GOLF
By William Godfrey and Justin Klemballa, PGA – Director of Golf Instruction
William Godfrey: What is the origin of this teaching method?
Klemballa : This unique approach to learning the game enables adults and juniors to progress much faster than traditional instruction. By starting closer to the hole, 25 yards at the beginning, the goal is to take 36 total shots over nine holes from a set distance. Once they develop the skills to achieve 36 shots or less, they receive an Operation 36 certificate and move to the next level, 50 yards, 100, 150 and then out to 200 yards. Godfrey : How does the curriculum assist students who progress at different rates? Klemballa : Students also attend weekly golf classes on the Forest Highland’s driving range with instruction from the golf staff over the two-month program. The classes teach fundamental skills and help prepare them for their 9-hole events. Godfrey : You are listed as a Top 50 Coach on the company’s website, www.operation36.golf. Congratulations! What do you feel are some takeaways from the program?
Klemballa : I've been so grateful to be part of the program. It has really created an avenue for a lot of newer golfers to improve and progress faster in golf. Many women students have shared the small group lessons provide the instruction they need to be successful on the course. And the juniors thrive on the technology available. It helps them progress through the levels quickly. Godfrey : How do FHGC Members find out more about Operation 36 and sign up? Klemballa : Members will have an opportunity to register on May 1, 2022 for the June/July semester. There will also be a second program in August/September. Additional information is available in the April and May issues of Voice in the Pines, as well as 2022- 2023 calendar. William Godfrey is an author, golf historian and biographer. He and his wife, Wendy Huck Godfrey, became FHGC Members in May 2021.
Justin Klemballa: Operation 36 Golf was started by two golf professionals from North Carolina. Their original mission was to introduce the game to one million people. In a few short years, the program has introduced almost 80,000 adult and junior students to the game.
Godfrey : When did the program start at FHGC?
Klemballa : I started Operation 36 at Forest Highlands three years ago in the summer of 2019. This will be the 4th summer offering the program here to the Members. Forest Highlands has been one of the leading clubs across the world in introducing Operation 36. We have introduced over 200 people to the game of golf in just three summers. Godfrey : How does Operation 36 differ from the traditional method of teaching beginners?
VOICE IN THE PINES | MAY 2022 20
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