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Mark Heartfield, a Class A PGA member since 1986 and former Director of Golf at Sankaty Golf Club, shares his teaching philosophy and career journey spanning over three decades in golf. His approach emphasizes understanding each player's unique swing characteristics rather than imposing a system, helping students realize their full potential through personalized instruction and course management strategies.

• Started playing golf at 15, played collegiately at Stetson University, and turned professional immediately after graduation
• Worked at prestigious clubs including Hyannisport, Plymouth Country Club, Baltusrol (under Bob Ross), and 33 years at Sankity Head
• Believes teaching should be individualized rather than system-based, saying "it's all a puzzle to try to solve"
• Begins lessons with comprehensive assessment including questionnaire and TrackMan yardage session
• Uses sports analogies to help students understand swing mechanics (tennis forehand for golf swing)
• Encourages young players to continue playing multiple sports through high school
• Teaches putting with emphasis on routine, alignment with a line on the ball, and distance control
• Recommends creative practice like the "kiss the fringe" drill for lag putting improvement
• Shares personal battle with melanoma and importance of sun protection on the course
• Advocates for simplicity in teaching, avoiding overly technical jargon that confuses students

For more information about Mark Heartfield, visit www.markheartfield.com or find him at The Ridge Club on Cape Cod.

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