Brendon Elliott, PGA,Founder, BE A GOLFER Academy,Winter Park, Florida
For junior golf coaches, meaningful development doesn’t always require elaborate itineraries or multi-day instruction. Sometimes, the most impactful experiences can happen in a single day of travel – when planned with intention.
That belief has shaped the approach of Brendon Elliott, PGA, founder of the BE A GOLFER Academy for teenagers in Winter Park, Florida. A longtime junior golf leader who was elected to PGA of America Membership in 2009, Elliott has created countless memories throughout his career on one-day golf trips to some of the game’s most iconic Florida-based destinations.
Rather than positioning these outings as simple play days, Elliott (pictured with juniors) views them as immersive learning and relationship-building opportunities. Junior golfers and their parents have been personally invited to join day trips to venues such as Bay Hill near Orlando, Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, Florida, and Interlachen Country Club in Winter Park – places steeped in history and elite-level golf.
“Inviting juniors and their parents on these trips has been about more than golf,” explains Elliott, the national 2017 PGA of America Youth Player Development Award honoree. “It’s about making them feel valued and exposing them to environments that inspire growth.”
That personal invitation mattered. By intentionally including parents, Elliott has strengthened trust and reinforced his role as both coach and mentor. The shared experience – traveling together, playing together, learning together – creates bonds that extended far beyond the scorecard.
Equally important is collaboration behind the scenes. Elliott works closely with fellow PGA of America Professionals at host facilities to coordinate access, negotiate reasonable rates and ensure the experience remains attainable for families.
“The professional relationships are critical,” he notes. “It’s about working together to create something special for the kids.”
The impact on Elliott’s coaching business has been tangible. These day trips have become a defining element of his program, as parents see value in experiences their kids can remember for years. This has led to increased inquiries and enrollment.
From a player development standpoint, the benefits are just as clear. Competing on championship-caliber courses challenges juniors to adapt, sharpens their course management skills, boosts confidence and deepens their connection to the game.
The takeaway for PGA of America Professionals is simple: Meaningful experiences don’t have to be complex. Thoughtfully planned day trips (pictured) can strengthen relationships, elevate junior development and differentiate your program – all while creating memories that last far longer than a single round of golf.
