Nick Duffy - Nick Duffy Golf
A native of Kissimmee, FL, Nick Duffy brings a passion for teaching and years of playing experience. He grew up playing junior golf and qualified for the 98 and 99 US Junior Championships. A graduate of Northwood University, where the team had 3 top tens in national championships. After college, he went on to play professional golf on the Hooters, Golden Bear and Gateway Tours.
Nick is a PGA of America Class “A” professional and Proponent group member. He was also named on the Golfdigest list of “Best Young Teacher”.
His main focus has been on junior golf through being a Senior Head Coach at Bishops Gate Golf Academy, Core Golf Academy and Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy. He has coached every level of player from Professional Golfers, Collegiate Golfers, AJGA Champions, numerous high-level junior golfers and beginning golfers.
Mentored by many of the world’s best Golf Coaches, Bio Mechanics, and Mental Performance Coaches including Kevin Smeltz, Sean Foley, David Orr, James Lietz, Gary Gilchrist, Patti McGowan, Matt Messer, Dr Rob Neal, Dr Brendan McLaughlin, Iain Highfield, and Paul Dewland
He currently teaches out of Orange County National Winter Garden, FL
How old were you when you got started in golf and what eventually pulled you into becoming a golf professional?
I was 10 when I started playing golf. Grew up across the street from a golf course and walked over everyday to play golf. I played golf on every level from junior through professional so it was natural to stay in the business as a golf professional.
How do you stay current with the latest developments in teaching methods?
I like to do the occasional online course or join a popular coaches video site. As a coach you need to know and understand what someone else teaches even if you disagree. I’m currently going through Mark Bull’s biomechanics course and it’s great.
What are 2 trends in golf that you’re excited about?
I love seeing what Bryson is doing with his game. He keeps trying new things to improve his game changed into one the best putters on tour by working hard and experimenting. Now he’s changed his body and swing to hit the ball as far as possible. Doing this was a pretty big risk for one of the best players in the world.
Golf getting busier since Covid has been a big change. People getting outside to enjoy golf is a great trend.
Do you specialize in teaching any facets of the game?
My main areas I like to teach are full swing and putting. Helping many players who shoot in the 80s find D1 scholarships from improving their ball striking is a big plus. Putting is an area I love coaching I was lucky enough to spend a lot of time with Sik Golf and the quintic machine. I currently use a Capto System and it’s ease of use makes it a great way to fine tune putting.
Any advice for someone considering pursuing a career as a golf teaching professional?
I would suggest learn a system first. There are so many ways to teach and improve golfers but not having a good system to learn what steps to take can be difficult. As you grow as an instructor you can start to expand your tool box and grow. There’s no point in learning all the different methods out there and being complex with your teaching if you can’t teach the basics.