Faldo school aims for better golfers

Jan Wivestad, head instructor of the Faldo Golf School at The Rookery at Marco, wants to prevent golfers from ever having to say fore again. For the uninitiated, when a golfer yells “fore” it means that the he or she has hit a bad shot, warning other players to watch out.

Photo by ROGER LALONDE, Eagle staff
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Jan Wivestad, head instructor of the Faldo Golf School at The Rookery at Marco, readies for a swing lesson that he will video as part of the many instructional aspects available through the school.

Wivestad spent five years in the certification process to become head instructor for the school, coming to Marco from Orlando. There are four schools in Florida, all connected with Marriott properties.

“Since 1997 the school has experienced an excellent relationship with Marriott,” says Wivestad. “Both strive for excellence in service and quality. The new school at The Rookery, with its unique programs and facility, will enhance the golfing experience.”

Wivestad says each certified instructor learns the Faldo way of golf.

“The internship is similar to an apprentice electrician,” he says. “We learned the methodology of the game (from Faldo’s standpoint), to deliver consistency in the way we work with golfers. We teach the fundamentals of golf through a proven technique executed by Nick Faldo. He is a great ambassador of the game and recognized as one of the best golfers in the world.”

Wivestad says it’s important for the instructor to create a customized program, tailoring each lesson for the golfer’s improvement.

PGA golfer Nolan Henke will take part in an opening ceremony for the golf school and new clubhouse Tuesday. He will speak on his PGA experiences and lead a golf clinic. Invited guests also will participate in a scramble tournament.

A variety of instructional programs are being offered through the golf school.

A three-day game improvement program, two-day golf school, three-hour short game session, three-hour full swing session, one-hour private lesson and club-fitting session, using the latest in technology, are part of the golf school experience.

Wivestad also is looking to develop a summer youth golf program.

During season the golf course is open to Marriott guests only, while the golf school is available to everyone.

For more information call 825-0054.