Philip Eyre - Hollow Brook Golf Club
Built on a historic site Hollow Brook is home to one of Westchester County’s most picturesque golf courses. Designed and built by Eric Bergstol, Hollow Brook Golf Club is a challenging 6,923 yard layout, meandering through our 250-acres of dramatic elevation changes, gently undulating meadows, rolling hills and the magnificent Hollow Brook.
Philip Eyre has been working at Hollow Brook Golf Club since March 2007. As the Director of Golf Professional he is responsible for the golf operations, the golf shop and teaches golfers of all ages and abilities. Phil believes that by teaching the ‘complete game’ and recognizing each individual’s learning style, that he can help students achieve their potential.
Originally from Worksop, England, Phil represented his local club at the county level as an adult and junior. In 2000 he graduated from DeMontfort University (Bedford) with a degree in Sport Science and Business. Prior to moving to New York in 2003, he worked at The Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland from January 2001.
Phil and his wife, Kate, currently live in Yorktown Heights along with their children Anika and Hayden.
How old were you when you got started in golf and what eventually pulled you into becoming a golf professional?
I grew up in England started playing golf at age 11 when my Dad introduced me to the game. I became a junior member at our local club and would spend all my free time when not playing soccer or cricket at the golf club playing with all of the other junior golfers. I have always been a sports fanatic and wanted to become a PE teacher as I enjoyed coaching sports. After college it was clear my passion was golf and I found myself gravitating towards the golf industry. Becoming a PGA Professional allowed me to balance my coaching aspirations with the game I love.
How do you stay current with the latest developments in teaching methods?
I stay up to date with current teaching methods by reading and watching the coaches on tour. However its attending local PGA educational seminars and spending time with my peers that I find the most beneficial. I also like to look at coaches in other sports to see how they are communicating with their students and if I can apply any of their methods to my own teaching.
What are 2 trends in golf that you’re excited about?
I am really enjoying seeing the game grow again. I think via programs like PGA Junior League and PGA Family Cup we allowing the game to become more family based and at the end of the day this needs to be a sport that ensures the family can have quality time together.
I also thinks its great that the game of golf is becoming more relaxed, the trend of hoodies and music on the golf course are only going to make the game appeal more to a wider audience.
Do you specialize in teaching any facets of the game?
I believe in teaching the whole game, its important to set the fundamentals in all aspects of the game. Once this is achieved its time to take the game to the golf course, teaching people how to manage their way around the golf course and recognizing how the lie can impact your shot is something I believe gets overlooked to much.
What sets you apart from other golf professionals?
I love the game of golf and bring my passion to work everyday. When giving lessons I invest in the individual, I want them to understand this is their journey and I am there to help them get to their destination. Every lesson I give is tailored to the individual and I try to ensure its based not only their physical ability but also matches their goals.
What’s the most exciting thing on the horizon for you personally or professionally?
I am really enjoying the boom golf is experiencing during this pandemic. The most exciting things for me are watching are junior programs go from strength to strength. Seeing parents out playing 9 holes of golf with their children is the most satisfying feeling, it reminds me of the times I had on the golf course with my own Dad.
What has been your most challenging experience with a student and how did you handle it? How did you overcome it?
The most challenging experience as been with individuals who have lost their confidence or become frustrated with the game. As a teacher its important to build their confidence back up and show them the game can be fun. Normally this means trying to stop them becoming ball focused and letting them understand it is all about the process of swing the club.
Do you actively play competitive golf? Any recent bragworthy performances you’d like to share?
Throughout the pandemic I have been really focused on the operation of the club and have not played any competitive golf. My last year of competitive golf in 2018 saw me qualify for the NY State Open at Bethpage and the 2018 TaylorMade National Championship at Pebble Beach.
Is there a highlight from your career in golf that stands out above the rest?
I feel very fortunate in my career to have been given many opportunities. I have been able to volunteer at major championships, ryder cups and tour events. I have competed in sectional and national events as a professional and as a junior, and played on some of the best golf courses in the world. However I find more pride and satisfaction in watching both my clubs membership grow and the seeing my assistant professional develop. Golf has given me so many wonderful memories and open many doors and I feel its my responsibility to ensure others have similar access to this great game.
Any advice for someone considering pursuing a career as a golf teaching professional?
As a teacher you have to be prepared to try things, not everything is going to go the way you want it to. Keep challenging yourself to stand outside your comfort zone, try new things and continue to work on your communication skills. Never forget that you are there to facilitate the improvement in your students, you guide them on a journey but they decide the destination.
Anything else you’d like to comment on while we have you?
Golf is a wonderful game for all ages and abilities, golf is the one sport that can be played all your life, As a PGA Professional we are ambassadors and guardians of the game. Its our role to ensure this game continues to grow and create life long memories