The latest in our monthly series of introducing you to the faces behind the golf clubs in South Africa. This month we stop off in Gauteng to talk to Zwartkop Country Club’s head professional.
How long have you been a pro?
For 14 and a half years. I started my working career with Sun International at Sun City in 2000, as a course marshal. Then in 2009 I joined Ivano Ficalbi and Dale Hayes in their events company, running golf events. To date I’ve been with Zwartkop Country Club since 2012.
How did you start golf?
I was originally a soccer player, a left back, and I was hoping to one day make it professionally. At school, I was always looking for ways to make pocket money for the week. One Friday after school, a friend invited me to the golf course to learn how to caddie. Luck happened to be on my side for my first weekend, because after my training that Saturday I got a bag for nine holes later that afternoon and I earned myself R5. I continued for a few years as a caddie, until I got a job as a course marshal in 2000. From there I kept on learning more and more until I joined the PGA.
Did you have dreams of playing the Tour?
I did, but my biggest challenge was the cost that came with it. Besides that, I never had any idea of where to start. My golf was great when I was young but I had financial challenges, so at the beginning of 2000 I got my first job and that was the end of my Tour golf dreams.
Do you see yourself as a role model for golf professionals of colour?
Some kids look up to me and want to achieve and even surpass what I’ve achieved, and that’s great. Those I have been in contact with know what path to follow and that a lot of dedication and passion is needed.
How do you think we can make this route easier for players from disadvantaged backgrounds?
We need to make golf more accessible to the young people and encourage them at all times. We need to accept all golfers, irrespective of where they are from. We must talk to our juniors about careers in golf, not only touring and making millions a week. We need to educate them about the game and try to offer some support in terms of equipment – let’s donate it.
Many people would consider being the head professional a dream job, but it must get quite stressful at times.
It is stressful at times and it can also be enjoyable. You go through different kinds of stress levels. The stressful part is when your membership starts dropping, just like any other business, and you then you have to come up with strategies of how to counteract the challenges. In terms of golf course issues, when something goes wrong on the course, you must always be the first to deal with it.
Do you still get to play much golf?
I play every now and then, but whenever I’m not working I travel home and try to spend as much time as I can with my kids.
How do you ensure the visitor experience at Zwartkop is a memorable one?
Like we always say, ‘It’s a perfect day for golf at Zwartkop.’ You come here to have fun, that’s the main focus, enjoy yourself. We are welcoming, family-oriented and fun.
Dale Hayes is full of ideas when it comes to the club. What are some of the innovations the club has introduced to improve membership?
He is indeed always thinking of new things. The introduction of free junior membership was a great initiative. If you look at modern golf, we are forgetting about junior golf and that’s where most of us started when we were young. We need to be laying that foundation to keep our golf alive.
The club is also home to the SA Disabled Golf Association. What value does the organisation bring to Zwartkop?
I wouldn’t say value, but more motivation. These guys are just like any of us, with the exception that they may not perform certain skills. They just want us to treat them like we want to be treated, it’s that simple. They are a pleasure to be with and I am proud to say we are grateful to have them around us. If you happen to be fortunate to have a round with a disabled player, you’ll walk away a different person. We’ve had a couple of matchplay events and guys go home blown away not only by the performance but also the fun they bring to the game.
How has the club fared since golf was reopened after lockdown?
Rounds have been great and sales have been up and down, but overall really good.
What would you describe as your personal strengths when it comes to the role of head golf pro?
You need to have a strong personality. I make sure that whatever we need, we get, even if it means I have to get in my car and collect it, to ensure the smooth running of the business. I look after the shop, staffing, golf course set-up and any other problems related to golf.
What are the skills most necessary for the role of head golf pro?
Understanding the costs involved in the running of the business and, most importantly, listening to what people want. Always work on improving your facility to keep up with the times. Be able to plan and execute plans accordingly; look after your members, as they are the core of your business. Make sure you treat them equally and fairly.
– This article first appeared in the October 2021 issue of Compleat Golfer magazine. Subscribe here!
