One weekend each semester, the Golf Academy of America in Phoenix invites current and prospective students to bring their friends and families out to campus to show them around and to tell them what they can expect when they arrive for the upcoming semester. Today’s turnout was better than average. I counted 30 people in attendance, while the average showing is usually somewhere in the neighborhood of 4-6!
I was one of four Golf Academy students who volunteered to help with the festivities. We had two 4th Semester students giving lessons using the V1 Pro HD swing analysis software we have access to while we’re enrolled at the Academy, another 4th Semester student running a Closest to the Pin Competition, and I was in charge of the Long Drive Challenge using the TrackMan launch monitor. The winner hit his tee shot over 317 yards and had a swing speed of over 120 miles per hour. The PGA Tour average is 112, so this guy was really moving it.
Academic Dean Tim Wilkins gave a ten-minute PowerPoint presentation, and PGA Professional Warren Pitman also gave a little instruction on the V1. When it was all said and done, everyone got to enjoy some pizza and salad in the student lounge while Golf Channel played on the big screen in the background.
It was great to see such a big group of people enjoying the fantastic practice facility students get to enjoy at the Golf Academy on a daily basis, and sometimes I think we take it for granted. I think the campus always shows well – whether it’s for a mid-week tour or a weekend open house. If you love golf, the Golf Academy is the place for you.
Hello,
Just for the readers out there – I am excited to have the opportunity to attend the GAA this upcoming September. Now that I got to actively use the equipment and talk with instructors as well as graduating students, I’m even more thrilled to start.
Dan, thank you again for helping with the long drive competition and taking the time to answer my questions. I wish you the best!
Ryan Smith