If you’ve read the About Me section of my blog, you’ll know that I got into golf when my friend Dani started dating a golf pro. Fast forward years later, and that golf pro is now a dear friend and Realtor®. Luckily, we had several years of ladies golf clinics with Jeff Dinn at Fairwinds Golf Course before he made a career change. We still get together often for golf days too.
Look at this friendly guy! Jeff Dinn understands the need for a good golf photo. [Source: @JeffDinnRemax, Instagram]
I think golf can seem very intimidating. You might perceive that golf courses are too stuffy, or there are too many rules… Or maybe you’ve told yourself that you are not good enough to play on a “real course” and prefer to stick with golf of the mini variety.
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I’m here to tell you that you can golf – if you are on the course and you are golfing, guess what? You are a golfer.
During a recent round at Winchelsea View Golf Course in Lantzville, I asked my favourite coach, Jeff Dinn, some questions that beginner golfers might have. I hope these questions and answers inspire you to get your gals together and book a tee time at your local course.
How do you choose a golf coach?
Jeff: When choosing a golf coach, go with a personality you can get along with and who will make learning about the game fun.
Lots of people will want to focus on finding a coach with the most experience at the start. There are lots of great instructors with 40 years of teaching experience, but that’s not as important as finding someone who will make learning fun and keep you looking forward to your next lesson.
Anne's note: Here's a great example of a FUN golf coach! He participates in the Gals' selfies and makes sweet chips in the background!
Will golf lessons help my game? Are golf lessons worth it?
Jeff: Yes! Golf lessons will help you understand the fundamentals of the game and feel more confident on the course.
Municipal golf courses, like the Beban Park Golf Course & Driving Range, are usually less expensive, and more casual.
Another way to make golf lessons more affordable and fun is to get some friends together and sign up for a golf clinic or private group lessons.
How important are golf shoes for beginners?
Jeff: I don’t think golf shoes are super important for a beginner. Golf shoes are an asset, but they’re not a requirement.
However, golf shoes are worth investing in if you’re going to be playing regularly. Golf shoes help with grip and stability, but more importantly, you can get waterproof golf shoes. Waterproof golf shoes are essential because your feet will get wet and dirty on the course and nobody likes to play golf with wet feet.
Golf shoes are sturdy and offer stability. They’re designed to take a beating that regular shoes can’t.
Lots of golf shops will have sales on shoes, and that’s a great time to pick a pair up.
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Anne’s note: I got my golf shoes on sale for 40% off at Golf Town, watch for a sale! The Gals Who Golf like Puma shoes, as their shoes are comfortable, stylish, affordable, and waterproof!
Do I need to buy golf clubs?
Jeff: No, you don’t need to buy golf clubs when you’re just starting.
One of the key modules for a PGA professional in Canada is equipment. Any golf clinic or private lessons you go to, a PGA pro will evaluate your equipment and make recommendations on your skill set, goals, and budget.
Anne’s note: Golf brands release new clubs each year and discount their older model clubs. I got my beginner Callaway set heavily discounted in 2019, and I think they were the 2017 model year (but brand new, never used).
You can also buy pre-owned clubs or find very affordable sets that are perfect for beginners. When you’re still learning to hit the ball properly, there’s no need to overpay for pro-quality clubs.
Can I rent or borrow golf clubs?
Jeff: Yes, golf clubs will have loaner sets for you to play with. When you arrive at the golf course, you can ask the pro shop for a loaner set.
Anne’s note: Don’t feel embarrassed about borrowing clubs! My gals and I used to hit the driving range, and the pro shop attendants were always friendly and happy to loan us a few clubs to hit some balls with.
So what are you waiting for? Grab some friends and sign up for a local golf clinic!
Group lessons are more affordable and usually can be purchased in packs of 4, allowing you to spend some time on the driving range and the putting green. After the clinic, you and your team will be ready for a Ladies Night!
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