Todd Toohey

Earning a PGA Membership in 1989 led to a career in management. While managing required many different skill sets, my true passion has always been teaching the game and time was always allotted for instruction. After an apprenticeship that began in 1984, I ran golf operations and managed entire facilities until I retired in 2021.

1987 – 1988: Head Pro, Fairway Mews Country Club

1988 – 1991: Head Pro, Toms River Country Club

1991 – 1999:  Head Pro, Lakewood Country Club

1999 – 2010: Facility Manager, Pine Ridge Golf Course in Lakehurst, NJ (US Navy)

2010 – 2013: Head Pro, Banyan Tree Golf Course on Okinawa, Japan (US Air Force)

2013 – 2017: Facility Manager, Gosser Golf Course in Aomori, Japan (US Air Force)

2017 – 2021: Facility Manager, Taiyo Golf Club on Okinawa, Japan (US Marines)

Joining the Golf Kings teaching staff at the new facility in Toms River is an exciting opportunity! I installed my first golf simulator in 2013 and have completely embraced the technology. The simulator removes the guess work for the golfer and provides concise and complete data for the instructor.

During a lesson I begin with a comprehensive observation of the address position and swing mechanics. Fundamental concerns are discussed and a way forward is mapped-out for any address or mechanical changes as needed. The swing is never torn-down and the student’s natural movements are always worked with. More often than not, an observed mechanical issue is simply a compensation for a more fundamental flaw. The compensation is left in place and the core issue is addressed. Once the mechanics are sorted, the timing of those movements becomes the focus. Timing and feel drills are taught so that the student gains instant feedback for every swing and understands how to fix it if required. “If you can feel it, you can fix it.” Practice can then become productive and focused, instead of a frustrating exercise of trial and error.