Austin Hughes is combining his playing and caddy experience on collegiate and pro tours with today’s extensive golf technology to develop young talent.
The South Delta native and PGA of Canada teaching professional is currently an instructor at the Rob Houlding Golf Academy in Richmond. While it has been a disruptive year for most sports due to a world-wide pandemic, golf has managed to flourish at all levels.
“COVID-19 has most definitely helped get golf back to a thriving industry across the world. It can be played safely while practicing social distancing, allowing the individual to enjoy the outdoor environment on the golf course,” said the one-time Beach Grove junior standout. “We are seeing an incredible amount of young kids and adults enjoying what the game has to offer.
“I take pride in helping players develop to be the best they can on and off the golf course. I have had exposure to some of the world’s best practice facilities, golf courses, coaches, trainers and programs available. My mission is to explain to the new generation why it is important to take advantage of these vital resources for development.”
Getting young players to the next level takes far more than hitting balls on the driving range.
The game’s development has changed dramatically in the last 20 years — focusing on many aspects away from the course, including fitness and nutrition.
Hughes stresses to his students the importance of body maintenance and locking into a routine that is going to enhance their play — from a consistent diet to morning stretching and some form of cardio work.
Golf equipment is now more than just custom fitting and sticking with those clubs. Hughes has seen on pro tours how players will use different irons or a putter depending on the course conditions.
“Players will change equipment for the turf (firm and soft) grain type. Bermuda grass for example is grainy and grabs the club more. Sometimes it’s even changing putter weight for different green speeds,” continued Hughes.
“The process for equipment fitting has become more advanced over the years, giving individuals custom options for their swing. The variables include the individual’s height and weight, posture, arm length, swing speed and more.”
Smartphones, computers, cameras and sensors have become part of our everyday lifestyle. It is doing the same in golf development.
“We are able to use this fantastic technology to help players develop more efficiently, with instant data feedback,” said Hughes, noting the SwingCatalyst and Trackman analysis systems. “Having a support system of technology allows us as coaches and players to troubleshoot issues or confirm the positive things we are doing using the credible data collected.
“Video platforms like YouTube and Instagram have tons of valuable visual information for watching swing or tutorial related topics for golf. Phones and computers allow us to stay more connected, helping players get the reassurance of confidence when they need it.”
Hughes adds being an elite level player is much more than just natural talent. It’s a balancing act of making sure you maintain the areas of strength in your game while working to improve your weaknesses.
“The first step is to identify what needs improvement. This requires taking full accountability for the traits the individual holds. Being honest with your ability and taking accountability for actions is essential in order to building a strong foundation,” added Hughes.
For more on the Rob Houlding Golf Academy visit robhouldinggolf.com. Hughes can be reached at [email protected].
