In today’s digital age, staying connected with guests and players, even when they’re not physically on property, is crucial. That’s why Cody Franke, the PGA of America Head Professional at Thornberry Creek at Oneida (Wisconsin), started the “Pro Tip Tuesday” social media series.
The concept emerged about six years ago when he was at a previous facility, and it has since become a staple in Thornberry’s engagement strategy. As people spend more time on their phones and social media, the challenge every facility faces is to remain relevant while golfers are away from the course.
“Our solution was simple: provide a relatable, one-minute video tip (pictured) each week that golfers can apply to their games,” says Franke, a Chapter Merchandiser of the Year while previously in the Southern California Section. “At the start of each season, we create a weekly filming schedule covering topics like flop shots, punch shots, bunker techniques and Rules questions. We dedicate two Thursdays a month to filming three videos each day, allowing us flexibility in posting them. Our aim is to film three videos in just 30 minutes – the trick is completing them in one or two takes.”
Franke says the key to success is authenticity. Whether you stumble over a word, make a minor error, or even miss a putt in a video, it’s all part of the charm. Your customers prefer seeing real people rather than robots executing flawless shots. Often, real life resonates.
The “Pro Tip Tuesday” series has garnered some fantastic results. It’s led to increased lessons, spikes in clinic participants and sales. Golfers actively engage with the content online, commenting and requesting tips for specific shots they find challenging.
“One of our videos even stacked up half a million views in just two weeks,” says Franke, excitedly. “This surge in viewership translated into real business growth, including increased club sales, range passes and lesson bookings for our staff.”
When harnessed properly, the added value is that it opens up your facility and you as a PGA of America Professional to regions beyond your own. Franke has attracted viewers from around the globe with comments pouring in from as far away as the UK, San Francisco and New York.
“As a PGA Professional from Green Bay, Wisconsin, it’s incredible to see how widely these videos have been shared and viewed,” he adds. “If your facility isn’t engaging with guests or members beyond its physical boundaries, you’re missing out on a valuable opportunity.”
Moore finishes runner-up at U.S. Adaptive Open
Western Michigan University Head Women’s Golf Coach Kim Moore, PGA, finished as the runner-up at the 2024 U.S. Adaptive Open at Sand Creek Station Golf Course in Newton, Kansas, on July 8-10.
Moore – born without a right foot and a slight case of spina bifida – finished at 228 (12-over) with a pair of 75s book-ending a second round of 78. Bailey Bish won the tournament with a 224 (8-over), but was pushed by Moore after the first round following Bish opening the tournament with a six-stroke lead.
This is the third time that Moore has competed in the U.S. Adaptive Open, a championship that showcases the world’s best golfers with disabilities, and the third time she has finished in the top two. The PGA of America Golf Professional won the first-ever tournament back in 2022, and finished second in 2023.