Tom, after reading your most recent publication, I felt compelled to correspond with you and let you know that I not only agree with your teaching philosophies, I admire you as a person. Far too many people in the golf industry consider themselves professionals due to their ability to memorize some fundamentals of the swing and then pass it on for a price. It takes a certain type of person though to be effective and truly benefit others. I personally feel that it’s what separates instructors from teachers. Instructors tend to watch the clock and utilize opportunities to make money any way they can through fancy talking, convincing, and promises. A teacher however is one who takes a personal interest in helping people achieve their goals, promoting self-confidence and experiencing the joy that this wonderful game has to offer. It’s about the personal connection and building trust with someone. It is then that they are open minded and the true learning begins. I absolutely see that quality in your methods and personality. That is the sign of a true leader. I too have been in this game, since March 1970, over 45 years ago and have met tens of thousands of people, changed lives, and encouraged people to believe in themselves. As you know, there’s no better feeling than to bring joy to someone knowing that is was something you had a significant part of. This goes far beyond golf though. You are involved in people’s lives and adverse situations taking steps above and beyond to ease the pain. You encourage them, and induce hope and peace with them in an empathetic fashion, where others tend to pat people on the back and wish them good luck. For that, my hat is off to you. I believe that God places us in situations that offer us opportunities to enhance people’s lives and it is up to us to either act on that opportunity or look the other way. Golf is just an opportunity and an avenue to connect with people and the more I learn about the game, the more I feel that I have to offer. As you see from my signature panel, I am very involved in golf and have played at the highest level up to Q-School with the Canadian PGA Tour. I’ve not only learned about people but myself as well. I can’t say enough about the game and what it has to offer but as long as I am breathing, I will continue to maintain an opened mind and willingness to learn and change lives for the better. After all, their success and joy is my success and joy as well. Again, thank you for all that you do for the game of golf and the people that you positively influence with your knowledge, care and passion.

I will be competing in a World Cup competition in October at the Disney Course. While in Florida, if there is a way of hooking up and meeting you in person, I would be truly honored. You are an asset to the game!

Sincerely,
Christopher Warner
America Golf Association
Master Golf Teaching Professional