If you work hard, and by that I mean practice, take lessons regularly to work on any problem areas and play 18-holesregularly, you will have a decent golf swing after one year. Tobe a good golfer it can take 2-3 years. It takes 5-10 years to get to an elite level of playing golf.

From my experience, if you don’t get golf lessons then you have a 99.9% chance of slicing the golf ball when you play. That’s why golf lessons when you begin to play are really effective. The longer you play slicing the ball, the more difficult it is to fix.

I begin private lesson coaching for children at 5 years of age. For children that are showing early talent and have a strong interest then I can start coaching at 4 years old. My advice to parents is always to begin golf coaching when their child shows an interest in the game and never push them into it just because they love the game.

There’s a big difference between change and adjustment. This is where communication between the client and the coach is crucial. I will only change your swing if you want it to change but the majority of the time I will only make small adjustments to allow you to improve. Small adjustments are not difficult to make.

For private or group coaching, you don’t have to be a member of a golf club to attend.

If you don’t have a pair of golf shoes, wear trainers and trousers or shorts with a top that you are comfortable I and can move freely. Tracksuit bottoms and jeans are not appropriate. If you are coming for coaching outside dress for the weather - a hat can really help during winter months in Donegal!

For beginners to the game, summer time is the best time of year to start golf coaching. Not only does the GetInto Golf programme start at a number of local clubs but the weather makes it much more enjoyable to learn, and all lessons tend to take place outside.

For advanced players who want to change or adjust their swing or elements of their game, the winter months are the best time to start because we have more time to work on their progress as there are not as many competitions etc. For small tweaks or adjustments, take lessons any time of the year.

Yes, I can help you with your club and equipment selection. I am fully qualified in equipment technology, selection and custom fitting. I can custom fit and guide any player at any level on the equipment they need and make recommendations of brands, stockists etc.

You don’t have to have a high level of fitness to play golf but you do have to have some level of mobility. Tight shoulders, bad hips and knees all put limits on your capability when it comes to playing the game well.

First of all, you have to become a member or be affiliated with a golf club to apply for a handicap. The committee will give you instructions on how to obtain your handicap - you will usually be asked to play at least 3 rounds of 18 holes or 6 rounds of 9 holes and you will be asked to put your name on the card and write ‘for handicap’ before you submit. Each card must be signed by yourself and a responsible person to the committee, i.e. another member who has accompanied you on your game.