Murray St. Onge
CGTF
Level III Member,
Barrie, Ontario, Canada

Murray St. Onge is currently in his fourth year as the head teaching professional at the Tangle Creek Golf Club in Thornton, Ontario, and in the winter is the head teaching professional at the Barrie Sports Dome in Barrie, Ontario.  Murray’s teaching philosophy is similar to that taught at WGTF certification schools.

            “Over 90 percent of all swing errors are caused by an improper set-up,” says Murray.  “Without the proper grip, stance, ball position, posture, and especially your aim and alignment, you will have a difficult time squaring your clubface at the impact position.

            “I am a big fan of having fun teaching and making a golf session with me an enjoyable experience,” he continues.  “I try to make teaching simple and not too complicated, especially with juniors and people attending my clinics.”

            The mechanics of teaching aren’t all Murray focuses on.
            “People always come first,” he says.  “In other words, treat people like you would like to be treated – a friendly handshake, look them in the eye with a warm smile, and get to know your students.  When teaching, it’s necessary to be positive and always pick something that they are doing well, and encourage them to stay positive.”

            Murray’s style of teaching ties his customers to him.  He finds if you have the ability to get your students to laugh, you both then experience a much better day.