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Golf professionals are all about business

Although most of us think being a CPGA golf professional is simply about playing golf, most of their work is done inside the clubhouse, not on the fairway.

MICHAEL CHO

[ 2002-06-19 ]

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CPGA professional, Brian Henderson

Of the 3000+ members of the CPGA (Canadian Professional Golf Association), only a fraction of them make a living playing golf on tour. The vast majority of CPGA professionals work at golf courses, or I should say "run" golf courses.

Brian Henderson is a Class A CPGA professional at the highly regarded, Angus Glen golf club. For the past six years he has moved through the ranks originally as an assistant pro to now tournament coordinator, and he knows the rigours of the job.

"People think being a golf pro just means being a good golf player, but there are so many facets of working at a golf course," says Henderson.

Although Henderson is qualified to be a head pro anywhere in North America he spends most of his time organizing tournaments and events, such as the Telus Skins Game and the upcoming Bell Canadian Open.

"Most of the tournaments that come through here are hosted by corporate sponsors or charities, so I have to communicate with them on a different level in order to provide what they need on and off the course."

In addition to having an economics degree from Western and a diploma in professional golf management from Humber College, he also has experience in the food and beverage industry, so the business-speak comes easy to him.

"It used to be that golf pros played more of a social function on the course, shaking hands and having lunch with members. But now golf professionals are responsible for so much more," says Henderson.

For 23 year old Scott Myles, an assistant pro at the busy Don Valley golf club, the sun rises and sets with the job. "Being a golf pro is not a 9 to 5 occupation. You're there at six in the morning to open up the shop and you usually don't get out of there until it gets dark."

Myles is not only busy on the course giving lessons and conducting clinics, he also has a range of daily duties to perform such as inventory, ordering supplies and fielding calls. "Golf professionals have to have business knowledge, and it also doesn't hurt to have some experience in customer service," he says.

Both CPGA professionals agree that running a golf course isn't as glamourous as people think, but it's worth it in the end simply because they love the game.

"Not too many people get up in the morning and look forward to going to work. I do," gloats Henderson.

Becoming a CPGA professional

The CPGA (Canadian Professional Golf Association) enforces strict rules on membership. Not only does a player have to possess talent on the golf course, but there is a long and rigorous academic component to the designation:

Those who want the CPGA designation must pass a players ability test, which means a score of 155 or better within two rounds.

Completion of at least three seasons of employment under the direction of a Class A professional.

Candidates must complete a three-year college diploma in business, a university degree in business or Professional Golf Management program recognized by the CPGA.

Four extensive workshops of the Canadian PGA Teaching & Coaching Certification Program. A minimum of 36 hours of golf related seminars ranging from the rules of golf to golf club fitting and repair.

Successful completion of a Class A examination.