over 60% on
that two of our main instructorsare females. So that's
think that's definitely a huge,huge help in that regard.
Douglas Maida (17:22):
Oh, that's fantastic figures to get. I
Michelle Holmes (17:26):
yes. Yeah. So yeah, I mean, when I when I
can't really talk about that.
But even five years ago, and Ifemale side of the girl.
Douglas Maida (17:46):
Oh, fantastic. I know that. industry wide, we've
growth of golf over the lastdecade or so. And it's just been
(18:07):
are seeing the LPGA on TV moreand more?
Michelle Holmes (18:10):
Oh, it's I think it's just so important.
it's super important for them tosay and you know, even for
president of the PTA. I mean,just things like that are
(18:35):
definitely a lot of positivethings happen on the female
Douglas Maida (18:38):
So tell us about . . . You said you have three
Michelle Holmes (18:47):
So yeah, we are and we're based out of three
public golf courses. And theCountry Club is greenbar Country
Kempsville greens in VirginiaBeach and then Lambert's point
Douglas Maida (19:12):
right. Did you say Greenbrier?
Michelle Holmes (19:15):
yes Greenbrier Country Club.
Douglas Maida (19:16):
Now that's . . .
Michelle Holmes (19:18):
not the Greenbrier not the Greenbrier.
Douglas Maida (19:25):
okay, I was gonna say Greenbrier had that
Michelle Holmes (19:33):
I do love the Greenbrier. I've been up there a
Douglas Maida (19:41):
I was gonna say, wow, you're looking at a place
little bit about yourexperiences in teaching what you
Michelle Holmes (20:01):
Okay, that sounds great.
Douglas Maida (20:03):
Great. So we'll be right back and please stay
(21:49):
Hi, we're back. Thank you forstaying with us. We're with
of golf. Michelle, I wanted toask you something, let's say for
(22:10):
of your golf courses, countryclubs, something like that. And
their, say your eight year oldtaking golf as a sport or
Michelle Holmes (22:30):
Yeah, well, I my first, my first thing I
them play. The next thing Iwould say is make sure you get
know, with us kids golf, thereis the correct equipment out
(22:57):
sure you get them involved in ajunior golf program. You know, I
golf course is maybe not whatyour eight year old is going to
involved in a junior programquite early, get them around
(23:25):
early. And even if you know, youknow, maybe you have a kid who's
tournaments. Or, and that'sgreat. Or maybe your kid just
course is quiet. And you know,throwing a ball down at 50 yards
(23:49):
going into the driving range andjust beating golf balls for
know, when you do bring your kidto the golf course, you're
holes that it's so important to,you know, maybe play your eight
(24:15):
so I think just creating a, youknow, a fun experience for them
what their fundamentals are golfswings look like?
Douglas Maida (24:26):
You mentioned that you try to get the kids
whatnot. What are some of yourtechniques or skills? I mean,
help them keep their interest ingolf and how they can avoid the
(24:55):
mean, how do you keep it spicedup for them?
Michelle Holmes (24:58):
You know, I see it all the time. Time, this is a
sport. So I think that's ourbiggest job is, is just to make
have a class of, let's say,five, a 45, middle class of
(25:25):
for every, for every year ofage, and I talk for one minute.
let's say if I'm doing a lessonon speed, putting on instruct
(25:47):
games that match whatever wehave learned from the day. And I
them, than they will for thoseseven minutes that if they've
them out in the golf course. Andagain, just going back to the
(26:13):
huge girls golf program onFriday evenings, and we bring
based fun contests. So they'reworking in teams. And, you know,
(26:34):
they're really the newer golfersbecause it's all team based. And
the last hour, and it's a it's asocial hour, whether it's a
that the golf course is actuallya fun place. And it's a it's a
(26:59):
top priority early.
Douglas Maida (27:01):
Yeah, that makes a lot of sense with the kids.
Michelle Holmes (27:12):
Oh, it's so important. I mean, as I always
love with it, and getting themasking, they're getting them to
have a lot of good juniors comethrough our program. And our
(27:39):
playing opportunities to make toshow them the Golf is a good
the good golfers come out of. Soya know, it all starts with the
endless. I feel like a lot ofparents, a lot of people
(28:07):
create the passion. But really,the passion and fun has to come
Douglas Maida (28:14):
Well, how do you on that topic? Then? How do you
Michelle Holmes (28:21):
And yes, that's as I say, it's, that's my,
mean, it's tough for parents,you know, parents are out there.
(28:43):
bring their kids to practiceevery week. I mean, most people
game, you know, they might beonly having, you know, one
(29:05):
to be doing some work with themin between lessons, too, right?
them, and I can see where theycan get get wrapped up on it.
(29:26):
talk about goals. And we try andkeep those goals realistic. And
what we have to remember too, iseven the parents that you see
They're trying to do the rightthing so doing this because they
(29:54):
of time and we dedicate a lot oftime helping these parents in
Douglas Maida (29:59):
Right now. write well, that sounds like it's such
how their role can can helpimprove that experience in that
Michelle Holmes (30:12):
Yeah, yeah. I mean, we spend most of our time
their children practice, and howto help their children practice
battle of books. And, you know,as I said, most parents have
Douglas Maida (30:38):
Earlier, a couple of minutes ago, we talked about
kids golf. You mentioned the USkids golf program, for the
as they're playing golf? And,and at what age? Do you think
(31:05):
for a second, if you're not sureyour child is interested in golf
money on a set of equipment andthe you know, sometimes let them
their length, just to get theminto it. I mean, how do you see
Michelle Holmes (31:26):
I don't like seeing cut down clubs coming to
equipment is just amazing. And,you know, it's it's lightweight.
group size. And then it doesn'thave to be expensive. I mean, us
(31:55):
often what parents do. Andthey've ever been down to clubs
who are maybe four or five andsix years old, just getting into
(32:16):
love the club, because the kidssee such quick success with
there right away, they're home.
But yes, as far as equipment, itlessons. So it is you know, if
you really do want your child toclubs, and to make sure that
(32:43):
you're not sizing up I know nobig, so that they can grow into
them. But that's the worst thingtheir golf clubs are too long, I
basically have to teach them thebuy my nice clubs all the time.
(33:10):
And I could I could buy our twoimportant that she gets the
correct fundamentals. And so I
Douglas Maida (33:25):
Does the US Kids Club program, do a sort of
Michelle Holmes (33:34):
And I'm not so sure about that. I know, you can
selling, you know, to the nextkid coming along. So we see a
Douglas Maida (33:49):
Now for the US Kids Club program, do you
Or is it a little bit more onthe loose side.
Michelle Holmes (33:59):
And so it's not as in depth as as you know, an
down to your height and yourswing speed. So they have the
more beginner golfer with slowerswing speed. And then the tour
(34:28):
speed. So yeah, they've they'vecovered every range there. They
everybody.
Douglas Maida (34:39):
Right, right.
Yeah. And it was funny. You saida lesson.
Michelle Holmes (34:50):
Yeah, I mean, I really mean that too. I mean,
big as me combined. Yeah. I'mquite difficult, and it's making
And what did I do? I went intoDick's Sporting Goods. And I
(35:15):
saw on the shelf, right? And shelooked, you go into our tennis
wrong? And he's like, thisequipment. This isn't right for
Douglas Maida (35:32):
She may coach you should know better, right?
Michelle Holmes (35:36):
So I understand that it's, it's an easy mistake
Douglas Maida (35:41):
Right, right. So how long is your niece been
Michelle Holmes (35:48):
She doesn't really play tennis too much. She
second sport is basketball. Sheloves basketball. And she does
but yeah, she's just quiteathletic. She likes any sport.
(36:10):
soccer here and there too. Okay,cool.
Douglas Maida (36:13):
Cool. In your experience, though, how golf?
Michelle Holmes (36:25):
I think it's so important, I think just for the
me, you know, I, I secretly wantmy, my niece to be a good
see the benefits of it. So Ithink if any parents are out
(36:52):
you have to have them inmultiple sports, I mean, the
there's so many things thatthey're going to pick up from
just being on a team, learningabout winning and losing working
(37:18):
parents is, try and find a sportthat your kid isn't decorator. I
find something that they're notgreat. Because I think it's
Douglas Maida (37:36):
And when you say not great at it, you mean in the
better at it, like they to thesame level that they do with
Michelle Holmes (37:48):
Yeah, all of the above struggling to learn is
off, you've got to golf, thegame where the older you get,
(38:09):
in, he's doing quite wellthrough the teenage years, and
important that kids are learningearly. You know how to win and
Douglas Maida (38:25):
Yeah, just the the pool of better golfers. And
Michelle Holmes (38:32):
just Oh, exactly, exactly. Exactly. Yeah.
Douglas Maida (38:36):
When would you suggest then that it would be
mean, with the idea of becominggolf, becoming their primary
Michelle Holmes (38:51):
Yeah, I think maybe around 12 or 13. I think,
would still keep what are twoother sports of the backburner?
the winter. And they you know,they probably don't play too
(39:14):
see ya, bye, 1213. I mean, Ithink for those who really want
At that age, I mean, I think,you know, you're seeing these
(39:38):
are starting to look at them. SoI think for those who truly know
Douglas Maida (39:49):
If you have as a coach, you have a new student
that.
Michelle Holmes (40:01):
And it's funny because, you know, when a
late, you know, this is so youngnow. And, and you know, just
(40:22):
kit, my niece, played in herfirst golf tournament, a four
friends, they were going to goplay on Sunday, she wanted to go
(40:44):
truly, truly learned how to playthe game, how to act on the golf
seven years old. You know, shedoesn't have to learn all that
going back to what we're askingthere, and you know, what a nine
(41:12):
And you know, there's nineyears, nine year nine year olds
definitely the million dollarquestion with that. But again,
(41:33):
fundamentals, I try and buildthe chip and try and build the
them out of that golf courseteach them about scoring, and
situations.
Douglas Maida (41:52):
And I presume at that stage, you're also talking
posture, things like that, aswell.
Michelle Holmes (42:04):
And for me, as an instructor, I have a bit of a
the next thing until we've gotone thing correct. So I guess I
(42:25):
do one, and pre swingfundamental, and one in swing
as we get that down, and then wecan move on and move on to the
Douglas Maida (42:40):
Fantastic. I like your approach. Michel, at what
about competitive golf? Say, forexample, not just the US, the US
(43:04):
elite young player, and maybelooking at a collegiate career,
Michelle Holmes (43:09):
Yeah, I think in this day and age, so you got
your juniors, but just I feellike a lot of people wait until
one golf. So I think forparents, it's just important to
(43:39):
out what tournaments they needto be playing in, get them
things get expensive. But Ithink you definitely need to be
think that's the biggest problemwe see is, you know, to a lot of
(44:06):
coaches just aren't going tolook at that. And so I think
as early as possible. Right.
Douglas Maida (44:20):
Okay. Speaking of college golf, and you being from
topic? So how big is that forwomen's golf in Ireland and
(44:41):
States, but we're at a stage nowwhere Leona is like, put it
Michelle Holmes (44:48):
Yeah, she has done amazing things. So I came
over to the states that was 2000One. So Leona would have can
amazing. And you know, the factthat she's the first Irish and
(45:20):
definitely it's huge for, forIris golf in general, not just
and her sister girl off in thegame and see what they did and
Douglas Maida (45:38):
That's an aside How is how's the sport of golf?
Michelle Holmes (45:46):
Yeah, I think I think pretty good. I think, you
that if you want to grow yourmemberships, you've got to look
of it. And you got to look atthe junior side of it. And if
(46:10):
chance to play golf too. So Ithink yeah, I think that's the
too.
Douglas Maida (46:20):
Yeah, terrific.
So what's next for you?
schools every day. But what'snext for you?
Michelle Holmes (46:33):
Yeah, I get asked that question a lot. Are
And I really enjoy getting upand going to work every day. And
(46:54):
a family environment within it.
So I don't know that we're goingtournaments for us kids golf,
and Virginia State Golfto ask me, What would I like to
do more of my career will beyou know, becomes more of a
(47:22):
social media thing or seminars
Douglas Maida (47:30):
So if someone wants to enroll in your school,
connected? Yeah.
Michelle Holmes (47:39):
Yeah, social media is probably the best way
social media is probably theeasiest way to reach out. And
golf, and we're on Twitter athomes golf. So you put the show
Douglas Maida (48:06):
Terrific, terrific. Well, Michelle,
keeping this a little bit on theshorter side for our interview.
bit of a tough, tough cold andwhatnot or being a little bit
Michelle Holmes (48:31):
Thank you very much. Lovely to chat with you.
Douglas Maida (48:36):
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is our show for
our next show. And remember, ifyou're out there playing some
Amy (Studio) (48:52):
You have been listening to our podcast show.
November 1 2022. If you have anidea for a future show, please
(49:12):
lines. This show is thecopyright of the world of golf.
Hello and good afternoon. Welcome to our
day, as well as bringing youguests from around the world of
episode, we will meet anincredibly delightful woman. She
(00:55):
one golf in the United States.
She is also a member of the PGASchool of golf. She has become
well known in golf circles forgolf. If that wasn't enough,
(01:21):
Michelle also coordinates anelite junior golf program,
coaching those that aspired tomove beyond the elite Junior
listeners for sticking with usas we return from our autumn
(01:50):
interesting and thoughtprovoking. Now we'll take a
for players who don't want tosacrifice beauty Homas Boris
the coast of Japan. Bras I sueevokes a sense of pure awe and
(02:18):
breasts ice in your bag, youwill experience the pure
Hello, we're back. Thank you forstaying with us. One of the most
(02:41):
is exciting and heartening. Andthat means more and more
playing with their friends.
Others be because parents wantthey aspire to be like Brooke
Henderson, Lydia Ko, or perhapsEven more so with so many
(03:13):
younger children gettingto find their role and how they
can support their children asparents, kids, golf, and
(03:33):
everything you could want tokeep in mind when you have a
child in golf and how to helpshow. Thanks for joining us,
Michelle.
Michelle Holmes (03:55):
Thank you for having me, Doug.
Douglas Maida (03:57):
It's our pleasure. Our pleasure. Thank
Michelle Holmes (04:02):
No problem. The kids have shorty. Kids have been
little bit more time toourselves these days.
Douglas Maida (04:14):
Great, terrific.
So Michelle, Let's chat a little
Michelle Holmes (04:24):
Yeah, so a little bit about me. I grew up
very welcoming of junior golfand a strong golf club. I had an
(04:45):
had a big impact on my futurecareer choice. And I had a
states and I played for youyears of college golf at
(05:09):
really loved what I saw myjunior golf coach doing. And I
I probably would have been anelementary school teacher. So as
LPGA training, as an assistantPro, I really got to see kind of
(05:41):
that really kind of kind ofsettled it for me that I knew
couple of years of beating theSystem Pro I decided to hand in
(06:04):
really didn't have much of abusiness plan or anything back
from there.
Douglas Maida (06:13):
And as they like to say the rest is history.
Michelle Holmes (06:16):
History, it's it's worked out pretty well so
So I had to do a lot ofgroundwork back then I remember
(06:44):
handed out brochures and in allthe neighborhoods. And
into it. And we've grown it tothree locations. And we see five
(07:06):
lot of different golf journeys.
Douglas Maida (07:08):
sounds very interesting. I gather that
assumption? Am I
Michelle Holmes (07:18):
Yes, it's not that we don't. It's, it's, you
know, 95% kids, but that's whatit's grown to. And, and I guess
yes, we're pretty much 95% kidsat this point.
Douglas Maida (07:40):
Right. Before we get into the kids programs a
also have.
Michelle Holmes (07:49):
Yeah, so and we do dabble a little bit in all
what, as I always say to my ladystudents, it's nice to have
biggest thing with our programwith our adult program is my
(08:21):
different aspects, whether it'scoming for a lesson on the
game. So that's been you know,the, the little bit of grown the
goal is to make sure they're notjust learning the different
(08:44):
golf course and learn how to howto get out and be comfortable on
Douglas Maida (08:51):
My experience too, in having friends who are
going to play for the first fewtimes am I doing things right?
Michelle Holmes (09:05):
it was so intimidating. I mean, just even
golf course and, and get out tothat first day. And so yeah,
the driving range to the golfcourse a little bit easier for
Douglas Maida (09:23):
them. I take it, that's probably one of the
of the biggest challenges islearning to take it from the
Michelle Holmes (09:38):
Yeah, and that's why with our kids
I would say, I teach 90% of myprivate golf lessons on the
(09:58):
if we're doing a putting lesssince your first lesson with me,
putting, we're trying to getthat ball in the hole. And, you
before, you know, we're at 100yards, or 150, yards, and so on.
(10:21):
much more fun for the kids thatway. And every other sport like
get stuck on the practicefacility so much.
Douglas Maida (10:32):
Right, right. And partially, I guess, too, because
Michelle Holmes (10:38):
Exactly. And then as well, especially for
get out there. And, you know,there's that stigma, their kids
them comfortable on the golfcourse. And you know, teach them
(11:03):
on the golf course as we can, wecould sneak in, you know, the
Douglas Maida (11:07):
Right? Well, that makes great sense. So tell me,
you must have many of them, justjudging from following you on
Michelle Holmes (11:27):
Yes. And, you know, why do I love teaching
feel like when I'm teachingkids, we're really are taking
know, whatever that that familychoose that journey to be. And
(11:52):
their, you know, maybe packageor for lessons, and then they
life journey. It's not justabout golf. But yeah, I mean,
amazing things. And, you know,one of our juniors is just
(12:20):
of our kids finish second in theworld championships. And, you
it's, it's just the, you know,the kid that maybe comes in and
what they fall in love with thegame, they put a bit of hard
(12:43):
team or something? So it's notjust the big things, it's those,
Douglas Maida (12:50):
But tell us you mentioned the Augustus drive
share with us? I mean, becauseyou're working with that age
Michelle Holmes (13:06):
Oh, it's huge.
I mean, it's, it's huge, becausetry it. And so it's it's
encouraging all the newerAnd so it just it just caters to
(13:26):
a wider range array of golfers,is it hit three drives hit three
chips, three putts. So andwho are at playing at the higher
level to have that reward ofit's pretty cool to see. We were
(13:54):
very fortunate that I think, andfinals. And we're obviously
going to go this year again with
Douglas Maida (14:10):
Have you ever had any children come to you or
to try out for that or practiceand play and learn how to get
Michelle Holmes (14:21):
Oh, for sure. I mean, there's no doubt about it
Harry's and people say my kidssaw it on TV and they want to
Douglas Maida (14:36):
See it would it be fair to say that perhaps
Michelle Holmes (14:41):
100% No doubt about it. As I always say it's,
control.
Douglas Maida (14:58):
Yeah, Well, we'll get into that a little bit later
it's very much a family affair.
So why don't you share how thatand sibling and whatnot?
Michelle Holmes (15:24):
Yeah, so I'm very fortunate I get to work
tend to enjoy it. And, you know,this is our both Junior Golf is
(15:46):
fortunate that we get to wake upevery day and go to work and
yeah, it's a lot of fun. And Ithink just the fact that the
(16:10):
for our kids even more. So we'revery blessed. We were very
600 kids through the door ayear. So they keep us very busy.
(16:33):
it's the fourth scores, to kidswho are trading, you know, three
know, even further. And, yes,it's a lot of fun. And one thing
(16:58):
Girls, in fact, I actually thinkit's actually crept over 60% on
that two of our main instructorsare females. So that's
think that's definitely a huge,huge help in that regard.
Douglas Maida (17:22):
Oh, that's fantastic figures to get. I
Michelle Holmes (17:26):
yes. Yeah. So yeah, I mean, when I when I
can't really talk about that.
But even five years ago, and Ifemale side of the girl.
Douglas Maida (17:46):
Oh, fantastic. I know that. industry wide, we've
growth of golf over the lastdecade or so. And it's just been
(18:07):
are seeing the LPGA on TV moreand more?
Michelle Holmes (18:10):
Oh, it's I think it's just so important.
it's super important for them tosay and you know, even for
president of the PTA. I mean,just things like that are
(18:35):
definitely a lot of positivethings happen on the female
Douglas Maida (18:38):
So tell us about . . . You said you have three
Michelle Holmes (18:47):
So yeah, we are and we're based out of three
public golf courses. And theCountry Club is greenbar Country
Kempsville greens in VirginiaBeach and then Lambert's point
Douglas Maida (19:12):
right. Did you say Greenbrier?
Michelle Holmes (19:15):
yes Greenbrier Country Club.
Douglas Maida (19:16):
Now that's . . .
Michelle Holmes (19:18):
not the Greenbrier not the Greenbrier.
Douglas Maida (19:25):
okay, I was gonna say Greenbrier had that
Michelle Holmes (19:33):
I do love the Greenbrier. I've been up there a
Douglas Maida (19:41):
I was gonna say, wow, you're looking at a place
little bit about yourexperiences in teaching what you
Michelle Holmes (20:01):
Okay, that sounds great.
Douglas Maida (20:03):
Great. So we'll be right back and please stay
(21:49):
Hi, we're back. Thank you forstaying with us. We're with
of golf. Michelle, I wanted toask you something, let's say for
(22:10):
of your golf courses, countryclubs, something like that. And
their, say your eight year oldtaking golf as a sport or
Michelle Holmes (22:30):
Yeah, well, I my first, my first thing I
them play. The next thing Iwould say is make sure you get
know, with us kids golf, thereis the correct equipment out
(22:57):
sure you get them involved in ajunior golf program. You know, I
golf course is maybe not whatyour eight year old is going to
involved in a junior programquite early, get them around
(23:25):
early. And even if you know, youknow, maybe you have a kid who's
tournaments. Or, and that'sgreat. Or maybe your kid just
course is quiet. And you know,throwing a ball down at 50 yards
(23:49):
going into the driving range andjust beating golf balls for
know, when you do bring your kidto the golf course, you're
holes that it's so important to,you know, maybe play your eight
(24:15):
so I think just creating a, youknow, a fun experience for them
what their fundamentals are golfswings look like?
Douglas Maida (24:26):
You mentioned that you try to get the kids
whatnot. What are some of yourtechniques or skills? I mean,
help them keep their interest ingolf and how they can avoid the
(24:55):
mean, how do you keep it spicedup for them?
Michelle Holmes (24:58):
You know, I see it all the time. Time, this is a
sport. So I think that's ourbiggest job is, is just to make
have a class of, let's say,five, a 45, middle class of
(25:25):
for every, for every year ofage, and I talk for one minute.
let's say if I'm doing a lessonon speed, putting on instruct
(25:47):
games that match whatever wehave learned from the day. And I
them, than they will for thoseseven minutes that if they've
them out in the golf course. Andagain, just going back to the
(26:13):
huge girls golf program onFriday evenings, and we bring
based fun contests. So they'reworking in teams. And, you know,
(26:34):
they're really the newer golfersbecause it's all team based. And
the last hour, and it's a it's asocial hour, whether it's a
that the golf course is actuallya fun place. And it's a it's a
(26:59):
top priority early.
Douglas Maida (27:01):
Yeah, that makes a lot of sense with the kids.
Michelle Holmes (27:12):
Oh, it's so important. I mean, as I always
love with it, and getting themasking, they're getting them to
have a lot of good juniors comethrough our program. And our
(27:39):
playing opportunities to make toshow them the Golf is a good
the good golfers come out of. Soya know, it all starts with the
endless. I feel like a lot ofparents, a lot of people
(28:07):
create the passion. But really,the passion and fun has to come
Douglas Maida (28:14):
Well, how do you on that topic? Then? How do you
Michelle Holmes (28:21):
And yes, that's as I say, it's, that's my,
mean, it's tough for parents,you know, parents are out there.
(28:43):
bring their kids to practiceevery week. I mean, most people
game, you know, they might beonly having, you know, one
(29:05):
to be doing some work with themin between lessons, too, right?
them, and I can see where theycan get get wrapped up on it.
(29:26):
talk about goals. And we try andkeep those goals realistic. And
what we have to remember too, iseven the parents that you see
They're trying to do the rightthing so doing this because they
(29:54):
of time and we dedicate a lot oftime helping these parents in
Douglas Maida (29:59):
Right now. write well, that sounds like it's such
how their role can can helpimprove that experience in that
Michelle Holmes (30:12):
Yeah, yeah. I mean, we spend most of our time
their children practice, and howto help their children practice
battle of books. And, you know,as I said, most parents have
Douglas Maida (30:38):
Earlier, a couple of minutes ago, we talked about
kids golf. You mentioned the USkids golf program, for the
as they're playing golf? And,and at what age? Do you think
(31:05):
for a second, if you're not sureyour child is interested in golf
money on a set of equipment andthe you know, sometimes let them
their length, just to get theminto it. I mean, how do you see
Michelle Holmes (31:26):
I don't like seeing cut down clubs coming to
equipment is just amazing. And,you know, it's it's lightweight.
group size. And then it doesn'thave to be expensive. I mean, us
(31:55):
often what parents do. Andthey've ever been down to clubs
who are maybe four or five andsix years old, just getting into
(32:16):
love the club, because the kidssee such quick success with
there right away, they're home.
But yes, as far as equipment, itlessons. So it is you know, if
you really do want your child toclubs, and to make sure that
(32:43):
you're not sizing up I know nobig, so that they can grow into
them. But that's the worst thingtheir golf clubs are too long, I
basically have to teach them thebuy my nice clubs all the time.
(33:10):
And I could I could buy our twoimportant that she gets the
correct fundamentals. And so I
Douglas Maida (33:25):
Does the US Kids Club program, do a sort of
Michelle Holmes (33:34):
And I'm not so sure about that. I know, you can
selling, you know, to the nextkid coming along. So we see a
Douglas Maida (33:49):
Now for the US Kids Club program, do you
Or is it a little bit more onthe loose side.
Michelle Holmes (33:59):
And so it's not as in depth as as you know, an
down to your height and yourswing speed. So they have the
more beginner golfer with slowerswing speed. And then the tour
(34:28):
speed. So yeah, they've they'vecovered every range there. They
everybody.
Douglas Maida (34:39):
Right, right.
Yeah. And it was funny. You saida lesson.
Michelle Holmes (34:50):
Yeah, I mean, I really mean that too. I mean,
big as me combined. Yeah. I'mquite difficult, and it's making
And what did I do? I went intoDick's Sporting Goods. And I
(35:15):
saw on the shelf, right? And shelooked, you go into our tennis
wrong? And he's like, thisequipment. This isn't right for
Douglas Maida (35:32):
She may coach you should know better, right?
Michelle Holmes (35:36):
So I understand that it's, it's an easy mistake
Douglas Maida (35:41):
Right, right. So how long is your niece been
Michelle Holmes (35:48):
She doesn't really play tennis too much. She
second sport is basketball. Sheloves basketball. And she does
but yeah, she's just quiteathletic. She likes any sport.
(36:10):
soccer here and there too. Okay,cool.
Douglas Maida (36:13):
Cool. In your experience, though, how golf?
Michelle Holmes (36:25):
I think it's so important, I think just for the
me, you know, I, I secretly wantmy, my niece to be a good
see the benefits of it. So Ithink if any parents are out
(36:52):
you have to have them inmultiple sports, I mean, the
there's so many things thatthey're going to pick up from
just being on a team, learningabout winning and losing working
(37:18):
parents is, try and find a sportthat your kid isn't decorator. I
find something that they're notgreat. Because I think it's
Douglas Maida (37:36):
And when you say not great at it, you mean in the
better at it, like they to thesame level that they do with
Michelle Holmes (37:48):
Yeah, all of the above struggling to learn is
off, you've got to golf, thegame where the older you get,
(38:09):
in, he's doing quite wellthrough the teenage years, and
important that kids are learningearly. You know how to win and
Douglas Maida (38:25):
Yeah, just the the pool of better golfers. And
Michelle Holmes (38:32):
just Oh, exactly, exactly. Exactly. Yeah.
Douglas Maida (38:36):
When would you suggest then that it would be
mean, with the idea of becominggolf, becoming their primary
Michelle Holmes (38:51):
Yeah, I think maybe around 12 or 13. I think,
would still keep what are twoother sports of the backburner?
the winter. And they you know,they probably don't play too
(39:14):
see ya, bye, 1213. I mean, Ithink for those who really want
At that age, I mean, I think,you know, you're seeing these
(39:38):
are starting to look at them. SoI think for those who truly know
Douglas Maida (39:49):
If you have as a coach, you have a new student
that.
Michelle Holmes (40:01):
And it's funny because, you know, when a
late, you know, this is so youngnow. And, and you know, just
(40:22):
kit, my niece, played in herfirst golf tournament, a four
friends, they were going to goplay on Sunday, she wanted to go
(40:44):
truly, truly learned how to playthe game, how to act on the golf
seven years old. You know, shedoesn't have to learn all that
going back to what we're askingthere, and you know, what a nine
(41:12):
And you know, there's nineyears, nine year nine year olds
definitely the million dollarquestion with that. But again,
(41:33):
fundamentals, I try and buildthe chip and try and build the
them out of that golf courseteach them about scoring, and
situations.
Douglas Maida (41:52):
And I presume at that stage, you're also talking
posture, things like that, aswell.
Michelle Holmes (42:04):
And for me, as an instructor, I have a bit of a
the next thing until we've gotone thing correct. So I guess I
(42:25):
do one, and pre swingfundamental, and one in swing
as we get that down, and then wecan move on and move on to the
Douglas Maida (42:40):
Fantastic. I like your approach. Michel, at what
about competitive golf? Say, forexample, not just the US, the US
(43:04):
elite young player, and maybelooking at a collegiate career,
Michelle Holmes (43:09):
Yeah, I think in this day and age, so you got
your juniors, but just I feellike a lot of people wait until
one golf. So I think forparents, it's just important to
(43:39):
out what tournaments they needto be playing in, get them
things get expensive. But Ithink you definitely need to be
think that's the biggest problemwe see is, you know, to a lot of
(44:06):
coaches just aren't going tolook at that. And so I think
as early as possible. Right.
Douglas Maida (44:20):
Okay. Speaking of college golf, and you being from
topic? So how big is that forwomen's golf in Ireland and
(44:41):
States, but we're at a stage nowwhere Leona is like, put it
Michelle Holmes (44:48):
Yeah, she has done amazing things. So I came
over to the states that was 2000One. So Leona would have can
amazing. And you know, the factthat she's the first Irish and
(45:20):
definitely it's huge for, forIris golf in general, not just
and her sister girl off in thegame and see what they did and
Douglas Maida (45:38):
That's an aside How is how's the sport of golf?
Michelle Holmes (45:46):
Yeah, I think I think pretty good. I think, you
that if you want to grow yourmemberships, you've got to look
of it. And you got to look atthe junior side of it. And if
(46:10):
chance to play golf too. So Ithink yeah, I think that's the
too.
Douglas Maida (46:20):
Yeah, terrific.
So what's next for you?
schools every day. But what'snext for you?
Michelle Holmes (46:33):
Yeah, I get asked that question a lot. Are
And I really enjoy getting upand going to work every day. And
(46:54):
a family environment within it.
So I don't know that we're goingtournaments for us kids golf,
and Virginia State Golfto ask me, What would I like to
do more of my career will beyou know, becomes more of a
(47:22):
social media thing or seminars
Douglas Maida (47:30):
So if someone wants to enroll in your school,
connected? Yeah.
Michelle Holmes (47:39):
Yeah, social media is probably the best way
social media is probably theeasiest way to reach out. And
golf, and we're on Twitter athomes golf. So you put the show
Douglas Maida (48:06):
Terrific, terrific. Well, Michelle,
keeping this a little bit on theshorter side for our interview.
bit of a tough, tough cold andwhatnot or being a little bit
Michelle Holmes (48:31):
Thank you very much. Lovely to chat with you.
Douglas Maida (48:36):
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is our show for
our next show. And remember, ifyou're out there playing some
Amy (Studio) (48:52):
You have been listening to our podcast show.
November 1 2022. If you have anidea for a future show, please
(49:12):
lines. This show is thecopyright of the world of golf.
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