A recent Golf Academy of America graduate has joined the summer staff at Providence Municipal Golf and Recreation Center, according to general manager Jon Garret
Kenny Hayes, 21, of Slaughters will be working in the golf shop on a part-time basis as well as offering lessons and club repair to local golfers in the area. A 2011 graduate of Webster County High School, Hayes completed his 18-month GAA education in December 2013 with a major in Golf Complex Operations and Management. He had a dual emphasis as a golf professional and general golf management.
“We split time between studying and breaking down the swing, to day-to-day management of a golf course,” Hayes explained. “It was an intense learning experience. Five days a week, eight to nine hours a day.”
One of the areas Hayes is most excited about is offering lessons to players of all ages and talent levels. On-site instruction will be available, according to Garrett.
“We are very excited to offer the lessons here at the course,” Garrett said. “It’s not everyday you get a golf academy graduate asking for a job. So I jumped at the chance to bring him aboard.”
Hayes said lessons will be available for players from age 6 and up. For an hour session, the fee is $25. A package of five one-hour lessons can be purchased for $100.
“I’m very excited about the teaching piece of the game,” Hayes explained. “I enjoy playing and I really enjoy breaking down the swing.”
Hayes will offer the lesson at the Providence course and will also incorporate some video analysis of swings for his students.
He is currently considered a 3-handicap through the Florida State Golf Association and plans to earn his PGA certification soon. Certification is earned through a player ability test where a minimum 155 two-round score over one day is required at a certified course.
“That’s certainly the goal,” Hayes said. “My game has come a long way so I want to keep working and trying to push myself to keep improving.”
In addition to lessons, Hayes will also offer general club repair including grips, shafts and club fitting.
“We are genuinely excited to have Kenny as part of our team,” Garrett said. “His demeanor and ability will work well here. I believe those who sign up for lessons will not only improve their ability of play under Kenny, they will also have fun.”
To contact Kenny directly for more information regarding instruction or club repair, call him at 270.635.6270.