Tony Decker

Assistant Golf Professional

Woodlands Club

A:39 Woods Road
Falmouth, ME 04105
(View on Map)
P:207-781-2890
E:tdecker@pga.com

Personal Info

I was introduced to the game at the age of 12 by my uncle.  I remember many days when my mom would drop me off at one of the courses near our home early in the morning and would then come and get me at dinner time…27-holes was the norm. 

I started working at Gorham CC in 1988 when I was a sophomore in college.  I turned professional upon graduting from the University of Southern Maine in 1991.  I became a member of the PGA of America in 1996 and continued to work at Gorham CC through 2002.  Since 2003, I have been working at The Woodlands Club as an Assistant Golf Professional.

My Teaching Philosophy:

In my 20+ years of teaching I’ve learned each golfer has their own approach to learning.  My job is to understand your learning style and communicate effectively in order to maximize your potential.

  •  It only takes a few minutes each day to improve.
  •  Short game is key!!!  For most of us the fastest way to shooting lower scores is focusing on our putting, chipping, pitching and bunker play.
  •  Shooting lower scores is not just about hitting balls on the  practice range.  Smart practice is not the same as a lot of practice.
  •  Improving your golf game requires three P’s…practice, patience and persistence.
  •  Having a good mental game is as important as having a functional swing.

 

 As an instructor I strive to:

  •  Create a relaxed environment where we can improve your game while having FUN.
  •  Make sure you understand cause and effect and why the ball is doing what it is doing.
  •  Set goals based on your motivations and abilities.
  •  Provide you with a practice schedule.

 

My objective in teaching the game is to help my students play better and not just swing better.  Shooting a lower score  is the main priority.   A game plan is put together based upon the students goals, abilities and level of commitment.  We set priorities, what are we going to improve or change.  Next, we develop a procedure for how we are going to make the changes.  Finally, we the look at production….how are we going to track the results of our plan.

With the proper plan, knowledge, time and commitment, students improve and are able to reach their goals. 

I like to use visual and physical training aids to help my students understand the key concepts of the lesson.  I use the V1 software app on my iPad to analyze the student’s swing.  The app allows me to email the video to the student after the lesson along with the notes I take.

Shooting lower scores is closer than you think!

Experience

I’ve been recognized in Golf Digest Magazine as “Best Teacher in Your State”  2011-2012, 2007-2008 and in 2000-2001.

I am a US Kids Golf Certified Instructor.  I am the first and currently only PGA Professional in Maine to have earned this title.

I have also completed the Double Goal Coach Certification from the Positive Coaching Alliance.  The industry leader in providing coaches, parents, athletes and officials expert designed courses to ensure winning happens both on and off the field in youth sports.

3 -time New England PGA Section Award Winner

2012 NEPGA Assistant Professional of The Year

2008 NEPGA Horton Smith Award Winner (contributions to education)

2003 NEPGA Horton Smith Award Winner

5-time Maine Chapter NEPGA Award Winner

2012 Assistant Professional of the Year

2006 and 2007 Junior Golf Leader

2003 and 2008 Horton Smith Award

 

Rates

1/2 Hour – $50

1 Hour – $90

I have various lesson packages available for adults and juniors, please contact me for additional information.

If you are looking for junior golf clinics for your child or grandchild, look no further.  I offer junior clincs for all ages and all abilities.

I would welcome the opportunity to help you with your game. 

 

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