Mark Forrest: About Coach

I have known Lloyd (Coach)  for many, many years. I have played a lot of golf with him over the years and I must say that  Coach has helped me in many ways. I have learned a lot about the game, life, and myself.

 As a Golf Professional I have given thousands of lessons over the years but I must say that I truly admire Lloyds holistic approach to the game of golf. He does not dwell on the mechanics of the swing, but rather, focuses on the experience of playing the game of golf.

Coach is very knowledgeable of the golf swing and has a keen eye for recognizing problems, but it is the way he conveys this message that has gained my trust with my own game. He finds a way to appreciate and celebrate every swing of the club. We improve our game by focusing on the positive things rather than worrying about the negative..

On more than one occasion after I have hit a particularly poor shot, Coach would walk over to me and look up at the sky and say “We are blessed to have the opportunity to be playing golf today”. It is this kind of positive energy that has brought my game to a new level.

 A couple of key ideas that Coach has shared with me is the idea of having 4 one putts per nine. No matter what these one putts are for (eagle, birdie, par) if you accomplish this you will have a decent game. For me this has removed some of the pressure of being perfect on the golf course. It allows me to focus on the opportunity to make a one putt rather than dwell on what it is for.

The second thing he has shared with me is being “In the office”. This is an area within 40 or so yards from the green. Whenever you are in this area you are in “the Office”. This is where we get to work. Any pitch, chip or putt is your opportunity to score. Again this has helped me mentally as it takes the pressure off hitting perfect shots.

I find I always play better in the days and weeks after I have played with Coach, his enthusiasm and positive energy has a lasting effect. It is a privilege to call him a friend.

Mark Forrest...Head Professional

Belmont Golf Course