For 14 years, Black Enterprise has been afforded the grand opportunity of direct access to one of golf’s top instructors, PGA professional Rodney Green.
A twenty-year member, Green has not only golfed professionally, but has also founded a thriving business, Rodney Green Golf Incorporated, and has coached some of the biggest names in business, politics, sports, and entertainment.
BlackEnterprise.com caught up with Green to discuss his long-standing partnership with the Black Enterprise Golf & Tennis Challenge, where over the past several years Green has instructed hundreds of attendees on how golf can be used to enhance relationships and maximize business opportunities on the golf course.
[Related: Top 5 Minority Golf & Tennis Scholarships]
BlackEnterprise.com: What is your greatest asset as a golf instructor?
Green: Some people are feel oriented, some are visual, and then there are those who [are] very analytical. I have the ability to determine individual learning styles and adjust my teaching accordingly.
Why is it important for African Americans to further engage the game of golf?
I think that everyone should engage in golf but, obviously, I’m a bit biased in that regard. There is no doubt that [for] minorities who are in positions that require the building of networking and relationships to enhance their business, golf is absolutely a must. Golf is the sport of business.
What would you say to those that carry the notion that golf is too expensive or too difficult to participate in and enjoy?
Golf has become much more affordable over the years, as golf courses are lowering their prices to produce more rounds. I would be lying if I said golf was easy, because it’s not. But if kept in the right perspective it can be very enjoyable.
What is the biggest mistake beginners make when learning golf?
That’s an easy one–learning the game without any instruction. As with anything, the proper fundamentals are essential for success. Trying to learn how to play without learning the basics will prove to be extremely frustrating for new golfers. Take a few lessons, you’ll be glad you did.
What can be done to encourage more minorities to look to golf as a meaningful activity?
Finding a way to showcase the many affluent minorities who already play golf would be a great way to expose
others to the game. As I mentioned earlier, golf is the sport of business, but it is also a great way to establish friendships. I know men and women who get together annually for group golf trips throughout the country. They travel to some of the nicest resorts around just to play golf, get some relaxation, and spend time with friends.
As an instructor, what is the hardest aspect of golf to teach, and why?
Trying to get students to be patient in their quest to improve, is very challenging. Golf takes time to learn because it requires a great deal of muscle memory to swing a golf club properly. That can only be accomplished through repetition. If you work a regular 9-5 job then your time to practice is limited. Throw in family and other obligations, and your practice time is even more reduced. Learning not to expect too much, too soon, is a good rule of thumb. Be patient.
What has been your greatest triumph as a golfer and golf instructor?
As a golfer, my competitive playing days are over. I won’t tell
my age but I do own an AARP card, if that helps. I was able to win a few tournaments as a collegiate golfer and played well on the mini-tour circuit in my younger days. As an instructor, I have been fortunate to meet many people of all walks of life. Some of which I’ve established friendships with that will last a lifetime.Aside from practice, what does it take for the makings of a great golfer?
Simple….Patience, Patience, Patience.
What is your overall mission with your organization Rodney Green Golf Incorporated?
My goal is to grow the game, by exposing the game of golf to as many people [as] possible. Also, to dispel the myth that golf is only played by rich folks. The game has changed from what it used to be in the past. It’s now actually cool to play golf.
What are you looking to offer participants at the BE Golf & Tennis Challenge?
I’ve been doing my Golf Academy with Black Enterprise for well over a decade now. Everyone who has been a part of our program is assured to learn a great deal about playing
the game of golf, and have a great time while doing so. When I [say] we have fun, that’s an understatement. I’m still in contact with people I met 10 years ago. That’s what golf is all about.Is there anything you’d like BlackEnterprise.com readers to know about golfing or golf instruction that we haven’t covered?
Give golf a try. You’ll be glad you did.
For more information on Rodney Green be sure to visit www.rodneygreengolf.com. For an exclusive opportunity to learn from the man himself, you must be sure to have your face (and clubs) in the place at the 2015 Black Enterprise Golf & Tennis Challenge, Labor Day Weekend, September 3-6 at the PGA National Resort & Spa, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Clearly, you don’t want to miss this. Register now.
For registration, information, and updates on the BE Golf &Tennis Challenge, September 3-6th, at the PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida visit https://blackenterprise.com/events/golf-tennis-challenge/. When registering for BEGT, use discount code LABORDAY for a special discounted rate. For social media updates, follow hashtag #BEGT.