Get the basics right says new Abu Dhabi Golf Club pro Martin Steel
Abu Dhabi Golf Club’s newest professional believes that putting the framework of proven basic fundamentals in place is the best way to take your game to the next level. Australian Martin Steel has joined the talented team at Abu Dhabi Golf Club after starting his career with the Metropolitan Golf Club in Melbourne. The 24-year-old has arrived in Abu Dhabi having acquired full AAA status with the Australian PGA, as well as Certification with the Titleist Performance Institute during his four year stint at one of Australia’s top clubs.
He has spent invaluable time with some of the industry’s leading golf coaches, including Steve Bann, Dale Lynch and Martin Joyce and has now formed his own set of coaching philosophies.
“It’s all about getting the set up right,” he explains. “Grip, stance and posture are the fundamentals and if you get that down you can go from there and you will see a difference on the course.”
Martin’s philosophy also includes a team approach to improvement with his students.
“I like to teach in groups because it’s more of a relaxed atmosphere for the student to learn in, they don’t feel like all the focus is on them and they can learn at their own pace. More than often there will be two instructors teaching a class which is great because two sets of eyes are always better than one.”
Martin’s arrival in the Emirate allowed him to catch the world’s top players in action at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship. He says his main aim is to continue with the growth of golf in the Emirate and assist students in reaching their golfing goals.
He also has a keen interest in golf equipment and will be on hand to advise customers in any purchasing decisions or questions at the club.
“I always advise my students to get a club fit by a professional when purchasing a new set of clubs,” he said. The correct length and flex of the shaft is so important to hitting consistent golf shots. In the majority of cases, golfers will always hit better shots when they are fitted with the correct specifications.”
Martin says he is looking forward to working closely with youngsters, Emiratis, along with the expatriate community.
“It’s pretty rewarding when you can really improve someone’s golf and they get some enjoyment out of it whilst improving on the course as well.”
