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Andres Subira
USGTF Level III Member, San Juan, Puerto Rico
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Although I have
been playing golf from an early age, I have always been
interested in becoming a professional golfer. For more than
twenty years I have been teaching friends and relatives (without
compensation). Being a general contractor and considering the
situation the construction industry was going through, I decided
that it was time to pursue my first passion, golf.
In June 2008 I
approached a friend who has the concession rights at Rio Bayamon
Golf Course here in Puerto Rico, and asked if I could join their
staff as a teaching professional. Immediately after that I met
with the general manager, and, having known each other for
years, he was happy to welcome me into the group. One thing he
told me, that even though I had plenty of experience teaching, I
should seriously consider getting certified as a professional
instructor. I researched, weighed my options and the USGTF was
the obvious choice. November 2008 was the most convenient date
and location for me, so I signed up and I was on my way.
In July 2008 I
began my golf career by being in charge of the summer camp that
was held that month. Comprised of 45 kids ranging from age 5 to
15, I was in charge of setting their instructional schedule.
They learned from the rules of golf, etiquette, and safety, to
all aspects of the game from basic posture, the basic swing to
putting, the short and long game. On occasion, we took them out
to the course to teach them basic course management.
In the afternoon
and evenings, I worked marketing myself for private instruction.
In the time I’ve been at Rio Bayamon, I have not only gained the
respect of the other instructors, but I have managed to acquire
a good client list, a great deal of them from referrals. As part
of my commitment to my career and the game, in November 2008 I
went to Orlando to earn my certification with the USGTF. I am
constantly reading books on golf to gain a better understanding
of the swing.
I had always been
apprehensive about this move, because I love the game so much,
and did not want to start hating it because it would become a
“job.” If it is at all possible, I love the game even more. I
find it fulfilling to help people with their games, and I have
formed some very good relationships with my clients.
I want to thank
Bob Wyatt and Mark Harman for their time. They truly know their
business and made it a thoroughly enjoyable experience, not only
for me, but I can safely say for all who attended.
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